Waikato Farming Lifestyles, February 2019

ENQUIRE TODAY Integrity community media

28,143 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Waikato and King Country

Forging a career

February 2019 Edition

A persimmon passion

Rural contracting advantages

P8

P4

0800 466 793

P13

Farming through apprenticeship Page 6-7

BUGGER ITS METAL! I CAN’T GET IN!

STOPS LEAVES, RATS & BIRDS

AH S#!T

2

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Call for stock agent regulations

Integrity community media

The Federated Farmers Meat and Wool Council is calling for compulsory regulation of the stock agent industry.

The Waikato Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by Integrity Community Media, a privately owned NZ company.

Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz General Manager: Deb Wright | debw@integrity.nz | 021 639 696 Editorial: Ann van Engelen, Paul Campbell, Andy Bryenton MEMBER OF:

Advertising: Teresa Steed, Roishean Rix Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

Distribution details Print run 28,143. DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Waikato and King Country.

BRANDERSON HOMES LTD PRE BUILT HOMES

URGENT

FARMERS PLEASE COME AND SEE US NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR JUNE 1ST 2019 OFFICE LOCATED AT: 37 HAUTAPU RD, CAMBRIDGE � TELEPHONE: 07 827 3901 Email: branderson.homes@xtra.co.nz ������������������� Web: www.brandersonhomes.co.nz Please send us an information pack about your Transportable Pre-Built Homes Name Address Phone __________________________ Style/Size Please mail to: Branderson Homes Ltd, PO Box 434, Cambridge, 3450

Like us on Facebook

ATTENTION SEPTIC TANK OWNERS Septi-CureTM is:      

Cost Effective Easy To use Improves Soakage Reduces Solids and Scums Eliminates Nasty Odours Reduces Costly Pump-outs

A satisfied customer in Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for over five years.

He says this allows them to have an odour free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well Septi-Cure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition. *Results may vary

“No-one likes more rules and regulations but to protect all parties in the sale of livestock we believe it is the best way forward. Discussions about this topic have run hot and cold for years, we need some finality,” says Federated Farmers Meat and Wool chairperson Miles Anderson.

The NZ Stock and Station Agents Association has created a code of conduct and set up an independent body that can adjudicate on complaints about the actions of stock agents.

“With all respect to the association, membership and thus adherence to the code is voluntary, and we understand it currently only covers about 65 per cent of all stock transactions. Less reputable agents — a minority in the industry — are unlikely to become voluntary members, and even if they do, when trouble arises they can simply resign and continue to trade.”.

A fully enforceable and regulated industry would be able to stop agents trading, and potentially be able to impose redress. As well as potential losses from fraudulent transactions, Federated Farmers members have also raised concerns about biosecurity risks, where there is misrepresentation — either accidental or deliberate — and the limited ability to seek redress in a voluntary system.

“Another potential regulation that deserves debate is one that would require any stock agent who trades livestock on their own behalf to do so through an auction system or another agent, and not conduct the transaction on their own behalf.

“A lot of ill feeling is caused when a stock agent buys from a farmer when it is not clear he is acting on his

WAIKATO F E N C E A N D G AT E

Before*

Breakthrough Product Developed for your Septic Tank

0800 109 202 www.ecoworld.co.nz

LTD

After*

FREE QUOTES

Also Available at:

Miles Anderson, Federated Farmers’ Meat and Wool chairperson

own behalf, keeps the animals on his property for a day or two, then on-sells at a substantial profit.

“The Meat and Wool Council does not envisage an increased cost to the farmer from regulation because for most companies and agents there would not be a huge change from how they are currently operating with their own internal processes.

“We are hoping for a positive response from the government to support this.

There will be some who try and tie the council’s advocacy for regulation to complaints made in relation to a former employee of a stock trading company in the South Island. Irrespective of the current SFO investigation into that, it is well past time some sensible regulations were brought in to cover stock agencies.

“The vast bulk of stock and station agents operate in an exemplary manner. We need regulation to be fair, to give them protection as well, not just the farmers.”

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

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.

We cover the Auckland & Waikato regions.

SERVICES INCLUDE Fences • Gates • Automation

Mark Cooney 021 838 473 waikatofenceandgate@gmail.com

Call your local agent Mike on

021 038 4394 for a FREE quote

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

Connecting through safety WorkSafe New Zealand has joined in a partnership with the FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition to connect New Zealand’s future farming leaders with health and safety in an engaging setting, build rapport with rural communities and help create generational change.

3

Save Lives

“Dry off on the farm, get wet on the Lake!”

Lynda Coppersmith, New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive

“We want to help those farmers just starting out to understand health and safety is about caring for themselves and their people. Good health and safety practices are at the heart of every successful farm business,” says WorkSafe chief executive Nicole Rosie.

“For the Young Farmer of the Year, WorkSafe will run individual health and safety challenges at each of the seven regional finals as well as a single event at the grand final, created collaboratively between Young Farmers’ representatives

and local WorkSafe staff.“ As part of the support, WorkSafe will also be running challenges in the AgriKidsNZ and Junior Young Farmer of the Year sections and joins other sponsors including Ravensdown, New Holland, Honda, Stihl, FMG, Massey University, AGMARDT, Lincoln University, Betacraft and Meridian.

New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Lynda Coppersmith says the partnership with WorkSafe is the perfect fit.

“Our organisation has a strong focus on health and safety. We want young farmers to become old farmers, that is what makes this partnership a perfect fit, and we’re hopeful it will help efforts to improve health and safety on farms and in agri-businesses.”

09 443 5914

Earthmoving Equipment Agricultural Machinery Commercial Transport Industrial Plant & Equipment Oil & Gas Industry Specialty One Off Custom Mufflers 06 754 4166 027 754 4166 sales@mufflersnz.co.nz www.mufflersnz.co.nz See us at the field days site number K40B

AERIAL WORK GORSE AND BRUSH WEED SPRAYING, UREA ON MAIZE. MULTISPECTRAL CROP ANALYSIS.

Our customers come first

0508 435 424

#ChrisJollyOutdoors

Phone: 0800 252 628 or +64 7 378 0623 Email: bookings@chrisjolly.co.nz Online: www.chrisjolly.co.nz

Remar Knitwear & Adage Socks

QUALITY MUFFLER MANUFACTURERS

YOUR LOCAL HELICOPTER SERVICE

We’ve been entertaining farmers since 1981 Book your fun on the water today!

23 Mayne Street, Business Park,

Waitara 4320, Taranaki

MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

Buy directly from the manufacturer.

KNITWEAR, ACCESSORIES AND SOCKS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.. INCLUDING ADULT WORK BOOT & CUSHY WORK SOCKS, KIDS GUMBOOT SOCKS, OUTDOOR MERINO SOCKS AND POSSUM. VIEW OUR GREAT NEW RANGE OF BRIGHT COLOURS!

ONLINE STORE NOW OPEN

www.adagesocks.co.nz

4

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN Chloe Belfield is 20 years old, and although she grew up on a lifestyle block in Putaruru, her adventures on her grandparents’ farms have helped forge an interest in a farming career.

“M

y grandparents own farms in Tokoroa, and I spent a lot of time with them over the years,” says Chloe.

“I have relief milked for seven years and completed my Bachelor of AgriScience at Massey University. I decided to get experience outside the farm gate and am working with Farm Source — this will give me different insight and experience into various aspects of the industry.”

Chloe is in the service centre dealing with queries regarding anything clients may need help with.

“People may want information on milk quality issues or help with accounting.

I will gain a vast range of experience, which will go toward my future in the industry.

“I got into relief milking through my mum as a way to save money. I have worked on 15–20 farms — you deal with different farmers’ personalities but that is all part of it, and I gained a lot of knowledge along the way.

“Mum was a hairdresser but changed careers to help grandad on his farm ten years ago. She relief milks on three farms and I learnt all the basics such as dealing with mastitis, lameness and all other aspects of milking from her at 13 years old.” At 15 years old Chloe secured her first solo relief job milking 250

Attention Farmers

Problems with Iron and Manganese?

