Waikato Farming Lifestyles, June 2022

June 2022 Edition

Raising optimum seedlings Pages 8–9

The Scottish touch

An autistic explanation

Welcome to the Region

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JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Carbon creep devouring rural NZ

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

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by Andy Bryenton

Email: info@integrity.nz

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Editor: Deb Wright 021 639 696 deb.wright@integrity.nz

Richard Alspach is a farmer with decades of on-the-land experience residing in the Kaipara District.

Journalists: Ann van Engelen | Andy Bryenton Advertising: Sonnie Teesdale 027 525 8223 Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Anna Fredericksen | Kelsey Hansen | Liz Clark Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts

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Website: farminglifestyles.co.nz Opinions expressed in this publication and in advertising inserts, by contributors or advertisers, are not necessarily those of Integrity Community Media. All inserts delivered with the publication are not produced by Integrity Community Media.

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Richard Alspach says that carbon-credit forestry is eating up farmland to the detriment of rural communities and the long-term economy

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After a career spanning dairy and red sector livestock and participation in the leadership of Federated Farmers, he voices his concerns on the consequences of carbon credit forestation.

“At $80 per carbon unit, the profit is better than farming,” says Richard. He referred to the growing trend for farmers to abandon the red meat and wool sectors to sell up and give their land over to carbon forestry.

“Almost any meat and wool farm being bought right now is being bought by forestry interests, and many of these interests are offshore. Six new conglomerates were approved by the Overseas Investment Office recently to buy up New Zealand lands for forests.”

Richard remembers the instigation of the Mangakahia Forest in 1982, which came with promises of local processing, internal roading, and massive employment. While none of these promises fully eventuated, says Richard, at least the joint venture by NZ Forest Products and Shell was intended to create harvested wood. This forest displaced a quarter million stock units, with economic knock-on effects, which were to the detriment of farming support industries and farming support towns in the mid-north.

Now, a situation has emerged he believes incentivises farmers to leave the industry.

“Nick Smith, and the government he was part of, deliberately collapsed the carbon market so that they could claim

compliance with the Kyoto protocols, while doing nothing to curb our real carbon emissions,” says Richard. “This left us exposed to the current situation where farming and rural communities are being sacrificed to avoid the country as a whole having to front up to an addiction to the burning of fossil fuels.”

While Richard agrees that climate change is a real threat and that something must be done, he also opines that the farming sector here is already making changes and taking action which other sectors are not following. Farmers are being vilified when their real contribution to emissions is shrinking.

One solution to mass forestation, which kills profitable farming and kneecaps the Kiwi economy to the benefit of offshore carbon investors and polluters, is to examine a plan change adopted by the Hobson County Council in the 1980s.

Scheme Change 9E classified some land as flat, productive agricultural land forbidden for forestry. Rural AF land was hilly, marginal for stock and useful for forestry. Meanwhile, Rural A land required a resource consent to be afforested.

A similar rule in the forthcoming replacement of the RMA may ameliorate the carbon creep that is rapidly devouring farmland.

“It is a government’s duty to protect a nation’s competitive advantage,” says Richard. “Therefore, it’s incumbent on our government to protect farming, not disincentivise it.”

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Ahuwhenua finalists announced

JUNE 2022

3

The finalists in the 2022 Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award for sheep and beef have been announced.

Rameka Eli Edwards, Ahuwhenua Young Maori Farmer Award finalist

“Despite all the headwinds, globally and locally, the sheep and beef industry remain a great career option offering an appealing outdoor lifestyle but where technology and innovation are taking the sector to new levels. The opportunities in this and other areas of the primary sector are limitless.

“Since the award was inaugurated, it has brought to the fore some outstanding farmers who are exemplars for all young

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to widen their networks and for others in the agri sector to meet some of the future leaders of Māori agribusiness.”

The winner will be announced at the awards dinner on Friday, October 21, at the Pettigrew Green Arena in Taradale, Hawke’s Bay. More details about the competition, including its history and past winners, are available at ahuwhenuatrophy.maori.nz.

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people in Aotearoa. Every year, past winners surface as finalists and winners of other primary sector awards, and the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer alumni is fast becoming a powerful network showcasing Māori farming and achievement.

“This year’s finalists will be at some of the Ahuwhenua Trophy finalists’ field days. This will give them the opportunity

and

The Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award was inaugurated in 2012 and is designed to recognise up-andcoming young Māori in the pastoral and horticulture sectors. Since its inception, the competition has proved to be very popular. It has attracted high-quality entrants, many of whom have gone on to take leadership roles in the agri sector.

The three finalists this year were selected from a number of entrants from around the country. Chloe ButcherHerries is the assistant farm manager at Newstead Farms in Puketapu, Napier.

Puhirere Te-Akainga Tamanui Tau is a shepherd working on Rototahi and Puatai Stations near Tolaga Bay, and Rameka Eli Edwards is the manager at Reon and Wendy Verry’s farms Puketitire and Waitete, in Te Kuiti.

“Despite all the challenges that the rural sector has faced in the past year, it is great to see three very worthy young Māori farmers come forward as finalists,” says judge Aaron Hunt, representing Te Tumu Paeroa.

“All of them have demonstrated leadership qualities and that they are committed to working in the sheep and beef sector. Māori are naturally close to the whenua, and it is logical that many young Māori are choosing career paths in this sector.

