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THE WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES IS PUBLISHED WITH PRIDE BY RURAL MATTERS LTD, A PRIVATELY OWNED NZ COMPANY. Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@rml.nz Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville

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Politics: The ultimate tradie interview by Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country

Youth Parliament is held every three years and gives young New Zealanders the chance to learn first-hand about our democracy, influence government decision-making, and ensure their voices are heard.

Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Marnie Fuller | Daniel Foster | Liz Clark Accounts: accounts@rml.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Printed by: NZME Website: farminglifestyles.co.nz Opinions expressed in this publication and in advertising inserts, by contributors or advertisers, are not necessarily those of Rural Matters Ltd. All inserts delivered with the publication are not produced by Rural Matters Ltd.

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They also have the opportunity to learn about politics and politicians first-hand. I genuinely believe more New Zealanders should have that opportunity. I don’t think everyone needs to sit in the prime minister’s chair in the house — or in mine, for that matter. Still, I do believe that the more we know about politics, the more we understand it and, most importantly, the more we engage with it, the better off we’ll all be. It really comes down to a simple idea. No matter if it’s the central or local government, the hospital board, or the school board, when we vote for someone, we’re putting them in a position of power. We trust them to make decisions for us. Wouldn’t you want to know who they are and what they believe in? I know that can be tough, especially in local government, because it’s hard to know everyone running for election. Often, people rely on word of mouth or name recognition, but honestly, those aren’t always the best guides. It’s much better to do your own research. Take some time to find out about the candidates: what

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their track record is, if they’ve worked in the community, and whether others recommend them. We’d do this if we were hiring a tradie, and in many ways, politicians are like tradies. They work for you and are paid to do what you want them to do. That’s politics at its best. It’s not some mysterious game played in Wellington or in council chambers by people in suits. Instead, it’s a long-running DIY project managed by five million demanding customers. We pick the team, set the plans, and every three years, we decide whether to keep them on or send them back to the depot. So next time the ballot papers arrive, don’t just shrug and guess. Make a cuppa, do your homework, and go to a public meeting. They’re not boring; they can be feisty, and fun for everyone except the candidates. Check out who you’re hiring. After all, if you wouldn’t let a stranger rewire your house in the dark, why let someone rewrite your future without at least a quick look at their references?

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Preparing for El Niño

October 2026

by Andy Bryenton

Farming advocacy and support organisations are rallying behind their constituents to prepare for the unpredictable outcomes of the most extreme El Niño weather event ever seen. ‘The 2026-27 El Niño is forecast to be one of the strongest in decades. This means that early preparation is needed for potentially extreme weather — from flooding to drought-like conditions — and other impacts like potential transport disruptions,’ said Horticulture NZ, which has dedicated a section of its website to address preparedness. With information about irrigation resilience, water storage capacity, and how to interpret meteorological data as the predicted hot, dry summer approaches, this uptick in interest is not confined to the horticultural sector. DairyNZ has analysed the fiscal implications of an extended or severe El Niño, and its modelling shows that a hot, dry weather scenario this summer could push farm working expenses to $6.78/ kgMS and the national breakeven milk price to $9.07/kgMS. DairyNZ head of economics Mark Storey noted that the dairy sector is currently in a strong position and dairy farmers are adept at overcoming challenges such as El Niño. However, forewarned is forearmed. “Pasture will take the first hit, creating the biggest driver of the additional cost pressure, with national feed expenses modelled to increase from $1.56/kgMS under the baseline scenario to $2.02/ kgMS under a very strong El Niño,” Storey said. “Milk production is also expected to dip rather than collapse, with national production modelled to be around 2.1% lower under a strong El Niño and around 3.3% lower under a very strong El Niño.” Similar pressures will fall on the red meat sector, prompting Beef + Lamb New Zealand to deploy scientific know-how to make every drop of rainfall count. Taking the long view, B+LNZ has pioneered the Catch the Rain research project that has yielded valuable data. “The value of Catch the Rain is that it has tested practical management changes in real farm environments. Farmers can now see where there is potential to improve rainfall infiltration and, importantly, have

Meteorological data has been collated from around the world to determine the extent of the coming El Niño summer

a way to test what works for their own farm,” says B+LNZ head of science and research, Dr Suzi Keeling. Longer recovery periods for pasture were shown to produce the best results, over and above methods that required additional capital investment. On three farms, infiltration rates almost doubled on average within nine months compared with control areas. Longer recovery periods are a relatively low-cost change that can be introduced into existing farm systems without capital investment. During the trials, farmers compared standard rotation lengths (for example, 30 days) with extended recovery periods ranging from 60 to more than 90 days.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY AMY FIFITA

From a stray cat and guinea pigs to having a whole farmyard of animals, Deborah Green is living the life she had wanted as a child, alongside her husband, Raymond Green.

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rowing up in England, in the Midlands, we never had animals as children. We couldn’t afford it, and my mum was very house-proud. We were allowed to feed a stray cat that came up to us as long as it never went into the house,” said Deborah. “Later on, my sisters and I had guinea pigs in the garden shed, and that was the extent of animals that we were allowed. I used to walk out into the countryside to feed any horses that I came across. “When I walked out into the country, there was a dog named Tim, whom the owners would let walk with me. I’d be looking at horses, and Tim would be running through paddocks.” Saving all the money she had from an office job after she left school at 16 years old, Deborah bought an unbroken 13.2hh pony.

“I met my husband, Raymond, when I was 17 years old. He was training horses in England, and when he decided to return to New Zealand, I went with him. We did go back to England, where we had our son. “We also stayed in Australia and America, training Standardbreds or working in Standardbred barns. With more chances of animals in New Zealand than in England, we returned to New Zealand after America. We trained horses again, as we have for the past 60 years.” With horses at the forefront of Deborah’s life, her love for animals doesn’t stop at equine breeds. Once back in NZ, her first animal was a stray cat and its litter of feral kittens found under the house. “My first animal, once we had returned to NZ, on the farm was a stray cat that had kittens under our house. When we left

With plenty of room in her heart for any animal, Deborah also rears calves

that property, my son had a pony, I had started collecting chickens, and we took

all of the wild kittens with us. I couldn’t catch the mother cat.

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After restoring the swamp on their farmland, Deborah bought two white swans from her friends to enjoy the pond on her 10ha block

“We have about 10 hectares on our current farm, and if I see wild kittens, I set traps, catch the kittens, take them to the vet, and get them spayed and microchipped. Now we don’t have as many wild cats in the area. Without getting the parent cats fixed, it becomes a vicious cycle.” Deborah’s collection of animals didn’t stop with feline friends, but extended to a whole farmyard of avian, equine and cloven-hoofed beauties. Another part of the operation is Deb’s heritage poultry. “When I got here, I had a few Warmblood horses that I also bred, and because they

Growing up in England, in the Midlands, Deborah Green found her love for animals, and although she couldn’t have many pets, her adult life certainly made up for it

were too big for me, a young girl would come in to ride them and we’d sell them on. I stopped breeding and riding horses, and decided to buy a couple of goats to show, and then I bred calves to run on and sell. That’s when I started breeding chickens, and I began showing them three years ago. “I still have cats, goats, calves, nurse cows, sheep, Chinese geese, peacocks and Gypsy Cob horses. We had a big pond and a swamp here, which we have cleaned up for the white swans I bought off my friend.

