Waikato Farming Lifestyles, July 2019

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Recycling helps farmers

July 2019 Edition

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Focussing on Jersey

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Charming with gentle personalities Page 4–5

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July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Award for red meat

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Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Taste Pure Nature country of origin brand was recognised at the inaugural Primary Industries Awards.

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Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz General Manager: Deb Wright | deb.wright@integrity.nz | 021 639 696 Editorial: Ann van Engelen, Paul Campbell, Andy Bryenton Advertising: Teresa Steed, Leanne Anania Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

Recycling helps farmers

DISCOVER AND EXPLORE NZ

by Simon Andrew

Each week, thousands of Kiwi homes wheel or carry their rubbish to the kerbside for collection. For rural communities, managing refuse is not such an easy task. Generations of Kiwi farmers have had to find their own ways of clearing non-natural waste.

A 2013 study by Environment Canterbury claimed that farms were producing nearly 10 tonnes of waste a year. Empty containers and drums, silage wrap, fertiliser bags and motor oil are just some of the items left over from the business of farming. Finding an efficient and sustainable solution can be confusing and time-consuming for farmers and growers, especially with each waste stream having its own processes for recycling or safe disposal.

To add to the challenge, the options aren’t always obvious, conveniently located or available to use at all times — and can be costly.

Rural recycling programme, Agrecovery, is stepping in to help solve these challenges. The programme, which recycles agrichemical containers and drums and sustainably disposes of unwanted agrichemicals, has been trialling a project that allows farmers and growers to drop off a variety of waste at one location. This one-stopshop solution aims to discourage the harmful disposal practices of burning, burying or stockpiling waste.

Last year Agrecovery initiated two highly successful pilot projects in Matamata and Geraldine, collecting more than 19 tonnes of waste in just two days. The Ministry for the Environment is boosting the project by funding more nationwide events. The programme is coordinating six events to be held in

late August and September so that farmers and growers can clear a variety of waste all at the same time. These events will be in Westport, Southland, Rolleston, Gisborne, Matamata and Geraldine.

Agrecovery works with partners to find sustainable options for recycling the collected waste.

The ideal solution is repurposing it locally as it does with agrichemical containers. This rigid plastic can be recycled into useful products like underground cable covers and building materials, but more needs to be done to ensure that we have the means to process waste — particularly soft plastics.

Good quality recycled plastic is in high demand and can be made into new useful products.

Silage wrap can be recycled into tuffboard — a plywood substitute. To save on carbon emissions, processing it in New Zealand is the best option and the programme is seeking to develop more local recycling facilities.

Agrecovery is also focussing on finding solutions for products that are difficult to clean and recycle, such as fertiliser bags and silage wrap. Plans are already in motion to address these issues — which are wider than just for farming.

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July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Charming with gentle personalities

by Ann van Engelen

Stuart and Ann Weir began their journey with Te Kowhai Alpacas in 2006 on their five-hectare property after being captivated with the Suri alpaca personalities.

“I

grew up on a mixed farm with dairy, beef and sheep. About 15 years ago, we were looking for an animal with the ‘cool factor’ for our son Ben to handle and train. He wanted to be a vet and had already had lambs, goats and calves for ag days, so we wanted to branch out into something a little exotic,” says Ann. “We acquired two Huacaya males for him, and a year later, a Suri alpaca.

We fell head over heels in love with the Suris and now have more than 70 in the herd. Ben is now a fully qualified vet, and still has an interest in the animals.

“Alpacas are browsers and prefer a mix of foliage, not just grass. They enjoy chicory and plantain, dandelion

and other pasture herbs. They also like branches of willow, tree Lucerne, poplar, hoheria and London plane. We give them hay in winter and alpaca specific nuts.”

Biosecurity double fencing is around the property, which is planted in edible trees and shrubs that provide shelter and food.

“They are intelligent animals with amazing personalities. Watching the youngsters play at twilight is always the highlight of the day. You don’t need a dog at all because they come when you call them. I especially like helping people to connect with them and sharing my knowledge. Several trainee vet nurses and vets plus WINTEC Rural Production students have come for work experience

Stuart and Ann Weir were captivated by the Suri alpaca personality and began their journey with the animals in 2006

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with our herd. For animal welfare, they need things like water, shelter, hoof trimming, shearing and injectable Vitamin D in winter, especially for cria (the babies) and heavily fleeced and dark-coloured alpacas.

“Suri fleece was deemed by the Incas to be the ‘fibre of the gods’ and only worn by the elite in society. They have an incredible softness and gentle handle due to a low scale factor on the fibre.

There is no lanolin, and therefore it can be worn by many people who cannot tolerate wool.

“Ensure you purchase from a reputable breeder who will give you backup and assistance. Don’t make the mistake of buying straight off Trade Me if your breeder is in Canterbury, but you live in Waikato. They can’t give you the on-farm and hands-on support you may need — local is the best course of action.

“They are relatively easy to breed as induced ovulators, any day of the year is a good day for breeding, according to a stud male alpaca. Mating is by trickle ejaculation and involves orgling, a sound like a concrete mixer from the male.

Normal checking of health in both male and female is needed prior to mating.

We pen mate so that our records are accurate. The textbooks say 345–355 days but our hembra (females) unpack somewhere between 11 to 13 months.

They are a long-lived animal and can get to 25 years old.

“They have different personalities — some stand off, some want cuddles.