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JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

THE

SCOTTISH

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

TOUCH

Zoe Bryson arrived in New Zealand nearly three years ago for a six-month holiday and work experience, ended up staying, and recently placed in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards.

“I

was due to go home, and Covid hit, and now I have my partner Connor, and we are planning our future,” says Zoe. “My parents have a farm in Central Scotland, and I have always had an interest in cows. I decided to give the NZDIA a go and won Trainee of the Year at the Central Plateau regionals.

“At the nationals, I won the award for best video and general farming knowledge and took third place for Dairy Trainee of the Year. There were a lot of good competitors, and I never expected to win anything.

“I have just moved to a new farm as Connor and I recently purchased our

M A w o

first herd of 230 cows. It wasn’t quite big enough for both of us to work, and I was thankfully able to secure a farm manager position on the farm next door.

“Farming in Scotland is very intensive compared to here because the cows are kept indoors most of the year due to the climate being very wet. My family milks three times a day as we are paid per litre rather than by milk solids. Milking more often gets more litres out of them.

“Here, in New Zealand, we milk once a day, and I definitely see less lameness, better fertility and fewer health issues. I do miss home and the cows there, though, as you interact with them more often, but the climate here is more enjoyable.

“It is important to me to have happy, healthy cows, and I try to ensure my herd is fully fed because by looking after your cows, they look after you. Being grass-based is different from what I am used to, and I had to learn good pasture

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Zoe’s industry experience includes being a qualified AI technician

management and the different steps you have to take each season.

“I like that grass is the cheapest feed you can get. I also learned feed budgets and planning, and I am doing a Primary ITO course, which has helped expand my knowledge.

“The advice I give other farmers is don’t be afraid to ask questions as there is no such thing as a stupid question. I knew nothing about dairy farming here. If you can’t find a good mentor or someone who will get you out of your comfort zone, ask around, as there is always someone to help.

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Coming from a farming family in Scotland, Zoe Bryson was used to intensive indoor farming

“I belong to the South Waikato Young Farmers Club and DairyNZ discussion groups. Entering industry competitions also helps get you involved in the farming community, which is encouraging.

“Being part of Young Farmers means we get to get off-farm with other people.

During the summer months, we do silage stacks and pick up hay bales for other people as club fundraising events.

“We do things together like go bowling, play golf, and have darts nights

and mental health nights. It is really encouraging to meet with like-minded people, and getting off-farm is important for your mental health.

“The club is a good way to catch up with mates for a drink, a meal and a chat. It is really important to talk about issues you may be having because others can give you advice.

“I have a commitment to leave the farm once a week, town once a month and the region once a year. This creates a

JUNE 2022

Zoe with her Dairy Trainee of the Year certificate at the Regional New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards earlier this year

good work-life balance, as being on-farm continually can be lonely.

“Growing up in Scotland, we had a herd of pedigree Holstein, and here we have mainly cross-bred and Jerseys. I did a lot of everything on-farm, including showing cows and calves. I also trained as an AI Technician, and that has been useful here.

“To me, the cross-breed is definitely lower maintenance as I found the Holstein to be lazy. They like their feed brought to them because they don’t

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“I believe the future of New Zealand farming still looks bright, although there will be new challenges with environment legislation coming in with land use and carbon credits, but hopefully, it will settle down.

“Our plan is to go bigger in three years time and, hopefully, move on to owning our own farm, which is exciting.”

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JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

AN AUTISTIC EXPLANATION

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

New Zealand Society of Authors First Book Award 2022 finalist Chanelle Moriah initially wrote her book titled I Am Autistic for herself after being diagnosed with autism.

“I

grew up in South Africa, and my family moved to New Zealand in 2008 when I was nine years old,” says Chanelle.

“I was diagnosed with autism at the age of 21 and had difficulty finding resources to help me, so I began writing my book for myself. I ended up publishing it because other people realised it would be a good resource, not only for autistic people but for others who need to understand autistic people.

“People who are not autistic are called neurotypical, which means any person whose brain is developed in a way that is typically expected.

“Autistic people are neurodivergent.

Neurodivergent is an umbrella term for a wide range of things like autism, dyslexia and ADHD.

“My book, I Am Autistic, covers around 80 different topics of how autism presents, such object permanence. This is when we don’t see things, we forget they exist, so if I leave my homework in my bag, I will not remember to do it.

“Being literal is another topic, meaning we are very literal to what we say. We don’t imply things or use metaphors like it’s raining cats and dogs.

“I got myself tested because I struggled with my mental health for seven years and knew I had sensory differences. I struggled making and maintaining friendships and when things changed unexpectedly, like a plan for the day.

“I contacted my doctor to talk to someone about autism and saw a psychologist who assessed me. The test was a lengthy questionnaire and physical

Chanelle Moriah moved from South Africa to New Zealand with her family when she was nine years old

activities which targets all your difficulties.

It is quite stressful but well worth doing.

“My mum had a lengthy interview regarding my childhood development, and from there, I was diagnosed. To have autism confirmed was a relief, as up to that point, I had been trying to take my life every month.

“I was burnt out, exhausted, in pain and had tried every way to improve my mental health. I was then given support and tools to use, and it literally saved my life.

“Having autism confirmed helped me understand myself, and now I can explain things to other people more easily.”