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“With a show five months away, I am hatching my favourite breeds to be sold at the Kumeū show, and a percentage will go to our Auckland Poultry and Pigeon Club. Then we go on to do the Whangārei, Waikato and Auckland poultry shows. “Chickens are great fun, and in comparison to a dog, they are cheaper to keep and provide eggs for us. It is a real buzz when your chicken lays its first egg.” With local governments in France and Belgium giving people chickens to encourage city dwellers to feed them scraps, cutting down waste and providing

October 2026

Deborah is married to well-known horse trainer Raymond Green, and together, they have travelled the world training equines

citizens with an egg supply, Deborah would like to see people get back to grassroots. “People are starting to grow their own vegetables and raise their own chickens for eggs. Most NZ households are allowed six chickens. “Many people like Brown Shavers, but because of the way they are bred, they wear themselves out. However, heritage breeds produce less, but they live and lay longer. This is everything I wanted when I was a child. The horses are a main part of our lifestyle, and I show my chickens at two or three shows a year.”

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY DENISE GUNN

Angus cattle hold a special place for Zarrah Blackwell and her husband Richard Giddy on Mangaotea — a large sheep and beef farm near Tariki.

he couple own 110ha of the family’s 400ha (335ha effective) property and lease the remainder from Zarrah’s father Robin Blackwell. “Rich and I both work on the farm fulltime. Robin helps out where needed,” said Zarrah. Mangaotea was established in 1963 when Robin’s parents bought a block of land on Croydon Road. Robin began farming the original 80ha more than 40 years ago when he took over from his father. Through purchasing several neighbouring properties over the years and leasing a 215ha block, he and his wife Jacqueline increased the farm size. The property sits 220–300 metres above sea level, and covers a mixture of

flat-to-rolling country with some gullies and steep ridges. The farm receives an average annual rainfall of 1,800mm. “We run about 220 bulls, 100 breeding cows, 60 fattening heifers and just under 300 dairy grazing heifers.” A flock of around 300 Romney ewes and a Southdown stud producing stud rams for terminal sires are also farmed on Mangaotea. Growing up on Mangaotea fostered Zarrah’s interest in agriculture. She completed a New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture (Sheep and Beef – Level Three) while studying at Taratahi Institute of Agriculture in the Wairarapa. She then shepherded in Rangitīkei, worked as a stock agent for CRT in the South Island and spent time on cattle stations in Australia.

The farm’s Angus herd was formed 20 years ago following the purchase of some in-calf heifers

In 2017, she returned to the family farm to help with calving and ended up staying. Richard, originally from Inglewood, grew up on a dairy farm. He did a mixture of contracting and dairy farming before joining Zarrah at Mangaotea.

At that time, Mangaotea was running three herds: Hereford, Angus and a small Murray Grey one. This year, Zarrah and Richard closed the Murray Grey side of the farming operation, selling all their cows to concentrate on the Angus.

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The couple have always liked the Angus breed

In addition to producing quality bulls, Richard and Zarrah also fatten heifers

“The Angus herd was established in 2006 with the purchase of some in-calf heifers from Taumaru Stud,” said Zarrah. “Rich and I bought into the herd in 2022 and now own the majority, apart from some older cows of Robin’s.” In April, a couple of in-calf heifers were purchased from the Matauri Stud dispersal sale. Richard and Zarrah are excited to see how these heifers work out. “We have always liked the Angus breed, and the self-supply for our bull sale was a major factor. We know the full history of each animal and are breeding what we need for the market.” Breeding and selling bulls, with particular attention placed on traceability, has always been the farm’s core focus. Mangaotea holds an on-farm bull sale each September. Producing top-grade

Angus yearling bulls has been a significant farming highlight. “We have worked really hard to breed the right bull for this market and they need to be well grown. They are just getting better every year.” Alongside producing quality bulls, Zarrah and Richard have branched into fattening heifers. “We made room for them in our system and any heifers that are not suitable for breeding go into that line. Normally we would have sold them as weaners at the sale, but now they are farmed through to around 500–550kg, then go to Silver Fern Farms.” The Angus’s ability to calve easily, along with the breed’s consistency in producing vigorous newborn calves, appeals to the couple.

“They get up on their feet and have a drink, which is also helpful in the dairy industry.” Zarrah and Richard aim to continue breeding easy-calving Angus, and raise calves that grow fast to weights suitable for export. In the past couple of years, through buying sires from Hallmark, Pukenui and Shian, they also hope to build on their AI programme. Jacqueline breeds the Herefords on Mangaotea, introducing a line of bulls from Grassmere, Westholm and, more recently, Koanui. “We then buy the bulls as yearlings off her to take through to the sale as twoyear-olds,” said Zarrah. Mangaotea is named after the stream that runs through the property. Robin and Jacqueline began fencing off and planting the stream more than 25 years ago, as well as other main waterways. Zarrah and Richard continue to fence and plant unproductive areas. The couple plan to buy more land from Robin to enable further expansion of their farming operation.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WHEN GOLD HUNTING HAD

A SPECIAL BOUNTY Gold mining in Waikato had an unusual genesis, back in 1852. A simple £500 bounty launched a mining industry which still survives today as a major economic contributor to the region, and the national coffers too.

he Coromandel gold rushes shaped the history of the HaurakiCoromandel region, fuelling boomtowns that briefly rivalled the country’s largest cities. Unlike the easily panned alluvial goldfields found in Otago or the West Coast, most of the Coromandel’s gold was locked inside hard quartz reefs requiring heavy industrial machinery, transforming the gold rush into a major corporate enterprise. It was to stop locals from fleeing to the lucrative California and Australian goldfields that Auckland businessmen offered a £500 bounty for anyone who could find payable gold in the north. In October 1852, brothers Charles and Frederick Ring claimed the reward after finding gold flakes at Driving Creek near Coromandel Town. Though it sparked New Zealand’s first minor rush, the excitement quickly fizzled. Individual miners lacked the tools to break

the gold out of the tough underground quartz veins, and local Māori tribes heavily opposed the mining and disruption of their land. Most prospectors quickly abandoned the area. The true boom arrived 15 years later in August 1867, when prospector William Hunt discovered a massive gold strike in the rock face of a waterfall at Kuranui Stream. Following successful negotiations with local Māori landowners, the Thames Goldfield was officially proclaimed open. Within a year, the population of Thames exploded to over 18,000 people, temporarily threatening to surpass Auckland in size. Moreover, because the gold was trapped in quartz reefs, companies took over from lone miners, installed massive stamper batteries to crush the rock, and constructed huge pumping systems to keep the deep mine shafts dry. A little-known spinoff was further gold and silver on Great

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Barrier Island, north of the Coromandel Peninsula, where small mining efforts produced stamping batteries still standing sentinel in bushland today. In Coromandel, the Caledonian Mine in just a year from 1870 produced a massive 140,000 ounces of bullion. Gold

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Heavy machinery soon led the gold rush

As gold prices fixed and easily accessible reserves depleted, the historic boomtowns shrank or shifted focus toward logging, dairy farming and eventually tourism. Modern machinery and floating gold prices have kept largescale open-cast operations active at Waihī to this day. Today, commercial gold production in the region is dominated by OceanaGold’s Waihī operations focussed on the Martha underground mine. Combined district production is projected to yield 1.6 million ounces of gold over the 2024–2038 period, with an estimated workforce of over 450 employees. OceanaGold is actively pushing ahead with the Waihī North Project, which includes the proposed Wharekirauponga Underground mine, the Gladstone Open

October 2026

Waihī settlement before the boom times

Pit, and upgraded processing facilities. To expedite the process, the company withdrew its regional resource consents and submitted the project to be processed under the government’s Fast-track Approvals Act. Mining has returned to the national economic plan today with current policy on the industr y focussed heavily on revitalising and expanding the resources sector to boost exports, employment and regional economic growth. Under its current Minerals Strategy to 2040, the government aims to triple the sector’s export value to $3 billion by 2035. The government has rolled back previous restrictions to foster an open-market environment for extraction. The Crown Minerals Amendment Act 2025 reintroduces the directive to