They halter train easily and will follow

you anywhere, but you must handle them with respect and gentleness as they have an exceedingly good memory and remember bad experiences. Every action has a reaction, and one of the most important things is that they are obligate nose breathers — so only breathe through their nose. Halters must be fitted correctly, high up under the eyes across the top of the nose on the bone.

“If it slips and goes down on the cartilage, you cut off their air supply.

They then look badly behaved, but the animal is actually fighting for oxygen.

“When moving them don’t draft one or two animals as they have a herd instinct.

Bring the whole herd in and separate the animals you need — if you take one by itself, it can stress, and this may lead to ill health and eventual death. Anyone wanting alpacas needs a minimum of three of the same gender because they get comfort and support from each other. They put out an alarm call like a donkey being strangled if they perceive danger such as a dog or cat that doesn’t belong on the property. In the Andes where they come from big cats or dogs are predators. The whole herd goes on red alert and face the danger, and in a female herd, the matriarch steps forward with her supporters. In Australia, wethered males are often used as flock guards to protect the lambs as they can kill a small animal such as a fox with a kick.

“Alpacas have a soft padded hoof and a small ecological footprint and are great for the landscape because

5

Alpaca are best kept in groups of no less than three as they are a very social animal and get support from each other

the ‘green ocean’ looks a bit bereft without animals. They are a continual source of entertainment and ours have been known to be in the lounge watching

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July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

Dave Jordan first established hemp growing in 2008 with the health and wellbeing of the environment in mind and a vision to create a new industry in New Zealand.

W

orking in adventure tourism, Dave was disturbed by the pollution showing up on the land and in waterways around the country. On meeting Anne in 2011, she joined him in his mission, and they formed HempFarm NZ Ltd. “Dave’s brother mentioned hemp, so Dave researched and discovered it is an amazing plant with many benefits,” says Anne.

“There many varieties of hemp, including the shorter variety, which is grown mostly for the seeds that are used to make hemp food. The taller dual crops are grown for the seeds and stalk to make products such as food, fibre and building materials. We grew our first

acre crop in the Waikato and saved the seeds and grew two acres the next year.

In our third year, we planted 32 hectares and planned on growing more crops in Waikato as the land is excellent quality, however, there is a shortage of seed drying and infrastructure.

“My son Harley Aspinall developed the brand look and feel and built our website and digital marketing. Every weekend Dave and I would attend markets around the country and pack orders at night in our shed. We harvested mostly by hand and after a lot of research now use a dedicated harvesting machine.”

The couple now works with farmers through a growers group who are cropping across five regions.

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Hemp can be utilised in many industries including building, food, carpet and plastics

“We have recently moved into a 4,000 square metre hemp food dedicated facility in Tauranga and work alongside Carfields, on the agricultural growing and machinery arm of the business. It is about enabling industry with sustainable solutions. Hemp has no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive part of the cannabis plant as it is a totally different cultivar.

“It is planted October and must have good, fertile soil. We do not use pesticides or herbicides in our growing programme. It takes four months to grow up to four metres tall and is harvested in March for seed and fibre. This year we have planted 500 hectares, and in the coming season we will be planting around 2,000 hectares.”

A dual variety supplies food, fibre, medicine and fuel. “We have recently produced our first press cold pressed oil, which we call Kiwi Hemp Seed Oil

and it has helped people with various issues like eczema, psoriasis and joint issues. You can have it in salads, dressings, dips, or just drizzled on food. The testimonials are all on our my.hempfarm.co.nz website.

“We will be installing a dehuller to produce hemp hearts. They are similar tasting to pine nuts, very nutty and delicious. They are nature’s most nutrient-dense seeds and are a complete protein supplying all the essential amino acids, fatty acids, magnesium, vitamins and minerals. A tablespoon a day is the recommended daily amount.

“We are in the process of producing flavoured protein powders and hemp milk. Our milk is already in the hospitality industry for frothy coffees. Our vision is to take organic hemp to the world.

We have a growers group, and this year farmers in Fielding, Taupo, Hawke’s Bay, Canterbury and Manawatu grew for us.

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Dave, Anne and the team at Hemp Farm New Zealand now have a 4,000 square metre food dedicated facility to work from

“Our harvester has two cutter bars on it to remove the seed and take off the stalk, which is placed behind the harvester in windrows that are then bailed. We will set up more seed drying facilities in other areas to grow the industry.”

HempFarm recently signed a partnership agreement with NZ Yarn.

“They process merino wool, and we will be blending the hemp with wool for carpets and yarns. Non-woven matting for erosion control and seed matting are other products we are planning, as it won’t have any chemicals seeping into the soil and waterways. Every industry can use hemp, including plastics and building.

“Farmers are loving having something different to get their teeth into while getting a financial return, which at least equals dairy. Planting on the boundary makes it a good barrier, and it can help with run-off into the waterways as a mopper crop. Hemp locks the carbons up forever and is one of the most positive ways we can accomplish positive results right here in New Zealand.

“It is our passion to clean up our precious environment, and we are very proud of the progress we are making and plan to see as much hemp growing in New Zealand as you see maize. Once we get to at least 10,000 hectares, we will feel like we are starting to make a real difference.”

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July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Focussing on Jersey

by Ann van Engelen After years of commitment to the Jersey cattle breed, Margaret Pinny of Waihue Valley has received the Jersey NZ Distinguished Members Award.

E

ighty-year-old Margaret grew up among the breed in Piopio and inherited cows off her parents who started their Jersey stud in 1945.

“I attended calf club from four years old and have been involved with calf club for 40 years,” said Margaret.