Chloe Belfield is gaining a range of experience to further her farming career through working for Farm Source

cows in a 20 aside herringbone shed.

“The farmer was very supportive and let me learn my way as long as I owned up to any mistakes. I also worked on a dairy goat farm as part of my studies with 1100 goats on farm. That was a different experience — milking goats

was quick and easy — we did 900 in two and a half hours. They are incredibly smart animals, just smaller. You cut and carry the grass into the shed for them, and I love the intelligence of the animals, it was a good eye-opener into what options are out there.”

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

NZ Designed Rural Filtration Systems for the Removal of Iron and Manganese and Other Rural Problems

ExperienceSuspension

• Results guaranteed • Fully automated • Systems designed to suit

Ferris® Mowers with exclusive suspension technology will give you a noticeable improvement in your mowing productivity. These mowers are built to be the hardest working and smoothest riding. Ferris mowers tackle tough terrain and finish big jobs faster.

• Latest in electronic technology and alert systems

 IS® 600Z SUSPENSION MODEL From $12,499.00 RRP incl. GST

• Options for wireless communication • Full scale portable demonstration plant available* CALL TODAY FOR YOUR NO OBLIGATION FREE SITE ASSESSMENT AND QUOTATION* (*Conditions may apply dependent on circumstances, demonstration plant dependent on availability)

Portable demonstration plant available*

0800 109 202

www.ecoworld.co.nz

ASK ABOUT W OUR NE 400S MODEL

www.FerrisMowers.com

Distributed in New Zealand by Briggs & Stratton

™

 S65Z COMFORT SUSPENSION MODEL From $8,299.00 RRP incl. GST

2+2 YEAR LIMITED

WARRANT ARRANT Y*

See your local dealer for a test drive: Central Mowers & Chainsaws Taumarunui 07 895 6539 Stihl Shop Putaruru Putaruru 07 883 8935

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

Chloe joined Piarere Young Farmers Club whilst working with one of the members one summer.

“He dragged me along to a meeting, and they were such friendly and open people that I kept going. Then they invited me along to their fundraising hay jobs. We find a different cause to donate to such as Teen Ag or Rural Support each year. It is great team bonding and gets you off-farm. It is actually a good break as well as helping others in a practical way which relieves stress from them.

“Every year we go to a farm in Matamata where two brothers make conventional bales of hay. This year they made at least 2,500 bales which they feed out by hand during winter. We load the hay and stack it in the sheds — it is a system that has worked for them for many years.

“I enjoy going on farms, especially the smaller ones and seeing that the cow is not just a number but an important part of a family. They are producing a nutritional product, and I love seeing people with passion for what they are doing.

“It is a motivating industry to be involved in and through young farmers clubs you get lots of experience and opportunity to meet different people and learn.

“Our club meets every Monday night at the Okoroire pub, and it is a good

5

If you are reading this

Then so are thousands of your potential customers Call us today to discuss your advertising needs

0800 466 793 POP’S

Chainsaws & Mowers Chloe joined the local young farmers club as a way to socialise and add to her knowledge

excuse to socialise and have a night off cooking. We have share milkers, contract milkers, farm owners, managers and people who don’t work on the farm as members. There is a wealth knowledge available amongst the group.

“Once a month we go on a ‘farm yarn’ and have visited a goat farm, and a Holstein Friesian farm to see what they do differently to a Friesian cross farm and Rural Support had a lady come and tell us what help they

offer farmers — they are incredible.

“For work, I never saw myself in a service centre, but it is more than that, it is about helping farmers and will help me in my future career choice. The guys are very supportive of girls in the industry nowadays, it has changed from years gone by.

“Anyone can learn to farm — you just need the people there to teach you, but for the future, we also need the people who are willing to learn.”

Over 9000 items.

Order through our website. www.popschainsaws.co.nz/ buy-parts-online.html

Doordelive to-door home ry to your or b in 2–4 usiness days!

midas diamond jewellers

WAITOMO

Taradale’s Local Supplier & Service Centre for:

LODGE MOTEL Waitomo Lodge has 14 studio units and 6 one-bedroom units. Daily housekeeping is included in the room rate.

Are you wondering what to do with your Estate Jewellery?

We can clean, check, appraise, value as necessary all in store.

• Engagement & Wedding Rings • Midas Design Studio • Manufacture & Repairs • Diamond Specialists • Insurance Work & Valuations

• Super King size beds in all units • Free Wifi • Sky TV Guest Select 50+ Channels • Spa bath units available • Air-con units available • Contact the motel for Corporate Rates

Ph: 07 878 0003 E: info@waitomo-lodge.co.nz 64 Te Kumi Road, Te Kuiti

All makes & models of Outdoor Power Products Serviced

349c Gloucester St, Taradale Ph. 06 844 7757 E. sales@popschainsaws.co.nz

307 Barton St, Casabella Lane, Hamilton PHONE 07 839 0039 www.midasdiamondjewellers.co.nz

A IN &

SEED DRESSI

ID G E CRSEEDS

GR

NG

QUA LITY PASTURE SEED

Candy Seed Mix Sweet results!

Harvey Rye Grass 7kg • Enticer Rye Grass 8kg Huia White Clover 3kg • Strawberry Clover 1kg • Timothy 2kg Chicory 1kg • Red Clover 2kg • Cocksfoot 3kg • Plantain 3kg 30kg per hectare

$310+GST and freight included $245+GST Ex Store Cridge Seeds Ltd. Doyleston

Phone 03 324 3951 or 022 083 3579 | www.cridgeseeds.co.nz

• Tanker track construction and surfacing • Residential/Commercial development including driveways, parking areas & tennis courts • Asphalt and chip seal surfacing • Asphalt supply 0800 ASPHALT (0800 277 4258)

6

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

FARMING THROUGH APPRENTICESHIP

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

Thomas Coffey is a dairy apprentice through Federated Farmers milking approximately 650 cows and is raising all stock on the farm on a grass-based system.

“I

didn’t grow up on a farm, I grew up at Waihi beach, and when I went to college my parents brought a bush block, and that got me interested in farming. It has a lot of potential, and we are in the process of clearing it to make it more useable as it is covered in gorse,” says Thomas.

Thomas works for Wynn and Tracey Brown on their 320ha property.

“A couple of my friends were relief milking and left school to work in the industry, so I decided to do the Gateway programme through school and see if I like farming. I am 18 years old now and left school at 16 years old. I started here on June 1 last year and am loving it.

“I am doing PrimaryITO studies and

regularly attend discussion groups and am working my way up through the industry. I am about to finish level three and go onto level four. This is a grassbased system, and my responsibilities vary throughout the year, and I do anything from setting up the shed, assisting with milking and basic running of the farm. We do all the fencing and most of the cropping ourselves — there is a lot of hands-on learning.”

Thomas also helps with calving and rears the calves as well.

“There are four full-time workers on site with a 2IC and two herd managers — I am one of the herd managers.

Wynn and Tracy are known for their leadership in dairying, and they won

Thomas believes the dairy industry is moving in a positive direction and keeping systems simple is the best way to run a farm

ADD ROOM, ADD VALUE AND BE OUTSIDE ALL YEAR ROUND

• 99% UV Protection • Engineered for very high wind zones • 5 Year warranty 12 MONTHS INTEREST FREE

The Constant Angle Knife Sharpening System

IES CISION SER

PRE

The indexed rotating clamping system 3 Angle adjustments 12°, 20°, 25° Your knife is always in the same place • High Grade Stainless Steel • Hygienic • Easy Care

For an obligation free design, measure and quote contact:

Growing New Zealand for 25 years.

We are proud to have been supplying New Zealand with quality seeds and independent advice for for the last 25 years.

Heres to another 25 years of successful pastures.

