Taranaki Farming Lifestyles, December 2014

Taranaki

FARMING Lifestyles

December 2014 Edition

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

Horizons One Plan approved

Dog triallist takes sport a step further

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DECEMBER 2014

Farmers meet to discuss stock rustling

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

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The latest spate of stock rustling in Taranaki is a reminder for farmers to report thefts from their properties to the police.

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More than 300 inlamb ewes were targeted in a recent theft from one isolated farm east of Stratford.

Farmer representative Joe Menzies said stock thefts have been on-going throughout Taranaki but farms east of Stratford have been hit lately.

“This one area in par ticular has been getting hammered,” said Farmers are encouraged to report stock thefts to police Mr Menzies.

While large numbers of sheep have Farmers representatives and the police. been reported stolen from farms, “One cop will be dedicated to come and smaller blocks have also been affected meet to provide communication.”

Federated Farmers Meat and Fibre with some stock slaughtered on site.

A public meeting held in the Toko Industry group chair Rick Powdrell Hall in early December drew a large recently estimated a $120 million crowd with local farmers, police loss to the industry each year from representatives, and other interested stock thefts.

“Federated Farmers are working with parties discussing the problem and police on preventing rural crime and working out an action plan.

Mr Menzies said farmers from they are appealing to our members to north of New Plymouth and across to provide information that gives them a Manaia attended. bigger picture, and better chance of “The meeting gave farmers apprehending the offender, and put a an opportunity for a free and break on that offender’s operation.

“Every time you don’t report a theft open discussion.

“Farmers were also encouraged to or vandalism on your property makes lock everything on their property, put in the next crime easier to commit for the security cameras and report thefts.” same criminal or anyone else,” he said.

He said the upshot of the meeting Farmers can also provide information was the formation of a committee that anonymously through the Crimestoppers will meet each month with Federated line on 0800 555 111.

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Horizons One Plan approved

DECEMBER 2014

3

by Denise Gunn

After 10 years in the making, Horizons Regional Council’s One Plan has been signed off by councillors at a recent meeting.

The One Plan has been developed to manage natural resources throughout the Horizons region and guide resource management decision making. It is a combined second generation Regional Policy Statement and Regional Plan for the Horizons region, replacing six operative regional plans and the operative Regional Policy statement.

Horizons chairman Bruce Gordon identified the significance of the decision.

“It’s been a long journey with some tensions, challenges and learnings, and I am proud of what we have achieved.

“I would like to acknowledge the input and views of the community that have helped Council develop the plan and its implementation, along with the staff and councillors who have been involved throughout this process,” he said.

“Horizons will be monitoring the plan as it’s implemented and I am confident that together we have created a plan that will be applied fairly across our community.”

Approval of the document allows the One Plan to become operative on December 19 this year. However, the Proposed One Plan was first notified in 2007 and has been a part of resource management decisions in a transitional

phase since then. Federated Farmers Manawatu/Rangitikei chairman James Stewart said signing off of the One Plan closes a chapter and gives farmers the security to keep farming.

“Its implementation has been going for a little while now so farmers have been working through the processes for the past 18 months.

“Some farmers will struggle a bit but we will just have to work together.”

Fish & Game’s environmental manager Corina Jordan said the One Plan is ground breaking.

“The decision by Horizons councillors to sign the One Plan is a historic moment, not only for the region but for all New Zealand.”

Ms Jordan said the plan will ensure resources are utilised efficiently, the life-supporting capacity of water and ecosystems are maintained, and the needs of future generations met.

The signing of the One Plan provides all regional councils with a template on how to manage the environment, according to Fish & Game’s chief executive Bryce Johnson.

“The key thing with this plan is that it contains the principles of how farming can be both economically and environmentally sustainable while

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and members of the public can request a USB flash drive of the document. A limited number of hard copies will also be printed.

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DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

BREEDING FOR

EASY-CARE DORPERS

BY DENISE GUNN

Breeding Dorpers on their eastern Taranaki hill country farm has become a retirement challenge for Boyd and Anne Young.

B

oyd began breaking in the 64ha farm as an 18-year-old in 1964, clearing manuka and high blackberry. Twelve hectares of the property is in pine trees and six hectares of flat land is used to grow supplements. Hay made on the property is sold to the couple’s dairy farm located five kilometres away. The dairy farm, which runs 460 cows on once a day milking, is managed by Boyd and Anne’s son Stuart and his wife Christine in an equity partnership.

The Young’s medium to steep hill country farm receives an average rainfall of 2,000mm, which is well spread out during the year. Winter stocking rate is 13 stock units per hectare.