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I Am Autistic over 80 topics and is a tool to help diagnosed and undiagnosed autistic people

Chanelle says an example is not being able to make eye contact.

“Before my diagnosis, I forced myself to look people in the eye, so they felt they were heard, but it was physically painful. If I make eye contact, I can’t hear or process what is being said.

“Now, I have my everyday tools to cope but am still recovering from the years of survival mode. I look after my sensory needs and don’t do things that aren’t necessary.”

Chanelle now works as an autistic adviser.

“I educate employers on autism to create more inclusive spaces for neurodivergent

individuals. People think that people have a little bit of autism or a lot, but it is a circle, and you are or aren’t — it just depends where on the spectrum you are on.

“For me, the sensory issues mean if I am exposed to loud or too much noise in the day, I can become overstimulated, which can lead to a shutdown or meltdown.

“A shutdown is withdrawing into yourself — for me, I can’t communicate or move and will curl into myself doing nothing.

A meltdown is an outward explosion of emotion and can be violent and dangerous.

“A meltdown is an outward expression mistaken for a tantrum, but they are not

JUNE 2022

7

Chanelle wrote the book I Am Autistic after she was diagnosed with autism at 21 years old, to help others understand what autism is

tantrums. A tantrum is to gain something, and a meltdown means I am so overwhelmed and cannot contain myself — it is not about trying to misbehave. I have nothing else I can do.

“It can last three hours and may happen when someone unexpectedly changes my plans. Once the meltdown or shutdown is over, I am exhausted, and to recover, I need to make a new plan or sleep it off to recuperate from the shock.

“I want people to understand autism is not a bad thing, a disease or something we need to get rid of. It is only a disability because the world is not open to

difference. If social environments opened up more, it wouldn’t be a disability or a disadvantage — there would be space for everyone to be themselves.

“My book is to help others have the tools to help themselves and others to understand what autism is and how it works. I want to reduce the negative stigma around it as it is not a good or bad thing — it is just a different neurotype and being different is OK.” I Am Autistic by Chanelle Moriah is available from all good bookstores, including The Warehouse or online at mightyape.co.nz.

8

JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

RAISING OPTIMUM SEEDLINGS LEN

BY ANN VAN ENGE The Poschl family is known for their seedlings and produce at Mrs Greenjeans Seedlings and Ohaene Organics based in Thames.

PART TWO

P

eter and Angelika Poschl and their son Korbinian came to New Zealand in 1995 from Germany.

“My parents bought this five acres of land in 1996,” says Korbinian.

“To begin with, it was a lifestyle block, and over the last 10 years, we increased the number of fruit trees and started growing potatoes and other vegetables alongside Mrs Greenjeans seedlings.”

The property was bare land when the family purchased it and now facilitates a market garden and orchard.

“We got here with one single tree and erosion. Cows had completely degraded the stream, but we liked the aspect of the north-east facing land,” says Peter.

“Later, we regretted it a little as it is a bit too rolling, but we still love it, we just never envisaged that we would do market gardening.

“We brought it in summer, and the following autumn, we started planting shelterbelts and fruit trees. We now have around 3,000 trees with a lot of native in corners that can’t be used.

“We have exotic trees for the shelterbelts, which we got from a generous scheme offered by Environment Waikato for people who wanted to revegetate the streams on their land and keep stock out.

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“A corridor developed quickly, and we linked it with other native areas and the fruit trees. We didn’t start out thinking of providing a market — we wanted yearround fruit and vegetables for our family.

“We planted all sorts of things and got to the stage of having more than we could consume. Thankfully the Thames Market was founded in 1995 by our friends, so we joined.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Peter makes his own organic tree paste to protect the wounds of a tree when the tree is pruned or fruit is harvested

“Anjelika grew up in a family of gardening and organics, and it is very important to us to work with the land, soil and trees.

Around 2010 our friend Paul Hamilton was involved in the Participatory Organic Scheme of Organic Farming NZ. We joined and are Organic Farm NZ certified.

“We companion plant flowering plants that are beneficial to attract butterflies and insects like comfrey, and we use the guilds. Guilds are an expression meaning things that belong together for the climate and region they come from.

“We use lavender and rosemary in the citrus garden as they all come from the Mediterranean, where they thrive together well. We use a system devised

by an Austrian horticulturalist, creating deep mulch areas around the trees from ramial wood to improve the soil life.

“The branches are in full sap, and you cut and shred them before placing it around the tree, ideally at 10cm. This fosters a very good fungal community in the soil and hugely improves soil life.

“For pest control, we have chickens in small hutches that are moved around the orchard. They get bugs and insects and fertilise the soil too. To prevent codling moth, we use a naturally occurring virus called Madex 3 that attacks the larvae.

“We also have a homemade tree paste made from a third each of fossilised sea lice, clay and certified cow manure. When

JUNE 2022

9

Peter and Anjelika Poschl tend to their orchard and market garden working organically to ensure optimum soil quality

you cut something off a tree, you paste it over, and it dries, and being clay, the rain won’t wash it off. We also paste the trunk to prevent bark splitting as well.

“The crystals are very sharp, so if any small insects crawl on it, they get cut open and dry out. We haven’t found anything to counter the bronze beetle yet, and the birds are major beneficiaries of our orchard.

“We have heritage fruit, including Belle de Boskoop apples, which Angelika’s parents had in their garden. They are the best cooking and baking apples and are great for apple strudel.