“My grandson Nicholas and his wife Stephanie are sharemilking for Nick’s

parents Trevor and my daughter Megan on the Waihue farm. I was able to pass my stock on to them, and they have continued with some of those genetics.

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Margaret Pinny has continued to see her stud cattle progress with her daughter Megan and grandson Nicholas

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was one of the top families for me. I still have interest in the breeding and spend time viewing the calves when they are born, I wander over and see which ones I think are good. Megan and Trevor also run beef as the farm consists of land not suitable for dairy. You need to make the genetics work to breed good stock and choose a bull that is going to make your breeding better, but this doesn’t always happen. Originally my husband Rex and I did a lot of culling of cows that weren’t producing or that had traits like bad feet. They need good feet to walk long distances, especially on bigger farms. We also breed for type and production.

“I have been in the north for 23 years and for 20 of them have been secretary of the Northern Wairoa Jersey Club.

During the 80s I worked with Jersey NZ choosing young sires for semen to be purchased by farmers and I would take orders from Cape Reinga to Bluff. I have enjoyed making many friends throughout the country with the same interests.

Going to different sales of animals, and when herds are dispersed, you know the background of their breeding.

“My main interest now is helping Megan and encouraging children to have calves for calf club. Sometimes you get a child come along, and you can see they haven’t had the knowledge to bring the calf up to standard. We teach them how to keep a cover on, keep it clean, brush it and feed it. They often return the next year and have done so much better.

“I feel a lot of pride for them when they make progress. I was always a calf club judge, never a senior like Megan

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and now Nick, but saw generations of families come through. I got thrown in the deep end when I was young judging for someone who didn’t turn up and was then asked to help at times. You had to make some very quick decisions on calf placings, and when you judge a calf and it ends up champion or reserve you know, you made the right decision.

“Nick’s children are fifth generation handling pedigree Jersey cattle. Megan and I run an all breeds youth competition each year after calf club is finished so the children can gain extra ribbons. We go farm to farm and judge the youth competition with an outside judge, so we don’t risk anyone’s animals with the M bovis issue by having them at a show.

“Trevor, Megan, Nick and Stephanie recently won the Semex competition for type and production, which is based on BW-PW values plus type. This competition is New Zealand wide, and the second year in a row Totara Dale Jerseys has accomplished this. I am very proud to see the family doing well and see my grandson Nick’s passion for the Jersey cows continuing on and achieving awards. It is no easy feat to continue on from another person. Last year at the big dairy event in Fielding Nick was assistant judge in the ring and has now become a judge with Jersey NZ. “Getting the Distinguished Members Award was a lovely surprise. Jerseys

Receiving the Jersey Association’s Distinguished Members Award after years of dedication was a surprise to Margaret

are a little golden cow and there is something about their personality. They look at you with these big dozy eyes and become great pets.

“My parents started their stud in 1945, and I took over in 1960. Megan and Trevor took over from me and Rex around 1996 when we formed Totara

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Some, however, should take extra as a supplement. CoQ10 is made in your liver from the same enzymes that produce cholesterol. It is why drugs that reduce cholesterol can significantly reduce circulating CoQ10.

I recently spoke to a client who had experienced a lot of muscle pain and stiffness while on statins. After just a month on high-grade CoQ10 (CoQsol), the pain had completely gone and is now able to tolerate the medication without side effects.

I generally find it takes one to two months to restore muscle function and energy.

Muscle issues from statin use are one of the most common reasons from muscle and tendon pain and weakness. It is a shame that many suffer needlessly, as in most cases, it is quickly resolved with a highquality CoQ10 without having to stop the medication.

What makes CoQ10 unique is its ability to accept and donate electrons. That enables CoQ10 to

move hydrogen electrons within your cell mitochondria to make the energy your body requires. Inadequate CoQ10 levels reduce energy output, and this is felt as tiredness and often as muscle weakness.

I regularly prescribe CoQ10 for those with health issues known to reduce energy, especially those with autoimmune or neurodegenerative problems. While CoQ10 is not a cure, it can help to lift general energy and wellbeing.

In most cases, I will add CoQ10 as the patented CoQsol or my specialised MTQ10 formula for those needing extra CoQ10 plus a lift in energy. MTQ10 combines CoQ10 with a B complex plus other energy co-factors. Most people feel a real difference within one to two months.

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 423559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his all new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

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Drones help economy Drones are estimated to be worth up to $7.9 billion to the economy with a paper recently released called Taking Flight: an aviation system for the automated age, which sets out the government’s vision for how drones can be better integrated into the current transport system to develop a thriving, innovative and safe sector.

Transport Minister Phil Twyford said at the launch of the government’s plan for drones that drones will deliver economic benefits by doing tasks that are time-intensive, expensive and risky such as monitoring crops, inspecting power lines and helping with emergency operations.

“New Zealand has an opportunity to be at the forefront of drone technology with sectors like forestry, agriculture and conservation already harnessing their abilities,” said Mr Twyford.

“An example of the innovation that’s already underway is Zephyr Airworks, who have partnered with Air New Zealand to test and develop its self-piloted, electric air taxi here in New Zealand. There are already more than 77,000 drones in use in New Zealand, and our government knows that the public has concerns about privacy and safety.

“Safety is our top transport priority, and there are a number of initiatives already underway, including looking at potential updates to the rules for using drones. The Ministry of Transport is currently consulting on potential new

Phil Twyford, Transport Minister

powers for law enforcement agencies to seize or detain drones that are breaking the rules.

