Waikato Farming Lifestyles, September 2020

ENQUIRE TODAY Integrity community media

20,766 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Waikato and King Country

Dairy industry Awards reallocated

September 2020 Edition

End of an era

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0800 466 793 Agriculture policy denies basic science

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Living the shepherd’s dream Page 6–7

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September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Integrity community media

PGF funding for nature The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $11.88 million to fund fencing and waterway projects nationwide that will improve the environment and create jobs in their communities.

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

Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz General Manager: Deb Wright | deb.wright@integrity.nz | 021 639 696 Editorial: Ann van Engelen, Paul Campbell, Andy Bryenton Advertising: Teresa Steed 027 525 8223 Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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Funding is being provided to projects in Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Tairawhiti, West Coast, and Otago. Work is underway on funding applications for further projects throughout the country. “These projects will create more than 100 jobs nationwide with work starting within the next couple of months,� says Regional Economic Development Minister, Shane Jones. “This will get much-needed money circulating in our regions and provide work for people displaced from their jobs by the economic impact of Covid-19.

Hectares of planting and kilometres of fencing will be completed through these projects across five regions. “These projects and other fencing and waterway projects already announced will reap environmental benefits for years to come and contribute to the

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maintenance of local assets. The funding is encouraging more farmers, landowners and iwi to improve the quality of their waterways by fencing it off from stock and creating biodiversity through planting. Many landowners want to protect their waterways but find the costs prohibitive.�

Regional councils provide some support for these types of projects which the Provincial Growth Fund can augment.

The funding covers the cost of materials and labour, water reticulation, project management and training.

It is part of the government’s Jobs for Nature programme announced earlier this year, which is supporting economic recovery through jobs, enduring environmental benefits and supporting implementation of regulatory change.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Dairy industry awards reallocated

The independent review into the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards revocation of the national title and merit awards from Nick and Rosemarie Bertram has been completed by Susan Hughes QC. After being announced as 2020 Share Farmers of the Year, it became clear that Nick Bertram had published tweets in 2017, which were contrary to the standards expected by the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Trust. As a result, the award was revoked from the couple, who had entered the awards as a partnership.

The report concludes that when the tweets were made, there was no application by the writer of the tweets for an award. The tweets were still live in 2020.

“It is clear that all I have interviewed are passionate about the dairy industry.

All want the New Zealand dairy industry to be seen as world-leading, all strive for excellence,” says Ms Hughes.

“It is important that all involved in these awards recognise the dangers of social media and the need to remind all parties of this issue at repeated points along the application trajectory, so as to avoid a repetition of these events.”

The Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa regional placings will remain.

“The mission of the NZDIA is to provide a platform to reward excellence and showcase best practice within the farming sector,” says NZDIA Trust chair, Natasha Tere.

“A titleholder is an ambassador for NZDIA and the farming community as a whole. Where an entrant has been disqualified as a result of falling short of the required standards, reallocation of the place to the next place–getter is

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fair and reasonable. The title of 2020 New Zealand Share Farmer of the Year has been offered to Sarah and Aidan Stevenson, from Waikato, which they have accepted. NZDIA believe that Sarah and Aidan are great ambassadors for the New Zealand dairy industry and the awards.”

Runners-up are Samuel and Karen Bennett from Southland, and the third place-getters are Simon and Natasha Wilkes from Taranaki.

National merit awards have been reallocated where necessary. The trust has updated conditions of entry and the entrant declaration. Finalists’ social media will be reviewed prior to awarding places. It is expected all entrants take ownership and responsibility for their social media behaviour.

“We are sad that these events have happened. We are grateful for the support of our national sponsors and acknowledge the patience and honesty of everyone involved in this review.

“The dairy industry is made up of real people and families who are striving to do their best for their community and this country. Their efforts deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated without distractions.

“It is critical that the dairy industry move on from this event as the industry is just too significant to New Zealand.”

The NZDIA 2021 Awards entries open on October 1.

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September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

The end of an era

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

SEVENTY-FOUR-YEAR-OLD SUE PEMBRIDGE HAS HUNG UP HER MILKING APRON, SOLD HER 77-HECTARE FARM AT ATIAMURI, AND HER AWARD-WINNING HERD AFTER MORE THAN 40 YEARS DAIRY FARMING IN NEW ZEALAND.

PART ONE

A

s passionate advocates of the Holstein Friesian breed, Sue and her late husband Dick produced bulls that went on to be with genetics companies LIC and CRV Ambreed.

“Holstein Friesians have given me an immeasurable amount of pleasure.

It was a sad day for me when I had to make my mind rule my heart. I didn’t want to sell at all, but I have to be mindful of my age,” says Sue. “I have been extremely lucky and had a marvellous run with my health and milked twice-a-day until the end.”

Sue, Dick and their young son Gordon fled the arid plains of Kenya in 1977, arriving in New Zealand for a safer life.

“We had a mixed farm in Kenya, but the situation had become extremely

volatile since independence in 1963.

Security was deteriorating, and accessing good education was difficult.

We emigrated for a more secure future.

“We settled in the Bay of Plenty and took a job for wages on a dairy farm.

In 1978 we bought a small farm at Ngakuru as a going concern. It wasn’t very flash, but it gave us a start. The land was marginal in terms of contour with a lot of hills.

“The property came with a herd of Ayrshires. We paid $150 per mixed-age cow and $110 per in-calf heifer. We never bought a straw of Ayrshire semen.