“Quince gives the orchard a lovely autumn colour with yellow balls

everywhere, and we have a wide variety of citrus, including limes, lemons and limequats, lemonades, oranges, feijoa, peaches, nectarines and persimmon.

“Our olives are pressed in the valley alongside other growers to make our own olive oil, and grapes are becoming more important here. The newest edition of fruit is bananas, and we also have a small greenhouse with pineapples.

“We attend both the Thames and Hamilton Farmers’ Market except over the winter when we have a break. Supplying family, friends and local food banks are very important to us, and we often place food at the pātaka kai outside the local school to share with people in need.”

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JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Floral royalty

by Liz Clark

If you live in an area where frosts come during winter, the peony is the queen of flowers in the spring and summer months.

Protect the ones you love

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Get prepared

Make sure you are registered with a GP, Māori or Pacific health provider, and check your prescriptions are up-to-date and still working for you.

If you have asthma, speak to your GP, Māori or Pacific health provider to make sure you have an asthma plan.

Get connected

Winter can be an isolating time for many of us. It’s important to keep reaching out or checking in with friends and loved ones. Kōrero with whānau and check their immunisations are up to date.

Visit your GP before you get too sick or phone Healthline on 0800 611 116 for FREE 24-hour health advice.

For mental health support FREE call 0800 50 50 50 or txt 1737 anytime.

Get protected

Getting immunised is the best way to protect yourself and your whānau from serious illnesses like COVID-19, flu, measles and whooping cough.

Every year we get new flu variants so we need a new flu vaccine.

Visit a mobile vaccination clinic, your GP, local pharmacy, Māori or Pacific health provider to get your immunisations up-to-date.

Contact your GP or local pharmacy for all your vaccinations.

Waikato DHB community and mobile vaccination clinics are offering COVID-19 vaccinations, plus FREE flu and MMR immunisations to those eligible.

For more information and to find a vaccination site near you, go to waikatodhb.health.nz/immunise or call 0800 220 250

Eat well Stay hydrated – inside and out Keep active Wash and dry your hands often Keep up with personal hygiene Allow your body to get good rest Stay home if you are sick Dress for the weather Keep your home warm Check-in with friends and loved ones

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Cultivated worldwide peonies are the perfect addition to the cut flower garden.

They come in three distinct forms — herbaceous, tree and Itoh.

Herbaceous peonies develop buds on the crown during the summer, at the base of the current season’s annual shoots. The large buds grow into stems the following growing season, while the smaller ones remain dormant. The tree peony, in the summer, develops large buds at the tip of the annual growth and near its foot.

In autumn, the leaves shed and the new stems become woody and perennial.

The Itoh was developed in 1948 by Toyko-based horticulturist Toichi Itoh. He used pollen from the yellow tree peony, Alice Harding, to fertilise the herbaceous Katoden cultivar resulting in a new category of herbaceous peonies. These varieties have leaves like tree peonies, numerous large flowers from late spring to early autumn, and peony wilt resistance.

The early cultivars developed include Yellow Crown, Yellow Dream, Yellow Emperor and Yellow Heaven.

Herbaceous peony tubers can be planted in autumn and early winter to enable the roots to establish during the cooler months for spring flowering.

Choose a warm, sunny site away from trees, overhanging branches and other shrubs.

The soil should be enriched with aged organic matter before planting. Ideally, the soil pH should be around 6.5–7.

Add dolomite lime if the soil is too acidic

“Peonies need a separate area where they can be placed permanently — they dislike being disturbed once established.” or more organic matter if too alkaline.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

JUNE 2022

11

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Not feeling your best?

(Part one)

by John Arts

One of the most rewarding things I do is to hear stories from clients. I have an older client who was healthy but had low energy and felt flat despite no medical reasons.

I had started her on a programme that involved three supplements: A winter Vitamin D booster to lift her immune responses, some Omega 3 fish oil to reduce inflammation and most importantly my multi-antioxidant, multimineral, multivitamin supplement. She reported her energy levels were steadily rising and felt so much better in herself.

My standard advice is that if you feel unwell you should get a medical checkup. If there is no particular medical reason for feeling low in energy we then turn our attention to micro-nutrients; the minerals, vitamins and antioxidants that are responsible for maintaining the health of our cells.

As I often repeat, ‘a healthy cell is a healthy body’.

When we improve the health of cells, we improve the health of the tissue comprising those cells.

In the case of my client, I suspect that we helped the processes that

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produce the energy our bodies need.

Firstly, we need to make sure that we have plenty of the vitamins and minerals that directly affect energy.

Secondly, we need to protect our energy systems with antioxidants.

The list of micronutrients needed for this is long. My multi-nutritional supplement has more than 50 ingredients, and most of these play some part in energy.

If you are low in energy and generally not at your best, I suggest you do what I recommended for my client for at least three months.

You may well be surprised with the benefits you can really feel.

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. Join his all-new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

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JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WELCOME TO THE REGION

A city of attractions

by Paul Campbell

Central to the ‘lifeblood’ of Hamilton must be the mighty Waikato River, commemorated in the iconic ballad, Battle of the Waikato, from the memorable Howard Morrisson Quartet.

Hamilton Gardens are a must-see attraction

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New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, flows for 16km through the city.