‘promote’ resource exploitation, reverses the 2018 offshore petroleum exploration ban, and removes public tender requirements for exploration permits, shifting to an open-market competitive process. The Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 streamlines consenting processes, allowing major infrastructure and mining projects to bypass traditional, lengthy regulatory channels and secure approvals within months. Environmental rules have been altered to treat mining as a strategic activity. Effective January 15 2026, the government amended five key Resource Management Act (RMA) National Direction instruments. These changes simplified consenting for quarries and mines, opening up pathways to clear and develop land in and around historically restricted areas like wetlands, significant

natural areas (SNAs) , and highly productive soils. The government has established a formalised critical minerals list containing 35 essential resources (such as rare earth elements). Policy dictates that domestic mining is crucial for national security and securing technical supplies, as well as supplying international trading partners with the components needed to construct renewable energy technology like wind turbines and batteries. Since Waikato boasts a rich gold-rush history, several retired mining zones have been converted into popular recreational and educational sites operating right alongside the active security fences in Waihī. The Gold Discovery Centre takes visitors inside real-working territories to view modern ore crushing, extraction and massive heavy machinery up close.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Get it right this Spring 325iR Brushcutter L

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36V - Cutting width 42 cm - 3.5 kg (excl. battery)

759

525LST II Trimmer

LC419A Lawn Mower L

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Husqvarna Series™ - 166 cc - BioClip® / Collect Cutting Width 48 cm m - 44 L Collector

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100

21.7 cc - 60 cm Bar - 30 mm Teeth Opening - 5.2 kg

Powerful trimmer with a high torque gear box, robust construction with durable components.

Hardended steel blades and high cutting speed for efﬁcient cutting.

939

809 RRP

322HD60 Hedge Trimmer L

25.4 cc - 1 kW - 46 cm Cutting Width - 5 kg

SKIN ONLY

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849

1,019 RRP

TS100i Garden Tractor H

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1,000

100% Battery powered - Belt-free 38” / 95 cm Cutting Deck 2 kWh battery.

949 RRP

Z242F Zero Turn

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400

Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin - 21.5 hp - 42” / 108 cm Cutting Width

Alloy cutting deckk

939

9,299

1,019 RRP

AM 435X Automower®

3,500 m² 70% (35˚) Ideal for mid-large, sloping lawns Handles obstacles & rough terrain GPS navigation Ultrasonic collison deteection

• • • •

10,459

10,299 RRP

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3,395

WIRED MODEL

5,094

10,859 RRP

AM 450X NERA Automower®

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5,000 m² (7,500 m² with EPOS) 50% (27˚) • Ideal for large, complex lawns • Reliable robust design • Handles slopes & tight spaces • GPS navigation • Smart home ready • Selectable mowing patterns

8,589 RRP

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RMA replacement’s third reading by Andy Bryenton

Parliamentarians are calling it the most significant overhaul of New Zealand’s planning system in more than three decades: the Resource Management Act is to be no more, as the bills replacing it pass their third reading in the Beehive.

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

“Today is a major milestone. After 35 years of the RMA, Parliament has passed legislation for a fundamentally different way of planning for New Zealand’s future,” says RMA reform architect Chris Bishop. “For too long, the RMA has made it harder and more expensive to build the homes and infrastructure New Zealand needs, develop renewable energy, produce food and fibre, and invest with confidence. “At the same time, it has failed to deliver the environmental outcomes New Zealanders should expect. We have ended up with the worst of both worlds: a system that is costly, complex and difficult to navigate, without delivering effectively for either growth or the environment.” More than 100 planning documents, required under the RMA and varying wildly in their provisions across regions, councils and civic boundaries, will be replaced with 17 regional combined plans. The upshot, say supporters of the new Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill, will be a dramatic reduction in variation of the rules, duplication of the rules, paperwork proliferation, and the ‘open to interpretation’ nature of regulations that saw the RMA bloat into what opponents called an ‘unworkable’, ‘Frankenstein’ piece of unwieldy legislation. “Officials estimate around 45 per cent of consent and permit applications currently required under the RMA could be removed under the new system. Based on 2023/24 volumes, that represents between 15,000 and 22,000 applications that would no longer be required,” says Mr Bishop.

“The new system will also give much greater recognition to the enjoyment of land, and require a more deliberate and proportionate approach when planning rules significantly restrict what people can do with their property.” Mr Bishop and parliamentary undersecretary Simon Court opine that better regulation means less time and money spent navigating unnecessary processes, and more investment going into homes, infrastructure, businesses and productive activity. They’ve run the numbers on how the RMA’s demise and replacement might impact the economy, and estimate significant gains. Independent analysis projects the new planning system will boost GDP by an additional 0.56 per cent every year by 2050, worth up to $3.1 billion annually. A cost-benefit analysis also estimates $13.3 billion in savings over 30 years through lower administrative and compliance costs. As resource management affects the fundamental primary production engine room of the New Zealand economy — and this is the sector seeing the greatest fiscal traction in the ongoing economic recovery — replacing this one piece of legislation could leverage a disproportionate impact. The transition will happen in stages. Existing RMA plans, consents and processes will continue while national instruments, regional plans, digital tools and data systems are developed, with the new system intended to be operational by 2030.

ADVERTORIAL

Berberine: Supporting healthy blood sugar by John Arts

A concerning New Zealand health statistic is the number of people who have type two diabetes. The 5% of us that have type two diabetes is bad enough, but there are another 20% who have uncontrolled blood sugar. The tragedy is that poor blood sugar control is treatable with a diet low in sugar and carbohydrates, yet high in low-starch plant foods, good fats and protein. Please contact me if you would like an email copy of my Healthy Eating Guide. While diet is the priority, wellformulated supplements can support blood sugar control. Two nutrients that have received growing attention in this area are berberine, derived from Indian barberry, and chromium polynicotinate, a vitamin B3 (niacin) form of the trace mineral chromium. Berberine is recognised for its influence on AMPK: an enzyme needed to enhance use of glucose, reduce overproduction of insulin and to inhibit liver over-production of blood sugar (glucose). Helping balance glucose use and glucose production is central to blood sugar control. This often brings improvements in long-term blood sugar reflecting in better HbA1c levels — a blood test familiar to those with poorly controlled blood sugar.

Simon Court (right), pictured with fellow ACT campaigner Paul Henry, is buoyant about the prospects of a new resource management system

October 2026

Berberine Balance

There is, however, a significant problem with standard berberine supplements. Berberine is insoluble in water, resulting in poor absorption and a high rate of digestive problems. Water-soluble berberine overcomes these issues with high absorption with lower rates of digestive issues. The best supplements have water-soluble berberine combined with chromium polynicotinate. Chromium polynicotinate has a different yet complementary action on blood sugar balance. It does this by supporting the movement of blood sugar into cells, reducing cell insulin resistance. The combined use of berberine and chromium is therefore biologically beneficial, as berberine may support cellular energy regulation and chromium to insulin responsiveness. John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner. To read more by John and find out more about the Abundant Health products, visit healthhouse.co.nz, call 0800 140 141, or email john@healthhouse.co.nz.