We switched to Holstein Friesians almost immediately.

“We purchased 22 yearling heifers, which formed the nucleus of our

Sue became passionate about genetics and can still trace the pedigree of her most favourite cow SRD Uhuru Calypso Bounty EX4

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Holstein Friesian herd and our stud, Uhuru Holsteins.

“I can trace the pedigree of my mostfavourite cow SRD Uhuru Calypso Bounty EX4 back to a specific heifer from that group. Bounty was a tremendous type, production and breeding cow and was named the inaugural Valden Cow of the Year in 2000. She went on to win the coveted trophy again in 2001 and 2004.

“The heifers originated from two farms. One was Taikura Holsteins, which was owned by Ted and Helen McDonald.

They had 12 surplus heifers for sale, so we took a gamble and bought them. I can still remember the names and ear tag numbers of each of those heifers.

“Breeding Holstein Friesians led to many lasting friendships, including with Peter and Margaret Twyman of Rahiri Holsteins.

“It was a well-known stud of that era.

Peter encouraged us to join Holstein Friesian NZ and to register our animals.

Back in those days, the SR principles were available to begin the process of breeding full pedigree animals.

“Peter helped us select our first seven SRA cows. They were the foundation of our pedigree herd.

“Under the SR principles, a registered grade cow was an SRA animal, with her descendants moving through SRB, SRC and SRD. “I loved all aspects of breeding. The fifth generation of the family would become a full pedigree calf. Our heifers and cows scored for traits other than production and classified annually. I can still vividly recall the first cow we bred,

which was classified excellent in 1993.

Her name was SRB Uhuru Star Eclipse EX, and she was sired by a bull called Scottish Sovereign Star.

“Gordon Stewart was the classifier, and having her classify excellent gave us immense pleasure.

“Uhuru cows such as Uhuru Mtoto Mouse VG89, Uhuru Shottle Beau VG85 and Uhuru Jatz Moonbeam EX all shone in the show ring.

I loved entering local shows in Rotorua, Putaruru and Galatea, and national photo competitions. In 2004 we moved to a farm with gently rolling contour in Atiamuri, where I farmed until the end of May this year.

“The cows were fed in maize silage, and a palm kernel blend that we brought in on the farm’s feed pad.

“Production averaged 503 kilograms of milksolids per cow in the 2018-19 season. They were milked through a 20-aside herringbone shed, with the help of second-in-charge Anthony Dyson, who spent the last three seasons on the farm.

“Breeding cows with type, production and longevity was always our focus. We placed a lot of emphasis on udder quality and general conformation. We never compromised on udder traits and tried to breed open-framed, capacious cows.”

“I don’t believe any one genetics company has all the best bulls, and over the years we also used North American genetics and always shopped around for the best bulls.”

Read more of Sue’s story in next month’s Farming Lifestyles newspaper.

Sue believes in shopping around to find the right genetics and focussed on udder quality and general conformation with her breeding

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September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

SHEPHERD’S DREAM

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN Lana Chrystal was brought up on a dairy farm and knew nothing about shepherding when she was offered experience at Cricklewood Station.

“I

went to boarding school but left half way through year 13 because I really disliked school and living in town,” says Lana.

“I worked on my parents’ dairy farm and helped with docking for various people. I helped my dad’s friend at Cricklewood Station for three months learning about sheep farming. A job nearby at Pihanui Station came up, so I applied and started last January.

“My dad Clark is a dog triallist, and I was brought up around the sport and have always loved dogs. I loved watching dad work his dogs. His friend gave me a retired Huntaway named Punch when I was 16 years old.

“I was really keen to learn to work him and took him to a trial dad was running to help out. Dad and his friends

encouraged me to have a go, and I have never looked back.

“It was great having a good experienced dog who worked for me straight away. Punch is more than 10 years old when I started work, and I want him to retire, so dad gave me a trained Huntaway named Syd. He is a smart dog and works to my style. I was also given a heading dog to get started.

“I have had a go at shearing but need to do a course. I learned to crutch and dag during weaning at Cricklewood.

Shepherding was harder for me to learn because most people go shepherding and mustering first and then dog trial. I had to learn to work my dogs to muster instead of competing.

“My heading dog had mustered for years but came from a guy, so she took

Lana encourages other young sheep farmers to get involved in dog trialling as a sport and social event a bit of time to adjust to the tone of my voice. Dad recently gave me a pup, and I broke her in myself. I took a little advice from various people, and each bit helped. We got her chasing and clipped her on a rope, and I would blow a whistle and gently push her down until she sat herself, when I blew the whistle.

“At present, the ewes are lambing, and I do the lambing beat checking for any needing help. Sometimes you find

one that is cast. This means they lay down and can’t get back up because they are so fat. We help them to their feet and ensure they are ok.

“Pihanui Station is rolling to steepish country, and we do a lot of work on horseback. I prefer mustering on horses as it is easier than with vehicles. My horse Mudguts is four years old, and I recently broke in my first horse, which was a very cool experience. When

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Doing the lambing beat, docking, crutching and mustering are just some of the responsibilities Lana has at Pihanui Station mustering, you rely on your dog a lot.

Sheep are quite intelligent but can be very dumb. You have to constantly have yourself and your dog in the right place.

I have been very lucky, having a good boss to teach me.