Boyd and Anne’s original flock were Perendales, sourced from steep

Awakino hill-country. Boyd said they used two well-bred Poll Dorset rams from Rangitikei Stud, followed by two Wiltshire rams from Ardco Stud.

“We bought our first white Ratapiko Dorper rams in 2005 from Premier Dorpers.”

The couple registered their Ratapiko Dorper Stud in 2008 with white Dorper bloodlines from Sunnyvale, Westoby, Dynamic and Downsouth Studs, and black Dorper strains through Gracelands and J R Studs. Their goal is to breed an easy-care Dorper.

“Dorpers have become my retirement challenge,” said Boyd.

“The older I get, the more easy-care I want them to be.”

Ratapiko Dorpers’ breeding programme takes several factors into

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Anne and Boyd Young with their grandchildren

“Dorpers have become my retirement challenge”

and mothers who can rear triplets as well.”

Long term plans at Ratapiko Dorpers include testing the flock for ewes that will have two batches of lambs a year.

In order to achieve this, the ewes are mated while they are rearing a lamb.

“This will require good feeding management such as rotational grazing on hill country,” said Boyd.

With the basic aim of breeding sheep that will perform on hill country, the Young’s plan to complete their stud’s upgrading programme next year.

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“Grading-up is four generations into the Dorper and have to pass a strict check to become pedigree. We have a website www.ratapikodorpers.co.nz where we have more information and updates.”

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account with emphasis placed on good feet, good shedders, worm resistance, a strong constitution, and eczema testing.

Stock are bred and culled accordingly.

The stud uses diagnostic technology company Techion Group Limited’s Faecal Egg Counting testing scheme as a helpful worm resistance tool. Wormstar DNA tests checks for constitution and resistance, and eczema testing is also completed with AgResearch’s RamGuard. Footrot DNA testing is done as well.

Boyd said they have also undertaken Sheep Improvement Performance testing for the past three years.

The couple’s policy is to be open and honest. “We believe sheep should be shown or sold in natural condition,” said Boyd. “Dorpers are supposed to be a shedding breed so why hide their ability to shed by shearing them.”

Boyd also believes that foot trimming should be banned.

“It just means more disappointed buyers who find their sheep have bad feet after a few months.”

Last year, the couple imported artificial insemination (AI) semen from Australian rams which has been performance tested through Australia’s national breeding evaluation service for sheep breeders and buyers, Lamplan.

These rams also have good feet, are good shedders, and are a twin.

In May this year, Boyd and Anne visited five Dorper studs in Australia to select progeny from six different bloodlines for both black and white Dorper.

“We will have some AI progeny born this spring which we will offer for sale late February 2015 when their SIL results come through,” said Boyd.

“They are eye muscle tested and weighed at the end of January.

“These ram lambs are suitable for hogget mating.”

Boyd has found Dorpers to be suitable for this due to the small lamb size at birth and very good cold tolerance.

“We see Dorpers as not just a terminal sire breed, but also as a maternal breed,” said Boyd. “Dorpers and white Dorpers are excellent milkers

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DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DOG TRIALLIST TAKES SPORT A STEP FURTHER

BY DENISE GUNN

A lifelong love for animals led Horowhenua farmer Wendy Schimdt to take up dog trialling — a sport she shares with her husband Lindsay.

Wendy with her dogs

L

indsay had been involved with the sport for many years before Wendy met him. After the couple married, had two daughters, and moved to take up a management position on a 600ha sheep and beef farm near Levin, dog trials took a backseat for awhile.

“Our girls were riding ponies and joined the local pony club, so the trials were put aside for the next seven

years,” said Wendy.

When their daughters gave up riding, Lindsay renewed his involvement in dog trialling.

Wendy also expressed an interest in taking up the sport.

“I thought I would give it a go too, in 1992, with a bitch called Cass.”

Lindsay was her first instructor, teaching Wendy the basic skills required. Not long afterwards, renowned dog triallist Peter Boyce took her under his wing to teach the finer points in training dogs.

“There’s a lot to learn,” said Wendy.

Lindsay and Wendy become actively involved in the local dog trials, joining the Aokautere/Linton Club — later renamed the Kapiti/West Coast Club. Fifteen years later they joined the Wanganui/

Feilding Club. When Wendy first began participating in dog trials, she was one of just a handful of women involved in the sport in New Zealand.Now there are close to 30 women competing.

As a competitor and a judge, Wendy is well versed in the challenges associated with dog trials.

If Wendy and Lindsay find dogs are not capable of the standard required for trialling, they sell them as good working dogs.

The couple prefer calm, good-natured dogs with a willingness to work.

“Putting the finer touches on a dog can be difficult depending on the dog,” she said.