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COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Peace of mind, whatever the season brings. When the weather keeps you guessing, it’s good to have something you can count on. N-Protect’s smart coating helps more nitrogen get where it needs to go, giving you stronger growth and less waste. Together, we’ll help you grow the feed you need, and maybe a little extra.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

AGRIBUSINESS Comparing apples to apples by Andy Bryenton

Apple exports and a burgeoning local market for the sweet fruit have prompted a government investment in new technology, which can look inside individual apples and provide data on their ripeness and condition. Auckland agritech company Hectre may have cracked the code, and the government is backing them to the hilt with a $1.84 million grant through the Primary Sector Growth Fund. That’s just part of a three-year programme, costing $4.6 million, to develop a scanner that can see inside fruit without damaging it at all. “The project will develop hyperspectral imaging technology (light-based scanning that sees inside fruit without cutting into it) to understand what is going on under the skin of an apple, as it enters the packhouse and during storage,” says Agriculture Minister Todd McClay. “Better information about internal defects and fruit quality could help exporters make earlier decisions about storage, packing and when to ship them out. That means a better chance of fruit reaching markets in top condition with less waste.” Hectre is not new to the fruit data game. Their technology already collects information about the size, colour and quality of billions of pieces of fruit flowing

Hectre plans on developing a proof-ofconcept algorithm with a target accuracy of 80 per cent by winter 2027, followed by a working packhouse prototype by 2028.

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The billion-dollar apple industry will be armed with more knowledge to deliver fresher fruit in a timely fashion

through Kiwi packhouses each year. The leap into deep scanning with light will enable growers to look beneath the skin to assess factors such as maturity,

firmness and starch content. With this knowledge, it will be easier to plan for supply-chain logistics, with the end result being fresher and tastier fruit on shelves.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

To lime, or not to lime? Well, there’s no question.

Reasons to apply lime to your soil: Increases nutrient availability; raising soil pH with lime to ~6.3-6.5 releases and balances soil nutrients for plant uptake, maximising return on your fertiliser spend. Reduces the need for N-fertiliser; lime stimulates N-fixation by legumes, and N-release from organic matter into plant available forms. Increases soil biological activity and diversity; key to nutrient availability, good soil structure & porosity, and ultimately pasture/crop yield. Improves Soil Structure and Porosity; Increased water-holding capacity in the dry and improved water drainage in the wet, Lime builds resilience to droughts, floods, runoff and erosion. Lime also helps rebalance high-magnesium soils by increasing the influence of calcium, particularly in tight estuarine soils such as those found in the Hauraki Plains. Reduces elemental toxicities evident at low pH levels, e.g. Al, preventing subsoil acidification and improving root growth, root development, and reduces P-fixation.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

AGRIBUSINESS ADVERTORIAL

Avoca’s soil testing can unlock fertiliser investment

Upper Waikato and South Auckland farmers can maximise pasture growth by taking advantage of Avoca’s thorough soil-testing regime and the team’s extensive knowledge of nutrients, minerals and soil health. Avoca director Bryce Manderson says farmers wanting to unlock their fertiliser investment need to ensure they are fully across their soil health needs, and Avoca’s experienced and trusted lime, fertiliser and soil consultants can help with that. Avoca soil consultants work directly with farmers, horticulturists and orchardists, offering specialised advice on soil fertility and fertiliser management. Avoca’s soil samples are packaged and sent away to independent laboratories — Eurofins Laboratories in Hamilton. “I would also encourage people to get their lime and fertiliser orders in now, and have those applied to their farms before the risk of potentially unusually dry weather that has been forecast arrives this summer,” says Manderson. “It’s important our fertiliser consultants do a face-to-face on-farm site visit to gain an understanding of your farming operation, the soil types you have, and understand the goals you have for your farming business. A review of your existing fertiliser programme and any recent soil tests can also be a useful starting point.” That’s because recent fertiliser application and the condition of the soil at the time can all influence soil test results, so it is important to make

sure that soil samples are taken at the right time and that the right number of samples is taken. Avoca sales and operations manager Neil Crowson recommends soil samples be taken by the company’s experienced soil and fertiliser consultants, because they have been fully trained to carry out the sampling. “Our soil consultants have a broad range of fertiliser and agricultural knowledge, combined with real farm experience. The advice they provide is practical and specifically tailored to match your needs, because every farm has its own mix of characteristics that make it unique,” says Crowson. “These characteristics will ultimately be determined by the natural environment. Environmental factors include different soil types, topography and climate. Farm management factors are diverse and include the type of farming, management philosophies and financial objectives. “What people sometimes overlook is the importance of having the right balance of magnesium and calcium, which is critical for creating and maintaining good soil pH — for which consistent applications of lime are critical — good soil structure and porosity.

Avoca sales and operations manager Neil Crowson (left), and Avoca managing director Bryce Manderson say farmers will get more from their fertiliser by spreading lime

“Our aim is to understand your farming operation and work closely with you to formulate a prioritised lime and fertiliser plan that is right for you and your unique situation.” Crowson says Avoca assesses the soil test lab results, converting the lab report into specific NZ-orientated fertiliser recommendations that identify priorities and take into consideration information gained from the initial farm visit.

From there, an Avoca fertiliser recommendation is completed, and a visit to go over the soil test result and the fertiliser recommendation is conducted with the farmer. “This is where final adjustments and changes are made to the recommendation. The order is confirmed at this point and final decisions on when to apply are made. Our process is very thorough and made easy for the farmer,” Manderson and Crowson said.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

AGRIBUSINESS ADVERTORIAL

Keep your herd cool this summer

As mentioned in the September 2026 issue, Earth Sciences New Zealand confirmed El Niño conditions have been reached in the tropical Pacific and are expected to strongly influence New Zealand’s weather into 2027. The charts on the right show how this El Niño event is tracking compared to past historically strong El Niño events and what this means for the New Zealand Seasonal Climate Outlook. “Even during a typical New Zealand summer, all regions get hot enough to cause heat stress in dairy cows.” Cows generate lots of heat digesting food and producing milk, or live weight gain, but they lack efficient mechanisms to get rid of this heat effectively when some environmental factors rise above certain thresholds, which then increases the risk of heat stress. “Heat stress has multiple consequences for your herd.” Heat stress negatively impacts their: milk production, weight gains, reproduction, health and welfare. These are significant factors for your herd and farming business.

So what can you do? Notice if your cows are: breathing faster, eating less, drinking more, walking more slowly, producing less milk.

“Be vigilant, recognise heat stress symptoms — mitigate the risk.”

“biOx can help you take control of what you can control, on-farm.”

To reduce the risk of heat stress in your herd, you can manage their environment, water supply, milking routine and feed. Managing the environment around your cows is where biOx can help. We provide professional advice, products and services, to create cooler conditions that minimise the potential for heat stress and thus mitigate its negative effects. What do our customers say? When asked: “What do you like about the biOx fogging system?”

They’ve said: “It’s easy to install and maintain”, “It’s really effective at cooling down the cows”, “Switch it on and it goes”, “The low maintenance”, “The cows love it!” When asked: “Would you recommend the fogging systems to other farmers?” They’ve said: “Yes, definitely!” Call us today on 0800 NODUST to discuss how we can keep your herd cool this summer* * All enquiries will receive a complimentary gift! Acknowledgements and Sources: Earth Sciences NZ, DairyNZ, biOx Environmental Ltd.

MOO-VING INTO THE COOL ZONE, THANKS BIOX!