“The dogs are my favourite part of the job. It is really satisfying observing a dog you have spent a lot of time with, doing the work you need it to do. My goal is to qualify for the New Zealand championships. To win is every dog triallist’s ultimate dream but I don’t want to do that before dad. He has been trialling since he left school at 15 years old. His uncle loves dogs and gave him a good dog to start with too.

“Giving someone a good dog is a huge encouragement. It built my confidence, and I will be forever grateful for that leg up. If you don’t get given a trained dog, start with one and invest your time in

it. My goal is to complete a course with my dog, rather than one my dad trained.

If I get a placing, I would feel happier knowing that it was my work.

“I have made an awesome career choice even though it is a maledominated industry and my mates are going to university. You need to be happy to be by yourself, but you have dogs to break in and horses to keep you busy.

It is certainly a lifestyle where your dogs are your mates.

“Dog trials start in January, and you can get details from the various Sheep Dog Trial Association Facebook pages. It would be great for other young shepherds to get involved in trials. I got my first placing this year against better competitors.

“It was a real boost and made me more confident. It is not about winning — it is about enjoyment.”

Horseback is Lana’s preferred mode of transport when mustering sheep and working on the station

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September 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

So much at stake

by Lockwood Smith

For the first time in my life, I’m actually frightened of my country’s government. For someone who spent 29 years in parliament, and a minister for almost a decade, that may sound a bit odd, but I am.

It’s scary when a government chooses heavy handed-regulation when cost/benefit analyses aren’t robust, where implementation has been given scant consideration, and where the government just doesn’t have the experience to understand the risks around perverse outcomes.

The banning of offshore hydrocarbon exploration in 2018 was one example.

While reducing fossil fuel use makes good sense, hydrocarbons are used for a myriad of other purposes in our modern economy.

More focus on banning fossil fuel subsidies globally, could have done more good, but, of course, it wouldn’t look so bold.

If it was just that one decision, it might not be so frightening. However, the recent Action for Healthy Waterways regulations makes it clear that this government is more focussed on being seen to act, rather than doing what is really effective.

Again, no one denies the need to improve the health of our waterways.

However, it’s how it’s done that’s so important. While this government is clever at politics, it’s demonstrated repeatedly its inability to implement policy effectively.

The freshwater decisions not only ride roughshod over property rights that have underpinned economic success in western democracies for generations, but they’re so impractical that they’d be laughable if the costs of implementing them weren’t so serious.

These regulations would make the EU proud, but they’re not the New Zealand way. Our approach is spelt out in the CPTTP Trade Agreement in the chapter on good regulatory practice — that is outcome focussed and based on sound risk management. We wrote it, but have then ignored it.

Our government has chosen instead to dictate what you can do on your land. For example, I farm beef cows in

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a dairying area, but these regulations would prevent me from milking cows on my land like my neighbours. I couldn’t even sell land to a dairy farming neighbour without a resource consent, which would be impossible to get.

Somehow, I’ll also have to get a resource consent for my sheltered sawdust pad that I’ve used for 20 years to calve my cows. It’s a valuable animal welfare asset, enabling them to calve in warmer, drier conditions. However,

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

now, no drain will be allowed within 50 metres — with Northland’s rainfall!

Not sure, either, how I’ll measure the minimum surface permeability requirement of 10 to the minus 9 metres a second. I doubt whoever wrote this stuff has ever been near a farm. Little wonder some farmers are threatening to ignore the whole ridiculous mess.

Moreover, threats from ministers won’t make their deeply flawed regulations any more workable.

The frightening list goes on. How agriculture’s biological emissions are to be brought into New Zealand’s carbon emissions reduction programme is also critically important.

If the government decides He Waka Eke Noa has made insufficient progress and brings agriculture into the existing Emissions Trading Scheme, the consequences could be dire.

The way the legislation is currently framed, it risks failing to reduce

carbon emissions for each kilogram of agricultural product at all.

Instead, it would just make New Zealand agriculture less competitive globally, and see higher global emissions from less carbon-efficient food produced elsewhere.

Ruminant methane emissions are more significant in New Zealand than any other developed economy. Yet the government sticks to a flawed accounting system shown by the IPCC’s leading scientist in this area, Prof Miles Allen, a physicist at Oxford, to seriously overestimate the global warming potential of methane.

An irrational government is frightening. They keep repeating the mantra that New Zealand has one of the higher carbon emissions profiles per capita of any country. The paradox is that if our economy was based on the export of oil, rather than food, we’d have one of the lowest.

You see, oil emissions are accounted for in the country that consumes it, while food emissions are accounted for in the country that produces it.

To add to their scrambled thinking, they allow fossil fuel emissions to be offset by blanketing good hill country farmland in pines.

The environmental catastrophe of silt and slash that destroy our waterways at plantation harvesting are an affront to those who love and care for our land.

Ministers in significant portfolios, to do their job properly, have to work extraordinary hours.

They are paid good money to do it.

It means they should be right across the detail of how their policies will be implemented.

Relying on officials isn’t good enough. They rarely have the practical experience needed.

Anyone attending freshwater consultation meetings last year could see that. It’s why we have ministers in a democracy.

They are meant to have the knowledge, experience in the wider world brings.

For farming right now, there’s so much at stake.

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September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Agriculture policy denies basic science

by Robin Grieve — FARM spokesman

The Green Party’s agriculture policy is based on a mistaken understanding about the environmental impact of livestock farming.

