Wairarapa Farming Lifestyles, November 2017

Wairarapa

FARMING Lifestyles

November 2017 Edition

9,693 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in the Wairarapa

Milking the Shorthorn

Summertime at the markets

P4

Return of the Century

P8

Utilising the wild Page 8–9

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

One year on and loving it

The Wairarapa Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately owned New Zealand company.

by Anna Harding

Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 • Fax: 09 439 6930 Email: info@nsmm.co.nz Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: Lifestyler House, 107 River Road, Dargaville General Manager: Deb Wright | 021 639 9633 Editorial: Paul Campbell Ann Morgan Advertising: Monique McKenzie Betty Willetts

November calls for celebration at Wairarapa Farming Lifestyles, as this month marks one year since we first went to print. The paper’s sales account manager Monique McKenzie has been here at Northsouth Multi Media for eight months.

Graphic Design: Jessica Wright Callum McDonald Dylan Hansen Production: Vivian Webb Teela Korau

Accounts: accounts@nsmm.co.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts

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Wairarapa Farming Lifestyles sales account manager Monique McKenzie

After being a hairdresser for over 10 years, Monique decided to switch it up.

“We’d just recently moved to Dargaville and I thought I’d take on a new challenge and try something different. It’s good so far, but challenging and very different from hairdressing.

“I moved from Palmerston North eight months ago with my partner and two children — Savannah who’s eight and Falcon who’s five. We are an outdoors family and so far we love the beach, lakes and walks in the area. I’ve never lived on a farm before so this has all been a learning curve, but I really enjoy it.

“Some of the most rewarding things have been watching the paper develop, talking to so many different people and assisting their marketing needs. I enjoy chatting to people about how their weekend was and how their day is going — it’s not just about advertising.

“We do care about our clients here.

It’s not just about the sale — we genuinely want to see them do well. It’s all about our clients’ needs. I like to just make sure I touch base and help them any way I can to grow their business.

“A highlight for me so far was when we did a daffodil feature for the Cancer Society. We got a really good response from that and raised quite a bit of money for them.

“It feels really good to have almost reached a year — really cool. The paper has definitely grown since I started here and I feel that I have grown as well. I’m more confident in the job, not only with my communication skills, but also in computer skills.

“We’ve got a really great team here in the office and my clients are really nice, so I’d like to thank all my customers for their support over the last eight months, and I look forward to many more.“

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Positive grain results

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

November 2017

A healthy supply of grain with prices holding firm, has arable farmers crossing their fingers after a damp start to spring. The latest industry survey (AIMI), for the nation’s cereal growers, reveals a resurgence in feed barley with planting returning to regular, historical levels.

Federated Farmers Grains vice chair Brian Leadley, says signs are better for the industry as a whole after the previous two seasons which were indifferent.

“There has been reluctance among growers towards the barley market, but this present wet spring has actually prompted many to plant barley as they have been unable to plant other vegetable crops in sodden conditions.”

Grain meanwhile was moving offfarm, an indication of pricing positivity returning to the market. The yields come next April however could yet be compromised. It depends on how late planting was and if spring crops had been firmly established — assuming they are resilient enough to get through warm, dry spells.

While there was a lift in demand and price as a result, Brian is wary as to whether that would be the case after this summer’s harvest.

“I think the end users are still cautious and maybe even cash tight, so if they are buying, it is more on requirement than opportunity. I doubt most have or are thinking of filling up their silos,” he said.

“The long-term forecast is a La Nina cycle. This may mean drought

type conditions for some, so I would encourage farmers to contact local suppliers to secure domestically produced cereal grain that is of a quality standard.

“Anyone who wants to follow arable yields and what those results mean, are increasingly relying on the AIMI. It’s a great planning tool for growers, merchants and end users, who we know are using it more.

“Being able to produce credible data is really useful for measuring whether there is a necessity for extra imports. As an industry we can demonstrate to the market the volume of domestic grain supply at any given time.”