Together with a mild climate and moderate year-round rainfall keeps the city and surrounding area green and verdant, with mean temperatures — 18C in summer and 9C in winter. Green space is again emphasised in 145 parks and gardens and 63 sports areas, and the city has more than 1,000 hectares of open space.

For those with a bent for history, considering that aforementioned ballad, formal European settlement was established in August 1864, when Captain William Steele came off the gunboat Rangiriri and established the first redoubt near what is now known as Memorial Park.

A military outpost was set up in Hamilton East, which was originally destined to be the main street of Hamilton.

Evidence of planning for the centre of the village can be seen in the ‘village square’ concept of Steele Park and the planting of English trees along Grey Street. For the visitor, there are myriad attractions, be it for sightseeing, sports interest, or eating out from casual to fine dining, while outstanding accommodation choices range from budget to luxury and everything in between.

“Fifty years ago the site was a rubbish dump; today it’s an award-winning attraction and Waikato’s most visited.”

The newly opened Skycity dining precinct offers a range of options from the Local Taphouse bar, which stocks locally crafted beer, cider and delicious food, or Eat Burger, which offers mouth-watering burgers and shakes to delicious cocktails at the Marble Room. There is something for everyone.

After satisfying the inner person, it might be just the time to explore the rather romantic and mysterious world of Hamilton Gardens. Fifty years ago the site was a rubbish dump; today it’s an award-winning attraction and Waikato’s most visited. More than one million visitors each year are guided on a journey from a peaceful Sung Dynasty Chinese Scholar’s backyard into an Italian Renaissance Garden.

To get the best guidance possible and comprehensive details of what Hamilton has to offer — contact the Hamilton information offices online.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

JUNE 2022

WELCOME TO THE REGION

13

Wild Waikato full of surprises

by Andy Bryenton

The Waikato region is a vast and varied natural playground for those who love the great outdoors, with hot springs, waterfalls, caves and mountains to explore.

While some of the more well-known attractions of Waikato, such as Huka Falls and the world-famous Waitomo glow worm caves, are tourist hot spots, there are few better times to jump the queue than right now. With international tourists just beginning to arrive back on our shores, the wait will be short and the crowds absent from hot spots usually thronged with visitors.

Then again, there are other natural wonders to explore which are a little less renowned, but just as fantastic. Here’s an example; when taking a trip to explore the labyrinth of sinkholes, caves and grottoes which make Waitomo famous, a brief detour will allow you to discover the natural bridge at Mangapohue. Seventeen metres of arching limestone crossing a forested stream, this is a lesser-known must-see of the cave country.

Similarly, Huka Falls claims its share of holiday snaps. Still, there are three other major waterfalls to enjoy in the Waikato worthy of international acclaim.

Marokopa Falls are said to be some of the

most beautiful in New Zealand, crashing 35 metres on to rocks to create rainbows amid the spray.

Wairēinga Falls is possibly even more dramatic. Also known as the Bridal Veil Falls, this torrent plunges from a steep overhang to arch down into a pool below.

It’s an easy 10-minute walk to the lookout.

Finally, there’s the Wairere Falls, the tallest in the North Island, a 150-metre wall of stone rising up from the Kaimai ranges and threaded with falling watercourses.

The five-kilometre track through native forest to reach this spot is as scenic as the waterfalls themselves.

One of the purest springs in the world is situated at Te Waihou. The blue spring has been the source of water filtered through rock for more than a century — it is so clear that it can appear invisible from certain angles. Another hot spot for those enjoying the water is Kawhia’s Ocean Beach, where a bit of digging at low tide will allow thermal mineral water to well up through the sand, creating a seaside spa.

The Waikato region is home to world-famous forest, mountain and cave adventures, with many more off the beaten track than tourists usually see

For those who want to scale the heights for impressive views, the Pirongia Forest Park boasts volcanic cones and lush native forest, while Mount Te Aroha

rises more than 900 metres above the plains, dominating the Kaimai range.

Both locations have walking track options suitable for the novice and the expert hiker.

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14

JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WELCOME TO THE REGION

Fresh and local The Hamilton Farmers’ Market began in March 2006 with 15 stallholders and has grown to be a well-established market alongside the Cambridge Farmers’ Market, with seasonal fruit, vegetables and other products available weekly.

Heather and Grant Kane with their fruit and vegetable stall at the markets

STOP

Have YOU protected your property to alert you when this type of thing happens?

The original market flourished, and a group of vendors decided to expand to Cambridge on Victoria Square and the Waikato Farmers’ Market was born. The two farmers’ markets showcase what wonderful products people in Waikato have to offer and are thriving and growing every year.

Many of the original stallholders are still with the market, with now more than 60 members along with many seasonal stallholders — all selling delicious locally grown farm produce and food products.

The Hamilton Farmers’ Market found its permanent home at Claudelands in 2016. The Claudelands barn and grounds provide large indoor and outdoor spaces, keeping customers and vendors happy and dry year-round. A large, free car park, EFTPOS service and toilet facilities are amenities our customers appreciate.

The markets are more than a Sunday shopping destination. Locals and visitors enjoy the opportunity to purchase products from growers and businesses in the area. They chat with the vendors, meet family and friends and enjoy a coffee and listen to live music. It is a great way to spend your Saturday or Sunday morning.