James Shaw attempted to justify his party’s policy to price livestock emissions on his belief that livestock produces half of New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions. The science and the facts about ruminant methane emissions do not support that.

FARM was set up to present the facts about ruminant methane. The Green Party policy demonstrates how much the facts and the science of ruminant

methane emissions are missing from the political debate about global warming.

Using the discredited and nonscientific CO2 equivalent system to quantify ruminant emissions, as the Green Party has done, is to misrepresent the environmental impact of livestock farming.

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Zealand’s farmers. There is nothing more than dishonest to quantify emissions of ruminant methane using a system that does not take into account the fact that ruminant methane emissions do not accumulate in the atmosphere in the way the system assumes they do. The system is not fit for purpose and should not be used.

The Ministry for the Environment states clearly that emissions of ruminant methane do not need to decrease at all to stop global warming. That means current ruminant methane emissions are not causing global warming, do not need to be reduced and should not be priced under any circumstances. FARM urges all political parties to listen to the

science about livestock emissions of methane when developing their policies and not stick doggedly to false beliefs based on the failed CO2 equivalent system just because it suits their antifarming ideology.

New Zealand farmers have had enough of the lies and the unfair and unwarranted demonisation by our politicians.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Vivid memoir takes flight

ADVERTORIAL

The importance of coenzyme Q10

by Andy Bryenton

If you’re reading this publication, it’s a fair bet that you enjoy a true tale of Kiwi farming adventures. Through the years we’ve brought you a fair few, but none, perhaps, with the scope of the life story of the ‘flying farmer’, Bruce Galloway.

In his recently published memoir, Bruce lays out a life full of rural adventures, on horseback, motorcycle, tractor, truck, and ultimately in the air. As befits his nickname, Bruce has plenty of stories to tell about traversing the rural countryside on wings. He’s survived some hair-raising scrapes in the process, including the devastating crash of his Cessna 182.

Here you’ll find a colloquial chronology from childhood through to adult life, spanning 11 farms and an enormous cast of colourful family and friends as characters.

Reading through this volume is like talking to an old mate over a few cold pints; informal, humorous and sometimes touchingly The ‘flying farmer’, Bruce Galloway, at home with a copy of his mercurial and entertaining memoir nostalgic, but with a core of irreverent Kiwi good cheer. The photos, with little truths between the words’. which bracket the text, seem taken right That was the opinion of the publishers from a family photo album, and likely of Theodore Roosevelt’s autobiography, were. Fans of early Barry Crump will hear and it’s as true today as it was when some echoes here, if only in the way that that tome was written. each adventure is neatly encapsulated The Flying Farmer may not tackle and laid out in simple terms with a clear matters of state, but its warm and downand warm ‘voice’. to-earth tone, and real-life quality makes People who religiously tune into it a proper page-turner. Broken up into Country Calendar will find an equivalent short anecdotes and reminiscences; it’s here in text which paints a picture as vivid easy to get lost in Mr Galloway’s writing as any video. Those who have worked and realise that the hands of the clock the land in New Zealand in the post-war have slipped a fair way along. years will certainly find some resonance To say too much more of the with the ‘flying farmer’ and his tale of content of this memoir would spoil the trials, triumphs, family and farming surprises. However, suffice to say, that spanning everything from shearing to it’s a tremendous achievement to have kiwifruit and, of course, cattle. committed so much memory to paper, ‘The best memoirs are told without and a tremendous read for those who the need to self-aggrandise, and seek to are fortunate enough to leaf through entertain on the surface while educating a copy.

REMARKABLE RECOLLECTIONS ...a book you won’t put down!

Bruce Galloway looks back at a series of adventures, scrapes, achievements, anecdotes and escapades which span a lifetime of Kiwi farming, 11 farms and the view from a tractor, truck and aeroplane!

Bruce, the ‘flying farmer’ recounts the funny, touching, nostalgic and exciting times from a remarkable life in a way that will keep you turning pages til the small hours.

Buy books directly from Bruce, bank transfer or Credit Card. $55.00 includes postage within NZ

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11

(Part three)

I recently wrote about coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and I was surprised at the amount of contact from readers on the subject. Especially from those wanting help dealing with the side effects of cholesterol-lowering medication.

Studies show that statins can reduce circulating CoQ10 by as much as 50%. The side effects are so common they are called ‘statin myopathy’.

The main side effects are muscle and tendon weakness, which can be felt as muscle stiffness and pain.

The effect on nerves can impact memory and mood, and there’s comment about general lethargy. In most cases, two months of a quality CoQ10 will reduce these side effects and allow people to get the benefits of the medication without side effects.

The chemical structure of CoQ10 allows it to move high energy electrons within our cell mitochondria where energy is made. CoQ10 collects these electrons and transfers them to an enzyme called ATP synthase to make the energy we need.

I prescribe CoQ10 for several reasons most commonly for statin support. I also add CoQ10 for those fatigued without medical causes and for those with cardiovascular, autoimmune and neurodegenerative

problems. For example, I include at least 100mg for those with Polymyalgia Rheumatica and higher doses for those with MS. For statins support, I use a highquality patented US CoQ10 and for inflammatory problems, my mitochondrial support formula, that includes high-grade Kaneka CoQ10 with a number of energy cofactors. It is interesting that the first improvement felt by those with these conditions is a lift in energy and general wellbeing.