THE COOLING SPECIALISTS! biOx are specialists in effective, high quality indoor and outdoor cooling and comfort solutions across NZ. On farm, our high pressure (HP) / low volume fogging systems will cool the air significantly through flash evaporation, without wetting your cows. Having been in business for the past 25 years, our solutions are tailored for the toughest of industrial settings, and NZ farmers. Easy to install, use and maintain, our systems last. Efficient water (garden hose) and power usage (single phase) makes this a great intervention for NZ farmers in our peak summer and shoulder months. With our indoor fixed lines designed for cow sheds (inside or holding yard), barns, shade shelters, or calf rearing sheds and our range of world leading outdoor cannons for feed or stand-off pads, and in-paddock (open) grazing, we have you covered. Look after your business, by keeping your cows cool and comfortable and help protect and support what matters most; their milk production, reproduction, health and welfare. Looking to beat the heat? Call us today on 0800 NODUST to discuss how we can keep your herd cool this summer*.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

AGRIBUSINESS Practicality takes flight by Andy Bryenton

Colin Chapman, the legendary Lotus designer and company director, famously exhorted those seeking motoring perfection to simplify, and add lightness. It’s a mantra which served him well across generations of racing machines and road cars, but there’s more than one arena of internal combustion competition. The Formula One track may be gritty and gruelling, but talk to any farmer and they’ll tell you that Monaco has nothing on Maungatūroto or Morrinsville; specifically the hinterland where real rural work gets done. Since back in the days when a horse was the only option for riding the fence lines and herding livestock, farmers have needed to get to some gnarly country, and they’ve wanted to get there reliably. The advent of petrol-powered machinery may have replaced the trusty steed on most farms, but that’s where Colin’s famous words come in. In an era when more horsepower, bigger tyres, more space and more displacement can seem tempting, there’s a light, simple solution to getting about the paddocks and races. Of course, it’s been under our noses forever; the simple, low-displacement farm bike. Sometimes you really do need four wheels and a tipping tray to tackle

the tough jobs, but often two will do. A little battler of a bike with good ground clearance, a willing, frugal small engine and reliable performance fits the bill. If it can come into the fleet at a neat price, that’s even better. That’s where the CFMoto Cflite 230 arrives to tick all the boxes. At less than $4,000, this little single-cylinder trooper features a 229cc air-cooled engine and a weight of just 132 kilos, making it light and nimble. There are no extras to go wrong; the Cflite has a carburettor and the minimum of moving parts, not banks of computers and electronics. The design has a hint of modernity, and disc brakes have replaced the old drums, which used to be a farm bike staple, but in other respects the Cflite 230 represents a bit of the old school. It’s a tool that works because it’s simple. There are knobbly tyres with proper spokes, because spokes are easy to pressure wash. There’s a headlight for early morning starts and engine protection bars and a bash plate to take the knocks. You’ll ride high enough to clear rugged terrain, but the saddle is comfy enough

SEE MORE. KNOW SOONER. RESPOND BETTER.

for a long day of work. Every opportunity to make things more reliably durable has been taken. Saving fuel is a big deal right now, and nothing sips the explosive juice like a tiny little one-pot carburetted bike. At the same

time, few things can get around the farm so adeptly. If you’re looking at mobility options and want to work to a budget this year, there’s plenty of value represented in this modern reinterpretation of a total rural classic.

LET DR BERT QUIN ASSESS, FOR ONLY $250+GST UNTIL NOV 30, THE MOST COST-EFFECTIVE FERTILISER STRATEGY FOR YOUR FARM IN TODAY’S VERY CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT. • Unbeatable 50 years’ experience in soil fertility and fertiliser research including laboratory, plot and farm-scale comparisons and assessment of soil tests and herbage analyses. Inventor of SustaiN and ONEsystem and an expert on the use of natural and slow-release nutrients. • Forget the formulaic recommendations by poorly-trained sales reps who simply don’t have the necessary knowledge and experience to understand the wide mix of factors that determine the most cost-effective and environmentally-protective fertiliser strategy for your farm. • Call me on 021 427 572 for a free, no-obligation, 10-minute chat. If you like what you are hearing, just email me (i) your name, address and phone number plus a farm map showing hectares and soil types, (ii) your current fertiliser programme, (iii) current production levels (eg MS/ha, sheep/beef su, crops, bought-in feed), (iv) recent soil tests and herbage analyses, and (v) an outline of your objectives for the farm. • On receipt of these, and a payment of $250 + GST, I will ring you for an in-depth chat. I will then send you a detailed written assessment of the optimum fertiliser strategy to minimise your fertiliser expenditure and GHG emissions while achieving your production targets. • I am proudly independent. I have the courage of my experience and convictions to import products like RPR if their availability is being withheld, but I don’t ram these products down your throat. I don’t have much truck with farm advisors who claim independence, but invariably make their fert recommendations from the duopoly’s pricelists. There is finally competition in the soluble P market, so let’s take advantage of that!

DR BERT QUIN - TELLING IT LIKE IT IS FOR 50 YEARS 021 427 572, bert.quin@quinfert.co.nz

Distance from camera 150m

**Licence plate blurred for privacy reasons**

Distance from camera 150m

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Four titans go for gold by Andy Bryenton

The finalists for high-horsepower tractor of the year are in, and 2027 seems to be a year of massive power and technological change at the top of the industry. First off the bench is the Claas Axion 8.290 Cmatic, a refined machine boasting 313 horsepower delivered using the Claas dynamic power system; the tractor adjusts its output to the task at hand, delivering better economy and versatility. It’s also a bonus when it comes to maintenance, as the big green and red machine only needs to visit the workshop every 750 hours. As has come to be expected from Claas, operator comfort is paramount. The new Axion’s cab drastically reduces noise levels, provides supreme temperature-controlled comfort for long days in the field, and offers exceptional visibility.

Up next is a heavyweight contender, which offsets its massive power with tracks to float over the soil and reduce compaction. The big Fendt 1167 Vario MT Gen2 is the flagship of the Fendt fleet, with a massive 680 horsepower coming from a 16.2-litre MAN diesel. Getting that power to the ground smoothly is the name of the game, and the Vario 1167’s continuously variable transmission provides a seamless drive to a set of immense tracks, aided by a selflevelling chassis system and twin-point cab suspension for operational comfort. The biggest of implements will be mastered effortlessly thanks to all those horses

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under the hood and 440 litres a minute of hydraulic flow capacity. The Steyr Cervus CVT is the third tractor in the top bracket of power for this year’s Tractor of the Year awards. It has several highlights in common with its competitors, boasting a CVT transmission, big horsepower numbers (in this case 435), and heavy-duty hydraulic flow rates to tackle big farming tasks. With a combined gross vehicle weight of 18 tonnes, there’s Claas won Tractor of the Year for 2026, and is in very little this sharply designed the running for the 2027 award with another Axion model modern tractor can’t manage. Steyr matches right up to the Claas Axion massive 119 kilonewtons of traction, using with the same greatly extended 750-hour a combination of diesel and battery power of service interval, and the Cervus adds a a kind first seen in submarines. That means handy central tyre inflation system, which up to 550 horsepower on tap, with 26% allows tyre pressures to be adjusted for better fuel economy and emissions than different surfaces, all from within the cab. comparably sized diesel-only machines. The final name in the top four may be Those who have seen the difference a new to some, but Zoomlion, which has hybrid drive system makes in cars such as entered the TOTY challenge with a diesel- the Toyota Prius or Nissan Note e-Power will electric hybrid for 2027, has a wide portfolio be paying attention to this one. Zoomlion of earthmoving construction and heavy- may be new to the TOTY finals, but the lifting machines. The DV3504 develops a company has been innovating since 1992.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Aussie has a win — in shearing by Paul Campbell

Two blade shearers have saved the day for Australia after the Bledisloe rugby disappointment with a historic win in a trans-Tasman shearing test match at the New Zealand Spring Shears contest. Despite the Wallabies’ demise against the All Blacks in Auckland, Johnathon Dalla, of Warooka, South Australia, and Daniel Rogers, from Telangatuk East, West Victoria, were celebrating Australia’s first win in a blade shearing test match in New Zealand in the South Canterbury town of Waimate. “It was a particularly triumphant series debut for Rogers, who first represented Australia at the Golden Shears World Shearing and Woolhandling Championships in Masterton in March,” said Shearing Sports New Zealand spokesman Doug Laing. “They beat the New Zealand team of former world individual champion Allan Oldfield, from Geraldine, but recently moved to Melbourne, and Scott McKay, of Clarence, by 2.813 points. “The two teams are now headed for a rematch at the Australian National Shearing and Woolhandling Championships on October 29–31 in Warrnambool, Victoria, where there will also be machine shearing and woolhandling test matches.” As for the rugby, Rogers said they didn’t watch, but were reminded of the score