“Our government is tackling the long-term issues, and we acknowledge getting the regulations right will take some time, but it’s important we take the time to get it right.

“As well as identifying the benefits drones can deliver, Taking Flight also sets out the challenges we need to manage to unlock the benefits of drones and keep New Zealanders safe.”

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

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12

July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

SPOTLIGHT ON

TE AWAMUTU

Close to nature Te Awamutu is situated on gently undulating land close to the banks of a tributary of the Waipa River. The town supports the agricultural industry, with sheep and beef farming on the outer fringes, with the local dairy factory being an important part of the district.

Servicing the large rural community, the area has a rich and diverse history that has given rise to a unique range of visitor attractions. The town’s markets are a great source of locally-grown produce whilst the rose gardens are a must in bloom between November and April. Nearby Pirongia village is known for quaint art galleries, picturesque walks and cafes.

The museum at Te Awamutu provides insightful information into the area’s people and history, showcasing treasures and stories of the Tainui people. They also have regular local exhibitions with a number of permanent exhibitions focussing on the town and surrounding area including a display on local music heroes Tim and Neil Finn. The Collection Corner is designed

to showcase the latest acquisitions as well as existing objects from the museum collection.

There are several great walking tracks on offer around the area. South-east is Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari where you can explore this inland island reserve which features a 16-metre high forest canopy viewing tower, a 600-year-old rata tree and flourishing native bird species. Pirongia is known as a beautiful reserve with ample hiking tracks or the opportunity to stroll around Lake Ngaroto, a wetland area with many bird watching opportunities. If you are interested in rock climbing, the nearby Wharepapa South area is a climber’s paradise for those with experience.

Nearby are extinct Kakepuku and Pirongia volcanoes as well as other

volcanoes of the Alexandra Volcanic Group with Maungatautari now the site of New Zealand’s largest ecological restoration project.

Te Awamutu has the ideal climate for fabulous blooms of roses and calls itself the Rose Capital of New Zealand. During the blooming season, November to April, the garden next to the visitor centre

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is known as a technicolour dream as 2,000 rose bushes turn on the charm.

The township has all manner of shops and cafes to explore, along with various accommodation options for those travelling through. Speedway, polo, golf and the walk of fame are just a few opportunities visitors to the area can enjoy.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

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Rural Building/sheds & shelters BUSINESS PROFILE

Creative thinking in action

by Ananda Smith

100

LPS Cabinetry started with a vision of creative thinking and now serves the Central Plateau and surrounding areas as the place to go for custom-made cabinetry to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space.

Specialising in kitchen fit-out, wardrobes/dressing rooms, bathroom vanities, shop fittings and joinery the company work also includes French doors, detailed entrance doors, windows (double or standard glazing) and solid timber furniture.

About the team: Lewis completed his joinery apprenticeship in Taumarunui then moved to Cambridge to further his skills at an award-winning timber joinery factory.

At the start of 2018, Lewis and his wife Deborah returned home to start LPS Cabinetry.

Hayden qualified as a cabinet maker in 2013 and joined LPS in 2018 bringing his experience to the team. He is a key player in progressing cabinetry from start to finish.

Ananda has a Diploma in Interior Design and became part of the team later in 2018. With years of kitchen design experience, she is the go-to person for turning your dreams to reality.

With almost 35 years of combined experience, LPS is a winning team with a fresh, modern approach to design and

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

July 2019

Rural Building/sheds & shelters ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTORIAL

Building with Alena Homes Alena Homes Ltd is a family operated business specialising in the design and construction of new character and traditional homes of the villa and bungalow era in Waikato.

Company owner Helen Fenwick has been involved in the building industry for 43 years and is proud of her homes and the excellent rapport she has built with past and present clients.

“I love nothing more than having our clients pull up outside their new build and immediately feel like they are home. I manage the business daily and visit each site no less than once a week. My daughter Lena-Jane Walls is the sales manager for the company,” says Helen.

As a draughtsman and quantity surveyor, Helen developed a passion for creating homes that individually ticked the boxes for all kinds of people in all types of stages and life phases.

“Whether it is a busy young family, an executive or professional couple or the dream home of retirement, there has never been a one size fits all approach in designing a home. Every build is unique and, from initial consultation, the process of designing and building is an honour she takes very personally.

“I was fortunate to grow up in an era where building a home was a reflection of craftsmanship, style and personality. When I took the opportunity of starting Alena Homes in 2001, it was with a vision of realising people’s dreams and ensuring the results exceeded their expectations.”

Featuring the timeless beauty of villa and traditional type homes, Helen and Lena-Jane have built a reputation for recreating the charm and character of the ‘old girl’ style, but with the convenience and sustainability

Helen Fenwick, managing director of Alena Homes

of modern building practices. “Alena Homes is not about kitset or run of the mill floor plans,” says Helen.

“Before we sit down and go through various wish lists or even discuss a budget, we encourage potential clients to visit homes we have built and chat with those who live in them. We are only as good as our last home, and by encouraging this type of contact, our clients can be assured of our commitment to excellence and the best possible result. Building your own home is definitely one of the most significant things we are ever likely to do, so it’s crucial those that put their trust in us feel completely secure in their decision.”

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Subdivision brings environmental gains Whilst there is a lot of angst building in the community about subdividing good productive land on the borders of our biggest city, all rural land is not so productive.

There are significant pockets of land either already occupied in a residential way or relatively unproductive that can provide a lifestyle for many. At the same time, many farmers are retiring marginal land and pouring their profits into native revegetation along streams and wetland areas to increase water quality. The combination can produce a win-win situation.