Kane: 027 483 4947 Deluxe Precision Kit Pictured

See our website for the full range www.scarysharp.co.nz

Phone 0800 SHADES or 0800 742 337 www.shadesdirect.co.nz

Talk to the manufacturer toll free 0800 175 720

®

YEARS

0800 727 8873

specseed.co.nz

INTERLOCKING PRECAST CONCRETE BLOCKS

The fastest and most economical method of construction for; retaining walls, feed bins, storage bunkers, temporary barriers and dividing walls

Call 0800 300 488 or visit www.bigblocks.co.nz

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Responsible Dairying Award last year and are very efficient with what they do.

“We are milking mostly Friesian with a bit of cross breed on a 54 bail rotary. I enjoy the outdoors and getting amongst it rain, hail or shine. We feed mostly grass and use maize silage when necessary and in-shed feed as well.

“What got me hooked is the progressiveness of the career and you move quite quickly through the ranks if you put 100 per cent effort in. If you don't put in the effort you will stay where you are for a long time — you have to be motivated and a self-starter to succeed. I do quite a bit by myself onfarm by being led in the right direction.

If there is something, I don't know they explain things to me so I can accomplish the task.

“I highly recommend other young people get involved in the apprenticeship scheme. Off-farm I am involved in golf and am part of the Golden Valley Freestyle Club, which is a group of young farmers who get together and do martial arts. I was doing a bit of touch as well to socialise as getting into outside activities helps keep fitness up as well.

“The technology that is coming through is very interesting as well, it is a good step forward, and I have got to experience some of it. It certainly helps toward the future of the industry. In the past, I have used collars on the cows, which picks up when they are on heat and automatic drafting systems also make life simpler but above all, you need to have good stockmanship and

With an end goal of farm management or ownership, Thomas is completing PrimaryITO studies to further his career

get to know the animals individually and how they work. They definitely have different personalities and moods.

“I believe the dairy industry is moving forward in a positive way. I think keeping farming simple and basic is really helpful to be efficient with time and keep things running smooth. What I have learnt so far has been really important for my future. Wynn and Tracey have been very supportive and put in a lot

of effort to look after us very well. They drop us meals and take us for dinners and ensure we are OK — they are very positive and teach well.

“For me the next step is 2IC, and my end goal is to be running or owning a farm, but you have to work your way up to get there, and I am enjoying where I am and working toward that.”

NO MORE BUGS!

J U ST B E T T E R !

• Vee Belts • Bearings • Nuts & Bolts • Power Tools • Safety Clothing • Hydraulic Hoses • Welding Supplies • Eziswap Gas Bottles • Steel Blue Work Boots • Endless Consumables • Protective equipment

STOCKISTS FOR:

336 Alexandra St, Te Awamutu | 07 871 8793

EVO STEAM CLEANING WE PROVIDE AN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR

CHEMICAL FREE CLEANING SOLUTION No job is too big or too small.

We will have your house or roof ready for painting.

Path, decking, concrete ready for outdoor entertaining.

Commercial & Industrial building looking like new.

We are a steam cleaning service that guarantees quick sanitisation of all areas.

• Steam destroys and removes grease, grime, mold, lichen and all other germs.

• Faster and more economical than water blasting.

• NO CHEMICALS. Before

After

We now do complete house cleans from top to bottom including "P" affected homes

www.evosteamcleaning.co.nz | 07 888 1950 | Lynne: 022 310 1549 Graeme: 027 258 4776 | info@evosteamcleaning.co.nz

Specialist providers of energy efficient and low cost turn key affordable relocatable housing. Various plan options available from single bedroom to 4 bedroom and beyond.

Our services can include managing contractors and applying for council consents on your behalf.

Contact us now to discuss your needs

Guy Hodgson 027 244 6873 • 0800 12 1316 Email: sales@houseit.co.nz www.houseit.co.nz

Automatic Insect Control with Natural Pyrethrins • Kills Flying & Crawling Insects • Used in 100s of homes and businesses throughout New Zealand • Servicing Options Available • Proudly NZ Owned & Operated • Range of dispensers for all types of use

07 855 9385 • 0800 75 75 78 www.ecomistsystems.com 1030A Heaphy Terrace, Fairfield, Hamilton

7

8

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

A persimmon

passion

by Ann van Engelen

The Wells family are passionate about quality, and growing persimmon is the choice Lindsay and Terrie made to help give the fruit the recognition it deserves.

“P

ersimmon is a versatile, colourful ‘superfood’ that is underestimated by most people,” says son Duane who manages the family business NTL Horticulture.

“Dad went to a meeting in the 1970s regarding growing — the room on the right was for kiwifruit information, and the room on the left was persimmon.

Most people were going for kiwifruit, but dad wanted to be involved in something different. I believe he had an understanding of where the markets were heading, particularly with the Asian culture.”

Lindsay died unexpectedly on August 9 last year, leaving a huge gap in the family, the business and the persimmon industry.

“Dad was on the Persimmon Industry Council for many years and

was passionate about promoting the fruit and was well respected across the country. He could see the potential in marketing the product.

“I naturally became involved on the council myself 10 years ago and am now the chairman. Dad was the chairman from the early ’80s until 2010 helping regulate the export of the product.

“The fruit is not that well known here — those who like them love them and those who don’t know them don’t go near them. I encourage people to try them; they used to be that ‘horrible fruit’ out the back yard of nanas’ that you dared your cousins to eat. To the Asian culture, they are extremely well-known for their health benefits and are a super fruit in their own right.”

A native to China persimmon trees have been grown for thousands of

The late Lindsay Wells and his wife Terri chose to specialise in persimmon growing to help promote the fruit

BIG 3 DEAL ON UTILITY TRACTORS!

PROFESSIONAL EXCAVATION, SITEWORKS & DRAINAGE SERVICES

GET A BRAND NEW ROPS

The best earthworks & site development services in the greater Waikato region

year warranty models to choose years to pay & 3% finance

* Finance avaiilable on specific models, to approved AGCO Finance customers. Subject to normal lending criteria. T’s&C’s apply. While stocks last. OFFER ENDS 31/03/19

MORE AFFORDABLE THEN YOU THINK

from $1047/mth 82HP wet clutch compact and manoeuvrable

102HP from $1317/mth

industry leading 98lpm hydraulic flow

122HP from $1442/mth

heavy duty tractor ROPS and cab options

Kahikatea Drive, Hamilton After Hours Sales:

0800 843 723

John Metcalfe 027496 0093 Neil Lawrence 027 654 0913

waikatotractors.co.nz Ben Peters 027 243 1750

Phone: 07 823 4407 www.cambridgeexcavators.co.nz

A IN &

SEED DRESSI

ID G E CRSEEDS

GR

NG

QUA LITY PASTURE SEED

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

years for their delicious fruit, health benefits and beautiful wood. They are orange-coloured and have a sweet, honey-like flavour, are full of nutrients, antioxidants, are rich in fibre and support healthy vision.

“The fruit can be eaten freshly picked from the tree like an apple, or sliced into crisp, sweet, melon-like wedges, skin and all.

“The crisp fruit can be popped in a paper bag for a couple of days with an apple to release ethylene, which will ripen them. Persimmons can be cooked into chutney, marmalade or jam, or can be made into a delicious sorbet,” says Duane.

“There has been a lack of marketing and sex appeal to promote it as a super fruit. Anything you can do with an apple you can do with a persimmon.

It is very refreshing, and vibrant in colour for adding to salads and they make great desserts.”

The family are launching a non-dairy ice cream at the end of October.

“The ice cream was one of dad’s brainchilds, and he was excited to know it was turning into a positive advancement for the family as we prepare to launch at Countdown supermarkets in October under Lindsay’s brand ‘My Goodness’.