Those with inflammator y conditions, especially autoimmune problems, should be working to a personalised diet and supplement plan complementary to their regular medical treatment. Most people feel a real difference within three 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 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his all-new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

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13

ADVERTORIAL

Change in building consent rules A relaxation of certain low-risk building requirements from last month is great news for everyday New Zealanders who want some extra space for a larger sleepout, pool shed, carport, garden shed, greenhouse or farmers looking to build a pole or hay shed.

It’s estimated to save up to $18 million in consent fees and 9,000 consents around the country. It’s also good news for local councils who should expect faster processing times for the larger builds that require consent. However, some builders have cautioned that ‘DIY’ers’ may end up spending more than anticipated without doing their due diligence.

The new law allows them to assemble kitset buildings which come with plans signed off by a Licensed Building Practitioner or Chartered Professional Engineer.

However, home improvement should take caution that minimum height-to-

boundary ratios are adhered to, and foundations are designed to suit the size and weight of the building. It makes it advisable to get advice from a building professional or local council.

The new exemption is a perfect candidate for buildings made off-site

by Licensed Builders. This removes any uncertainty that it meets code requirements and reduces the cost due to the controlled manufacturing conditions.

For advice on what’s possible under the new exemption and want a free quote contact Steve, and LBP at Ecopod Concepts on 0800 ECOPOD. To find out more and how it impacts your building plans, visit building.govt.nz.

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September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

CROP & PASTURE PREP

The engine room of spring growth

ANDREW NOLA

by Andy Bryenton

Contracting

With the days getting longer and spring officially on the calendar, things are changing all around us in nature. The obvious signs, like blooming daffodils, are one thing, but a more profound change is occurring under our feet, as the entire underground biome shifts from winter to summer mode.

• Cultivation

Human agriculture has taken note of these changes since ancient times.

Still, it’s only in more recent decades that we’ve really begun to understand the science which dictates life under the soil of farmers’ paddocks. This knowledge has led to advancements in how best to aerate the soil, how best to promote healthy growth for new crops, and even how to plant seed for optimum performance.

Some of this work in creating new understanding comes from soil scientists patiently sampling cores of earth each season to measure chemicals, nutrient levels and the activity of fungi and bacteria. Other information is increasingly fed into our soil and pasture model from space, as satellites join in the task of helping provide robust agriculture for a growing and hungry population.

Of course, some of the basics, such as the need to plough and turn the soil, and the importance of using crop

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Soil scientists take a closer look at the underlying strata beneath the surface of pasture, building up a map of the nutrients, bacteria and fungi which interact there

rotation to fix nitrogen, have been known about since the Middle Ages.

The three-field system, developed in those long-ago times, was discovered by monks who didn’t have the right words to explain why it was better. They may well have gleaned information from very old texts in Greek, from the time of ancient Egypt and Babylon.

The adoption of the three-field system, with its emphasis on healthy soil, increased food production is said to be a driving force behind the Renaissance, when trade, and hence learning flourished.

This is all good news, but of little concern today to the farmer thinking about modern crop choices, seed placement and soil harrowing, most of

which is now accomplished by machine.

The key, however, remains the same as it was back in the days of those early monks.

When the microbiome in the soil begins to switch from its winter mode to its more active spring and summer phase, it’s time to be out there working.

Inclement weather is sure to blow over soon as we pass the equinox and head into summer.

So thinking ahead to consult with soil science experts and the contractors who wield today’s powerful harrows and seed drills is smart business.

In short, it’s time to take care of your soil, so it, in turn, will take care of you through what may be a long hot summer.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

15

CROP & PASTURE PREP Insight into fieldwork’s future

by Andy Bryenton

The engineers at CNH Industrial were looking to the future ahead of 2019’s European Agritechnica, and what they came up with is a reflection of a trend, which has changed passenger vehicles and inner cities, but has yet to make a huge impact on the farm. Their Steyr hybrid concept treats power in a whole new fashion, delivering a look into tomorrow.

As far as design studies go, this is no mere clay model with nothing under the hood. Steyr, a company in the same stable as industry giants Case IH and New Holland, has delivered a machine, which combines a diesel power plant with several electric motors, as well as the facility to send voltage to electrically powered or controlled implements.

In their own words: “What requirements will a tractor have to meet in future? We asked ourselves this very question before developing the Steyr Concept. This concept combines innovative technologies in a hitherto unique way to create an environmentally friendly, yet efficient and, above all, functional tractor concept. At the heart of the system lies a modular hybrid electric drive, comprising a combustion engine, a generator, and several electric motors.

The selection of these components creates a compact vehicle design.”

That, and much more. Under the futuristic skin, the big red and white

machine has a diesel-electric hybrid drive train like those used in military subs.

A four-cylinder 204 horsepower engine is mated to an electric generator, feeding a battery bank and sending voltage to four independent electric wheel motors, and a fifth motor that drives the PTO system.

Steyr proves a show stopper — the big concept hybrid was As one could imagine, this centre stage at Agritechnica and points the way forward for allows for infinitely variable tractor tech torque vectoring to grip in even the worst conditions, as well as latest in satellite navigation and even impressive transit performance on the boasts the ability to link with a drone, road. The new Steyr is also set up to allowing for a vast range of vision and power electrically-driven implements, a more field data on hand.