“quite a few times last night”, and as for a hero’s welcome, he said: “Yeah, that would be nice. I don’t think people in Australia care enough about blade shearing, though.” The Spring Shears woolhandling provided the second surprise in two finals in the new season, with the biggest career win for long-time competitor Kelly McDonald, now based in Waimate, kicking back into life a competitive career on which she had all but turned her back. Starting in a field of 23, she scraped into the final as the fourth qualifier from the semi-finals. “I wasn’t going to enter the competition in the first place, as I’d been having thoughts about giving up competing,” McDonald said. “When I eventually decided to enter, my intention was for it to be my last show and to leave competitive woolhandling behind.” She said she’s now got a big decision to make before the next woolhandling competition in the Canterbury show’s New Zealand Corriedale Championships in Christchurch on November 12. North Island competitors claimed two of the three South Island Woolhandling

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

SUMMER BUILD A solid eye-catcher by Liz Clark

When my second home was built with a concrete slab as the foundation, rather than timber piles, the dilemma of what to do with it on a tight budget was difficult. On the builder’s recommendation at the time, it was hastily sealed with a layer of cheap acrylic paint in the hope it would last. A few mats on the floor, and it was done. However, in high-traffic areas like the kitchen and living room, it wore off after a few years, and it was back to square one. Concrete is far from cold — just the opposite. It gathers heat during the day and gives it off at night, resulting in a warm home in winter. The options available compared to that 20 years ago are now numerous. If you’re building using a concrete slab foundation, polishing it can be a great and cost-effective way to have a beautiful floor that will last a long time. Numerous companies nationwide have proliferated and offer several options, including fine polishing, acid edging and adding colour. The price ranges from $40 a square metre and beyond. It can be as costly as putting down carpet and linoleum. Still, once done, the extras won’t be needed, and it will save the budget in the long run. A good pour for a slab should result in a crack-free finish. However, things can go slightly askew, which results in hairline

cracks coming through after polishing. They can add to the character of the floor as a whole — consider them part of the process. If the budget is tight and polishing isn’t an option, there’s now an extensive range of hard-wearing specialised concrete surface paints available to beautify your floors. Cracks can be filled with a specialised filler from your local paint specialist, which should be done before going any further. The floor must be dust-free and clean before proceeding. Applying two coats of concrete undercoat is required before applying the top coats of colour. The undercoat can be tinted, so it’s the same colour as the final top coat. If you’re adventurous, a concrete benchtop, either coloured or highly polished, can add something special to your kitchen. There are specialists available who can help provide the best options and colour choices where required to produce a long-lasting and beautiful surface. Cleaning is easy. Hot, soapy water and a sponge will keep the surface clean and intact. Talk to your local concrete professional about options for your home.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

SUMMER BUILD It’s not so straightforward by Liz Clark

January 15 this year was that exciting change, or so it seemed, when you could build a small, stand-alone dwelling without council consent — but it’s not so simple. It’s just the opposite — more complex and still requiring expert advice if you’re planning to make the dream happen in the country somewhere or building that home for extra family members to stay alongside an existing one. You might have seen a lot of small companies popping up overnight on the social media feed selling expandable homes at a fraction of what it would cost to build from the ground up. The reality is, as I’ve discovered through my own project, that an expandable home requires significant upgrades to make it compliant with the Building Code and the New Zealand Standards requirements. Double the cost — that’s the reality of it all. You’ll need some engineers, plumbing, drainage and electrical experts, and a consultant architect who can help you do the consent application for your foundations. Keep aside at least $20,000 for plans and the consent fees your local council requires to meet the criteria under the Building Act. All that aside, they are still a costeffective option compared to building

from the ground up. If you already have a site in mind, check the covenants first, if any, and then ensure you line up the experts mentioned above that you’ll need for the project. Recent changes in the regulations have added further requirements before a council will grant consent for the project. For rainwater tank systems or from a bore or raw water supply, a filtration and UV water treatment system is now required. Following that, another requirement for all new builds is the provision of interlinked smoke alarms in every room of the house. If a new woodburner is being installed, then add in heat detectors, which are required to be interlinked with the smoke alarms. It’s why you use the experts rather than trying to do it yourself and end up in what is termed the RFI (request for information) trap and have your application take longer than the 20-day turnaround time. Do it once, do it right, by talking to the experts first and getting all the plans and paperwork completed first to save delays in the consent process.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

SUMMER BUILD A century and Stihl going strong by Andy Bryenton

In 1926, forestry was a hard profession for tough workers, who wielded big two-man saws to manually topple tall timber. In Germany, one man saw the possibility of making life easier for foresters, and the industry more modern and productive. He was Andreas Stihl, born in Switzerland but raised in Germany. He was a veteran of the first world war, injured in battle, who had retrained in engineering after the war’s end. His first foray into design came with a device to pre-fire steam boilers, cutting down on the time it took to get these big machines up to power. As steam was a major motive power for the timber milling industry, it’s likely that his research brought him into contact with saws and lumberjacks. In 1926, the same year as his steam-engine company was active, he invented the ‘cutoff chain-saw’, but it wasn’t powered by steam, or even petrol. Leapfrogging technology by 80 years, Stihl’s first saw was electric. However, unlike the compact batteries and motors of the present era, electrical components of the 1920s were heavy and large. It took two people to run the big Stihl saw, but it nevertheless provided a big advantage over muscle power alone. By 1929 Andreas had developed a small, light petrol engine for his second attempt,

the ‘tree felling machine’. In the interim, as often happens with inventions, another German engineer, Emil Lerp had developed his own petrol saw, but Stihl’s machine was superior. Without the need for an electrical plug, it could be used out in the forest as well as in the mill, and it wasn’t long before Andreas cut down the size of the motor again, making it possible for one person to use the chainsaw. The productivity of the workforce all but doubled at this stroke. By 1971 Stihl was the biggest chainsaw manufacturer in the world. The company went international, and recognised that it wasn’t just forestry where chainsaws were valued. Construction and landscaping professionals also wanted machines, and a growing homeuser market wanted smaller, lighter, more easily operated chainsaws. Stihl delivered, and leveraged the technology needed to make small but punchy and reliable motors into a range of other tools too. Today, Stihl manufactures machinery in seven nations, spanning Germany, the US, Brazil, Switzerland, Austria, China and the Philippines. The company has regularly featured as one of the most trusted brands in New Zealand, and is

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY & LIVESTOCK

Canine protection laws in discussion by Andy Bryenton

Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard says that proposed new dog laws are not targeted at responsible farmers, hunters and pet owners, but they will give animal protection officers more powers to crack down on abusers. The proposed law changes are aimed at banning the practice of caging or kennelling dogs for long periods of time, to a point where the animals become physically and mentally damaged by the experience. “I want to be really clear with farmers and other dog owners. Kennelling your dogs at night, or between jobs on the farm, is normal and responsible, and these proposals don’t change that,” said Mr Hoggard.

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“Neither does crating a dog for toilet training, travel, vet care or a house move. If your dogs get regular exercise and company, and have room to stand, lie down, stretch out and turn around, you have nothing to worry about. “This is about the small minority of owners who leave their dogs shut away day after day, to the point where the dog shows clear signs of harm.” Prolonged confinement doesn’t just harm dogs, but can also be linked with aggression and violent behaviour. Last year, SPCA inspectors dealt with more than 400 complaints in which long-duration confinement was a problem. Under new laws, they would be able to issue fines if they found two or more signs of prolonged confinement. These signs include builtup faeces or urine, a badly damaged enclosure, injuries from the enclosure, muscle wastage, overgrown nails, fly bite dermatitis and excessive frustration. “Dogs need exercise, company and room to move. When a dog is locked in a crate or kennel day after day with no break, it misses out on all of that, and it suffers,” Mr Hoggard said. “Those dogs can become anxious, fearful and aggressive. That’s bad for the www.grazing.nz dog, and it can put families, the public and other animals at risk too.”