“By good fortune, we stumbled across a unique process that allows us to create a product that resembles ice cream and has no dairy, very minimal fat, gluten free, suitable for vegans and is over 60 per cent whole fruit. Dad

9

The Wells family are passionate about persimmon and recently launched their dairy free and gluten-free ice cream My Goodness

was really proud of that. He was the staunchest fan of persimmon in every possible way.

“He was a very integral part of the business, and his input was the backbone of the industry and our family.

He established this horticulture block from a simple piece of land and provided us the opportunity to work and live happily in the same environment which is a unique achievement. Our operation grew over the years, and we opened

Miltronics Driveway Alert systems • Wireless Driveway Detection and Monitoring system • Two models available • Transmitting distance from 450m to 750m • Easy DIY installation

UOVision Camera • Standalone Remote Security cameras • Several models available • From standard (non-cellular) to NEW Cellular cloud platform 3G/4G LTE cams Available from A J Productions Ltd - Hamilton NZ • www.ajproductions.co.nz 07 847 0124 or visit your local Outdoor Store

a harvest packing business, which we began in 1981, and we deal with export avocado as well. Being growers, we understand the hard work required to produce a quality crop with influences like the weather and markets beyond our control.

“Mum is still an integral part of the business, and they did it together. My sister Bronwyn is the production manager of the orchard and her husband Lance is the orchard operations manager. My

wife Sarah has come on board and helps liaise with the packhouse and looks after the marketing and promotional activity for ‘My Goodness’.

“I am hoping we will have other products and avenues that we can move forward with.

“The success is all due to our parents having vision; with dad being one of the founding members of the persimmon industry itself and Bronny and I will continue to do our best to carry that on.”

Anything… Anywhere… Anytime!

• 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

View our range of stunning ReadyBuilt homes in Rotorua, cnr Fairy Springs and Russell Roads.

Open Mon to Fri 10am - 4pm, Weekends 1pm - 4pm. Call 0508 592 596 or 07 349 8808 for more information. lockwood.co.nz

10

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES ADVERTORIAL

Read the paper online farminglifestyles.co.nz

BIG SHEDS, SMALL SHEDS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.

WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED alan 027 474 4111 • 0800 12 13 16 272 Bond Street, te awamutu alan.shedit@gmail.com

shedit.co.nz R

exterior cleaning

• • • • • • • • •

Farm Buildings Cowsheds Houses Concrete/Cobbles Roofs/Moss Treatment Fences/Decks Prepaint Cleaning Gutters Steam Cleaning

Ollie Ward 027 245 4058 | 0800 243 692 chemwash.rlh@chemwash.co.nz

www.chemwash.co.nz

Calling aviation and war history enthusiasts!

Battle of Britain and D-Day Tour If you have always wanted to visit the best air shows, amazing museums and historic places, this really is the best way to do it. Join a leisurely-paced group tour led from Auckland by aviation enthusiasts who have been escorting their highly successful tours to the UK for the past nine years. Being part of a group means you are never alone, you have hassle-free travel, and at the end of the day you can sit down over dinner or a drink and share your experiences of the day. Your hosts are with you almost 24/7. With many repeat guests, both couples and single travellers, they keep everyone happy, including the ladies.

Melanie says “Being able to share these experiences and having guests say “Thank you so much for bringing us here” or “This trip was one of the highlights of my life” makes it incredible for us as tour hosts too. We enjoy every minute of it!”

Guest comments include “As a 62-year-old who hasn’t been further than Australia before this trip, it first appeared daunting. I wanted to do it, but it was clearly well outside my comfort zone.

I shouldn’t have worried because Melanie and Kev made this a magical trip, organising everything for us,

Aviation Tours NZ

Unique itineraries

Melanie and a Spitfire

nothing was a trouble. The camaraderie we as a group established made every day a moment to remember and cherish forever” Les — Wings and Wheels 2017.

There is flexibility for joining, extending your stay and your arrangements

A1 Whitianga

TOWING & TRANSPORT

Wings over the Outback Australia 28th April for 8 days [1 PLACE LEFT]

Fly away to the outback in your private aircraft and experience first hand how vital aviation is to remote Australia. Truly spectacular and exclusive!

Battle of Britain & D-Day UK & France 10th July for 26 days Enjoy an escorted tour through “Hellfire Corner” Kent and Norfolk and explore the Normandy Beaches.

Featuring Flying Legends Airshow at Duxford, Royal International Air Tattoo and War & Peace Revival.

Auckland Info Meeting Jet Park Airport Hotel Weds 27th Feb 7pm RSVP Melanie 021 076 8308 | www.aviationtoursnz.com

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE • Towing • Recovery • Storage • Batteries • • Lockouts • Jumpstarts • • Backloads from Hamilton - Auckland -Tauranga •

Phone or text

0274 517 952

When the towing gets tough, the tough get towing.

can be made to suit you. If you have always wanted to do something like this but not yet managed it, check out the itineraries at aviationtoursnz.com or call Melanie now on 021 076 8308 for further details.

Signing for A2 milk Fonterra is signing up farms to supply A2 milk for the company in the 2019/2020 season following the national launch of the A2 Milk brand by Anchor late September 2018.

“Signing up New Zealand farms to significantly increase supply of highquality milk to The A2 Milk Company is a positive step forward. It clearly shows the strength of our strategic relationship, and our shared commitment to fast-track market growth and enable farmers to create additional value from their milk,” says Fonterra managing director of Cooperative Affairs Mike Cronin.

The co-op’s initial milk pool will be based in the Waikato around its Hautapu site and will support the production of ingredients. It is anticipated around 100 farms will be needed for next season.

The location of the milk pool was determined by several factors. Most importantly, the site needed the ability to manufacture the specific product in demand, produce relatively small batches and adapt easily to any product demand changes.

“While other regions were thoroughly considered, ultimately the decision must be demand-led. The ability to efficiently manufacture a range of products to meet that demand was the over-riding factor in choosing a site. As demand and product lines grow, we will look to expand the milk pool to enable more farmers to participate,” said Mr Cronin.

Most of the value from the relationship with The A2 Milk Company will be returned to all co-op farmers through

Mike Cronin, Fonterra managing director of Co-operative Affairs

the dividend. Participating farms will also receive a premium for their milk.

“The A2 Milk Company is pleased to be making progress on our relationship with Fonterra. These farms will help support new growth areas for our company across existing and new markets. This is the next step in what we believe will be a fruitful long-term relationship with tremendous potential,” says The A2 Milk Company managing director and CEO Jayne Hrdlicka.

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

11

ADVERTORIAL

Helping with joint pain Helping arthritic joints (Part One) I am often asked whether cartilage lost through osteoarthritis can regenerate through taking supplements. Maybe I can answer this with an example.

Last year I received a call from a man in his late 60s with osteoarthritis in his knees. It really affected his mobility and reduced his quality of life. I put him on an anti-inflammatory eating plan and added two supplements.

The first was omega-3 fish oil at therapeutic doses. I then added my joint formula at a double dose.

That meant he was taking 1,600mg of high-grade chondroitin and 1,600mg of glucosamine with 400mg of high potency 95% curcumin turmeric extract.

Within three months the swelling had gone down and the pain was abating. Now six months later he has regained his mobility and can now undertake the recreational pastimes he had previously stopped.

The evidence that cartilage damaged by arthritis can significantly regenerate is poor. There is evidence that high doses of chondroitin can help cartilage, but it seems that once

your cartilage is lost — then it is gone.

That, of course, begs the question as to why his knees improved so much.

There is good evidence that high levels of chondroitin can help improve the function of whatever cartilage remains.

It does this by giving the specialised cells called chondrocytes that maintain cartilage the raw materials to improve cartilage function.

However, most of the improvements are likely from reducing inflammation within the joint capsule. Curcumin from turmeric, chondroitin sulphate and EPA from Fish oil are very anti-inflammatory.

Shutting down these inflammatory processes can help reduce swelling, fluid build-up and subsequently making joints more comfortable. The best approach is to contact me for a personalised joint health programme.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv. Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz.