Like a concept car, the Steyr may new breed which is starting to emerge not reach the field in this exact trim. from the manufacturers of Europe.

However, it’s a look at where new Hence a set of 48V or 700V connections ready to interface with these Steyr, New Holland and Case IH machines may be headed in the not too new, more highly monitored devices.

Unsurprisingly, the comfortable cab is distant future. also set up with interface points for the

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16

September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Get your waste away From the drain stream to the mainstream

by Andy Bryenton

Modern septic systems incorporate a drain field where harmless, processed liquid waste, processed by microorganisms, drains out into the soil to evaporate and rejoin the natural cycle. This area is best left undisturbed by foot traffic. It can benefit from the help of certain plants, meaning that landscaping a drainage field is not just an act of beautification.

Underground, your septic tank will separate solids from liquids. The liquid effluent is effectively just wastewater.

It’s designed to flow from the tank into a series of drain lines, allowing the effluent to slowly percolate through the soil in a down-range drain field.

Here, a range of benevolent soil microbes gets to work, filtering and cleansing the effluent before harmful bacteria, which may remain in it, have a chance to reach groundwater. This process requires oxygen to function optimally, which means that the entire

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system will perform less effectively in compacted, saturated or damaged soils. To keep feet off (both human and animal) and to help with the uptake and evaporation of excess water, plants are your ally here.

Shallow-rooting, herbaceous plants are top of the list, as they provide the most coverage and transpiration while keeping their roots out of the drainage system itself.

Shrubs and trees with deep, woody, water-seeking taproots can puncture even the sturdiest pipes over time, as sometimes seen in other drainage situations, so choose a mix of wildflowers, bulbs, flowering annuals or

perennials, and light groundcovers. New Zealand’s own native tussock grasses are a popular choice but can be livened up with some seasonal colour.

The end effect is to create an area where people and pets are unlikely to trample and compact the soil. It’s also where the shallow but thirsty root system of the plant cover wicks up additional moisture, providing an oxygenrich environment for soil bacteria to do their work.

It’s worth remembering that the aim here is to aid and assist the septic system in its final phase, so any necessity to add more topsoil or excess mulch is actually counterproductive.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

17

Get your waste away Technology meets ecology

by Andy Bryenton

When it comes to cars, all the talk right now is about trading in the ‘old tank’ for something more modern, with less of a footprint on the environment and lower operating costs. However, under the ground near your garage or driveway, there’s likely another kind of ‘old tank’ that has been well superseded by modern thinking.

It’s true that most people don’t consider their wastewater systems until it’s too late, or at least until the noxious smell points of trouble brewing below.

The old way of doing things was fine in a limited context. However, today, with a more comprehensive knowledge of how bacteria break down waste and how it’s possible to use treated wastewater to complete the natural cycle and irrigate green spaces, there are options far beyond the simple concrete containment vessel of yesteryear.

When renovating or building new, it’s a good idea to get things underground sorted from the get-go. Councils and builders will need to know what you’re planning to install, so get them involved from the start of planning to ensure the best outcome. It all comes down to where you want to build and how you’re going to utilise the space. A busy home for a family is different from an off the grid cabin for holidays or an additional dwelling to bolster living room on the farm. Getting an expert in to take a look

and apply their years of experience could save you thousands in the long-term.

The best news for modern, ecofriendly builds is that power-free or micro solar-operated systems are now in the mainstream, as are systems designed to process waste liquids into valuable irrigating run-off. It’s all about best harnessing the different types of naturally occurring benign bacteria which thrive in waste, breaking it down into harmless byproducts. By designing a system which allows these tiny creatures to do the best possible job, efficiency is boosted, and there’s less need for pumping out. Some systems can go between five and seven years without professional attention.

One of the biggest advances in waste treatment systems above and beyond the old septic tank model is the ability to operate on hilly land or in areas too small for a classic septic tank. This flexibility gives designers and architects more scope to get creative and a wider range of spaces where modern systems

Dig once, and do it right — modern wastewater systems require less maintenance and are more versatile than antiquated septic tanks

can fit. That’s why it’s a great idea to get in touch with both wastewater system experts and your builders or architects early on. You may be surprised at just

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September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

19

DAIRY WITH EFFLUENT FOCUS ADVERTORIAL

Enviroline’s new owners Jason and Roz Harrison are the new owners of Enviroline, supplying quality linings for a variety of ponds including effluent and decorative.

“We wanted our own business as we have a young family. The decision came earlier than expected when I was made redundant from my last job,” says Jason.

“We took ownership of Enviroline on the first of July and look forward to building ongoing relationships. Roz and I have been around farms our whole life. Roz was born on a dairy farm in Pirongia before moving to beef and sheep operations and also worked on horse studs.

“I am Te Awamutu-born and bred.

My dad is a vet, and we understand the needs of the farming community.

I have predominantly worked in the agriculture/veterinarian industry and have spent the most part of the last 20 years dealing with dairy farmers.

“Enviroline is the lining for the HPE liner. The majority of our business is in dairy effluent ponds. We are getting into the commercial sector including stormwater ponds for subdivisions and catchment ponds for industrial sites. We also line decorative ponds for lifestyle block holders and farmers. We are happy to get involved at any stage of a project and help design the pond as well through our contacts. You need to take into account the soil type, the

number of cows if it is an effluent pond, and the annual rainfall for a pond to be built correctly.