The Cambridge market is a good oldfashioned farmers’ market with a lively atmosphere and a great selection of products available. Since 2010, this year-

round outdoor market has taken place in a beautiful setting underneath the trees at Victoria Square in the centre of Cambridge.

There is free on-road parking, EFTPOS service and public toilets are located nearby. Both weekly markets welcome all people with no vaccine pass required.

Mask wearing is encouraged in the barn at the Hamilton.

People who are interested and care about where their food comes from and want to support local producers find the markets a safe place to shop. They enjoy the range of fresh, seasonal produce and goods made and grown locally.

The stallholders create a community experience where they enjoy connecting with their customers. They value community and sharing their knowledge with those they meet.

If people are unwell, they are encouraged to stay home. Market-goers are reminded to sanitise their hands often and remember social distancing of one metre from people they don’t know.

The Cambridge Farmers’ Markets are located at Victoria Square, opposite the town clock, corner of Victoria and Alpha Streets on Saturdays from 8am–noon.

The Hamilton Farmers’ Market is at the barn, Claudelands Event Centre, Gate 3, Brooklyn Road on Sundays, from 8am–noon.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

JUNE 2022

WELCOME TO THE REGION

A glimpse of Matamata Matamata is uniquely situated in the Golden Triangle of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga and has some fantastic natural features on its doorstep, including the spectacular Wairere Falls and beautiful Blue Spring.

Matamata means headland and was the name of a new pā established in 1830 by the famous Ngāti Hauā chief, Te Waharoa. The pā was on a ridge of high ground projecting into the swampy valley of the Waitoa River near Dunlop Road, a few kilometres north-west of presentday Waharoa.

The history of Matamata’s pioneering days can be viewed at the Firth Tower Museum on Tower Road. Housed in 13 buildings, the Matamata Historical Society has created extensive and impressive displays for visitors and locals alike to discover what life was like in days gone by. The tranquil atmosphere with shady trees, magnificent gardens, and large lawns is also perfect for a family picnic, celebrations, functions and weddings.

Since 1885, Matamata has grown from a small scattering of houses around a railway station to a rural servicing town.

The township provides for the commercial, medical, educational, religious, industrial and recreational needs of the residents of both the town and its rural community.

The backbone of Matamata is its farming and renowned thoroughbred industry, along with its unique attractions for visitors and locals to enjoy.

The highlight for many national and international visitors is the Hobbiton

15

“The backbone of Matamata is its farming and renowned thoroughbred industry, along with its unique attractions for visitors and locals to enjoy.”

Hobbiton is one of the many tourist attractions in the Matamata area

Movie Set, which is unlike any other site or amenity in the country. The movie set came from humble beginnings as part of a sheep farm on the outskirts of Matamata and became a world-famous tourist attraction after the award-winning movie was complete.

The latest leg of the Hauraki Rail Trail adds Matamata to the network, which includes Te Aroha, Paeroa, Waihi and Thames. Travellers also often stop and take a dip or stay a while at Opal Hot Springs and enjoy a round of golf at neighbouring Matamata Golf Club.

The i-Site boasts a comprehensive selection of pamphlets on other parts of

the country, plus handy maps. Located at 45 Broadway, Matamata, staff can assist with local information, things to do and organise activities such as bike hire and shuttles for trail users.

The town centre has an array of retailers and services sprinkled with a wide variety of food and hospitality outlets. Accommodation options include good quality motels, a backpackers’ hostel and a good selection of bed and breakfast establishments.

The township is the ideal stopping point while en route to trips to the beach or ski field or on to the towns of Whakatāne, Waitomo, Ōpōtiki, Rotorua and Taupō.

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16

JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WELCOME TO THE REGION ADVERTORIAL

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The company has always been privately owned and operated, with the directors working their way up through the ranks. Our team has an invaluable amount of product knowledge to offer and advise our clients regarding the many items available in the four major product groups — wheels, castors, materials handling equipment, hose and fittings.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

JUNE 2022

WELCOME TO THE REGION

17

The lake with fire beneath

by Andy Bryenton

The town of Taupō lies at the southern end of the Waikato region, serving as the gateway to the Central Plateau and a hub for tourism and farming support.

The lake, which gives the town its name, is the caldera of a vast volcano. Taupō was once a mountain rather than a large expanse of water, and the presence of hot springs and nearby snow-capped volcanic cones points to a violent geological history.

The lake itself is New Zealand’s largest, and gains its name from the Māori term Taupō-nui-a-Tia, the great cloak of the navigator Tia. According to legend, this historic wayfarer first encountered the lake under a cloak of mist. Tia would have been the first to see some of the other natural wonders surrounding the lake and the headwaters of the Waikato River, including the dramatic Huka Falls just outside of Taupō.

This varied geography provides the backdrop for many recreational and sporting opportunities. Taupō has long been the venue for a gruelling Ironman competition, as well as cycle challenges and triathlons, making good use of the lakeside, open roads and mountainous backdrop of the town. The town is also a hub for hunters setting off into the hinterland, sometimes via helicopter, to pursue deer in the neighbouring hill country. Trout fishing in the lake itself is supported by nearby hatcheries.

The fires below the earth are still very much apparent in Taupō, with geothermal energy tapped from this source to feed

the national grid and even to produce hydrogen fuel. The same forces which allow for this power generation heat mineral pools and springs in the vicinity, such as those at the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park. Some are perfect for bathing, while others are a habitat for some of the rarest and most extremeenvironment creatures in the world, thriving in boiling hot water.