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Long-term confinement of dogs could become an offence punishable in the first instance with a $500 fine

Hoggard said the proposals are open for feedback and nothing has been decided. “We want to hear whether the proposed signs are clear, whether $500 is the right fine, and whether the rules properly protect normal, short-term confinement. We’re also asking for views on dog

breeding, to help reduce the number of dangerous and roaming dogs, and on commercial services like day care, boarding kennels, walkers and groomers.” Consultation opens on October 12 and closes at 5pm on November 23 2026. Details are at mpi.govt.nz/consultations.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

DAIRY & LIVESTOCK

by Paul Campbell

Climate change prompts grass research

As New Zealand farmers face hotter, drier conditions, Massey University researchers are investigating whether native grasses largely abandoned by modern agriculture could offer traits that help build more resilient farming systems. New research from the Whenua Haumanu programme has traced the historical role of native species such as pātītī, kāretu and danthonia in New Zealand farming, with some commercially traded as recently as the 1920s. Led by PhD candidate Eru TaitJamieson, the research explores whether species that evolved in New Zealand conditions may hold clues for building more resilient pasture systems as the climate changes. While not replacements for modern pasture species, Mr TaitJamieson says native grasses may offer traits such as drought and heat tolerance that warrant further investigation. The research focusses on reviewing the historical use of native grass species that have been largely overlooked since the rise of high-input farming systems in the early 20th century. Before European colonisation, Māori used species such as kāretu for weaving, thatching and rongoā (traditional medicine). Early pastoral farmers also recognised the grazing value of native species, including pātītī and danthonia, which were commercially traded by the 1920s. Mr Tait-Jamieson says the decline of native pasture grasses reflected changing agricultural and societal priorities, rather than just a lack of suitability for farming. “As farming intensified and focussed on maximum production, breeding efforts

were, understandably, directed toward introduced species that had already undergone substantial improvement before they were brought to New Zealand,” he said. “Modern pasture systems now rely entirely on exotic species such as perennial ryegrass. This shift accelerated following the widespread importation of phosphatic fertiliser from Nauru after the first world war, along with plant breeding programmes focussed on exotic species, that helped drive the development of highly productive farming systems that left native grasses behind.” The research notes historical and observational reports of traits in these species, with pātītī described as droughttolerant, kāretu as resilient to high temperatures, and blue tussock as highly palatable, which could be of interest for exploring resilience under current and future climate pressures. The researchers say the potential value of native grasses lies not in competing directly with highly bred exotic pasture species, but in the functional traits they may contribute to more resilient farming systems. “The question is not whether wild-type native grasses can outproduce centuries of exotic cultivar development. Rather, it’s whether they can contribute traits that enhance the productivity and resilience of more diverse, lower-input pasture systems,” Mr Tait-Jamieson says.

Eru Tait-Jamieson, doctoral candidate

Despite growing interest in pasture diversity as a tool for improving farm resilience, contemporary diverse pastures in Aotearoa still rely entirely on exotic species. Further research, including evaluation under

modern pastoral conditions, is needed, but Mr Tait-Jamieson says current agricultural context supports taking a fresh look at Indigenous grasses and their potential role in future farming systems.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

ADVERTORIAL

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The good times roll on

by Andy Bryenton

Toyota celebrates 60 years of presence in New Zealand for 2026, and it’s a birthday which has a special resonance with millions of Kiwi motorists. “Our place in New Zealand has been shaped over time by listening to customers, understanding how they live and work, and earning their trust through our products and the service we deliver. We’re grateful for that trust and it’s not something we take for granted,” says Toyota New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa That place includes numerous superlatives: Toyota enjoys the status of a ‘most trusted’ brand, and for 38 out of those past 60 years it has been the best-selling auto brand in the nation. You’ll see the depth of feeling that Toyota commands when you look through the classifieds for Toyota models now considered classics. The price of an original Celica GT-4, an AW11 MR-2 sports car or even the legendary K-series-powered Corolla might make you do a double take, especially if, like so many Kiwis, you once drove one of these cars. That’s because they

are loved. People’s eyes light up with passion for their projects, classics and survivors. There are Toyota stories across the length and breadth of New Zealand, and little touchstones of shared history, too. The ‘indestructible’ Hilux ads of the 1980s made Barry Crump’s face at least as famous as his ripping yarns had done. Adventures in Land Cruisers, road trips in Camry wagons past rolling fields, student flat moves accomplished in KP Starlets and driving tests passed in first Corollas are indelibly inked on the national psyche. Still, the automaker is not content to rest on its laurels, however impressively gilded. “Toyota’s philosophy is centred on the Japanese concept of Kaizen, or continuous improvement, and a ‘hospitality’ mindset. For us, this means we’re always looking at how we can do things better for the people who rely on us,” says Mr Ishikawa.

See us for all your upholstery needs • All Vehicle Trimming • Tonneau/Truck/Crate Covers • Motorbike and Truck Seats • Boat Covers & Canopies • Carpet Binding • Corporate Refurbishments

• Shade Sails & Awnings • Vehicle Branding • Graphic Design • Heat Pressing • Ziptrak Outdoor Blind System

Custom made products are one of our specialties and we are often creating and fabricating products specifically to our client’s needs and to individual designs.

142 Broadway, Matamata Ph/Fax: 07 888 5484 • E: autotrimmers@xtra.co.nz

This 1960s Corolla is the kind of ground-breaking small vehicle that turned heads when the brand landed in New Zealand in 1966 — it’s a beloved classic today, still going strong

“This philosophy is really brought to life in our local teams, which are part of the same communities as our customers. They put in the work at a grassroots level to not just sell cars, but to show up every day for the communities they serve.” Progress comes in many forms, and Toyota is poised on the brink of a new expansion for 2026. The monstrous GR-GT has proven that it can step into the octagon with the big boys of high performance. A new, all-electric Hilux (featured in this edition) points to an energy-smart future. Hydrogen

experimentation and implementation are very much of Toyota’s mind, as is the pursuit of more utility, comfort and safety. They’ll never forget their roots, though, and exciting cars continue to be hinted at. For example, a rumoured new MR-2 mid-engined twoseater has been reported hitting Japanese tracks in full camo. With 60 stores nationwide, and a fleet spanning the suburbs to the wild hinterland, Toyota is in it for the long haul. Thankfully, reliability and longevity are two qualities the company is renowned for.

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*The $124 weekly payment is based on a Hilux Pre-runner 2WD Double Cab with a TDP of $49,990, a 10% deposit, and a final balloon payment of $31,994. Total Amount payable is $57,684. The $141 weekly payment is based on a Hilux SR5 4WD double cab with a TDP of $60,990, with a 10% deposit and a final balloon payment of $41,473. Total Amount payable is $70,634. The $147 weekly payment is based on a Hilux Adventure 4WD double cab with a TDP of $63,990, a 10% deposit, and a final balloon payment of $43,513. Total Amount payable is $74,085. All payments are based on a 48-month/60,000 km Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) Credit Contract from Toyota Financial Services, with an interest rate of 7.9% p.a., fixed for 48 months. GFV option is subject to T&Cs and a $250 return fee. Offer available on eligible Toyota Hilux vehicles purchased and delivered from an Authorised Toyota Dealer between 1 September 2026 to 31 December 2026. A $400 establishment fee and a $9.20 PPSR fee apply. Normal Toyota Financial Services lending criteria apply.