“They are all different as we are — all have their own personalities.”

Two of Wendy’s dogs, Mac and Rose, stand out as personal favourites.

Mac, a heading dog, was the second dog Wendy trained from a pup, and she

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had a lot of success with him in dog trials. He won the short head and yard at Masterton on four occasions.

“I was also in the top seven at the North Island Champs at Mangamingi with him in the yarding event in 2000, along with my other favourite, Rose.”

Rose, a Huntaway, was in the top seven in the straight hunt.

“As far as I know, I am the only woman who has ever been in an island championship run-off with two dogs.”

Rose went on to compete in the New Zealand Championships in Gisborne the following year, and in the North Island Championships in 2002.

“They had winnings at centre champs level and they had numerous other wins,” said Wendy.

“Rose was the top-scoring Huntaway in the Wairarapa/Southern Hawke’s Bay centre in 2001. There is a lot to learn and now we have people coming here

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to learn the fundamentals of training.”

Wendy is currently working five main dogs, and has a few younger ones coming along.

“It is most rewarding is to have a litter of pups, pick one out and carry that pup through all the training, and have a really good farm dog and trial dog at the end of it.”

She considers selecting the right parents when breeding a litter plays an important part in the nature of the puppies.

Wendy has now taken her sport a step further, creating a new hobby making safety slip collars and dog trials sticks.

“The main aspect of these collars is that they don’t go hard or swell when they get dirty or wet,” she said. Her interest in making dog trial sticks began while she was repairing an old one.

Using prunings from pear orchards, and

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DECEMBER 2014

branches from the bush and gardens, Wendy is now crafting her own unique sticks. “It was all trial and error for a start.”

Sourcing suitable material has been the biggest challenge, followed by buying the machinery.

Putting the finer “ touches on a dog can be difficult depending on the dog

”

Trying to keep costs down is also difficult due to cheap import products which are similar but not as good quality.

“I really only make enough to cover costs, but I do enjoy it,” she said. Wendy also makes clocks and barometer wall

hangers out of Rimu. A few years ago, she designed and crafted trophies for dog trial championships held in Masterton.

“I still call it my hobby as there is no pressure in getting things made.”

The couple are currently renovating a large house on a lifestyle block near Feilding.

With plans to retire there, they’ve ensured there’s plenty of space to continue dog breeding and training for dog trials.

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DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

ADVERTORIAL

Christmas Greetings

by John K Morris, CEO of Agrissentials

By the time you get to read this, the year of 2104 will almost be done. What a year, what a roller coaster ride for everybody, talk about ups and downs and round and rounds, from a strong milk solid payout and then it’s vertical plunge into the ground with a shower of sparks, a dizzy head a big gulp of oxygen and hey, it’s back to keeping the farm pumping and the New Zealand economy going.

We wish all the New Zealand food and beverage producers a very merry Christmas and thank them all for the effort they make on a daily basis to keep our economy growing; with special wishes to our loyal customers and the band of new customers who have joined our ranks.

More and more producers are asking for information about our multi-mineral rich fertilisers and about the natural track we have been on for the past twenty years, working with Mother Nature and all that natural capital she provides to make production possible.

There is strong talk from Australia about a move away from the chemical age in pursuit of better quality produce. Every dog has its day, as the revolution spins towards more natural methods and sustainable and eco-friendly production. Over the past 10 years I have recognised an increasing demand for food produced in a safe certified nutritiously dense manner as people all over the globe become more concerned about their health and what they are eating. Latest reports out of UK (one of New Zealand’s leading markets) say that 83% of people there are eating some

types of organic food. This new consumer call is ideally suited to New Zealand’s conditions of soil, climate, our innovation and our isolation. To produce food to qualify for this market is simple — it’s all about changing the soil, change the soil and you can change the quality of the food, it’s that straightforward.

Agrissentials’ focus is directed at the soil; get the soil right and all life above the soil, plants, animals and people will be right. Agrissentials’ live living multi-mineral, microbial rich fertilisers are designed to bring health and vitality back to soils, our environment and most importantly our food.

After 30 years down the natural path I firmly believe that the time is perfect for a change back to natural methods of food production.

Todays’ chemical methods have tied us into commodity markets, where we are competing against other big commodity suppliers, as farmers throughout the planet are all struggling to make a decent living through this dominated system. Changing our production methods by working with nature, increasing the depth, microbial life and mineral content of the topsoil will in turn increase soil carbon, soil water retention and soil drainage capacity, resulting in increased production and better food quality.

Such a move could take us away from the instability of commodity markets and into the lucrative markets of the worlds’ affluent consumers — something to think about this New Year.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DECEMBER 2014

ADVERTORIAL

Coping with Paradise ducks

It’s approaching that time of year when Paradise ducks congregate at ‘traditional’ sites to undergo their annual moult following breeding.