For the adventurous, there are jet boat adventures, skydiving over the lake itself, and helicopter and light aircraft fly-bys of the volcanic landscape of the Central Plateau.

Those new to the Taupō area will find a lot to love about the natural environment and the handy proximity to some of the nation’s best ski fields.

However, there’s also a thriving tourist economy which has ensured that Taupō boasts a selection of excellent restaurants, microbreweries, cafes and vineyards for the gourmet.

For art and culture, visit the famous Lava Glass Sculpture Gardens, or explore local history at the Taupō Museum.

Alternatively, Opotaka Historic Reserve provides an opportunity to explore a unique piece of Māori heritage.

This settlement by the shores of Lake Rotoaira is the birthplace of the Ka Mate haka, associated with the All Blacks and often used by our nation’s

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18

JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY AND LIVESTOCK

An inventive success Nine months after the prototype of Springarm was on display at the 2021 Fieldays®, the water trough arm became available in Farmlands stores nationwide.

“Springarm is a flexible trough arm that won’t break and lowers the risk of failure in a farm’s water system,” says co-founder Marianne Awburn.

“Farmers are generally visual and tactile people, so being able to see and feel the product is an important service we can now offer.

“The partnership with Farmlands means that farmers can source the arms the day they realise that they need one.

“When we won the 2021 Prototype Innovation Award, the judges observed that despite a strong field of high-tech entries, it was a simple but effective solution.

“The invention is a remarkably simple and elegant solution to a well-defined and common problem.

“The judges were impressed by the thought put into the product’s design and the clear and immediate commercial opportunity provided to its inventors.

“We have partnered with Metalform for manufacturing so we can meet soaring market demand.”

Previously co-founder Rick Awburn and his three sons

manufactured the Springarms in their shed by hand.

“Farmlands first reached out to us in December 2021, having seen Springarm’s online digital marketing. They had their customers and shareholders asking for the product in-store.

“Farmlands was enthusiastic and supportive from the first day they discussed the invention with us.

“It is clear they are keen to provide the very best for their customers and shareholders, focussing on quality products and flexible solutions to suit everyone.

“We are working on additions to their product range. This will include a shorter arm and an L-shaped, hockey stick-style arm so we can solve water worries for even more farmers.

“We will be entering the Early-Stage Award category for the upcoming innovation awards and are very much looking forward to connecting with the public again at the hub.”

Farmlands Water Management and Irrigation Category manager Ben Anderson

SERIOUS WATER STORAGE! Needing Water Storage for your Crops and Livestock?

Flexi Tanks NZ offers a range of Water storage bladders that can store from 1000 litres to 2 million litres. Ideal for Horticulture, Viticulture, Agriculture, Construction and Fire fighting

• Closed storage, no external contamination, no pests and low maintenance • Best value bladder on the market • Safe - tank is fully enclosed • 10 Year manufacturers warranty • Up to 20 year life expectancy • Consistent water quality • Made by Labaronne, the French inventor of Flexible storage 60 years ago • Minimal ground works required and rapid installation • No security fencing required

Order your tank now!

Andre Meier

E: Andre@flexitanksnz.com W: flexitanksnz.com P: 027 706 3633

PORTABLE CALF REARING SHELTERS

TM COVERS

WARM AND DRY

• Low height of the roof keeps the calves warmer compared to an open shed • Calves can be reared in the paddock in all weather • Priced from $800 + GST and freight • Available in 2 bay (2.8m x 3.6m) through to 6 bay (2.8m x 10.8m)

Transport & Marine Covers Ltd. 143 St. Vincent Street, Nelson 03 546 6809

tmcovers.co.nz

sales@tmcovers.co.nz TM Covers

making a difference

Marianne Awburn with the Springarm invention, which was designed to help farmers’ water trough systems

says: “It is in Farmlands’ DNA to disrupt the status quo and support innovations that bring practical solutions to customers and the sector.

“Ric, Marianne and the Metalform team have captured the Kiwi DIY attitude and created a must-have for every farm toolbox.”

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

T

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

GRANDPAS ORIGINAL FEEDER 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.

Contact us today!

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

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

JUNE 2022

VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

19

New Zealand now making hydrogen fuel

by Andy Bryenton

Hydrogen for fuel cells is being produced in New Zealand, with a facility near Mokai, in the Taupo region now online and manufactured for the private market.

Known as Halcyon, the hydrogen venture is a joint one, split half and half between the Tūaropaki Trust and the Obayashi Corporation of Japan.

It was opened in December last year and is now turning renewable electricity into transport-fuel grade hydrogen.

“Tūaropaki has sustainability as one of its guiding principles, and the green hydrogen project, with the involvement of Obayashi and their sustainable development goals, is a perfect fit,” says trust CEO Steve Murray.

“Ultimately, we are looking at a national hydrogen supply chain that includes transportation, site storage and refuelling infrastructure.

Transport emissions in New Zealand contribute around 25% of our total emissions, so targeting reduction in transport, and in particular heavy transport, will make a major contribution to carbon reduction. Hydrogen is a solution that is ready to implement now,” Murray says.