“Ponds need to be constructed with the right material and lined the correct way. You need leak protection, and there are a number of technical issues to consider. It’s not like the old days where you just dug a hole and put a pipe in.

“There are three layers to the lining, and it is important to understand what the end product will look like.

“The earlier we are involved, the better as it also dramatically reduces potential delays.

“It is good to have everyone, such as the earthworks guys around the table from day one to discuss the process. That is better than discovering you can’t line a pond because of this issue or that issue.

“I believe we have a high-quality product. There is always a cheap option, but cheap is not best. We have the backing of the supplier, can provide a 20-year liner warranty and an eight-year workmanship guarantee.

“Your effluent pond is literally going to be filled with effluent. We are a small business, and I am on-site for each job and can deal with issues immediately.

We believe in fair pricing and quality

Jason Harrison the new owner of Enviroline

workmanship with adaptability. If you are looking for quality workmanship, superior liners, successful effluent

containment at realistic prices, call the team at Enviroline NZ to discuss how we can help you.”

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

20

September 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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:

Ready mix concrete Effluent storage Duracrete water tanks Duracrete septic tanks Cattle stops Concrete walls Feed pads Feed troughs Water troughs Bunker walls

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

WINNER of NZ Concrete Technology Award

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◆ Furniture varies between stores.

Proudly NZ owned & operated since 1958

Furniture for living

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

21

VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Swift set to shift

FIVE YEARS OF DEVELOPMENT HAS ARRIVED!

$20,865 EX GST

by Andy Bryenton

With the purely electric car still struggling to deliver the massive range which would put rural Kiwi minds at ease, hybrid solutions are looking good right now. There have been great attempts by various carmakers to design a hybrid which has the look and feel of a ‘normal’ passenger vehicle, but none have hit the mark so neatly as the new Suzuki Swift Hybrid.

That’s because it’s basically just a Swift. One of the best selling small cars of all time, to be sure, but nothing futuristic, weirdly sculpted or finished in lashings of carbon fibre and magnesium.

It’s a car that we’re all familiar with, and which, as noted when it was first launched, carries on the ethos of the old Leyland Mini; four wheels at the corners, space for some passengers, and just enough go to make you smile.

Fast forward a few generations, and the new Swift is a handsome little beast, with the determinedly growly visage of puppy and the fresh, semi-disrupted glasshouse line of BMW’s i3.

It’s packed with safety features like adaptive cruise control, radar brake assistance and a reversing camera, to name a few, it has full Bluetooth integration, comfy seats and a nice big touch screen as well.

The extras are all in the figures, which are largely hidden under the hood. This Swift may look, drive and feel just like its entirely petrol-driven counterpart, but the addition of an electric motor changes one big number; fuel consumption.

Pared down to 4.1L/100km, this is

Special 100% finance rate offered by UDC

2020 Upgrade Model. Still at the Old Price!

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UPGRADES Electophoresis anticorrosion treatment of entire vehicle; Upgraded cooling system; Updated, more powerful 1,000cc engine; Enhanced turning circle; Upgraded suspension;

Tel. 03 347 4956 Mob. 027 477 0070 Machinery Limited Suzuki Swift Hybrid — eco meets friendly with a normal-handling, normal-looking machine that saves money and fuel

the defining characteristic of the Swift Hybrid; it will get you where you want to go, cheaper. A lithium-ion battery charges up as the car decelerates and brakes (like the KERS system in a Formula One racer), adding a little extra punch every time you take off from the lights.

This form of hybrid drivetrain is unobtrusive and seamless in its operation, blending electric voltage with the power from a small petrol engine to achieve another figure that takes us back to the beginning. While

purely electric plug-in cars give rise to range anxiety (especially when you live in the countryside), the Swift Hybrid outperforms petrol cars on range. $100 worth of petrol will take you 1,220 kilometres, as opposed to 1,042 in the normal Swift GS Automatic.

The best part? Hybrids used to ‘value signal’ due to their price; an investment in saving the planet.

With the new Swift Hybrid priced under $30k brand new, you’re saving the environment and your wallet at the same time.

www.tuataraatv.com info@tuataraatv.com

Pay attention!

around road works

6 years warranty

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power, versatility & reliability

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22

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

September 2020

VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Beast from another continent

by Andy Bryenton

When Toyota went to Australia, it discovered a landscape where the Land Rover was king. Dust, heat, distance and rough terrain combined to make this army-bred Brit the weapon of choice for hardy outback dwellers. Its market share was absolute, its brand loyalty ironclad.

Oi!

DON’T TXT & DRIVE

Not long afterwards, the Land Cruiser was born, and all the graphs went south for the Brits. Pretty soon, it was known that the red parts of Oz were Toyota country. Replace the geography with Kiwi farmland, and the big ‘cruiser for the Hilux, and you have a recipe for how things went here in the 80s. However, in the US, it was a little different.

There, the king was the Ford F150, a vehicle so popular that one is sold to a patriot of the States every half a minute.

It had pedigree, simplicity, a whacking great V8 mill and good ol’ credentials to match Levi’s or Smith and Wesson.

Toyota took note, then took notes. Then they answered with the Tundra.

This massive ute is, in actuality, a true pickup truck, and the current model has the big 5.7-litre, high torque, 381 horsepower V8 to back up its claims. It’s the only full-sized pickup made in Texas (San Antonio to be exact).