Brian says the notable increase recently in biosecurity incursions was also a logical reason for reducing imports Brian Leadley, Federated Farmers Grains vice chair and this promoted better outcomes for all those associated with it. You can reduce this risk by buying locally and knowing it’s from a the agriculture sector.

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

THE SHORTHORN

BY ANN MORGAN

Jason and Michael Treder run the historic family farm that their great grandfather John Treder purchased 103 years ago, and they continue to milk Shorthorn cattle which was John’s stock of choice.

“M

ilking Shorthorns were predominantly used as they were the first breed introduced to the country back in the early 1900s. Over the years farmers have gone away from them but as a family we enjoy them,” says Jason.

The 165 hectare property is rolling hill country with a milking platform of 75 hectares, plus the runoff.

“We have sheep on the steep hill block and heifers on the runoff with beef and calves. We run approximately 200 ewes that we buy in as five year olds and throw a Suffolk ram on them and sell the lambs as fat lambs. It is a very easy care system.

“We milk 140 cows but calve more than 150 and we rear the calves on the lower producing cows. It works well and

we have the best of both worlds with beef and dairy. We have 90 Shorthorns and 50 Jerseys to mix it up a bit.

“Michael and I purchased half of the farm off our parents and have completed three seasons. We had a couple of tough years with the payout being low.

“Over the generations we have seen lots of changes. Our dad didn’t want to borrow any money to support the farm, and we had been working with him for 12 years and knew what we wanted to do when we took over.

“Our grandfather George took over from his parents and than dad and his brother took over until we succeeded them.”

To celebrate the 100 years of ownership Michael and Jason hosted a family reunion with 250 people attending.

Jason Treder milks 140 Shorthorn cows with his brother Michael on the family farm

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

“It was special to take our relatives over the farm to see the history of the property.”

Jason says Shorthorns are a versatile stock, very hardy and they don’t mind bad weather — they still go out and eat and are good producers.

“We have hardly had any lame cows because they have good feet.”

The brothers AI all their stock with the bulls sourced from around New Zealand mostly through Semex NZ Ltd. “We try to use New Zealand semen as much as possible as we believe in supporting local, but have also used a bit of Canadian and British,” Jason says.

“There is more demand for the breed nowadays because people want something a bit different and there are very good quality bulls available as Semex have sorted that out.”

Jason says the stock are very placid but like all breeds there can be the odd feisty one.

“A few people are now breeding them because the history is important and often once farmers are introduced to them they like them.

“Here in Manawatu David Woods is milking a herd of 300 and our neighbours Allan and Sue Moore have 80. Down in the South Island there are three farms with more than 500 as well.

“We are really happy with the cattle and last year we won an award for the highest production in Central Districts Shorthorn Association. That cow did 548m/s for the year.”

The farm is a mainly grass fed system with a small amount of PK.

November 2017

5

Michael and Jason believe Shorthorns are a versatile hardy breed that are easy calving

“They are easy calving but like any cattle type, you get the odd one that is a bit different. We are medium rolling with a few steeper sides and they handle it well and are good at converting rough pasture.”

Shorthorns are common in England and there are a few farmers with them in Australia.

“For lifestyle block owners Shorthorns are ideal — a couple would be easy care

and they make great house cows or can be reared as beefy calves.

“They are dual purpose — beef or milking. We rear our calves and the bobbys are taken for beef, a few are kept for bulls and the heifers are our replacements.

“You get red and white, and blue and white colourings. The blue and white are much sort after. This year we bred a white bull calf, which is

quite different and really nice looking.”

The Treders are hosting a Shorthorn Field day on their farm with the Central Districts Association groups.

“It is a great event to learn about the breed. Check out the Central Districts Shorthorn Assn or BelleView milking shorthorns facebook pages. Anyone interested is welcome to attend on Wednesday November 29 at 10.30am.”