NEXO hydrogen vehicles are out on the roads representing Halcyon, a local producer of hydrogen fuel

The hydrogen producers are putting faith in their product, too, with the purchase of Hyundai’s NEXO vehicles for their company fleet. The NEXO hydrogen-powered vehicle utilises a hydrogen fuel cell which acts as a miniature power station under the

hood. The only output is pure water. As the Mokai power station is geothermal, this means true zero-carbon driving is achievable.

Hyundai is not the only automaker interested in a hydrogen future. While bridging the gap with electric and hybrid

vehicles, Toyota has also developed hydrogen-powered vehicles like the Mirai, a car that has already sold 11,000 units in Europe.

In New Zealand, a recent group-share agreement between eight major businesses, including the Warehouse Group and Air New Zealand, has put Mirai models in the hands of corporate fleet drivers. Similarly, the Tūaropaki-branded NEXOs on the road in the central North Island will serve to promote the idea of hydrogen as the fuel of tomorrow.

Moreover, because it uses electricity and seawater to create hydrogen, the process has even been posited as a replacement industry for Tiwai Point, should aluminium production cease there due to market constraints.

Hydrogen, unlike battery power, is quick to refuel and banishes range anxiety but currently lacks pervasive infrastructure, something Halcyon is aiming to change.

PIAKO TRACTORS Servicing your Farming & Contracting Equipment

Central Motors

The three G’s at a competitive price

8272

 07 883 8

GENUINE PARTS, GENUINE SERVICE,

• GENERAL REPAIRS • WOF SERVICE • TUNE-UPS • EFI REPAIRS • LUBES SCAN TOOL DIAGNOSIS • AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE & REPAIRS Phone: (07) 883 8272 Email: putarurutowing@gmail.com

GENUINE EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE

7-9 Neal St, Putaruru

New Zealands newest licensed tractor dismantler

SPECIALISING IN LATE MODEL QUALITY USED TRACTOR PARTS

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

concrete TROUGHS

PRECAST PRODUCTS INNOVATIVE BALLCOCK PROTECTED TROUGHS

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE REDUCES BREAKDOWNS AT CRITICAL TIMES

Book a service with Piako Tractors now

Patented Central Ballcock and Base Mounted Ballcock Protector Hansen Superflow 25mm Ballcock supplied fitted with each Trough Large Drain Bung, and 25mm Inlet just under the bottom edge 1000 and 500 Litre available

MORRINSVILLE 40 Thames Street, Morrinsville Simon Levings I SERVICE MANAGER

justin@precastproducts.co.nz | 027 704 0030 www.precastproducts.co.nz Find us at 12E Pataka Lane, Waipapa Northland 0230

07 889 7055

Glen Autridge I PARTS MANAGER

www.piakotractors.co.nz NORTHLAND I MORRINSVILLE I MATAMATA I ROTORUA

20

JUNE 2022 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Make your garden better Blowers from $345

Chainsaws from $319

125B

120 Mark II 38.2 cc - 1.4kW - 14" Bar - 3/8" LP Chain - 4.85 kg

28.0 cc - 0.8 kW - 76 m/s - 4.26 kg

Chainsaws Wanted Dead or Alive!

TRADE-IN

Receive a $200 Trade-In for your old saw when you upgrade to a new Husqvarna 400-Series Chainsaw^. ^

Trade-in offer valid 01/05/22- 31/07/22 while stocks last. Available with models: 435e II, 440e II, 445e II, 450e II, 455R, 460.

$

889

1,019

1,149

$

435e II

440e II

40.9 cc - 1.6 kW - 16" Bar - .325" Pixel Chain - 4.4 kg

BONUS

$

445e II

40.9 cc - 1.8kW - 16" Bar - .325" Pixel Chain - 4.4 kg

45.7 cc - 2.1 kW - 18" Bar - .325" Pixel Chain - 5.1 kg

In-store voucher valued up to $300 §

Purchase an eligible chainsaw and receive a bonus voucher valued up to $300 to spend in-store on Husqvarna products, parts and accessories! §

Terms erms and Conditions: In-store Bonus Voucher offer valid 01/05/22-31/07/22 while stocks last. $200 Voucher: 565AT, 550XP II | $250 Voucher: 562XP, 572XP | $300 Voucher: 390XP, 3120XP. BONUS $200 VOUCHER

BONUS $250 VOUCHER

BONUS $200 VOUCHER

565 AT

70.6 cc - 3.7 kW - 20” Bar - 3/8” Chain - 6.5 kg

1,799

$

562 XP®

550 XP® XP II

50.1 cc - 3.0 kW - 18” Bar - .325” Pixel Chain - 5.3 kg

59.8 cc - 3.5kW - 20” Bar - 3/8” Chain - 6.1 kg

2,129

$

1,859

$

Your local authorised Husqvarna Dealer:

CAMBRIDGE

The Honda Shop

07 823 5522 PUTARURU

The Honda Shop Putaruru

07 871 8838

HAMILTON

Action Equipment

07 957 9150 TAUMARUNUI

The Tool Shed

07 895 8582

HUNTLY

Peter Glidden Honda

07 828 9687 TE AROHA

AgPlus

07 884 9901

MORRINSVILLE

Peter Glidden Honda

07 889 6550 TE AWAMUTU

Lawnmower & Chainsaw Centre

07 871 8838

PIOPIO

King Country Honda

07 877 8054

husqvarna.com