In fact, Toyota is even more precise in drilling down for some US pedigree for what is the only Japanese/American pickup. Its ‘1794’ edition is named

Email: info@hecton.co.nz Visit our website www.hecton.co.nz for a full list of products

SHEEP HANDLER AND LEAD UP RACE • Fastest handler on the market • Ideal for dagging, crutching & foot trimming

HECTON WEIGH CRATE Capable of: • Weighing • Drafting • Dagging • Mouthing • Ear Tagging • Capsuling

The Tundra is not just the biggest Toyota you can get without an HT licence, it’s also something else that’s hard to get in the modern ute market; pure eye-catching showmanship

for the colonial cattle ranch which once existed where the Toyota factory now stands.

It comes with saddle brown leather seats and all the wild west trim; regular models simply make do with being as big as all outdoors.

There’s the appeal of this monster in a nutshell; it’s immense. If you need to carry large loads and do so in comfort, there’s nothing quite like a top-spec American pickup.

Nothing, that is, but a Japanese version which promises Toyota’s legendary build quality and indestructible

nature along with improved handling. it’s a potent combination and one which is now making its way on to Kiwi highways.

The success of RAM trucks — Dodge’s big pickups — may have had something to do with this, but it’s equally possible that the appeal was purely organic; what’s better than a big Hilux? The big brother of the Hilux!

Tundra New Zealand is the specialist that brings the imposing and powerful pickup here, fitting it out for righthand drive and performing other small conversion miracles and tasteful switchouts at its Queenstown facility.

New Zealands newest licensed tractor dismantler

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Awareness of bee health

23

Apiculture NZ and Federated Farmers are working together to promote awareness of safe spray practices to help protect our bees.

“Bees are essential for the pollination of thousands of plant species — native and agricultural alike. As plant flowering and bee activity increases through the spring and summer months, the risk to bees from spray application also rises,” says a spokesperson.

“Pesticides and herbicides can have a big impact on bees and their honey. It can severely impact pollination and put our valuable honey export crop at risk.

Recently, for example, small amounts of glyphosate residues were found in some New Zealand honeys, While close to 80 per cent of those tested had no residue detections and there are no food safety issues linked with those that did, we are concerned to see this occur.

“There are a number of steps that help farmers and growers protect honey bees when spraying any pesticide but the key, as always, is also ensuring open communications between farmers and beekeepers when spraying occurs.

“Consider whether spraying is necessary, pest pressure, weed size and disease symptoms. Survey your crop to determine if pests have reached thresholds where control with pesticides is necessary and implement an integrated pest management plan to apply pesticides only when necessary.”

Always read the instructions carefully and follow all warnings on the label.

Only use bee-safe products if risks to honey bees are likely. Secure chemical tanks and dispose of used containers carefully. Bees have been known to gather water from such sources,

similarly, avoid potential contamination of troughs or any other natural water source, particularly water sources that are still.

Don’t spray chemicals near budding or flowering plants where bees are likely to forage. Bees forage flowers to gather nectar and pollen, their major food sources. During this foraging action, bees successfully pollinate the crop, increasing its value to the farmer.

Mow flowering weeds under fruit tree crops before spraying and avoid spraying gorse and broom when in flower. The herbicide may be safe to bees, but the surfactants (normally penetrants) are not. Many beekeepers experience severe hive losses during this period caused by spraying during the day on flowering weeds.

Never spray near hives and avoid spraying when it is windy to prevent drift.

Spray after sunset, in dry conditions, or very early in the morning. Bees forage during daylight hours when temperatures are warm. Avoid spraying at this time.

“If you have to spray a flowering crop likely to be visited by bees, we recommend spraying very early in the morning at daybreak or sunset, even spraying in the dark. Bees are normally in their hives at this time.

“Coordinate with local beekeepers before spraying so nearby hives can be moved or otherwise protected.

Work with them and keep them informed of intentions to spray — good communications and cooperation all helps.

“Remind all staff and contractors of the risks to bees when spraying and make bee survival a priority this spray season. Bees need our help. By doing a few simple things you can help protect and care for our bee population and ensure our New Zealand honeys retain

their reputation as a safe, high-quality natural food source.”

For more information on how to manage risks to bees go to apinz.org. nz/pesticides-2, the EPA’s guide to keeping bees safe and Agcarm’s Bee Responsible Poster.

BAY MULCHING

NEW PRODUCT

Purpose built, self propelled mulching and stumpchipping machines.

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

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

Giving Peace of Mind for Tail Gail Security

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Airplex Industries – 21 Saleyards Rd OTAHUHU, AUCKLAND

0800 247 753 – info@airplex.co.nz

www.airplex.co.nz

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

Waikato Rural Marketplace Central Motors 8272

 07 883 8

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• 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

Waikato’s Gas Guys

7-9 Neal St, Putaruru

Waikato CLASSIFIEDS Reach 30,000 Rural Homes • Phone 0800 466 793 Finacial BANK SAID NO? We specialise in Farm Finance, working capital and debt consolidation. Also welcome applications from property developers, builder’s and first home buyers. Call 0800 888 449 or email bill@gfbl.co.nz.

Oxygen • Argon • Argon Mixes • CO2

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

134 Grey St, Hamilton East • 07 856 7022

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

24

September 2020

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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

- SAM CANE

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

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

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

Waikato’s Most Awarded Master Builder

0800 MY URBAN | sales@urban.co.nz | urban.co.nz