Abundant Health Bettaflex Super Joint Formula New What is Bettaflex?

enhanced formula

∙ Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function. ∙ Bettaflex combines high grade chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and a potent 95% Curcumin (turmeric) extract. ∙ New Bettaflex (per cap) has 400mg of high grade chrondroitin 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of rapid absorption 95% Curcumin.

How can Bettaflex help?

∙ Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage. $89.95 for 3 bottles ∙ Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes. free freight or ∙ Curcumin from turmeric helps to balance immune 1 bottle for $32.95 function to support joint health. plus $4.99 postage ∙ Research suggests chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.

BEST BUY!

COMPACT without COMPROMISE

John Arts comments:

83 - 100 HP MANOUVERABILITY POWER RELIABILITY JOHN DEERE QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS • 83 - 100 HP 4-cyl. diesel, M 4.5L • John Deere PowerTech™ engine • 12F/12R & 32F/16R PowrReverser™ trans • Hydraulic wetclutch

INTEREST RATES FROM1

0

%

“My latest Bettaflex formula with more chondroitin and over double the Curcumin is based on the latest research into joint-support compounds. The normal dose is 2 daily but I recommend a double dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate joint tissue.”

FREE ONSITE DEMO+

$54,000

John Arts, Founder Abundant Health Ltd

Abundant Health

TO ORDER PHONE: 0800 423 559

Or order online at www.abundant.co.nz or post a cheque to Abundant Health Ltd, PO Box 4347, Mt Maunganui South, 3149 *

+GST

*Prices exclude GST. 1Conditions apply. Finance available through John Deere Financial Limited to approved commercial applicants only. Offer is based on a 12 month term at an annual percentage rate of 0% with 30% deposit and GST back within first 3 months. Fees and charges apply. If not amended or withdrawn earlier, the promotion expires on March 31st, 2019. + Subject to availability. Images used are for illustrative purposes only and may show features or attachments not included in the price. Products, specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.

HAMILTON: 07 847 0425 CAMBRIDGE: 07 827 5478

0800 tractor • www.agrowquip.co.nz

Cautions: Do not take with anti-coagulant/platelet medication. If in doubt please consult your healthcare professional. Not suitable during pregnancy or lactation.

Oi!

DON’T TXT & DRIVE

12

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Travel Italy in Style The best of

+ Opera & markets!

Sunday September 8th – Saturday September 28th 2019 (21 days) This unique itinerary is designed for 20 discerning travellers.

Bathe in the Mediterranean Sea; visit seaside villages and ancient gardens with stunning views! Meet our friends in Tuscany for lunch on the farm, enjoying their deliciously fresh produce and wines. You will not be bored by lots of facts and figures! No standing in long queues, because we make appointments and book suitable times well ahead. You will be immersed in the daily lives of Italians because you are travelling with an

Italian!! Most tourists do not have this opportunity!!

Accommodation in 4 and 5 star quality small family run hotels for 3 and 4 nights in the historic centres, so you can be immersed in the daily lives of the locals! We will introduce you to our Italian friends who accompany us during parts of our daily programme!! Daily ‘a la carte’ dining in local restaurants, including wine and beverages of your choice.

Entry fees and all tipping included. Your luggage will be handled by porters during your travels with us! You will NOT be coach bound – we only travel short distances – refreshments en route included!

Also available are itineraries for 14 travellers to Sicily; Italian Lakes & Cinque Terre; Italian Opera in Verona; Corsica & Sardinia 2019.

P.O. BOX 556, WAIHEKE ISLAND, AUCKLAND 1840, NEW ZEALAND. Tel 0800 387 872 or Email susan@etruscan.co.nz • www.travelitalyinstyle.com • Directors: Susan Williamson and John Percy

Our regular clients choose to travel with us because “quality is better than quantity”!! They thank us for immersing them in the real culture that the average traveller would never see.

The age group of our ‘discerning’ travellers is generally 40’s to mid 70’s, professional and like minded people – all wanting to experience something new, have fun, relax and travel hassle– free and at a gentle pace!

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

Rural contracting advantages Being a rural contractor has many bonuses both nationally and internationally that add to the variety of work on a daily basis, but it is important to have the correct knowledge and training, to begin with.

Rural Contractors New Zealand is the only national association and the leading advocate for rural contractors in the country.

The association represent the interests of contractors engaged in a wide range of activities such as land development, drainage, fencing, cultivation and planting, harvesting of crops, highway vegetation control and maintenance, parks, reserves and landscaping, chemical application, sheep dipping and direct drilling.

RCNZ monitors central and local government policies, plans and proposals on behalf of their members.

They also maintain close relations and lobby on behalf of members with a wide number of organisations, government departments and other national bodies.

RCNZ’s governance consists of a national board, made up of the four zones. Operating via a constitution the RCNZ board comprises eight members and the country is divided into four zones and each zone elects two board members by postal ballot annually and the association employs a permanent, part-time chief executive based in Wellington — close to government and other organisations where a close liaison is maintained.

Rural Contractors supports and promotes training and education in the industry. The main focus is on training,

DRIVE PHONE FREE! South Waikato Garage Doors For ALL your garage door and automatic opener needs

which is administered by industry training organisation — Connexis New Zealand — which supplies training to the infrastructure sector of which rural contracting is a part. Details and advice on the various rural contracting training options available can be found on the Connexis website or through Rural Contractors NZ. Primary ITO also has courses available such as the National Certificate in Fencing (through Primary ITO) — level two or three both electric and nonelectric. The courses cover every position in every primary industry, so no matter where you are in your career, you will find the course that is right for you and where you want to be including in the dairy, horticulture, meat and fibre, seafood industry and primary services.

When someone learns the skills to drive a big, expensive piece of farm machinery or adds to their knowledge base in a specialised way,

opportunities can open up here in New Zealand and across the world. As most people know there is a demand for New Zealand shearers but the same applies to operating rural contracting machinery, and you can work your way around the world, season by season in countries such as Australia, Britain, Europe, Canada and the United States where there is work available for skilled operators.

• Supply of chip for Animal Bedding & Landscaping • Orchard Shelter Removal

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

Its a dirty job...but someone has to do it!

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

Contact Gary Ph:07 888-8715, 0274 960 715 enquiry@swgd.co.nz

• On site chipping for Stand off Pads

• Wood lot Marketing of tree species

We operate a specialist drain jetting unit for unblocking and cleaning of:

• Professional service “guaranteed” • Reputable products • Local knowledge • Great advice

SPECIALISING IN: • Removal / Chipping of whole trees

• Stump Removal

☑ Drains – Sewer/Storm water ☑ Effluent line/Septic tank lines

13

“For a Professional, complete & tidy service”

For all your lime and fertiliser needs Obligation Free Quotes

CALL TIM FITZGERALD 027 240 2221 • A/H 07 829 5615 treechippingservices@xtra.co.nz

RD 4 Cambridge

We also operate a Drain camera to locate the source of your drain issues and provide footage if required. Use the locally born and bred company. Reliable and affordable.

Mob 027 487 8981 or Mob 027 220 2010 *Steve 07 827 3164 *Grant 07 827 2199

Phone 0800 938 538 | Mob 0274 915 386 www.assassin.co.nz

SEPTIC TANK CLEANERS LIMITED For the cleaning of Septic Tanks, Grease Traps, Interceptors, Holding Ponds, Sumps and removal of all hazard/non hazard wastewater.

CALL US TO GET YOUR HYDRAULICS SORTED! GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME!

• Manufacture & Repairs of Hydraulic Rams • Agricultural Machinery Servicing • Cylinder Honing • Precision CNC Machining Over 30 Year Experien s ce

www.completehydraulics.co.nz PO Box 5686 • 12 Peregrine Place, Frankton, Hamilton PH: 07 847 1514 A/H: 027 487 6475 Fax: 07 847 1521

CALL US TODAY

Phone: 07 378 8777

info@rainbowseptictanks.co.nz • www.rainbowseptictanks.net.nz

14

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL CONTRACTORS ADVERTORIAL

SECURITY CAMERA INSTALLATIONS Are you experiencing any Underhanded Activity?

Or are you simply wanting peace of mind?

Designed camera systems for all applications: Rural, Residential, Commercial, Industrial Call the security camera professionals today for a solution to help protect your family, belongings, property and assets.

0800 319 290 • www.htss.co.nz

Licensed by: PSPLA, Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority

Earthmovers with experience MJL Contractors specialise all aspects of civil and rural earthmoving including general farm maintenance, roading, effluent ponds, driveways and contouring/land clearing.

MJL Contractors is owned and operated by Mark and Jodie Morrison.

Mark has more than 15 years’ experience in the earthmoving industry, working for New Zealand’s largest earthmoving companies in Taranaki and the past seven years in the Bay of Plenty/South Waikato region. Mark has worked on some large projects including underpasses and large effluent ponds.

The time was right in January 2018 for Mark and Jodie to establish their own business.

Earthmoving has always been a passion of Mark’s — not a job. “I like

REMEMBER...

A 13 tonne JCB and a CAT D6H form part of MJL’s fleet

Slip, Slop, Slap Domestic | Commercial | Commercial Kitchen Equipment

to ensure clients are provided with an exceptional standard of work and I take pride in the result. I enjoy working with clients to provide advice and guidance on all aspects of an earthmoving project.

Client satisfaction is important to me”.

MJL also purchased a portable sawmill

at the end of 2018, as Mark also has a passion and experience in sawmilling.

“We are based in Rotorua; however, we also service the Bay of Plenty and South Waikato regions. Contact Mark on 027 610 3275 or visit our website mjlcontractors.co.nz.”

Rural & Civil Earthmoving Servicing the South Waikato

Effluent Ponds Drainage Roading Land Clearing House/Building Sites Tree Felling Portable Sawmilling Member

MASTER

ELECTRICIANS Electrical Contractors Association of NZ

Waikato-wide 027 383 3435 | info@dudfields.co.nz

Mark - 027 610 3275

www.mjlcontractors.co.nz

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

15

RURAL CONTRACTORS

Tender on contracts advice

Farming machinery and equipment standing idle on a property is not a good look and does little for farm income, so it’s no surprise that some agricultural concerns add contracting work to boost the bottom line. It may just be hiring out to a neighbour or forming a local co-operative.

If the business builds up to the point of regular work, the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment has some advice on how to proceed in tendering for contracts.

It says tendering for work can be timeconsuming — but it can also lead to substantial rewards.

‘You should think carefully before, during and after the process. Finding the right opportunities, doing the prep work and being vigorous during the tendering process will increase your chances of winning contracts.

‘Tendering is the process involved in responding to an Rfx, a catch-all term meaning Request for information, a quote, a proposal or tender.

‘An Rfx can come in many shapes and forms. If it’s for a small amount of work, it will be fairly straight forward — but applying for larger or long-term contracts will require a significant amount of time, thinking and resources to complete.

You will need to be strategic when you decide which tenders to respond to.

‘Going for every Rfx you come across wastes time and energy. Your probability of success will increase if you only respond to ones in the area of your existing services and expertise.

‘Even if the contract is relevant to your business, you should first consider

SAFETY FIRST

ANDREW NOLA

Contracting

• Cultivation • Round baling • Undersowing • Engineering • General cartage PHONE ANDREW:

027 493 2079 how much preparation will need to go into the application process, and whether your business is able to sustain that effort — especially as winning the contract isn’t guaranteed.

‘Losing a tender can be disappointing, but it can be an important business opportunity. Always ask for feedback from the buyer on why your application wasn’t successful. You can use that information to help you learn what to do, and what not to do, the next time you apply.

‘You need to think about the day-to-day and long-term effects on your business.

‘Before applying, ask yourself — Do I have the people and resources to

ON THE FARM

fulfil the obligations of the contract, will I have to hire new employees or buy new equipment?’

CONTRACTING LTD

DAVID BEVEGE Owner Operator

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

Accredited Pond Builders

For all your Drainage, Excavation & Transporting Requirements

■ Site prep & excavation ■ Tracks & races ■ Farm drainage ■ Entrances / driveways ■ Metalling ■ Carting fill ■ Transporting 27 tonne

• HARVESTING • HAY • SILAGE • METALLING • TELEHANDLER WORK (Lifting to 9mtrs, 1.3 cubic metre bucket, pallet forks, silage forks, soft hands, log grapple, certified man cage and safety harness supplied)

COMBINED CONTRACTORS

For all your agricultural needs • Baleage - squares & rounds

Andrew Harward

Contact us on 07 873 7545 or 027 484 8751

Building Services ALL YOUR RURAL AND LIFESTYLE BUILDING SOLUTIONS. Quality, licensed and guaranteed workmanship. New residential housing, alterations, additions and farm buildings. 25 years experience.

• Undersowing • Maize Harvesting • Maize Planting

Call us today for a no obligation quote on your next project.

• Crop Drilling • Hedgecutting

SERVICES INCLUDE:

TM

• Cultivation • Spraying

027 652 2870

JONO TESSELAAR

PH 07 884 7974

0800 956 106

• • • •

Contouring • Siteworks Section Clearing • Driveways Carparks • Tree & Hedge Removal Farm Drainage & Races • Subdivisions

At DW Earthmoving we let our machines do the talking! With many years of industry experience, we provide a wide range of earth moving services at a competitive price along with top quality workmanship.

PO Box 21294, Rototuna, Hamilton 3256

We service…

• Septic tanks • Grease traps • Portaloos • Interceptors

Need help with your lifestyle property?

Not sure what to do or when to do it?

Our services include: • Lifestyle Block Management • General Farm Maintenance • Pasture & Livestock Management • Section Clearance • Farm Emergency & Relief Service

Contact John on 027 326 3118 FOR A FREE QUOTE!

WE SPECIALISE IN SMALL BLOCK FARMS TOO!

24/7

Number one with your number two’s since 1975! john@lifestylers.nz www.lifestylers.nz

0800 61 32 32

DAVE: 027 477 9662 SHANE: 021 350 028

16

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY

Partnering for development DairyNZ is partnering in research aimed at developing a new cow survival and longevity trait, which will provide a greater focus on general robustness and good health.

“DairyNZ and a team of researchers from AbacusBio and New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited are making significant inroads into developing a new selection index for improved cow survival and longevity genetics,” says DairyNZ senior scientist Claire Phyn.

“On average, 21 per cent of cows are removed from herds each year. Most of these removals are due to avoidable reasons — mainly reproductive failure, mastitis, and other health and calvingrelated disorders. Rearing replacements is costly, and involuntary culling takes away options of culling for very low milk production and temperament.”

One strategy to reduce involuntary culling and increase the productive lifetime of dairy cows is to breed animals that are healthier, more

fertile and last longer in the herd.

“That is why we and our research partners, under the Pillars of a New Dairy System research programme are looking at new ways to evaluate cow longevity traits. These are traits currently included in Breeding Worth under the ‘residual survival’ Breeding Value.

“Now, the researchers are developing an alternative ‘functional survival’ BV that better-excludes animal removals due to infertility or low production — this means the trait focusses on genetic selection for cows that are less likely to be culled for health-related reasons.”

The ‘functional survival’ trait differs from the current ‘residual survival’ trait. It measures cow survival from one lactation to the next such as first to second, second to third, third to

Effluent Pumping Services Spreading of all Effluent Ponds

fourth lactation. The current trait measures cumulative survival from first to second, first to third, first to fourth lactation.

“The ‘functional survival’ trait is an alternative way of accounting for culling reasons, as well as the relationships between survival and other traits, all of which change as cows get older.

Several ‘traits other than production’ — commonly called TOP, have been identified as indirect predictors of functional survival.

‘Body condition score’ traits and ‘milking speed’ traits are predictors of early survival while the ‘udder overall’ and ‘straightness of rear legs’ traits can predict late survival. “These TOP are measured during the peak of first lactation and improve the accuracy of genetic evaluations, especially for young bulls before they have any

Claire Phyn, DairyNZ senior scientist

daughter survival records available.

“Next, the researchers will evaluate the economic value of the new ‘functional survival’ trait, determine how it fits with the other BW traits and identify its effects on sire rankings.”

For more information go to dairynz. co.nz/pillars.

0800 111 690 • 027 217 6779

TIME TO SHARPEN UP THE MILKING SHED TRY OUR NON-TOXIC, HARD WEARING DAIRYCOAT AN EASY SINGLE POT PAINT FORMULATION.

TOTAL EFFLUENT & DAIRY

engineering a greener future

T.E.D is your agricultural engineering specialist, we specialise in new builds, effluent containment, pre-cast concrete and earthworks. Effluent containment is one of our specialties, with an advanced containment system being implemented we are able to drain and de-sludge out ponds.

Call or email for a free consultation 0800 TED NOW (833 669)

BUY ONLINE AT WWW.ENVIROPAINTS.CO.NZ OR CALL US ON 0800 50 36 84 76 TO PLACE AN ORDER. DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORSTEP FREE OF CHARGE (WHITE, BLACK OR THE COLOUR OF YOUR CHOICE).

(07) 376 7550 • TEDltd.co.nz

PROUDLY NZ MADE

O’NEILL ENGINEERING LTD QUALITY DAIRY EFFLUENT LINER INSTALLATIONS

• We provide HDPE Geomembranes for fresh water storage, effluent containment and ornamental ponds.

• HDPE Liners meet all current standards and are proven in the harsh New Zealand environment Quality dairy effluent liners.

0800 1 LINER

REAL STEEL FARM BUILDINGS

20 year produc t warran ty

- 0800 154 637 Email: info@envirolinenz.co.nz • www.envirolinenz.co.nz

Circular Storage Buildings

Gable Buildings

Bunker Covers

Farm Buildings & Repairs 73 Thames Street, Morrinsville • Phone 07 889 6314 Mobile 021 775 310 info@oneillengineering.co.nz

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

FORESTRY

Keeping forests safe

To help make reporting biosecurity risks in New Zealand as easy as possible the Find-A-Pest app allows anyone to quickly and simply report pests, diseases and weeds and get feedback from experts within the forest sector or from iNaturalist NZ. The smartphone app includes more than 200 fact sheets of particular pests with 31 specific forestry pests. FindA-Pest is a community of people that includes iNaturalist NZ and members of the Forest Biosecurity Committee that will help you with identifying what you see when out in the forests.

The app is being piloted between January and April 2019, and the Forest Owners Association is keen to use this as an opportunity to get feedback from users across New Zealand.

People are needed who are working on the ground in our forests to download the Find-A-Pest app and report anything they think could be a suspicious pest, disease or weed.

Pinenet is a major component of the forest industries biosecurity readiness plans, and we value your contribution to surveillance by using the Find-A-Pest app. You can also help by talking to friends and colleagues that you know are interested in forestry and encourage them to try out the Find-A-Pest app.

Check out the ‘weed’ sector within the app and help your local council look for pest plants and give feedback on what works well and how the app can be improved.

THINK SAFE

■ Diggers ■ Bulldozer & Scoop ■ Farm Drainage & Races ■ Land Development ■ Draglines ■ House Sites/Subdivisions ■ Truck Hire/ Transporter Hire

The Find-A-Pest app helps people report suspicious plants and possible pests

The app is available for Android or iPhone and is free and simple to use.

A team of volunteers from iNaturalist NZ and forest health experts from throughout New Zealand then swings into action and helps you identify what you have seen. Identifications and comments are then fed back to you via your phone.

The Find-A-Pest app has been developed by Scion and Lincoln University in conjunction with the BioHeritage National Science Challenge,

CLEARING LAND TO MAKE IT MORE PRODUCTIVE?

YOU NEED SCHWITZER!

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

FELLING TREES?

FREE QUOTES

WOOD LOTS, FORESTRY, SMALL HECTARE LOTS, WANTED NOW! • Shredder • 24 tonne Digger • Stump Grinding • Wood Lot Logging • Full Tree Removals

17

C O N T R A C T I N G

Envirolink Tools and with support from the Forest Owners Association and NZ Farm Forestry Association.

For more information check out FindA-Pest and the helpful tutorials online.

■ Augers & Longreach ■ Roading/Demolition

BROUGHTON CONTRACTING

PH/FAX: 07 828 8589 TIM: 027 493 2115

FORESTS ARE OUR FUTURE

Inta-Wood

F O R E S T R Y LT D

Silvicultural Contractors PL ANT AND CARE FOR YOURS WITH THE PROFESSIONALS Planting | Pruning | Releasing | Thinning | Scrub Cutting

Operating across the Waikato, King Country & BOP since 1997

Nathan Fogden | Managing Director

0274 758 927

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

FOREST & WOODLOT OWNERS IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING THE HARVEST OF ANY: • Radiata • Poplar • Eucalyptus • Cypress • Cedars • Redwood • M/species Pine • All Others

THINKING ABOUT HARVESTING?

FOR A FREE APPRAISAL AND EVALUATION IN TODAY’S MARKETS We have markets for managed or unmanaged stands in all species listed.

We can offer forest & woodlot owners a professional service with a variety of financial options, all guaranteed to vendors satisfaction.

CALL ABLE TASMAN FORESTRY SERVICES LTD

P: 0800 655 657 | E: ableltd@atfs.net.nz

PROVIDERS OF INDEPENDENT AND PROFESSIONAL FOREST MANAGEMENT SERVICES: • Domestic and export log marketing • Harvesting, log merchandising and value recovery • Harvest planning and forest engineering • Estate planning, modelling and inventory • Forest establishment, development and protection • Emissions Trading Scheme Services CONTACT PO Box 304, Turangi PH: (07) 386 8757 E: nzfm@nzfm.co.nz W: www.nzfm.co.nz

18

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

LIVESTOCK

Deer numbers improve Farmed deer numbers, including the number of breeding hinds and fawns, increased in 2018 according to provisional agriculture census figures released by Statistics New Zealand.

100 IT’S NOT A TARGET

HIGH COUNTRY JOURNEYS Drive from station to station and experience the majestic South Island High Country TWO STUNNING SELF DRIVE 4WD SAFARI OPTIONS FOR 2020

• ‘South Island High Country Grand Slam’; Self-drive your own 4WD from Blenheim to Cardrona in Central Otago through a network of high country tracks including Molesworth on this 7 day 8 night tour.

• ‘The Great Explorer’; Experience the majestic high country and tussocklands of the Makenzie Country, Central Otago and Northern Southland on this 6 day 7 night tour.

Both these Tours are; fully guided with radio contact; fully catered and stay in very comfortable lodges and farmstays; made up of smaller tour groups (5-7 vehicles) and travel at a quieter pace.

For further information contact: John Mulholland RD1, RANFURLY Phone 03 4449703 • Mobile 027 2288152 lnfo@highcountryjourneys.co.nz www.highcountryjourneys.co.nz

It follows a small recovery in stag numbers in the 2017 census, and Deer Industry NZ chief executive Dan Coup says the trend is a strong indication of growing farmer confidence in the viability of deer in a drystock farming operation.

“Hind numbers in the year to June 30 2018 recovered to 413,400 from a low of 392,300 in 2017, according to the provisional figures. It is the first firm indication that the long-run decline in deer numbers that began in the late 1990s has ended and that a recovery is underway,” says Mr Coup.