CAREERS

Field day will be held at the Belleview stud, Treder Rd, Pahiatua on Thursday 29th November from 10.30am. Light lunch will be provided. Come along and view some excellent commercially farmed milking shorthorns.

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

The buzz and good vibes from small town local markets like the Greytown Country Market, come from the creativity behind the stalls and the passionate people behind the scenes. Summer always brings in more out-of- town visitors, adding to the atmosphere. Local Catherine Whyte is the driving force behind these markets, established in 2015.

by Anna Harding

M

anager of a country resort day spa and fitness facility by day, Catherine said: “I came up with the idea of the market as a means to showcase the work of the clever and talented people living in our community.

Life is busy but I am lucky enough to have the support of a great team to make this possible, with work, family and the community projects that are all important to me.”

The markets take place right in the middle of town. “Stella Bull Park and the lush Sarah’s garden are the ideal spot in the heart of the village. Easy to find, with all amenities in close proximity

for day visitors, weekenders and locals.

“Initially we were on the first of the month but we soon realised that we clashed with other markets, so we changed to the third Sunday. This allowed everyone to participate in all the events in the region.”

The first few markets had about 15 stalls. Now in its third season, there can be as many as 50 stalls and it attracts more than 1,000 visitors each month.

The markets have a theme of ‘home and garden’. “I love all things home and garden so it was me being a little selfish when I came up with the theme, truth be told. I want people to find treasures

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

like a gorgeous rose bush, some old silver trinkets, herbs for the garden, and handcrafted gifts that you cannot buy in a store.

“Greytown has long been regarded as a boutique shopping precinct so we wanted the Greytown Country Market to enhance that and not detract from the wonderful retailers in the town. Also I think there is a hunter gatherer feel about Sundays — you want to collect things to take home to plant, eat, curate and so on.”

There is a strong focus on fresh produce as well. Catherine’s started a ‘Community Table’ where she encourages gardeners with excess fruit or vegetables to bring them along to the market rather than letting them go to waste.

“My idea is simple; if you have a fruit tree and you cannot use all the fruit, and your neighbours have as much as they need, share it with the community. The concept is not so much about making money, rather, being community minded and not letting your bounty of gorgeous, flavoursome, home grown produce go to waste.

“We are so lucky to live in such a special place where everyone smiles and says hello. I think in a smaller provincial town, perhaps it is easier for people to acknowledge that we all need each other sometime, somehow, and in some way. We all do what we can with what we have.”

With that in mind, the not-for-profit organisation, has two beneficiary charities. This year it’s the Early Years Community Childcare and the Wellington

their passion with people inspires me to keep going. It is also really lovely when people say ‘oh you are the Greytown Country Market lady. We love the market and always come along’.

“My proudest moments are when I see a new stallholder who has chosen the market as their first venture to bring their products to people. Seeing the pride, joy and confidence when they interact with new customers and make a sale. There is nothing like the buzz they get from selling lots of beautiful items to happy customers. I don’t think you can beat that.”

The Greytown Country Market is held on the third Sunday of each month from

October to March, from 9am to 2pm.

For more information visit www. greytowncountrymarket.com or email greytowncountrymarket@gmail.com

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Catherine Whyte, the driving force behind the Greytown Country Market

Locals and visitors, at the Greytown Country Market on a busy day

Free Ambulance. At the moment, Catherine and her team are getting ready for the Christmas market. “It’s on Sunday, December 17, and we generally see about a 40% increase in stall holders over December and January.

“At our festive market we do have a few surprises in store for children and some great music planned.

“When the bunting is up and the music is on, the people come across the street in droves and I can stand back and know we have kicked off. Despite having been doing the markets for several years now, it still gives me a real sense of pride.”

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November 2017

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

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

the wild

by Ann Morgan

Mawera Karetai is a lecturer of business strategy, a hunter of pest animals and birds, and teaches people to cook with wild foods available around the country as a healthy food option.