Many councils are acknowledging this by providing development opportunities in return for locking up this planted land for future generations. It recognises the long-term environmental benefits to the community, whilst providing some potential income to reimburse the landowner’s costs.

Farmers have always seen themselves as custodians of the land and looked after it well, without much recognition. As always, policy development is a slow process, but during the years many councils have put in place a policy that encourages the protection of ecological and historic features as a significant precursor to subdivision. Some of the most popular features are regenerating native bush, wetland ecosystems, cultural sites and bush-covered stream and riverbanks. Some councils even allow for the protection of prime view shafts, and historical buildings. Unfortunately, the rules differ from district to district with some councils being more generous than others.

With many rural councils restricting the subdivision of lifestyle blocks through other

rules, this may be the only way for many to create truly ‘rural’ lifestyle lots for sale or retirement.

It’s great to see all councils recognising the public benefit of retaining these environmentally significant features. So, if your land has a feature similar to those mentioned in this article and you want to subdivide your property, I am happy to discuss the prospects with you. Please feel free to discuss your situation.

Brent Trail, managing director of Surveying Services, specialises in resource consent applications for subdivisions across the Waikato, Coromandel and Bay of Plenty.

For further information call 0800 268 632 or email btrail@surveyingservices.co.nz.

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Make your dream home a reality with Alena Homes Ltd. We build beautiful timeless character homes with modern benefits for one of the most competitive m2 rates in the Waikato. As a small company with lower overheads we have very competitive building rates and that makes your dream more affordable. Alena Homes could be the answer to that dream home of yours.

Sales Manager: Lena-Jane, 027 583 8392 183 Collingwood St, Hamilton p. 07 838 3928 • e.info@alenahomes.co.nz

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

15

Rural Building/sheds & shelters ADVERTORIAL

Protecting farm buildings Grant and Laurell Kennedy at ASAP Decorative Specialists Ltd have been operating for more than 15 years in the painting and decorating industry and have extended their experience to provide restorative and maintenance solutions to farmers.

Grant says most people think of painting a house, but it is more than that when you live rurally.

“It is creating systems to protect your valuable business assets such as dairy sheds, houses, all manner of other sheds and feed pads.”

Based in Waikato, the couple have the equipment and technical ability to get a variety of jobs done.

“I travel to Taupo, Turangi, and anywhere in the central North Island, and we are happy to have a chat, and give advice. Keeping sheds up to date is often something that goes in the too hard basket. Some of the services we provide are grinding white and red rust and using high build low molecular resins as opposed to paints. On a roof, this cures to a hard substance and becomes like a new roof giving a more affordable option than replacing a roof.

If you are milking multiple times a day, we get the job done conveniently around work times.

“We do concrete resurfacing of pitted concrete from shed washdown damage and fill the cracks. We do maintenance on farmhouses, particularly if the outside is deteriorated, by using our resins we minimise the work that is needed for the preparation of exterior and interior walls.

“We value our farmers’ time and free up hours in their day by working smarter, not harder, providing the best cost-effective systems for all situations, ensuring your property holds its value.

Our speciality work with a code of compliance regarding food means we can help ensure your business is up to a high level of standard. For small farms, we can provide a cost-effective system to revitalise or restore buildings allowing you to continue to operate with a high level of standard.

“Providing new surfaces on concrete pads helps keep things in good order for the comfort of your stock.

“With corrosive environments such as cowsheds, sometimes you don’t need to

replace that galvanised fence, we can restore it with regards to audits so if you are inspected or evaluated, scheduled

maintenance programmes will help keep things working well, with systems in place.”

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16

July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Rural Building/sheds & shelters Cutting the cords that bind

Pay attention!

by Andy Bryenton

THE SHORT DROP LIMITED

The barn or equipment shed has long been a vital component of any farming operation, keeping valuable machinery out of the weather or providing storage space for essentials such as feed and other consumables. In the past, most sheds have been relegated to secondary status due to a lack of electrical power.

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Working on machinery in situ used to mean lugging a generator, and upgrades to turn a simple shelter for equipment into a functioning workshop were almost out of the question. Developments in battery technology have led to innovative new ways to use solar and wind power, taking these applications from out of the realm of the ecologically conscious alone and into the domain of practical business. There are whole farms now off the grid and thriving.

Photovoltaic systems fitted to a remote shed, therefore, can turn it into a hub for maintenance and repair without having to tax the electrical system of the farm itself. Lighting is the first advantage, redoubling workable hours in and around the shed. Security is another bonus, with low-drain remote security

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electricity still an issue of contention, off-grid systems are also popular due to the fact that they can be applied piece by piece, taking over from mains power in specific applications.

Now powerful enough and reliable enough to be used in industries such as telecommunication for long-term installations, it’s timely to weigh the cost of upgrading your shed or outbuilding the old-fashioned way or adopting new technology, which may save money in the long run.

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systems able to send a message to mobile devices and thus protect stores of fuel and assets like motorcycles and quads.

There’s even the possibility to run water to very remote outbuildings via solar-powered pumping stations.

The power of the sun can be augmented by wind turbines or microhydroelectric systems placed in streams where applicable.

With outlay costs for this kind of upgrade falling and the price of

COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER has been specially formulated for the repair of worn or damaged concrete in the dairy industry. Dairy Floor Resurfacer is a two pack system combining a Portland cement, fine aggregate based micro concrete and sophisticated binders that provide superior, compressive, tensile and flexural strength as well as a very high level of abrasion resistance and adhesion. This product is suitable for repairing worn or pitted areas or to provide a non-slip surface where necessary.