“What is even more interesting is that the statistics indicate a dramatic increase in hind productivity. Farmers reported that 84 per cent of hinds weaned a fawn in 2018, compared with fewer than 73 per cent in 2008. This increase probably reflects the efforts farmers have been putting into improving hind nutrition and management.

“It also means deer farming, along with strong product prices, is able to compete better with alternative land uses — this has been a key objective

Book your 2019 Roar trip now.

Te Urewera and Whirinaki.

Agricultural Spraying and Fertiliser Applications, Hunting and Fishing Trips, Flight Training, Scenic Flights FREE QUOTES

0800 HELIHIRE (435 444) info@helihire.co.nz www.helihire.co.nz

SAVE TIME and MONEY with the ORIGINAL AUTOMATIC chicken and poultry feeder!

There are no substitutes when it comes to Grandpas Feeders.

If you aren’t satisfied in both the workmanship and the effectiveness, we will refund your purchase price in full, up to 24 months following purchase.

NE

W

PR OD

UC

of Passion2Profit, the deer industry’s Primary Growth Partnership programme.”

The 2018 increase in hind numbers of around five per cent, is seen by DINZ as sustainable if it continues in the coming years.

“If this growth rate continues, it is one that our venison markets should be able to handle. By and large, it is coming from the expansion of herd numbers on existing deer farms and to a lesser extent from newcomers to the industry,” says Mr Coup.

“We don’t expect to see a large influx of new deer farmers. Modern deer farming is a specialist business, to successfully farm deer you need to make a significant investment in fencing, facilities and skilled staff. Velvet harvesting facilities need to meet the high standards of world markets.

Dan Coup, Deer Industry NZ chief executive “The modern generation of deer farmers are highly skilled deer and experience, and most of them have managers, as well as being savvy close working relationships with their business people. They share information venison marketers and velvet buyers.”

CHECK YOUR MACHINERY TODAY!

NESTS ARE A MAJOR CAUSE OF TRACTOR & MACHINERY FIRES.

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

Wi-Fi ble Controlaers Energis

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

SIS BALL COCK VALVE Price $99.50+GST EACH

T

Freight free anywhere in NZ • Buy 10 receive 12 and 2x service kits

GRANDPAS DRINKER CUPS

GRANDPAS ORIGINAL FEEDER

Clean water, no training. Go to our products page on our website for more info.

Stop pests like sparrows and rodents from stealing your hens’ food.

Our feeders are also weather proof, so no food is ever wasted or stolen.

• 3 models available – all the one price • Nearly indestructible • Only NZ Manufacturer providing lifetime guarantee on the body of the ballcock

Contact us today!

E: mark@grandpasfeeders.co.nz P: 07 552 5225 | M: 027 276 9794 www.grandpasfeeders.co.nz

www.sisballcock.co.nz | 0800 175 720 Only available direct from manufacturer

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES FEBRUARY 2019

Grown up strong

19

WHEELS

by Andy Bryenton

Ford has some big names in their catalogue, which evoke memories of great vehicles past. Many of those names — like Mustang — continue to carry on into the present with acclaimed new iterations. The firm which gave us such automotive archetypes as the Mondeo, the Transit van, and the gone-butnever-forgotten Falcon is keen to establish new dynasties as well. That’s why the advent of the latest — 21st anniversary — Ford Focus is a coming of age.

When the original Focus was released, its revolutionary features were its ride and handling, and to an extent, the styling as well. Remember, this was still the 1990s, and the car the Focus was replacing was the Escort. Just how different was it? Well, the world took notice, and doubly so when Colin McRae piloted a specially tuned rally version to victory. An RS model packing a two-litre engine set the stage for more performance Focus models to come.

Now the 2019 Focus is in showrooms, and it’s a chance to look back at how far not just this one medium sized car has come, but what it means for the auto trade in general.

As one of the most popular Fords, and with Ford a global brand, it’s a useful yardstick for comparison and what we see immediately is that technology has advanced immensely from the 1998 Focus to its 21st birthday generation.

Under the hood, Ford has pushed EcoBoost engine design even further than with their multi-award-winning single litre unit. Now rounded out to

1.5 litres, this economical power plant delivers a crisp response, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The new Focus is built in Germany, a nation famous for precision engineering, and many of the electronic features on this new Ford would once only have been available on luxury cars from other German brands. These include adaptive cruise control, a pedestrian and cyclist sensing emergency braking safety system, and even the ability to shut down a cylinder of the engine under low torque demand such as highway cruising, for even greater economy.

Of course, there’s a full suite of information and entertainment options, aircon and a big touchscreen.

That’s a whole lot of innovation on the inside — and the best news is, the new Focus looks great on the outside too, with Ford’s now trademark aggressive diamond-cut grille, and swooping creases which accentuate some clever aerodynamics.

Twenty-one years old, and all grown up. Happy birthday, Ford Focus!

THE SIDE-BY-SIDE THAT’S MADE OF STEEL

$$TOP CASH FOR CARS$$

$20,865 EX GST Special 100% finance rate offered by UDC

Some secondhand models also available.

CARS, VANS, UTES, BIG TRUCKS Going or not going Same day pick up

TUATARA 1100EFI

SO MANY FEATURES 1100cc 4 cyl. 16 valve engine, 5 x speed transmission, 2WD / 4WD, diff. lock front & rear, snorkel, motorised tipping rear deck, foldable windscreen, electric winch, LED light bar, all steel construction, disc brakes, huge carrying capacity, road registrable, dimensions 3270x1550x2065 (mm) (LxWxH).

CALL OR TEXT 021 860 995

Tel. 03 347 4956 • Mob. 027 477 0070 www.tuataramachinery.co.nz info@tuataramachinery.co.nz

Waikato Rural Marketplace Central Motors

Over 30 Year Experiencs e

8272

 07 883 8 Mobiles Taupiri Street. PO Box 217 Te Kuiti.

5656 Taupiri Street Brodie 8343027 459 0000 PO Box 217 Phone Te Kuiti 07 878 Mobile Brodie 027Keat 459027 0000 291 6692 Phone 07 878 8343

• GENERAL REPAIRS • WOF SERVICE • TUNE-UPS • EFI REPAIRS • LUBES SCAN TOOL DIAGNOSIS • AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE & REPAIRS Manager Peter Cranch: 027 442 0219 Phone: (07) 883 8272 Fax: (07) 883 8165 Email: putarurutowing@xtra.co.nz

7-9 Neal St, Putaruru

www.completehydraulics.co.nz PO Box 5686 • 12 Peregrine Place, Frankton, Hamilton PH: 07 847 1514 A/H: 0274 876 475 Fax: 07 847 1521

PHONE 027 278 8442

taupodiggerhire@xtra.co.nz | www.taupodiggerhire.co.nz

• SELF DRIVE (DRY HIRE) • NEW KUBOTA 2.5 tonne ON TRAILER

Supply, Planting & Re-Vegetation

Sharon, Wayne & Brett Thompson TM

581 Pyes Pa Road, R.D.3, Tauranga Email: nznativeflora@gmail.com Web: www.nznativeflora.co.nz

All rural homes and alterations

Cell: 021 366 480 Ph: 07 543 4406

Waikato CLASSIFIEDS

Reach 30,000 Rural Homes Phone 0800 466 793

For Sale

Financial

Animal Health Products

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

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.

HIGH CELL Count? Apple Cider Vinegar, Garlic & Manuka Honey 20L $54.95, 200L $495 or 1000L $2,200 GST with free shipping. Black Type Minerals Ltd. Phone 021 185 1501. www. blacktypeminerals.co.nz.

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

20

FEBRUARY 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Action Equipment

07 957 9150, 1 Gallagher Drive, Hamilton

ToolShed Taumarunui

07 895 8582, 52 Bell Road, Taumarunui

South Waikato Cycles & Lawncare Ltd

07 886 9299, 231 Rosebery Street, Tokoroa

PTS Plus

07 883 7544, 2–4 Market St, Putaruru

WWW.HUSQVARNA.COM