During this period the adult birds are unable to fly, however by February they have grown new flight feathers and are looking for lots of food as they recover from the demands of the past month.

Over time these birds will separate into their pairs and disperse again.

However initially they may remain in large aggregations, especially in dry summers when their normal food sources are much reduced. For landowners with new crops or grass, or recovering hay paddocks then the arrival of large numbers of Paradise ducks can cause considerable angst.

Paradise ducks are a game bird under the Wildlife Act and therefore protected outside of the gazetted hunting season.

However Fish and Game NZ can assist farmers with problems by issuing a permit to allow the birds to be legally dispersed, and also by providing LPGoperated scare guns. The key is to take prompt action to disperse the birds as soon as a problem is noticed as once the birds have formed a feeding habitat they are that much harder to move on.

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Keri Johndston and Haidee McCabe of Irricon Resource Solutions are the supreme winners of this years enterprising Rural women awards

clients really appreciate having someone turn up who knows farming. “Because of the expertise we have, we can handle almost any job from start to finish — design, consenting, implementation and compliance. We have over 500 clients, and this number is still growing.”

The business focusses on improving or maintaining the sustainability of natural resources, such as land, water

and waste, and is also involved in irrigation and catchment management.

Irricon Resource Solutions also won the Help! I Need Somebody category, sponsored by Access Homehealth Ltd. Rural Women New Zealand national president, Wendy McGowan said, “We are keen to raise awareness of women’s entrepreneurship and their input into rural communities.”

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DECEMBER 2014

11

Stratford

SPOTLIGHT ON Spend time in Stratford

by Denise Gunn

Nestled in the heart of rural Taranaki, Stratford and the immediate district is home to a population of close to 9,000.

With lush dairy country predominantly surrounding the township, and sheep and beef farms located on steep hill country to the east, Stratford was originally established as a rural support service centre.

Located on the busy junction of SH3 and the Forgotten World Highway 43, the township always appears to be bustling with activity at any time of the year. As locals go about their daily routines, and visitors wander around the township, thousands of motorists also drive through the main street each day.

To the west of Stratford, the majestic backdrop of Mount Taranaki dominates the landscape. The township provides one of the gateways to the mountain with locals and visitors tackling its hiking trails and ski slopes. A short walk to Dawson Falls on Mount Taranaki is a popular activity where visitors are rewarded with spectacular views as water cascades over a cliff face.

Stratford is also the gateway to the Forgotten World Highway as it winds eastwards through 150km of rural hill country, forestry and bush towards Taumarunui.

On the township’s main street is New Zealand’s largest glockenspiel clock.

Romeo and Juliet figurines, created

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by Tawhiti Musuem’s owner/curator Nigel Ogel, make an appearance four times daily.

Stratford takes its name from Shakespeare’s birthplace, and many of the town’s street names are taken from his works.

Just south of the township lies Taranaki Pioneer Village where much of the region’s heritage has been preserved and recreated, giving visitors an inkling into an earlier way of life.

Open every day from 10am–4pm, the village covers 10 acres of land displaying Taranaki’s heritage.

Fifty years of racing were recognised during the 2013/2014 season at the Stratford Speedway — home to its three teams; Gladiators, Stormers and Scrappers.

The speedway holds regular race meetings throughout the season.

Garden visitors are in for a treat as the rich, volcanic soil found in the district provides ideal growing conditions for a wide variety of plants.

Several private and public gardens are open for visitors to stroll through, taking in the sights and scents. In keeping with its rural atmosphere, Stratford provides plenty of activities for visitors to explore at a relaxed pace.

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12

DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL WHEELS

Early start for off-road fun

by Andy Bryenton

Ask any of the top riders on the motocross circuit — or flip through the biographies in any magazine featuring the up-and-comers in the sport.

All but the most forgetful will thank their parents for years of support — and those who don’t will likely have some explaining to do next time they visit mum

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and dad! ‘Start ‘em young’ is the philosophy for offroad riding, whether or not your little tykes plan to go competitive or if they just want to join their siblings and parents having some fun on the trails or on the track.

With Christmas just around the corner, we gathered some wise words about getting your kids started in off-road riding, to make this experience as much fun — and as safe — as possible.

First up, go with a tried and trusted brand. Safety first is the watchword, and big names like Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Polaris simply have superior build quality to some machines which have little provenance. Honda, for example, fit extra wide tyres and a parent-adjustable throttle restrictor to their CRF50F, allowing it to be safely piloted by ages five and up.

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The next step up — for example, Suzuki’s JR80 — adds more two-stroke power, but remains light and responsive.

Another option is to let the kids follow in your footsteps (or wheel tracks) with a smaller version of a top-flight racing quad.

Stability is no issue when getting on board the Polaris Outlaw, available

in 50cc and 90cc variants, and once again a speed limiter is standard equipment to avoid over-exuberant incidents!

This little firecracker is also available in hot pink — may we suggest, the perfect substitute for a pony, and one which requires far less maintenance?

Finally, make sure you have all the right safety gear for the track or the trail.

Even at low speeds, under super vision, gloves, boots and a helmet are a must.

Your local motorcycle store will be happy to fit out the kids with all the hardware to keep them safe from bumps and knocks.

Talk to your local MX or trail riding club, too — many have fun and social young rider’s programmes you can get involved in to teach skills and build confidence.

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Whatever you have we can help.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DECEMBER 2014

RURAL WHEELS

13

Taking it to the streets

by Andy Bryenton

The versatile and hard-working Suzuki DR200 has been so popular with farmers over the years that it’s almost as much a part of the rural landscape as wire fences and bales of silage.

The tough little 199cc two-wheelers are everywhere, and there are plenty of farm workers who have gotten their first taste of motorcycling by taking the DR200 for a run down the races or through the paddocks.

That’s strictly for work, though — most riders quickly progress to something with a bit more focussed design if they want to hit the motocross track or the trail. But how about if you want to go the other way — taking to the open road for some touring adventures this summer?

Chances are, if you are familiar with the DR200, you might not enjoy the smoothest of twolane blacktop to your door.

A sports crossover bike like the big V-Strom is the perfect answer, but it’s a handful for learner riders.

That’s where the Suzuki engineers have played it smart, adapting the DR200 itself as a go-anywhere, street legal 199cc learner-approved ride.

With styling tweaks garnered from the RM-Z series of dirt bikes and a host of ergonomic adjustments to take the rural, utilitarian look and feel off the

bolting indicators and a headlamp to their venerable DR200 ‘Trojan’ in order to create a cross-over adventure bike.

A look beneath the surface reveals many small adjustments designed to increase comfort and rider enjoyment.

If you’re serious about hitting the highway, this may be the right machine to bridge the gap.

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edges, the DR200S is transformed from a farmhand’s working tool to a nimble and nicely proportioned dualsport adventurer.

There may not seem to be a huge helping of horsepower lurking in that sub-200-cube mill, but it proves ample to flick what is only a 126 kilo bike

around, especially when that bike has a feather-light clutch and smooth, long-travel suspension. Best of all, for anyone who has ever rounded up a herd or simply bashed through the paddocks on a farm bike, the DR200S feels familiar and inspires confidence.

Suzuki have gone much further than just

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DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY

Focus on Effluent ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTORIAL

Liquid storage solutions Flexi Tanks NZ Ltd are the NZ distributors of the Flexible Tank and can offer a solution for your dairy effluent and/or water storage needs.

Flexi Tanks are in an enclosed strong bladder with tanks that can store from 100,000 litres up to 1,000,000 litres of dairy effluent or water. They are simple to install. Just roll out the bladder on a 100mm horizontal bed of sand, attach to your current effluent or water system and storage problems are solved, eliminating expensive engineering consent work.

The advantages of Flexi Tanks over other storage forms include: • Enclosed tank so there is no need to calculate for rainwater falling into your open tank so your total effluent storage requirement will be less • Rapid easy installation “When magnesium inputs are required, Golden Bay Dolomite provides the simplest and most effective option.” call 0800 4 Dolomite

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Slash spreading costs We all know what happens when the proverbial brown matter hits the fan! Bingo!

However, before spreading that valuable by-product of milk production back onto the land, there is money to be saved by ensuring effluent collection and holding sumps are designed right.

Presco Group’s Farm Dairy Effluent consultants have found that farmers who have installed Prosumps, New Zealand’s leading concrete effluent holding sump, have experienced large cost reductions.

The initial benefit of a vertical walled holding pond is in meeting regional council requirements. A lined, earthen pond needs sloping side walls which results in a much larger ‘footprint’.

Presco has had some farmers in higher rainfall areas being able to reduce their storage capacity requirements by 20% by installing the Prosump.

The second benefit of the Prosump design is not seen in the paddock. Lower

pumping costs are achieved due to not pumping the extra rainwater captured.

Reduced energy costs come from more efficient stirring. The Prosump is a circular sump with a special inverted cone floor design which helps to stir up the effluent in a quarter of the time it takes to stir up a rectangle pond. This design reduces the amount of solids build up and the full nutrient benefit from the effluent can get back onto paddocks.

The Prosump is built tough from 150mm thick pre-cast concrete walls and features triple-sealed panel joints.

Traditional pond failures such as corrosion, punctures or leaks are gone for good! A Prosump will just laugh at the odd knock from a stirrer blade or digger bucket and you can kiss goodbye to expensive liner repair bills!

So… if you want to move to the front, get yourself a Prosump Effluent Storage Sump and be the leader of the district.

Presco Group is the NZ leading supplier of Farm Dairy Effluent management infrastructure and the sole NZ installer of Prosump effluent sumps.

For a consultation on sustainable FDE options, call Presco Group on 0800 PRESCO (0800 77 37 26) or email sales@prescogroup.co.nz.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DECEMBER 2014

15

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16

DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Conservation is key Water costs at the wallet, and farming is a major user of a resource we’ve taken for granted forever.

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Which is more and more attracting attention from scientists, conservationists, farmers and even suburban households. On the land, for instance, overflowing stock water troughs lose a lot of water.So do leaks from water pipes. If you are on councilsupplied water with a volume charge, leaks that are not repaired promptly will add significantly to your water bill.

There’s also the matter of electricity.

About 20–30% of power costs on the farm are water related — pumping water into storage, down the farm, wash-down and effluent pumping. So improvements to reduce water use cut power costs which will save money year-on-year.

Annual costs for animal health remedies are significant and if an inline dispensing system is used leaks mean those remedies are not getting to your stock in the right dose. This is a cost in lost remedies and ultimately to the health and performance of stock.

It’s easy to lose lots of water fast — about 14 cubic metres a day, for example, through a hole the size of a small nail.

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With the onset of summer, the mantra continues that New Zealand must improve its water storage for agriculture and no doubt in months to come, farmers will look to reduce drought impact on stock health and welfare.

Government action in support includes the Irrigation Acceleration Fund which is intended to help realise the potential for irrigated agriculture to contribute to sustainable economic growth throughout New Zealand.

The 2011 Budget allocated $35 million over five years to support the development of irrigation infrastructure proposals to the ‘investment-ready’ prospectus stage.

The IAF’s primary purpose is to support regional-scale, rural, water infrastructure proposals. The IAF will continue support for strategic water management studies and strategies and community irrigation schemes, that was previously available through the Sustainable Farming Fund and the Community Irrigation Fund.

The IAF, as far as is practicable, adopts a multi-year development

programme-based approach, subject to achievement of milestones and confirmation that the proposed project continues to be viable.

While water retention projects may be burgeoning, there is standing advice from the Ministry of Primary Industries that is relevant today, as it has been in a number of years past when the cyclical drought conditions have hit the rural sector.

Farmers in drought-affected areas will need to consider all options to maintain optimum stock health and welfare.

Although top-dressing generally has low priority it may be an option that will pay off in some areas. It is important to remember that in dry conditions superphosphate fertiliser will persist on the ground, he said. Stock grazing pasture before the fertiliser has been washed into the soil — particularly if the pasture is short — are at risk of poisoning.

Prevention of poisoning depends on withholding stock from recently topdressed pasture until more than 8mm of rain has fallen.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

ADVERTORIAL

There’s something in the water…

Kiwis strive for our green clean image, but sadly our water sources are increasingly becoming contaminated.

It is now becoming more difficult to obtain pure water via traditional bores, river supply and rainwater harvesting, as resource consents aim at preservation and control.

Waterborne illness is often the result of some water sources and Pump and Purify is a business that can provide inline protection, ensuring water at its best.

The company advice is to perform water tests when there are changes in water in taste, odour or visually, when maintenance is done on water supply equipment, as annual maintenance or if you bring children into your household.

Pump and Purify specialises in filtration systems for under bench filtration, whole of house, or for dairy shed UV systems.

Whole of house systems with UV can be installed for less than $1,000. The company offers customised or simple

DECEMBER 2014

CG Flemin Fleming g Ltd Servicing Coastal Taranaki

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF OUR VALUED CLIENTS

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18

DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

IT DOESN’T GET MUCH BETTER THAN THIS Climb aboard the Fortuna Thoroughbred Syndications Bandwagon and enjoy the thrill and excitement of owning a share in a quality Racehorse

Here is our opportunity to share in the ownership of a strong, powerful Colt by the Golden Slipper winner STRATUM The Fortuna Syndications team is on fire - 15 raceday starts in NZ in the season to date for 7 wins, (including two Black Type wins) 3 seconds and a 3rd. Now you can be part of the successful Fortuna Thoroughbred Racing Team by obtaining a share in this Two Year Old Colt by STRATUM out of the Group One winning Mare THE PARTY STAND. You won’t have to wait long for this boy to get to the races. Acquired at the recent Karaka Ready To Run Sale, he really is “Ready To Run.” Bred to be a very fast racehorse, this Colt will be trained at Matamata by leading trainer, Jason Bridgman of Te Akau Racing.

You can share in the ownership of this exciting young COLT

Initial costs - NZ$14,400 for a 10% share, NZ$7,200 for a 5% share, NZ$3,600 for a 2.50% share, NZ$2,880 for a 2% share or NZ$1,440 for a 1% share Ongoing costs which will cover ALL racing expenses are NZ$320 per month per 10% share, NZ$160 per month per 5% share, NZ$80 per month per 2.5% share, NZ$64 per month per 2% share and NZ$32 per month per 1% share (Monthly payments commence February 2015).

FORTUNA Syndicated horses are: SELECTED by DAVID ELLIS - one of the very best in the business TRAINED by TE AKAU RACING’S JASON BRIDGMAN in NZ and MARK WALKER in Singapore RIDDEN by leading jockeys MANAGED by FORTUNA’S JOHN GALVIN, experienced and professional Applications can only be made after investors have received and signed a Disclosure Statement. To obtain a New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing approved Disclosure Statement on this outstanding opportunity, please contact John Galvin, Director of Fortune Ltd 24/7 (call or text) 021 921 460 or Free-phone 0800 100 667 or email john@fortuna-nz.com Visit the Fortuna website www.fortuna-nz.com

“Selected, Trained, Ridden and Managed - by the Best” Call or text John Galvin 24/7 - 021 921 460 or Freephone 0800 100 667 NOW Fortuna Ltd is an Authorised Syndicator in accordance with the Code of Practise established under The (New Zealand) Securities Act (Bloodstock) Exemption Notice 2002

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DECEMBER 2014

LIVESTOCK

Be my Guest

Bill Guest Farmers of New Zealand Membership Services: 09 439 5219 • 09 430 3758 www.farmersofnewzealand.com Email: newzealandfarmers@xtra.co.nz

A look at sharemilking disputes Herd owning sharemilking agreements have been very common in the New Zealand dairy industry for 100 years.

These particular 50/50 herd owning sharemilking agreements are not statutory agreements like the Sharemilking Agreements Order 2011.

The Sharemilking Agreements Order 2011 provides the opportunity for an individual to become a sharemilker without owning the herd, working for a dairy farm owner.

The right of set-off where a dairy farmer can instruct the dairy company to withhold milk proceeds owing to the sharemilker under the terms of the contract is one of the very important clauses that is in both sharemilking agreements.

Lately it has been announced that Federated Farmers have deleted the setoff clause from their 50/50 herd owning sharemilking agreements. The statutory Sharemilking Agreements Order 2011 still retains the set-off clause.

However, while still retaining this clause the dispute resolution process clauses must be strictly followed and it is only after the dispute has failed to be resolved by conciliation that the farm owner is entitled to withhold the sharemilker’s proceeds to the value of the claims as follows: (a) The farm owner must notify the sharemilker in writing of the intention to retain the sharemilker’s payment; (b) The farm owner is not entitled to retain or deduct from any one payment due or to become due, to the sharemilker more than 75% of any such payment; (c) All money deducted from the sharemilker will be paid into the farm owner’s solicitor’s interest-bearing trust account to be accounted for on request by either party.

The farm owner must be very careful to follow the rules strictly as set out

in the Sharemilking Agreements Order 2011. If the farm owner withholds more money from the sharemilker than the amount the farm owner is claiming, then in the absence of extenuating circumstances, the arbitrator must award interest on that money at a rate of 8% per month or part of the month compounding, This equates to 96% interest per annum.

If the farm owner withholds only the amount being claimed and the farm owner’s claims are subsequently not awarded in full, the arbitrator must award interest at a rate of up to 5% per month compounding on the excess money withheld.

Arbitration was seen at one time as the best option to settle sharemilking disputes. Today however the cost of arbitration can amount to many

19

thousands of dollars. The Farmers of New Zealand sharemilking agreements give the parties, we believe, a number of options that the farm owner and the sharemilker can decide on prior to signing the 50/50 herd owning sharemilking agreements, which ensures a speedy conciliation process and a low cost method of resolving their dispute.

Farmers of New Zealand believes that the District Court Dispute Tribunal is the most economic way to settle claims of $15,000–$20,000, if the dispute cannot be resolved by professional conciliation. We have a renowned reputation for providing successful professional advice in sharemilking and employment matters. If you have a query, contact our membership help desk services.

Meet Your Local Wool Representative at PGG Wrightson Wool

Want to find the best way to market your wool?

Expertise is only a phone call away PGG Wrightson Wool Ltd handles in excess of 350,000 bales annually through its wool store network strategically positioned around New Zealand and its export company Bloch and Behrens.

Andrew Anderson Feilding/Taihape

027 7029 496

Tony Cox

Wanganui

027 5965 144

Eric Constable

Wanganui/Taranaki 027 4409 784

Taranaki Rural Marketplace  Solar power & hot water solutions for the home and dairy shed  Reduce your power consumption by 50%  Hot water & Space heat pumps  The solar energy specialists  Renewable Energy wholesaler

Office: 07 570 0092 | Mob: 027 229 9388 e: tony@alphaenergy.co.nz | www.alphaenergy.co.nz

ROCK PICKING New Zealand’s Best Rock Picker NZ Importer and Operator

Kivi-PeKKa We are looking for work Book now for next season – Buyers Welcome Call Now Dean 027 550 7986 Office 06 329 3900 A/h 06 323 1279 Email info@countrymachinery.co.nz

DRIVE TO THE CONDITIONS

Stratford Auto Electrical  Computer Diagnostics  Alternators & Starters  Competitive Prices  Air Conditioning & Battery Specialists 144 Broadway North Ph: 06 765 5824 Mob: 027 270 7368

TARANAKI FARMING CLASSIFIEDS Phone 0800 466 793 For Sale STOLEN QUAD-BIKES? You won’t find any listed here, but you can pre-empt this kind of thing happening and protect your fuel too. Visit www.parabeam.co.nz or call 0508 727 223 for more information.

Animal Health Products HIGH CELL Count? Apple Cider Vinegar, Garlic & Manuka Honey 20L - $49.95, 200L - $450 or 1000L - $2000 + GST with free delivery. Black Type Minerals Ltd. Phone 021 185 1501. www.blacktypeminerals.co.nz

Energy Efficient DO YOU LIVE IN A WINDY SPOT? 3 phase wind turbines starting at $2,200 includes 450 watt turbine, 6m pole, charge controller and inverter, Batteries not included. Ring Colin at Windpower Waikato Phone 0274 831 041 A/H 07 843 7983 Email colin@windpowerwaikato.co.nz.

Farm Buildings FARM BRIDGES. Phone Clark now 0800 222 189 or email clark@ bridgeitnz.co.nz. Visit www.bridgeitnz.co.nz. Bridge It NZ Ltd.

20

DECEMBER 2014

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

IF WATER RUNS THROUGH IT, WE DO IT! Prices valid from 1 Dec 2014 to 31 Jan 2015 – All advertised prices are ex factory and include GST.

20 Devan Water Tanks

YEAR

WARRANTEE

Why Devan?

25000LT

2800

$

PER UNIT INCL GST

Troughs Broken Ballcocks costing you?

Save Money, Save Time, Save Water!

• Threaded brass outlets

• Made from virgin material

• Thick wall

• 11 colours available

• Tubular reinforced roof

• Sizes 600 to 30,000lt

Protector Series 1100L

TRP1100N

$373.75

515L

TRP515N

$241.50

FROM

241.50

$

PER UNIT INCL GST

Water Tank Fittings Inlet valves | Ball valves | Level indicators

25%

OFF

Open Series FROM

234.60

$

1100L

TRU1100

$324.30

675L

TRU675

$234.60

PER UNIT INCL GST

Stock Water Pipe 10 bar HDPE

More bar for ya buck!

FROM

1.06

$

Farmboss® Culvert

110mm

$14.38 /m

90mm

$9.43 /m

75mm

$7.32 /m

8 bar HDPE

63mm

$4.54 /m

75mm

$5.08 /m

LDPE

50mm

$3.01 /m

63mm

$3.54 /m

450mm x 6m

$642.85

40mm

$1.92 /m

50mm

$2.56 /m

25mm ID

$1.87 /m

375mm x 6m

$426.65

32mm

$1.45 /m

40mm

$1.60 /m

20mm ID

$1.50 /m

300mm x 6m

$297.50

25mm

$1.27 /m

32mm

$1.06 /m

225mm x 6m

$173.00

MEGAPOND

PER METRE INCL GST

Applies to 100 & 200m coils only

Effluent Management System HYPOND

0800 WE PIPE (93 7473)

www.hyndsrural.co.nz

Brown stripe NZ made twin-wall PP/PE pipe

STONETRAP

BUNKER

NEW PLYMOUTH 5 STRUTHERS PLACE P 06 759 8157

FROM

173

$

PER LENGTH INCL GST

BRIDGES & UNDERPASSES