A two pot clear epoxy sealer can be supplied to reduce the wearing effects of milk and acid.

COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER can be supplied as a ‘do it yourself kit’ and delivered anywhere in New Zealand or applied, in most areas, by contractors.

COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER Part A is supplied in 20kg bags and covers approximately 3m square. Part B modifier is supplied in both 10litre and 20litre containers and approximately 4litres per 20kg bag would be required. After trowelling, the surface can be broomed or sponge finished.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

17

Rural Building/sheds & shelters The backbone of your build There’s no question that farm buildings must be designed to survive in the worst possible conditions. The average farmer envisions a good shed or barn as lasting for decades, all while suffering the heat of summer and the rains and chills of winter without failing. So there’s a lot of debate as to what makes the perfect core structure for the perfect outbuilding.

Effectively, the choice today centres around steel or wood. Both have their advantages, with proponents of each side making a convincing case. Modern building techniques have given us more choice than ever, and both options are attractive. So the decision can come down to factors other than simple price.

The case for wood starts with the trees themselves. We grow them here, and a shed or barn built with full-round posts takes advantage of the structure of the whole tree itself, grown strong and designed by millions of years of evolution.

Those who built in wood cite a long history of human use of this natural and sustainable product, which sequesters carbon from the air as it grows, and is easy to add on to with little more than more wood and some nails and know-how.

They point to wooden barns built in places like the US and Europe before Captain Cook set sail for New Zealand, the frames of which, are still strong and aesthetically pleasing today, often

incorporated into new builds. The argument for steel also emphasises strength; the term ‘strong as steel’ exists for a good reason, after all.

This substance lends itself to modular construction, with the ability to easily disassemble bolted subframes and sections to add on at a later date. Steel also has environmental credentials, which few people realise; it’s one of the few building materials that lose nothing from being recycled over and over again.

Steel has a high recovery rate from demolished buildings, and recent research of commercial construction waste found that more than 90% of the steel was recycled.

As for durability, those who build in steel can point to ancient swords and artefacts made by processes inferior to current forging techniques but are still with us thousands of years later.

In the end, the choice comes down to location, intended use and simple aesthetics.

There are excellent arguments for building both in wood and steel, but

the real winner is the farmer seeking to build, who enjoys a world of choice and

Pay attention!

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18

July 2019 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

The old original recipe

Some things in life well outside the realm of internal combustion can be improved by the application of what some people call Chapman’s Law. It’s more of a guideline, really, but the big name behind Lotus achieved remarkable success with it. Simplify, then add lightness.

Colin Chapman applied this adage to some of the most fearsomely efficient racing cars of the 20th century, and his name lives on through a company that produce machines, which are a joy to drive. You can simplify and add lightness in other areas of life to just as sublime a result — packing holiday luggage, baking a cake.

In the case of Suzuki, creating the perfect bike for the farm and lifestyle block.

It’s a recipe that’s been around for a fair few years, but like the contents of the Edmond’s book, it’s still popular. The DR200 has seen minor changes here and here, to what this metaphor insists we call the ‘icing’, the switch to single shock rear suspension, or the fitment of brighter halogen lighting, for example.

Underneath, the same 200cc engine pumps out a lot of useful torque, even if it’s no speed machine.

It’s still equipped with a carburettor because it’s easy and reliable for a single cylinder, single overhead cam set-up. It still has a rear drum brake so that it won’t get clogged with dirt and mud. It still comes with protection from the bumps and stumps including bash plates below and bars to keep your lights and fingers unmolested.

Furthermore, it still dominates in the mud. Suzuki designed the DR200 here

The Suzuki DR200 design has endured the test of time on Kiwi farms, and now on lifestyle blocks too

in New Zealand, wisely acknowledging that our rural conditions are some of the most demanding anywhere. So for several decades, it’s been a bit of a benchmark. There’s little to improve,

in the same way as the classic bowie knife or vanilla ice cream can’t really be improved. However, there is a new side to the busy little battler. With more and more people looking to semi-rural

lifestyle living, the fact that you can kit out a DR series bike with number plates and indicators means that you can have a companion for the mud that’s also nifty to nip down to the shops on.

Bowers & Son Ltd is a Te Awamutu family owned business proud to be servicing the greater Waikato region for over 70 years.

FOR RURAL AND HOUSING WE SUPPLY:

• Redi rock retaining block systems • Ready mix concrete • Effluent storage • Duracrete water tanks • Duracrete septic tanks • Cattle stops • Concrete walls • Feed pads • Feed troughs • Water troughs • Bunker walls

WINNER of NZ Concrete Technology Award

Te Awamutu 07 871 5209 | Otorohanga 07 873 8510 | www.bowersconcrete.co.nz

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

19

Farm Sheds Any size

Arenas Any shape

Lifestyle Block Sheds, anyway you want them CALL OUR NATIONAL OFFICE 0800 862 010 OR CALL YOUR LOCAL BUILDER Geoff Cotter | 027 507 8035

20

July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

SAFER, STRONGER, SMARTER 4x4 Accessories out

4x4 Fit

P P Ba r l l u B ch 1.

P ter Win rades s n o M pg 2.

P sion U ils n e p s u Ra 3. S teps + Tow Ba r P S e d i r 4. S P otecto r P r a e R .