WHEELS

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

October 2026

ADVERTORIAL

Dual-cab electric UTV — so many uses

Introducing our all-new, Tuatara DC2500E dual-cab, all-electric, off-road utility vehicle (UTV). The exciting thing about this vehicle is the dual motor configuration, with the motors being mounted directly on the front and rear axles respectively. This means no drive shafts and no transmission, resulting in an exceptionally quiet operation as well as a significant reduction in servicing requirements. Unlike many other dual cab UTVs on the market, the Tuatara DC2500E is a genuine six-seater, while most of our competitors offer only four seats. Added to this is the huge 26.5kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery installed in the DC2500E, providing a range of up to 160km on a single charge. Furthermore, this battery comes with a remote diagnosis capability, which means that it’s possible to connect to the battery from virtually anywhere, check battery health, diagnose faults, and even upload programs. The DC2500E is also equipped with regenerative braking. This essentially means that whenever there is any forward momentum and no accelerator activity, the electric motor converts to a generator and delivers electricity back to the battery, thus increasing vehicle range. Regenerative braking typically occurs when the vehicle is descending a hill. At the same time, this process also causes an electromagnetic

resistance that creates a form of ‘engine braking’ that reduces the need for the use of conventional brakes and therefore the frequency in which brake pads need to be replaced. Electric vehicles have a number of advantages over combustion enginepowered options. The first one is the cheapness of operation, which many

customers are further enhancing by installing solar systems to allow battery charging off-grid. Added to this is the considerably reduced maintenance requirements, which are accentuated in the case of the DC2500E by the dual motor configuration. The fact that electric motors develop full torque at any speed should also not be understated. This is what allows us to run

the vehicle without a transmission, but also makes the DC2500E a good towing and cargo-carrying vehicle, as well as providing exceptional capability on steep terrain. If you are looking for a vehicle for adventure tourism, servicing farm stays, or just transporting a group of people comfortably in an off-road situation, you need to look no further than the Tuatara dual-cab 2500E.

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October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Big boots, small footprint

by Andy Bryenton

In 1959, Sir Alec Issigonis was tasked with making a small, compact car that did everything a big and bulky one could, but with a tiny footprint and turning circle. His concept was the Mini, and with these little machines selling in their millions, you might say it was a bit of a hit. Beatles-era bands toured in them, ute versions carried whole tradies’ businesses, people were conceived and born in Minis — which might be too much information. Now, New Holland has asked the question: What happens if we do the same thing with a tractor? In reality, that’s probably not the design brief for the new T7 Standard Wheelbase, but it’s the exercise in less-ismore cleverness New Holland engineers

have undertaken. The formula is the same as that of Sir Alec’s: Take something that works well — in this instance, a powerful 225-horsepower tractor with all the digital mod-cons — and make it smaller. What came out of the New Holland R&D department is a range of T7 options, from the 190 through to the 225. All of them emphasise a tighter footprint and nimble turning radius, hitting a sweet spot for versatility on modern farms. They’re powerful enough to handle some of the hefty and powerintensive implements needed for 21st-

Manufacture / Repair of Hydraulic Rams Cylinder Honing Agricultural Power Steering Repairs CNC Machining Wheel Machining Site Work

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12 Peregrine Place, Frankton, Hamilton 07 847 1514 | www.completehydraulics.co.nz |

century cultivation, but small enough to manoeuvre in the confines of a barnyard. “Mixed farming businesses need tractors that can handle a range of jobs across the day,” says New Holland product manager Seamus McCarthy. “The new T7 Standard Wheelbase delivers more lifting capacity, greater carrying capacity and a tighter turning circle, giving operators more flexibility without sacrificing manoeuvrability.” That means the same T7 that can dominate chores with the loader on the front, is able to do the business when it’s cutting and baling time in the paddocks. The same machine feeding out for livestock or wielding a seed drill can tuck down a country lane without giving oncoming motorists pause. It’s not just improvement by increments, either. The whole front end of the T7 has been rebuilt, delivering a 20 per cent better turning circle. Think of the difference between your daily driver and a drift car. A reimagined CVT transmission also delivers a 10 per cent improvement in efficiency, while rear linkage capacity is up by 20 per cent. More agile, fuel efficient, and greater capacity for hard work? Why isn’t New Holland designing my next ute, you might

The New Holland T7 range has a new member, with the Standard Wheelbase model offering nimble, compact power

ask? The answer is, they’re laser-focussed on tractor advancements. In fact, between fettling the drivetrain and handling of the T7 and its launch, they found time to reduce noise in the cab by several decibels, and achieve a whopping 64 per cent more coverage with the tractor’s windscreen wipers. It’s here now if you want to take a closer look; call your New Holland dealer and find out why a little T7 goes a long way.

Address: 43-47 Hunua Road, Papakura, Auckland 1 Dundas Road, Sanson, Manawatu Landline: 09 298 1519 Mobile: Josh 027 299 5697 | Ken 022 131 8375 | Jayson 027 240 0178 Email: sales@olsencommercial.co.nz

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October 2026

82 84

SOLUTION

Down: 1. Time warp, 2. Misjudge, 3. Acrid, 4. Instep, 5. Ovum, 6. Brute, 7. Sudoku, 8. Leeway, 9. Deli, 10. Ease, 11. Masterstroke, 17. Index, 19. Plain, 22. Bomb, 24. Arnica, 26. Egg, 28. Bugbear, 29. Sari, 30. Video, 32. Landing, 35. Lei, 37. Ego, 38. Ice, 41. ASAP, 42. Sheilas, 43. Well-adjusted, 44. Oreo, 45. Someday, 48. Wield, 50. Shriek, 51. Pen, 52. Old, 53. Tee, 55. Note, 58. Inept, 59. Gap, 60. Only, 62. Mystical, 63. Normally, 65. Again, 68. Humble, 69. Pseudo, 71. Escort, 73. Issue, 75. Midst, 76. Mist, 77. Need, 79. Oath.

Fireplace Range Since 1978

Across: 1. Timpani, 6. Basil, 9. Dream, 12. Never, 13. Ere, 14. Miser, 15. Undue, 16. Lists, 18. Tempt, 20. Whine, 21. Would-be, 23. Leak, 25. Opera, 27. Ruby, 29. Sever, 31. Glum, 33. Taxi, 34. Plea, 36. Beginning, 39. Dot, 40. Braise, 43. Wild-goose chase, 46. Hobo, 47. Lawn, 49. Misappropriate, 54. Ignore, 56. Ale, 57. Derring-do, 61. Amen, 64. Late, 66. Nosy, 67. Judge, 68. Hype, 70. Expel, 72. Skip, 74. Symptom, 76. Minim, 78. Stoic, 80. Twine, 81. Blues, 82. Decal, 83. Eel, 84. Utter, 85. Dated, 86. Evoke, 87. Totally.

Visit our website to see our full

Spaces available on Tours in 2027 Please contact us if you would like an info pack

Left:

Leon (Father)

16-18kw Multi Fuel 900mm H X 455mm W

Right:

Sparky (Son)

7-10kw Multi Fuel 795mm H (with base) X 350mm W WARMING KIWI HOMES FOR OVER 45 YEARS

AVAILABLE THROUGH OUR NATIONWIDE DEALER NETWORK

info@wagenerstoves.co.nz I www.wagenerstoves.co.nz I Ph: 09 408 2469

info@nzadventures.co.nz Ph: 027 435 4267 or 027 550 6727

www.nzadventures.co.nz

BY PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY NOT “EXPERTS” ONLINE

October 2026 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES