Waikato Farming Lifestyles, August 2020

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Council’s climate roadmap

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Changing family farm genetics

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Aiming for excellence Page 6–7

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August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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Policy for election DairyNZ has released its 10 policy priorities for the 2020 election and its The View from the Cow Shed report, which provides policymakers with insight from the farm.

“This election, we wanted to give voice to dairy farmers’ concerns and priorities to help politicians better understand the issues impacting farmers. We surveyed our dairy farmers and asked them what they thought,” said DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle.

“Our dairy farmers are worldleaders in the production of sustainable, emission efficient and nutritious dairy, but we still have a significant farmer confidence and wellbeing issue in this country that pre-dates Covid-19.”

The View from the Cow Shed survey compiled feedback from dairy farmers across New Zealand.

Key trends include challenges with mental health, technology and government regulation.

“It was really encouraging to see that 94 per cent of farmers reported they were proud to be working in the dairy industry at the moment. At the same time, 62 per cent of farmers said they or someone on their farm had experienced mental health issues over the last year, with an uncertain regulatory framework identified as one of the main contributing causes.

“Fifty per cent of farmers said they don’t have access to the broadband internet they need, and 52 per cent don’t have adequate mobile reception on-farm. When asked about their community’s outlook over the next three years, 64 per cent of farmers expect things to decline.

“Farmers were also asked what motivated them the most to get out of bed in the morning. What was great to see is that working and caring for animals is the main driver for 43 per cent of farmers. Providing for their family came in a close second.

“That sends a tremendous message that farmers really value what they do and that animal care remains at the heart of their farming business. This information has informed our policy

Dr Tim Mackle, DairyNZ chief executive

platform and identifies the top 10 things the next government should do to improve outcomes for dairy farming families, their rural communities and New Zealand.”

DairyNZ’s policy priorities include: refocussing investment in science by investing in R&D for their primary sector to unlock more value and volume. Working with the sector to meet workforce needs through training and recruitment of Kiwis, as well as skilled migrant workers.

Investing in rural broadband and improved mobile coverage. Developing a national water storage strategy and investing in water storage to increase water supply in times of drought.

Get its environmental settings and support right, by partnering with farmers and support them to play their part to meet new environmental standards.

See the full The View from the Cow Shed report at dairynz.co.nz/ viewfromthecowshed.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

Council’s climate roadmap

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The Climate Action Committee has recommended that the Waikato Regional Council Climate Action Roadmap be adopted by council at the next meeting, to be held in late September, as a way to signal how the council will work toward a low-emissions, climate-resilient economy.

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water quality • Water is life pathway — to ensure freshwater allocations reflect both changing land use and climate change signals • Habitat restoration and planting pathway — to proactively identify land and coastal areas, including wetlands and intertidal zones, for protection and restoration to deliver climate-related benefits, provide the best return for freshwater quality, and support community resilience and safety • Future of transport pathway — to reduce the exposure of the sector to the increasing costs of carbon emissions and enable the transition to low carbon transport fuels in a changing climate • Sustainable investment pathway — to support WRC investments that are underpinned by sustainability principles and which reduce investment risk from climate change • Biodiversity and biosecurity pathway — to recognise the risks of climate change for biodiversity, apply strategies to improve biodiversity, reduce pest incursion and expansion and support interregional and central government commitment • Drainage and flood protection

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pathway — to determine the extent to which current infrastructure and flood protection schemes are fit for purpose and respond accordingly • Energy pathway — to facilitate access, development and use of renewable energy sources within the region “The council, through the committee, is taking a leadership role in facilitating collaborative action, community engagement and communication.”

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“There is hardly a regional council activity that is not affected by our changing climate or which does not contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases. The roadmap provides a clear and coherent statement of the council’s position on climate change,” says Climate Action Committee chair, Jennifer Nickel.

“If adopted, the roadmap will provide high-level guidance for the integration of council activities to manage risk and meet legislative requirements and community expectations. It will also build a common understanding of the issues and outline opportunities for collaborative action with territorial authorities, iwi partners and other stakeholders.”

The focus is on areas that represent the biggest challenges and opportunities, with nine climate response pathways prioritised.

• Coastal resilience pathway — to work across the region to reduce the risk of climate-exacerbated natural hazards on the coastal environment and communities and manage the impacts of sealevel rise • Agriculture and soils pathway — to work with the agricultural sector to develop integrated approaches to reduce emissions, increase biodiversity and improve

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August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

Ellen Sands can vividly recall her passion for genetics and breeding Holstein Friesian dairy cattle being ignited as a 14-year-old.

“I

was given the opportunity to help family friends Vince and Sheridan Steiner with their show team at the 2014 NZ Dairy Event.

My parents, Kevin and Lisa, asked me to look at a heifer being sold by Waipiri Holsteins on the day,” says Ellen.

The Sands had purchased several pedigree bulls from Waipiri since 2009. ”They produced some amazing daughters, so mum and dad decided to look into buying a heifer, Waipiri Destry Liza-ET VG88. Her mother was Waipiri Oman Liza-ET EX2. I was quite nervous during the auction, but our bid was successful, and we purchased her for $12,700.

“We used money from some pine trees we had felled. It was really exciting, as it was the first time we had ever bought a pedigree Holstein Friesian heifer or

cow. Prior to that, I wasn’t interested in breeding or genetics, but everything changed that day.”

Ellen, now 21 years old, is now responsible for shaping the genetic direction of her family’s dairy herd.

“We bought the dairy farm in 2006.

Our milking platform is rolling to steep land. Our herd was based on LIC and CRV Ambreed genetics. We began using North American genetics over half the herd in 2010 and the first calves hit the ground the following season.

“We have transitioned to 100 per cent overseas genetics and source the semen from bulls marketed by Semex, World Wide Sires, Samen and Genetic Enterprises.

“Big-framed Holstein Friesians don’t suit the hilly country, so we avoid using tall-stature bulls.

Ellen focusses on improving the genetics of the herd and every calf born on the farm is reared

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“I look for sires that produce daughters with excellent udders, with great capacity and production. We also consider temperament and pin setting and prefer level to sloped, and somatic cell count.

“Running the farm business is a family affair. We milk 500 cows yearround with our autumn herd starting to calve in mid-March, and the spring calves begin arriving in mid-July.

“We have 220-hectares with threequarters of the herd Holstein Friesians and the remainder Ayrshires. We milk through a 48-aside herringbone shed and produced 177,000kgMS in the 2019–20 season, not including the 24,000kgMS taken to rear 550 calves.

“We have one full-time staff member, Hayden Sturgess. Dad handles the milking and feeding out. Mum rears the calves and takes care of the administration.

“My brother Jack runs his own agricultural contracting business and oversees our silage harvesting and cropping. I am in charge of the breeding decisions and help with the calves.

“In 2018–19 Kapu HGD Abe Jenessa VG86 was our top heifer. She was the top fat-producing, registered two-year-old Holstein Friesian in the region producing 595 kilograms of milksolids.

“We purchased Jenessa’s dam, Waipiri Doorman Jenisa VG87 in 2015.

Jenisa holds our herd record for being the highest-producing two-year-old heifer.

She did 615kgMS in 305 days. We rear

Ellen tries to choose bulls that will improve the overall quality of the herd and correct any faults the cows may have

every calf born on the farm until they are 100kg and then decide whether to sell or keep them. Our rising two-yearold heifers are mated to low birthweight Angus bulls.

“Angus and Holstein Friesian calves are worth significantly more than a crossbred bobby calf. In the autumn, our Friesian bulls are sold at weaning, and we reared 157 replacement heifers last season.

“The herd’s diet consists of grass, palm kernel and both grass and maize silage. We harvested 300 tonnes of maize last year and allow approximately one tonne per cow of a palm kernel/ molasses blend that is fed in the milking shed.

“I am trying to increase the fat and protein percentages in our milk. If we can breed cows with higher components

and lower volumes of milk, they should live longer. Our favourite bulls are Ammon-Peachy Shauna sons SeagullBay Senate, Supersire and MVP, along with Gen-I-Beq Brawler and Carse-O-Fern HGD Abe-ET.” Abe sired Kapu HGD Abe Jenessa VG86 and was purchased from Doug and Lorraine Courtman in 2015.

“It is easy to pick Abe’s offspring.

He has consistently left good-type daughters who are exceptionally quiet,” says Ellen.

“All of our two-year-old heifers and a selection of cows scored and classified for traits other than production. Having access to the TOP scorecard for each

cow is useful when making mating decisions. I try to choose bulls which will correct the faults of each cow. We are working to improve the fore udders and last year four cows we bred classified as excellent.”

The family recently received the Sherriff Memorial Trophy. It is awarded to the Holstein Friesian NZ member who has been a member for less than 10 years and achieved the highest average classification score for two-year-olds in the 2019–20 season.

“I have 29 embryos sitting in storage and am excited at the prospect of increasing my embryo transfer work this season.”

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August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Aiming for excellence

by Ann van Engelen Waikato sharemilker Aidan Stevenson changed his career from the building industry to dairy in 2011 and recently placed runner-up in the National 2020 Share Farmer of the Year competition with his wife, Sarah.

A

t 31 years old, Aidan and Sarah have been 50/50 sharemilking for Sue Williams on her 100ha, 330-cow Ngarua property since 2013.

They impressed the competition judges by their determination to live their mission statement of Farming for the Future. “The couple care about the safety of their team. They utilised YouTube for training, held regular toolbox meetings and have clear policies around contractor management,� said Share Farmer head judge, Jacqui Groves from Westpac.

As second-time entrants, Sarah said competing in the awards two years in a row taught them a lot about their business. “We were runners-up in the regional finals 2019 and won the Waikato Region in 2020,� says Sarah.

“We entered the awards as a challenge for our business and an opportunity to check our strengths and highlight our weaknesses. We have turned our weaknesses into strengths from building on the judges’ feedback. “I am the sixth generation in my family to dairy farm in New Zealand. My dad passed away when I was 12 years old, and we then moved into town. I didn’t really fit into urban life and pined to get back to the country. “Aidan and I met as teenagers. He grew up on a lifestyle property with no farming background but had friends on farms, and he loved animals. He completed a building apprenticeship but always had a desire to go farming. “We were given a contract milking opportunity when we were engaged, and we married at 23 years old. The

The Stevensons use embryo transfer work to accelerate the genetic gains in their herd

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practical hands-on skills of building complemented the career change, and Aidan has never looked back.

“Farming has given us opportunities and we see a bright future with the industry.

“We run a system three farm supplying milk to Tatua Co-operative Dairy Company. We are extremely fortunate to receive their premium payout. With a system three, 15–20 per cent of feed is brought and allows us flexibility. We flex our supplement input up or down with the payout. We are fortunate to be on a dead-flat farm with sandy loam, freedraining soils.”

The couple buy-in maize and palm kernel and grow turnips, which are ready to feed around January.

“We typically produce around 10ha of crops, which is part of our regrassing programme. This works well because we are not summer-safe and are susceptible to drought.

“We feed maize and PK on the feed pad and budget for six weeks of dry period annually.

“Our herd has a high Friesian content and 20 per cent Jersey. We started cross-breeding when my mum sold us her herd. A lot of our stock is first cross, and we make the most of our beef calves in the spring, which gives us a premium payment.

“We use embryo transfer work to accelerate our genetic gains and are really happy with the size animal we have now. We have sold two bulls into LIC. One is being marketed in the 2020 LIC A2A2 Premier sire team — the other is in LIC’s sire proving scheme. Being in

The farm is run as a system three and has a high Friesian cattle content with 20 per cent Jersey in the herd

Aidan believes moving from the building industry to dairy was a good decision for his family

our ninth season here, we are calving around 330. We are very traditional farmers with calving starting on July 20. We aim to milk twice a day right through until early May depending on the drought and how autumn goes. We look after the environment and are reducing our footprint.

“We are training great staff for the future and have picked up a lease farm in Kiwitahi of 220 cows.

“This is a big part of our ethos — farming for the next generation and building on equity on decreasing debt for our family.

“We have promoted our farmworker on the home farm to herd manager this season at the Kiwitahi farm, and have employed a local girl to learn the ropes on the home farm.”

This year, the Stevensons won merit awards at the national competition in the DairyNZ Human Resources and the Honda Farm Safety, Health & Biosecurity Award sections.

“For those who didn’t place in the finals, we recommend re-entering the competition next year. Entering a second time gives you a whole year to live and breathe what the judges recommend and embed their suggestions into your farming systems.

“Gathering information, planning, recording and taking photos was all

part of our success. You get a lot more feedback as second-time entrants. We also have a massive focus on health and safety and live and breathe our policies, which we have transferred to the new Kiwitahi job.

“It still feels surreal placing at the competition, but it is reaping the rewards of all the hard work we have put in over the last couple of years. Aidan has no regret changing his career. It is amazing for our children Emily, Jacob and Zac as they can spend time with him on the farm.”

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In his role as medical adviser to PCFNZ, urologist Jim Duthie aims to reduce the number of men suffering from prostate cancer by expanding good testing throughout the country and encouraging early checks.

“Guys don’t see enough doctors,” Jim says bluntly. “So, when they do, it’s important they make the most of that appointment.”

Tackling a cancer that kills more than 600 Kiwi men each year is no small feat.

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foundation is asking New Zealanders to hold a Blue Do to raise awareness and funds to join the fight against the disease.

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We generally make all the coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) we need.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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ADVERTORIAL

Two show homes, one destination With the opening of Urban Homes’ latest Hamilton show home comes the ability to visit not one, but two inspirational homes, conveniently, in one location.

Urban Homes’ adjoining Hamilton show homes are now open in Flagstaff, with a larger number of styles, values, specifications and inspiration to view.

Families, and those looking for great value, lots of space and a home they can call their own, will love our latest show home, Riverpoint, which showcases a spacious floorplan teeming with content and all the essentials of a modern family home.

Accessed through our award-winning Rivercove show home, Riverpoint showcases an open plan main living area, modern kitchen including scullery,

See our advert on the

BACK PAGE

media room, laundry room, study nook, four bedrooms and even a separate rumpus room. Riverpoint is packed with features you need to see, to believe.

Across the fence is Rivercove, the 2019 National Show Home of the Year award winner. A custom-built, premium living abode like no other. Boasting a range of design features, including a state-ofthe-art media room, four bedrooms, two living areas and an impressive covered outdoor entertaining area.

Think moody interiors with deep tones and a sophisticated ambience. Rivercove embraces the darkness, and the results are next level.

Urban Homes continue to think outside the box, combining form and function and delivering a tasteful collection of astute design coupled with flawless use of materials and texture. Once you experience our show homes, you will not want to leave!

“Show homes are an integral part of our clients’ build journey,” said Craig Geer, Urban Homes’ Head of Sales and

Outdoor Living, all day and all of the night

Marketing. “We design our show homes to reflect form and function. So clients can see the different ways to achieve the look and feel they want in a home, while still ensuring they have all the practical requirements of the build.”

We can’t wait to show you how, with Urban Homes, it’s possible to build a

beautiful new home to your requirements, without compromising on style, space or function.

Whether you’re looking at a house and land package or planning to build a bespoke design, you’ll want to start your journey by visiting an Urban Homes show home.

// SHADE SAILS // UMBRELLAS // AWNINGS // MESH OR CLEAR OUTDOOR SCREENS WEATHER PROTECTION SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR YOUR HOME AND OUR TYPICAL KIWI LIFESTYLE.

Proudly Kiwi owned and operated, Archgola Outdoor Shelters are built to last! We’ve been enhancing New Zealand homes with awnings and canopies for over 20 years.

With 99.9% protection from harmful UV rays, along with wind, rain and hail an Archgola outdoor shelter creates the perfect solution for year round, outdoor living.

Size, shape, style or colour, every outdoor shelter is custom designed to compliment your space.

Protection from wind, rain and sun affords you year round enjoyment of your outdoor area. Increased living space offers lifestyle flexibility and adds value to your home. 0800 Sunshade’s custom made products are engineered, designed and certified to the highest standard. We can create beautiful outdoor living areas tailored for your situation and budget.

NZ made for NZ conditions.

Call your local agent Mike on

021 038 4394 for a FREE quote

Interior painting Wallpapering Exterior Painting Spray Painting

(07) 873 9104 027 290 8776 www.daverowe.co.nz decorator@daverowe.co.nz

BOOK NOW 0800 54 54 54 WA I KATO’ S T RU ST E D H E AT PU M P S PEC I AL I STS E ST. 1 979

WINTER HEAT PUMP SPECIALS! For a free, no obligation quote get in touch with us today: www.archgola.co.nz | 07 853 2199 / 027 650 7112 admin@waikatoarchgola.co.nz

HITACHI HEAT PUMPS

MITSUBISHI HEAT PUMPS

Note: Hitachi RAS/RAC Series

Note: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Models are Avanti (2kW–5kW) & Bronte (6kW–9.5kW)

Models range from $1,615–$2,680 (installed) Prices exclude GST. Back-to-back installation only. Conditions apply

Models range from $1,552–$3,765 (installed)

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

HOME&LANDSCAPING

11

Build a bee-friendly garden

by Andy Bryenton

Nature’s pollinators, hard-working little honey makers, and a welcome sight to any keen gardener; Apis mellifera, the common domesticated bee, needs our help after centuries of giving to humanity by way of making our crops and orchards grow.

If you want to pitch in, it’s easy to turn your garden into a haven for the black and yellow insects that support all horticulture.

The first trick is to see like a bee.

With their compound eyes tuned in to different frequencies from ours, bees love the colours blue and yellow, favouring flowers with these tones.

They also like to spend time foraging in a single area. So mass planting of nectar-rich, old fashioned and heirloom varieties of flowering plants can provide a great feeding area for bees.

Bees need water. It’s important to have a drinking source for them, especially during hot summer days when these flying insects can cover vast distances at the speedy clip of up to 24 kilometres an hour.

That makes for thirsty work, and therefore a few shallow saucers of water, topped up regularly, can make all the difference. Those with ornamental ponds should consider placing rocks within, to give bees a drinking point, or planting floating ornamental cultivars to fulfil a similar niche.

A functional and beautiful herb garden is also a bee magnet, and can,

of course, benefit your kitchen as well as the welfare of our insect allies.

Rosemary is a heavy hitter in this regard as it can grow to hedge-sized proportions, but herbs like thyme, borage and sage are also favourites.

Of course, lavender is a contender for most bee-friendly flowering plant, and it also brings scent and colour to your garden. Where bees really get to work is among orchard trees, so if you like your apples, pears, cherries, peaches, plums and citrus, you’ll be entering into a mutually beneficial partnership with the queen and her workers.

No matter what you plant, the best way to encourage bees is to cut back on harsh chemical sprays and go organic.

Bees are part of the natural cycle in the garden, which is often disrupted in harmful ways by chemicals that don’t discriminate.

By providing choices, and a spectrum of flowering plants spanning spring through autumn, you’ll give bees the best chance to thrive. In return they’ll ensure healthy pollination for your crops, fruits and flowers, continuing a symbiosis that has lasted for millions of years.

It’s easy to make your garden appeal to bees, giving them a haven away from low-nectar hybrid cultivars, chemicals and sprays

South Waikato Garage Doors For ALL your garage door and automatic opener needs

eco

WAGENER Leon Multi-fuel

He’s designed to work hard & stand the test of time with a heat output of 16-18kws, an optional wetback & top rails & a fixed log box base for wood storage.

NOW AVAILABLE IN COLOUR OPTIONS.

5 Allen Bell Dr, Kaitaia Ph (09) 408 2469

www.wagenerstoves.co.nz

N

EW

• Professional service “guaranteed” • Reputable products • Local knowledge • Great advice Contact Gary Ph:07 888-8715, 0274 960 715 enquiry@swgd.co.nz

ZEALAND MA DE

concepts

Built to Code & Eco-Friendly Modular, Transportable Pods 10m² - 65m² Custom Design Options

Workers Quarters | Sleepouts | Offices Self-Contained | Off-Grid | Turn-Key

Call us for a Free Design & Quote

0800 ECOPODS

NZ Made | Licensed Building Practitioners Homestar Practitioners | NZGBC Member

WAIKATO DOOR SPECIALISTS

Home of the Wagener Fairburn, Sparky, Butler Multi & CookTop Wagener Stove

20 Euclid Avenue, Hamilton

Wash your hands

P 07 849 7695

There’s no such thing as a typical Kiwi garage.

SMARTPHONE KIT Reliable smart way to control your garage door from anywhere

It’s not just about parking the car, keeping the bikes dry or having extra space. We Kiwi’s are an inventive bunch, using the garage for brewing beer, band practise or starting a business empire.

Whatever you keep in your garage, Garador™ manufacture reliable and secure garage doors to keep it safe and give you peace of mind.

E info@wds.co.nz

www.waikatodoorspecialists.co.nz

12

August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS ADVERTORIAL

Leading design and technology

Accredited Pond Builders

For all your Drainage, Excavation & Transporting Requirements

AGrowQuip NZ Ltd is proud to represent John Deere’s sixth generation of compact tractors, following on from nearly 40 years of leading design, technology and customer satisfaction.

â– Site prep & excavation â– Tracks & races â– Farm drainage â– Entrances / driveways â– Metalling â– Carting fill â– Transporting 27 tonne â– Grader, roller & bulldozer â– Site stabilisation Contact: Ross 027 484 8751 Andrew 027 304 2915 or Leigh 07 873 7545 rldrainage@yahoo.co.nz

DRIVE PHONE FREE!

Still made by John Deere in their US Augusta factory of nearly 500 employees, these compact utility tractors are just one of the many lines of commercial-grade machines they manufacture.

From 23hp to 66hp, there are plenty of models to choose from. Simplicity in operation, effortless power steering, ease, and speed of attachment fitting and removal, such as the AutoConnect midmounted mowing decks, all make John Deere compacts unrivalled machines.

That is why more people worldwide consistently buy a John Deere compact tractor than almost any other brand.

Sometimes, it just pays to follow the crowd! The simple-to-operate hydrostatic transmissions have earnt a six-year powertrain warranty that never fails to satisfy even in the toughest commercial applications.

When you demonstrate a John Deere, not only will you notice the ergonomic layout and the intuitive non-intimidating controls, but the simplistic operation and the quality and strength of the components compared to any competition.

‘Customisable’ John Deere Finance from just 0% per annum, 24-hour service and unmatched parts availability from AGrowQuip gives you the comfort of the best selection made. AGrowQuip NZ Ltd is your locally owned dealership with four branches from Silverdale to Cambridge.

It has recently been awarded the John Deere Construction and Forestry

equipment lines for the entire North Island. We are your one-stop-shop!

So, when you need a compact utility tractor to enhance your lifestyle give Glenn Hawthorne, 027 547 5526, a call in his new role as Compact Tractor Sales specialist.

Glenn can specifically recommend and demonstrate the right John Deere for the right job.

6 years warranty

â€

power, versatility & reliability

COMPACT TRACTORS

25 - 66HP

â€

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

13

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Mighty possibilities in a tiny frame

The skid steer concept is not a new one. It arose from the need to handle heavy loads in a tight and confined space, as typified by construction sites and barnyards worldwide.

Give a small, hydraulically enhanced machine the steering system of a battle tank, and it can turn literally in its own footprint.

Kubota is no stranger to improving small-format working machines, from diggers to tractors.

So the move into the skid steer market was a natural one for the big orange brand.

Their SSV series comes in two power levels, with the more potent SSV75 packing a little more punch to deal with arduous Kiwi conditions. It’s got a whole arsenal of heads and attachments to snap onto those hydraulic arms, making it a versatile little module for busy farmers seeking a mate for their big tractor.

Kubota has armed their flagship skid steer with a 64hp engine they’re calling the best in its class, in terms of performance and reliability.

The engine’s common rail system electronically controls the timing and amount of fuel that is injected in stages, ensuring optimal combustion for greater

gas efficiency, better fuel economy and less engine noise. Emissions have also been tackled, with the SSV series meeting Tier 4 requirements, largely thanks to the adoption of advanced exhaust gas recirculation tech downstream of its cylinders.

Diesel particles are trapped in the muffler and automatically burned away in a controlled fashion to keep the little skid steer breathing easy.

Clever thinking doesn’t stop at the engine bay. There’s more on offer for the operator to ensure a comfortable and easy day behind the controls.

A neat self-levelling function keeps the bucket or forks in a horizontal position without having to manually adjust the angle when lifting the arm.

Additionally, there’s plenty of reach, with more than eight metres of stretch available, and a set up designed for easy dumping of the standard skid-steer trapezoidal bucket into truck beds. It’s an all-round performer with lots of scope for customisation, to tackle a host of farming tasks.

Kubota’s SSV skid steers are perfect for shifting heavy loads in tight spaces — a real bonus on the farm or the building site

Introducing a World First in Electric Fencing Full range of electric fencing products including mains/battery and solar powered energisers

Artex Ltd Phone: (06) 858-8011 www.redsnapr.co.nz

Matamata Ltd

TRUCK, FARM CRATE & TONNEAU COVERS “For all your upholstery needs”

• Lounge Suites/All Seat Repairs • Shade Sails and Awnings • All Upholstery & Boat Covers!

142 Broadway, Matamata (next to carwash) Ph/Fax: 07 888 5484 • E: autotrimmers@xtra.co.nz

Wi-Fi able Controll ers Energis

New Zealands newest

Anything… Anywhere… Anytime!

licensed tractor dismantler

• Long and wide loads • Machinery movers • On site work • Water tank shifts • Container and shed lifts • Semi, flatdecks, trailers • Pallet Deliveries

For a FREE QUOTE phone us on 07 847 2074 email: les.harrison@lhtgroup.co.nz

QUAD BIKE SAFETY Wear a helmet.

A helmet is a must while riding a quad bike around the farm.

SPECIALISING IN LATE MODEL QUALITY USED TRACTOR PARTS

42 Thames Street, Morrinsville p. 07 889 7107 m. 021 070 7081 e. steve@agparts.nz www.agparts.nz

• We provide electrical servicing to a wide range of domestic, rural, commercial and industrial sites across the Waikato region and beyond.

• We are Registered Master Electricians (Electrical Contractors Association of NZ) and are Safe Powered Assured.

• Our excellent reputation and long list of satisfied clients attest to our superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, clear communication, honesty and integrity.

CONTACT US NOW TO SEE HOW WE CAN ASSIST YOU! 07 828 7240 30 William St, Huntly

www.rivertownelectrical.co.nz rivertownelectrical@xtra.co.nz

14

August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

TE AROHA TRACTORS NEW G-SERIES LOADER

NOW IN STOCK!

NZ Distributor Forest Quip

DEMOS AVAILABLE ON

LEMKEN HELIODOR CULTIVATION DISKS WIDE RANGE OF WEAR PARTS IN STOCK Waikato Dealer for Lemken

FOR ALL YOUR SALES, SERVICE, REPAIRS & SPARES! • Tractor Sales • Services & Repairs of all makes and models • Farm Machinery Sales & Service (new & used) • Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings • Truck & Digger Servicing • Automotive Servicing WOFs & pre COF • Auto Electrical Service • AA & State Roadside Rescue Breakdown Service • EWP & Crane specialists • Air Conditioning Service • Sales, Parts and Service for all Garden & Lawn equipment

LOCAL SALES & SERVICE FOR: • Giant Loaders • Husqvarana • Masport • Polaris • Aakron Trailers • Stewart Agricultural Trailers

• Pearson • Rata • Ryco Hydraulic Hoses • Tyremax • Baybat Batteries • Aichi

Support agent for Strautmann Hopkins Waikato Waikato Dealer for Landini McCormick

VISIT TE AROHA TRACTORS AND OUR FRIENDLY AND QUALIFIED STAFF WILL LOOK AFTER YOU TO ENSURE EVERYTHING IS FIXED AND READY TO GO.

28-32 LAWRENCE AVE, TE AROHA 3320

ADMIN@TATRACTORS.CO.NZ | 07 884 9901 | SALES 021 884 909

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

15

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS ADVERTORIAL

Tractors and garden machinery Stan and Fiona Knight at Te Aroha Tractors & Garden Machinery sell all things machinery for the agriculture and horticulture industry.

“We are based at 28/32 Lawrence Ave, opposite the RD1 store, and we pride ourselves on excellent customer service,” says Stan.

“Meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures is all part of our day. We like having a chat with the farmers, growers and household customers. It’s not all about selling to us — it is about building relationships.

“We come from farming backgrounds.

My family were dairy farmers back in the day, and Fiona manages a dairy farm just out of town. She has been there for 24 years now and understands everything farming.

“Fiona and I have been here for five years now and supply a wide variety of equipment. We are the Waikato agent for many brands, including Landini McCormick tractors. These are made in Italy and are available from 90hp to

300hp models. They have all high-end quality components and use the Iveco engine, so there is nothing cheap with the manufacturing of these products. We also have an excellent after-sales backup service on-site.”

Other brands available at Te Aroha Tractors & Garden Machinery include Lemken, Giant, Fransgard, Polaris, Husqvarna, Masport, Croplands, Bertolini and Ryco Hydraulics.

“We have a great range of equipment suitable for lifestyle block owners and home gardeners as well. We supply all things Husqvarna, including cultivation equipment. Our team can service and maintain equipment in-house or out in the field.

“Our staff enjoy helping people with their everyday needs, including chainsaw, mower and hedge trimmer requirements. We also stock equipment

WE OFFER A FULL SERVICING CONTRACT AND SCHEDULE REASONABLE PRICES ANYWHERE IN THE WAIKATO Septic Tank Specialists Ltd is a family owned and operated company established in 2005.

We have extensive experience in all types of wastewater treatment systems and standard septic tanks and can install, service and repair all brands.

No matter the size or scope of your job, whether it be commercial or domestic, we offer affordable, fast and efficient friendly service with high levels of commitment to all our customers.

THIRD TREATMENT CHAMBER FINE AIR BUBBLES AERATE THE CONTENTS

that is needed for landscaping. Our Giant brand machinery by Forestquip is well-liked because the equipment can carry a lot of weight for its size. Made in Holland, the equipment is very compact meaning getting into tight spaces is easy. The loaders are popular with goat farm operators.

“We are Ryco hydraulic hose specialists and provide diesel and automotive servicing, WOFs, tyres, air

conditioning and auto electrical with our own auto sparky on-site.

“We recommend people service and maintain their equipment early before things get too hectic with spring and summer coming. This helps avoid delays through unnecessary breakdowns.

“We look forward to helping new and existing customers.

“Call us on 07 884 9901 with any queries.”

WOOD LOTS, FORESTRY, SMALL HECTARE LOTS, WANTED NOW! CLEARING LAND TO MAKE IT MORE PRODUCTIVE?

YOU NEED SCHWITZER!

• Shredder • 24 tonne Digger • Stump Grinding • Wood Lot Logging • Full Tree Removals

WHY US?

Specialised Equipment Pride in Workmanship Versatile & Innovative Fast & Efficient

• Section Earthworks • 10-24 tonne Diggers • High Shelter Topping • All Terrain Excavator for steep terrain gorse mulching

SCHWITZER

C O N T R A C T I N G

Call Karl Schwitzer (07) 823 5074 or 029 823 5074 | www.schwitzercontracting.co.nz

POWER BOX AIR PUMP

FIRST CHAMBER PRE-TREATMENT AREA

Stan and the team at Te Aroha Tractors & Garden Machinery

CONVENIENT ACCESS POINTS

SECOND TREATMENT CHAMBER

BAY MULCHING

ZABEL FILTER TO IRRIGATION SYSTEM

130 MICRO FILTER

IRRIGATION PUMP

We can offer competitive prices for your new or existing household drainage and are also Waikato Building Consent Group members.

021 614 952 HOURS OF OPERATION MON-FRI: 8-5PM | SAT AND SUN: CALL OUTS ONLY WWW.STSLTD.CO.NZ SMELEESTS@OUTLOOK.COM

FOuRTH TREATMENT CHAMBER PUMP OUT TANK

AIR DIFFUSER GENERATES A HIGH VOLUME OF BUBBLES

Purpose built, self propelled mulching and stumpchipping machines.

Also have Morbark self propelled and feeding 20" tree chipper.

We specialise in land clearing, shelterbelt removal, forestry, powerline clearing, subdivision and create animal bedding.

Transform forestry blocks to productive farmland. NZ wide.

Contact Anton 027 497 4061 W: www.baymulching.co.nz E: baymulchingltd@xtra.co.nz

16

August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

JakMat Dairy RACE STABILISATION

FOR HIGH PRESSURE ANIMAL TRAFFIC AREAS

“We have had little maintenance at the high traffic area Brad Cockrell, Mooka Flats - Mercer since laying of the JakMatDairy”

Herd of 780 cows, (700 square metres laid)

Inquire now f our Field Da or ys Specials!

JakMat installation Very low ongoing maintenance No more potholes and less carry over to shed

After 2 years usage Reduced risk of lameness Lay between milking

Honeycomb design ffor or ultimate strength and material retention

Call 09 273 5511 or email sales@jakaar.co.nz for a free consultation www.jakmat.co.nz 100% RECYCLED

HAY A N BALE D AGE SALE S

BEN 027 950 0275 GARY 021 508 951 kaimaihedgecutting.co.nz

• Ripping • Roller drill • Tractor, loader and trailer • Leveling bar and grader blade • Fencing • Retaining walls • Muck spreading

• Bulk units • Bulk silage • Tip trucks • Fertiliser • Tractor & trailers

• Sand • Metal supplies • Hay • Animal feeds

TRUCKING

CALL

AGRICULTURAL

MULCHING HEAD NO CLEAN-UP

• Round bale silage • Round bale hay • Cart and stack bales • Conventional baling • Undersowing • Hoeing/discing • Ploughing • Power harrow

OFFICE 07 827 4825 | MATT 027 474 6841

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

17

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS ADVERTORIAL

Lightwire bringing first-time broadband After successfully completing the second phase of the government’s Rural Broadband Initiative (RBI2) in June, Lightwire’s success has been rewarded with an extension to the project.

Lightwire is to continue as an official rural broadband partner of Crown Infrastructure Partners (CIP). The extension will see the Hamilton-based company provide wireless broadband to an additional 287 remote households, which are some of the hardest to reach in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

It will be the first time these households will have access to wireless broadband.

The goal of the RBI2 project is to provide broadband to 99.8% of all New Zealanders, and as the 2021 project end date draws closer, the target too gets nearer and nearer.

More than 84,000 rural households and businesses have now received broadband from different partners around the country. Moreover, it hasn’t just supported the growth of rural communities. It has helped

give nationwide wireless providers the resources to enhance their own business models.

RBI2 has helped Lightwire bring its total network to close to 7,000 customers across rural Waikato and BOP. In turn, it’s expanded the company’s coverage areas, improving customer service capacity, and assisting the growth of innovative wireless technology.

Mike Cook, Head of Rural at Lightwire, has said that projects like RBI2 have been important to the development and long-term focus of the company.

“What’s extremely exciting for the team at Lightwire is our team’s continuous improvement — particularly looking at our internal engineers’ processes and how we can build more efficiently and in a timely fashion. We are unique where we can react quickly,

make quick decisions, and like other providers can get stuff done. We’re looking at new technology that’s future-proofed, for the continued demand that our range of customers require of our services.”

Cook also says the improvement of wireless technology is necessary to support a growing number of Kiwi households and businesses in our ‘new normal’.

“We’re seeing more and more customers working remotely, and we want to make sure we have everyone’s needs met.”

To see if you’re currently in Lightwire’s coverage area or if you will be in the future, you can get in touch with their local customer care team by calling 0800 121 314.

Shane Davis Bulk Spreading Ltd • Fertiliser spreading specialist • Cartage & spreading with loader available • Prompt, efficient service

SERVICING CENTRAL WAIKATO SINCE 1990

Contact Shane on: 027 487 8984 | A/Hrs 07 827 3726 or email: sdavisbsl@gmail.com

WE GO WHERE OTHERS CAN’T Join

6,800+ HAPPY CUSTOMERS WITH FAST,RELIABLE RURAL BROADBAND

lightwire.co.nz | 0800 12 13 14

18

August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WE OFFER A LARGE RANGE OF FARM EQUIPMENT AND LIGHT CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY Cross Country Ltd imports and distributes products for farms, contractors, lifestyle and the mining and construction industries. We also manufacture many products to suit your exact needs. Cross Country was founded In the Waikato in 2004 starting from a small beginning to now occupying 2000 square metres and employing 5 people. All our products are brand new and carry warranties We start, run and check every product before it gets delivered to you.

Spike / Chain Harrows - 1600mm

550 Litre Calf Milk Trailer

$595

$2,990 DEK Diesel Powered Waterblaster 3500psi

10 Galavanised Pig Tails 1060mm

DEK Petrol Waterblaster - 3600psi

$38

$995

DEK 22 Ton Log Splitter - 6.5hp Petrol Engine

Fertiliser Spreader - 170kg

GS-38 Framed 4-Stroke

$2,750

$995

$595

Sea Flo 100L ATV Sprayer

8KVA Diesel Generator 8000CLE

$335

$1,695

Turf Mate 225L Trailer Sprayer 4-Stroke

$1,595

$2,095

Many items are designed and assembled in our premises by our fully qualified mechanics.

12 Months Mechanical Warranty on all our products.

Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.00pm

38 Acheron Drive, Riccarton, Christchurch 8A Karewa Place Pukete, Te Rapa, Hamilton

0800 847 2052

shane@crosscountry.co.nz | www.crosscountry.co.nz

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

19

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Getting the best crop Crop production forecasts for 2020–21 are largely positive and good yields will play a large part in primary industry playing a saviour role in the New Zealand post-Covid economy.

Good grain production is vital to the food supply and yields have steadily increased over time due to better corn hybrids and planting practices.

Technologies allow better soil, understanding and what nutrients will improve production — in short, science and technology have positively affected New Zealand’s production results.

Crop yields not only determine farming success, but they contribute significantly to what’s in the bank at the end of the season.

There are a number of factors to consider in increasing productivity for maize crops, covering soil quality, seeds, and planting practices to determine the overall strength of the final product.

Using strong hybrid seed with the strength to sustain conditions and then choosing the right one to sow is often the most important part of planting.

Planting early can result in increased yields by taking advantage of unexpectedly early favourable soil conditions.

It is not just enough to plant your seeds and hope for the best, you should always be sure to understand your field’s growth potential. Crop producers typically have an estimated idea of the yield potential of their seeds.

Understanding this will help manage not only your expectations but indicate whether or not your yield potential is matching your actual production.

Rainfall is pretty much the norm in crop growing in New Zealand conditions so there is always a major factor in the lap of the growing gods.

Fertilisers are an obviously important part of maintaining optimal soil conditions and adding at seeding can

CONTRACTING LTD

DAVID BEVEGE

give a boost to growth helping provide the seeds with essential nutrients like potassium, phosphorus and calcium.

The root-zone at the base of your crops is the most important area to facilitate growth so your corn can thrive and produce an impressive yield.

Soil testing should be on your to-do list right from the beginning.

Examining the phosphorus, potassium and fertilisation levels will give you insight into how to handle your crops.

It will also let you know when proper soil conditions are forming, such as the optimal density and right amount of nutrients, so you are ready to start planting.

Effluent Pumping Services Spreading of all Effluent Ponds 0800 111 690 • 027 217 6779

Owner Operator

Warranty Plus

King Country Kiwispan

Hugh Lilley

Piopio

Mob 029 877 8312 A/H 07 877 8312 • BOOM SPRAYING • CULTIVATING • HARVESTING • HAY • SILAGE

Owner/Operator

• METALLING • TELEHANDLER WORK

PO Box 415, Te Kuiti T: 07 878 3055 M: 027 215 1617 E: hugh.lilley@kiwispan.co.nz

(Lifting to 9mtrs, 1.3 cubic metre bucket, pallet forks, silage forks, soft hands, log grapple, certified man cage and safety harness supplied)

Supporting the Rural Community since 1940

www.kiwispannz.co.nz

ANDREW NOLA

Contracting

• Cultivation

engineers | surveyors | planners

• Round baling Bulk Fertiliser Spreading Mini Spreader Available Book your upcoming spreading requirements now

For all your lime and fertiliser needs Obligation Free Quotes Steve 027 487 8981 | Grant 027 220 2010

RD 4 Cambridge

• Undersowing • Engineering • General cartage PHONE ANDREW:

027 493 2079

Ph: +64 7 858 4564 Level 1, 533 Anglesea Street Hamilton 3204

20

August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS Bridging the technology gap

TANK WATER SERVICES

by Andy Bryenton

Hydraulic excavators are the driving force behind most modern construction, with their action that mimics that movement of a human arm substituting pistons and hoses for muscles. The father of this technology was inspired by watching a water wheel while on a fishing trip in the 1840s.

Sir William Armstrong noted that the wheel wasted much of the power of the river he was standing in, and wondered if a system of pipes would help channel the flow. That led him to look at the works of earlier experimenters, like Da Vinci and the ancient Greeks and Romans, who had developed musical instruments powered by water pressure.

Fellow Englishman Joseph Bramah had invented the hydraulic press two almost half a century earlier. Still, Armstrong became convinced that the future of hydraulics wasn’t in pushing down, but in lifting things up. He developed a system for the port of Newcastle, where

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We operate a specialist drain jetting unit for unblocking and cleaning of: ☑ Drains – Sewer/Storm water ☑ Effluent line/Septic tank lines ☑ Septic tanks

☑ Tree root removal from drains and pipes ☑ Farm Culverts ☑ Dairy hydrants/Farm pipes

the city’s new piped water system had its massive back pressure tapped to power cranes to unload ships. These were so much more efficient than the steam cranes they replaced that Armstrong began to explore other ways to build on his hydraulic business. While he also used his knowledge of pressure in pipes to create more efficient army and navy guns, Armstrong developed the first hydraulic excavator in the 1880s, using it to excavate the docks at Hull.

It was an ungainly steam-powered monster, but it chewed through dirt and rock, like nothing before. Ultimately the design was improved by the Kilgore company, who did away with Armstrong’s extra chains and gears, developing the ‘opposing piston’ hydraulic set up we see today.

Kilgore may have beaten him to the punch there. Still, Armstrong’s hydraulic works reached their pinnacle in 1894, when the company he’d helped found deployed gigantic new hydraulic accumulators, steam-powered pumps

and giant pistons to build London’s Tower Bridge, perhaps the city’s most famous landmark.

Downsizing those accumulators, replacing water and other fluids with modern hydraulic fluids and switching diesel power for steam led to the miniaturisation and versatility of the excavator, which reached its modern form in the rebuild after the second world war. It’s thought that the first mini excavator, of the kind used on construction sites worldwide, was the Japanese Yanmar YNB300.

Space pressures and the need to work amid tight confines as Japan rebuilt its industrial base after the war led to the construction of a machine with a small footprint, a swing boom and the ability to be moved on the back of a small truck.

Today, hydraulic excavators are everywhere, but it all began with one man standing waist-deep in a British river, wondering how to make a better water mill.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

A Reason To Put Your Feet Up. “Other farmers don’t believe me when I say there is only one in the shed during mating, I tell them the collars do all the hard work for me.”

Thomas Scheres, Equity Partner in Scheres 420 cow family farm in Putaruru.

Allflex Smart Collars allow Thomas time off the farm during busy periods such as mating, allowing him more time with his family.

From people to animal health, management to mating, you’ll have a bunch of reasons why you need Allflex smart Collars. Just know that no matter what your ‘why’ is, we have got your back.

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Contact us for a no-obligation free quote. For more details visit: www.the gamechanger.farm

For more information about Allflex Smart Collars visit www.thegamechanger.farm or contact your local Monitoring Specialists: Libby Monaghan Monitoring Sales Specialist Upper North Island, Hamilton 027 227 2611 libby.monaghan@allflex.co.nz

Trevor Ward Monitoring Sales Specialist Lower North Island, Palmerston North 027 556 7779 trevor.ward@allflex.co.nz

Jeff Hill Senior Monitoring Sales Specialist Upper South Island, Ashburton 027 585 4400 jeff.hill@allflex.co.nz

Grant Vickers Monitoring Sales Specialist Lower South Island, Dunedin 027 535 0934 grant.vickers@allflex.co.nz

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August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY ADVERTORIAL

A key to farm planning

For David and Wendy Harker, dairy farming is a passion with their closed system farm consisting of three full-time staff and a 405-cow herd. However, they did have a problem.

The duo invested in Allflex cow collars, in the hope they could improve their herd’s breeding performance. While it took some time for staff to adapt and fully trust the system, they now love it.

“We did recognise that we had some reproductive issues on our farm,” said David. They were also looking at taking a step back from the daily farming duties, while still keeping informed and across the mating programme. Wendy says: “The collars offered the perfect solution.”

They enjoy the luxury of “no tail paint, no scratches and no bulls.” Tightening their calving pattern creates a proper break before mating starts.

Health-wise, the cattle are benefitting from staff being able to recognise

when cows need to be moved from the colostrum herd to the main milking herd ensuring rumination levels are higher, and they feel less stress. Staff can also be proactive and treat cows up to 30 hours earlier than when they would have shown signs of distress resulting in less recovery time and therefore, more days in milk.

Wendy spends time in Canterbury for her second job, but accesses information on the go. “I can be in Canterbury, and I just send David a list of matings that

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I want for particular cows. For me, that’s important, because I do dating and match the individual cows all the way because of the breeds and the pedigrees.”

The information has been invaluable to Wendy. “I can’t emphasise enough the backup and support we’ve had from Allflex. It has been huge, and it has continued, so I’ve really enjoyed that contact and relationship.” For more information on the Allflex Monitoring System, visit thegamechanger.farm.

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Rural employee support

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES August 2020

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DairyNZ and partners have launched a new Rural Employee Support Hub, to provide information and help to farm employees, so they have the best possible experiences and careers on-farm.

The hub is a website with a free employee support phone line where people can have their questions answered, big and small.

“Dairying is a sector that’s built on people — people are the key to our success. So we want everyone in dairying to have a rewarding career long-term, and that’s where the Rural Employee Support Hub plays a key part,” says DairyNZ people team leader, Jane Muir.

“The website is packed with information and tips to support and help employees excel in their jobs on farms. Information includes careers, training and development, remuneration and tenancies. There are sections on personal health, including keeping active, nutrition and mental health support.

“On a practical level, there’s help on animals, farm health and safety. There is even access to legal support if needed.”

The hub is a DairyNZ and Ministry for Primary Industries initiative, being delivered by Federated Farmers and supported by Dairy Women’s Network and New Zealand Young Farmers.

“As a sector, we are really focussed on ensuring employees enjoy and are fulfilled in their jobs, and that farm

bosses have great talent working for them.

“It’s a two-way relationship,” said Jane.

“Employers are well supported through DairyNZ and Federated Farmers.

We want to ensure employees have the same level of support and know where to go to ask questions.”

Farm employees can call the hub’s free 0800 support line for information.

The line provides confidential, impartial advice and is available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm. People can also email via the website.

The initiative is a six-month pilot to understand the demand. If well-used by employees, the partners want to see it become permanent.

The initiative complements the dairy sector’s Good Boss campaign, where advice and support are provided to farmers on how to be the best employers they can be.

Advice includes following best practices for recruiting and inducting new staff into their roles.

To access the Rural Employee Support Hub, go to ruralemployeesupport.co.nz or phone 0800 Employee Advice: 0800 694 121.

Waikato Rural Marketplace Central Motors 8272

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Finacial BANK SAID NO? We specialise in Farm Finance, working capital and debt consolidation. Also welcome applications from property developers, builder’s and first home buyers. Call 0800 888 449 or email bill@gfbl.co.nz.

For Sale CONCRETE POST specialist, Posts, Angles, Strainers, Stays, Foot, Buy Direct. Phone 0800 876 844 (0800 TROUGH).

CONCRETE TANK Specialist. Water, effluent, septic tanks. Price quoted, delivered to site. Buy Direct. Phone 0800 876 844 (0800 TROUGH).

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Fill and Test LPG Cylinders 134 Grey St, Hamilton East • 07 856 7022 • Tree Pruning & Thinning • Tree removal & dismantling • Tree consultancy • Tree planting • Garden and hedge maintenance • Qualified Arborist PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE www.touchwoodtreecare.nz Shaun: 022 167 1268

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August 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

“By the time we finished walking through that home, it certainly confirmed everything we’d heard. We knew we were going to be building with Urban Homes.”

- SAM CANE

Show homes key to build journey Sam and Harriet Cane built their own masterpiece with Urban Homes. Their source of inspiration? The award-winning Rivercove show home in Flagstaff, Hamilton.

With the opening of Riverpoint, Urban Homes’ latest Hamilton show home next door to Rivercove, comes the ability to visit not one, but two inspirational homes, conveniently, in one location.

Like Sam and Harriet, we’re sure you’ll love the experience of building with Urban Homes. Check out their full build journey at urban.co.nz FLAGSTAFF SHOW HOMES 10 & 12 Riverpoint Glade, Flagstaff, Hamilton Opening hours: 12pm – 4pm, Wednesday – Sunday

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