5 y Ca nop y Points P r a e R er 6.

P R e c ov s d it e t K a ing 7. R P (F&R) e rs + W

bullbars

winches suspension

w rs 8. Dra t C ove a e S s va 9. Ca n

drawer systems

rear protector bars

camping

rooftop tents fridges

lights

Products available from over 40 stores NZ wide www.ironman4x4.co.nz Call 0508 IRONMAN for your nearest dealer 0508 476 6626

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

21

Waste milk risks

NATURAL SPREADERS

Waste milk has traditionally been fed to calves to dispose of milk that can’t be sent for supply, but DairyNZ senior scientist Jane Lacy-Hulbert has investigated if it is a good idea.

With an increased focus on the responsible use of antibiotics, questions are being asked about waste milk’s value as a feed source for calves, and the risks this practice might pose to the wider environment.

Waste (or ‘red’) milk is the milk produced by lactating cows when they are sick and receiving antimicrobial treatment for diseases such as mastitis.

It also applies to the milk produced in the withholding period, which can be three to four days after treatment.

Exposing a bacterial population, such as the calf’s developing digestive tract, to low concentrations of antibiotics may encourage bacterial growth with existing resistance genes. It could also lead to other bacteria mutating and developing new ways to resist antibiotics.

The risk is that calves consuming this milk will shed antibiotic-resistant faecal bacteria into the environment. It could have unintended consequences for your calves, and the future usefulness of the antibiotic.

That is backed up by a substantial review published in the European Union in 2017.

The review found that shedding was more pronounced for younger calves (two to three weeks old), compared to six to seven-week-old calves.

Fortunately, this shedding wasn’t observed in calves fed colostrum from cows previously treated at dry-off with long-acting dry cow antibiotic products.

Unfortunately, pasteurising waste milk won’t deactivate the residues, as most antibiotics are heat-stable.

Although there are few studies on this aspect, it is likely that antibiotic residues would interfere with calves establishing good gut bacteria, or that pathogens and viruses from older, sick cows could infect the young calf. If there are more antibiotic-resistant bacteria present in the gut, these issues would be harder to control. Although waste milk may be a convenient feed for calves, is it worth the risk for the health of the replacement calf, or to the environment? One thing is certain it cannot be fed to bobby calves, as the calf’s gut is likely to absorb the antibiotic residues and cause the carcass to be rejected. It’s ‘not’ ok to feed waste milk to ‘any’ calves.

Find out more about calf care at dairynz.co.nz/calves.

LTD

DAIRY

WE PUMP EFFLUENT, STIR & DESLUDGE TO WAIKATO ENVIRONMENT SPECIFICATIONS

Phone Wayne

07 886 6667 027 728 8482

Oi!

DON’T TXT & DRIVE

Jane Lacy-Hulbert, DairyNZ senior scientist

BURGESS Matting & Surfacing Ltd New Zealand Owned Since 1951

Burgess Non Slip Safety Matting Hoofbond Tray & Mattress for Treatment & Prevention of Lameness

Takanini Feeds manufactures and supplies a full range of calf feed and milk powder. Our manufacturing plant is a modern, FeedSafe accredited mill. We have our own fleet of trucks, with experienced drivers that do all our own farm deliveries.

Calf Trailer Matting Hoofbond Footbath System • Easy clean & Anti-fatigue • New Improved Design • Ultra Porous & • Helps Prevent Lameness, Hoof Rot & Heel Erosion Highly Durable • 100% Recycled • Rolls for Easy Removal • Good traffic flow • Impact Absorbent and • It’s simple and it WORKS! reduces road noise

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

For all your lime and fertiliser needs Obligation Free Quotes Mob 027 487 8981 or Mob 027 220 2010 *Steve 07 827 3164 *Grant 07 827 2199

Phone 0800 80 85 70 sales@burgessmatting.co.nz www.burgessmatting.co.nz NZ MADE & MANUFACTURED BY BURGESS MATTING LTD

Our feed includes:

RD 4 Cambridge

Healthy Animals

18% GROWER CALF MEAL 19% CALF PELLETS 16% CALF PELLETS

Healthy Bank Balance

16% FINISHER CALF MEAL 13% MANGATAWHIRI BASIC PELLETS FOR WEANED CALVES

Healthy Pasture

we feed them like fami ly

We can also custom manufacture calf feed to your specifications.

FALLAIN™ Protocols Gaelic meaning: - healthy

Healthy Soil

Happy, Healthy Family

Please feel free to contact us to discuss.

For orders please email orders@takaninifeeds.co.nz or call 0800 225 333.

www.takaninifeeds.co.nz

Contact Us Now to find out more 0800 85 77 33

www.qlabs.co.nz

22

July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WHEELS

Elegant eco-efficiency It’s funny how time can blur preconceptions and make a mockery of stereotypes. When the first hybrid vehicles hit the road, in the not so distant past, there was everything short of warfare between those who drove large sports utility vehicles and those who were early adopters of greener tech.

Now, at a stroke, the last grumbles of that argument have been more than put to rest, as Range Rover enjoy great success with their own plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model.

It’s a sublime marriage of the things, which have made the Range Rover great across the years; its off-road abilities, power, comfort and style, blended with the ability to deliver a fuel sipping 3.6 litres for every 100 kilometres, or more than 50km on electric power alone.

There hasn’t been any watering down of the power on tap here.

There are still close to 400 horses under the hood, with backup for the Range Rover’s lightweight engine coming from an 85kw electric motor and a low-mounted battery pack to increase stability.

This large vehicle accelerates from 0-100kp/h in just 6.8 seconds, which was supercar fast not so long ago (exactly the same as a 1991 Porsche 911).

Bear in mind that raw speed is not the party piece of this machine, however. For all its elegance and luxurious interior trappings, the PHEV Range Rover is all about conquering harsh conditions, and it still wades, climbs, crawls and

QUADBAR

descends hills with military aplomb. In fact, EV only mode makes for silent, scalpel-accurate low-speed driving.

Range Rover has been quietly innovating since the inception of the brand, with

595

successive generations introducing smart ideas, which are carried on into the future. From the idea of a folding tailgate, which forms a handy seat or bench through to modern innovations such as a phone app to pre-heat or cool the cabin, there is a lot to explore

beyond the PHEV underpinnings of this eco-conscious Range Rover. Need we even mention that the Queen drives one? This feat of engineering deserves a test drive just to see how ‘eco-friendly’ and ‘luxurious power’ can live together in harmony.

$

+GST Deliver

ed

“I have no doubt that if I did not have a Quadbar fitted, my accident would have been fatal!” — Rozel Farms

SMOKE ALARMS Save Lives BE FIRE SAFE THIS WINTER

“The Quadbar saved our employee from significant injuries.” — Colin van der Geest

For a Quadbar, call me, Stuart Davidson, owner of Quadbar NZ on 021 182 8115, Email sales@quadbar.co.nz or for more info go to www.quadbar.co.nz

MF GC1723E

23hp, Hydrostatic Trans

Anything… Anywhere… Anytime!

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

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Tractor, Loader and Mowing Deck

TOTAL PACKAGE $19,900.00 +GST

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FAMILY OWNED & RUN SINCE 1981

Paul 027 292 6569 • Bruce 027 292 6501 Broadway, Matamata • 07 888 6292 • www.matamatatractors.co.nz

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES July 2019

Responding to climate change Fonterra and the Fonterra Shareholders’ Council have released their submissions on the Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment bill.

The co-op is committed to doing its bit in New Zealand’s transition to a low carbon future and will work with government, researchers and the wider agriculture industry to get farmers the practical help they will need to meet any new targets.

“Kiwi farmers are already some of the most emission efficient producers of milk in the world, but the fact is that nearly half of New Zealand’s greenhouse gases come from the wider agriculture sector,” says Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell.

“Our actions will keep New Zealand at the forefront of sustainable food production. We know this means some of the ways we farm will need to change.

Fonterra farmers are adaptable and resourceful people. Once set a clear science-based target, they will want to get on with the job, and the co-op will be there to support them.

“It is not going to be easy. It will require farmers, industry, government

and researchers to all pitch-in and jointly develop innovative, yet practical solutions for New Zealand’s emissions reduction challenges. The increased investment in R&D signalled by the government and industry is key to bringing new innovations to life.”

The co-op shares DairyNZ’s view that the 2030 methane target was ambitious, but could be reached with the help of a range of new ideas and tools that needed to be developed and put in the hands of farmers. It says the 2050 target should be based on official scientific advice and set at the lower end of the proposed range and regularly reviewed against the science and options available to farmers.

The co-op also acknowledges the government for supporting further discussion on the agriculture sector’s proposal to establish an emissions pricing system by 2025, funded through levy organisations like DairyNZ.

23

“Farmers will naturally have some apprehension, but we are up for the challenge. Fonterra’s farmers have a proud history of being at the forefront of innovation and won’t shy away from this,” says Fonterra Shareholders’ Council chairman Duncan Coull.

“Business, as usual, is not compatible with New Zealand’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and dairy farmers need to contribute their share to the efforts of the wider economy.

This is the beginning of a process.

New Zealand has a scientificallyadvanced agricultural economy, and the world will be watching us. However, regulations must be fair and drafted with care not to jeopardise our comparative Duncan Coull, Fonterra Shareholders’ Council chairman advantage in global export markets. I am a firm believer that also call for wider industry collaboration science and technology will provide to ensure we always act in the best solutions over time. Therefore, it is interests of our farmers and caution imperative that regulation doesn’t get against industry politics getting in the too far ahead of the scientific solutions. way of such an important issue for “Given the magnitude of change, I would us all.”

DO YOU WANT TO

Adver�sing that w�rks ��r �ou.

YOUR BUSINESS?

0800 466 793 • info@integrity.nz

Waikato Rural Marketplace

Waikato CLASSIFIEDS Reach 30,000 Rural Homes • Phone 0800 466 793

For Sale

Central Motors

8272  07 883

• 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

Anything… Anywhere… Anytime!

• Long and wide loads • Machinery movers • On site work • Water tank shifts

7-9 Neal St, Putaruru

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

Financial 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.

Pop’s Chainsaws and Mowers, Napier

DRIVE PHONE FREE!

• Container and shed lifts • Semi, flatdecks, trailers • Pallet Deliveries

For a FREE QUOTE phone us on 07 847 2074

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

www.popschainsaws.co.nz

24

July 2019

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

6

.99%

*

FINANCE RATE

1/3, 1/3, 1/3 financing option includes 1/3 deposit, 1/3 payment after 12 months and 1/3 payment after 24 month at a rate of 6.99%, Subject to proof of GST accreditation. Credit criteria, interest rate, fees, charges and terms and conditions apply including an application fee and a dealer administration fee. T&C’s apply. Not in conjunction with any other offers. Offer ends while stocks last or 31st August 2019