“H

unting meat is a big part of my life. My dad was a hunter and I grew up looking at pest species such as hare and turkey as healthy food sources,” says Mawera.

“As part of my master’s degree I did a study on opossums and wallabies. It is sad that as a society we look at pests animals as an evil demonic thing to kill at all costs, when in actual fact they are a serious source of nutrition.

“My favourite food is wallaby meat — it is seriously good.

“We have the little dama wallaby and the other is the red neck. Those are two of twelve species that were liberated into New Zealand in the late 1800s and early 1900s by Governor Grey through the Climatisation Society. They were the

two types to survive on the mainland.”

Mawera and her husband Dave Barrett hunt pest animals including peacock, turkey, rabbit, goat, pig and deer, and she enjoys feeding her family food that they have got some control over.

“I know that the animal was running around happy and healthy in the bush — it died without suffering when it became food for my family. There is a healthy feeling about complete engagement with your food source.

“Our children’s favourite food is peacock fingers. You take the breast off and fillet the meat from the outside connective tissue. You end up with really soft delicate meat.”

They shoot a least 100 peacocks a year on farms. Turkeys are also a pest

Mawera and Beau catch trout – as well as hunting pest animals for the family to eat

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

food. Every five peacocks or turkeys eat as much grass in a day as one sheep.

“Dave came from Canada and had always hunted so he provides our meat and we haven’t brought any in 12 years.

We got into peacock hunting when we heard the regional council was poisoning them to control the population.

“We asked them to let us manage the population and use them as food. One farm was contending with 3,000 birds and this caused major damage.”

The couple sell the bird feathers across the country and overseas as a way to ensure nothing is wasted.

“We clean the feathers thoroughly and have never been declined with an inspection.

“They do arrow fletching in Germany so we send quill feathers, and in America the turkey tail feathers are used for Native Indian headdresses as that is their endemic species and our feathers were used in the Hobbit movie for the hand made arrows.”

Feathers are also used for quill pens and kapa haka costumes.

“Goat is a big staple in our family along with peacock, and hare. Rabbit are also beautiful — especially in winter with the grass so green — the meat is sweet.

“We pluck the opossums and the meat goes to pig farms as food to grow the pork — it is more important for the pigs to eat them than us.”

Mawera says wallabies can be destructive because they graze the grass

and any little shoots, killing the pasture.

“There has been a spread in the wallaby population because they weren’t contained. They actually like confined spaces but where there is food pressure they spread out. If you keep them culled they stay in one spot.

“Goats meat is beautiful and better than lamb. We make mince and sausages which are not filled with chemicals and other unhealthy products.”

Dave moved here from Canada as a scientist in 2000.

“When he landed here he says he found paradise and in summer his is a trout fishing guide.

“Hunting is a wonderful thing and as a family we go off into the bush and we involve other families as well and teach them.

“We show people how to cook peacock and other wild pests foods and I present public demonstrations and judge at wild food competitions across the country. It is awesome to be connected to our food. This is something I value most highly in my cooking life.

“It feels so much better to be working with something that we went and got ourselves.

“It’s not cruel, it is completely the opposite. The animals are happy and then they are dead, it is that quick. I write a wild food blog, www.thewildcook. co.nz, where I endeavour to take readers on a culinary journey to wild and wonderful places you might never otherwise have gone.”

November 2017

Dave with a kingfish he caught on one of his fishing adventures

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

November 2017

11

Calling in on the country

by Andy Bryenton

So, you’ve managed to become the one relative in the entire extended clan who happens to run a successful farm, or who has retreated from the big city to enjoy the lifestyle block ‘good life’.

The rural idyll — complete with lots of hard work, of course — looks pretty appealing to suburban siblings as the holidays roll around, and your position amidst the green hills or near the coast suddenly becomes a magnet for family and friends.

If you’re generous and game enough to play host to all those cousins, aunties, uncles, kids and grandkids (not to mention old university mates, work buddies and sports’ team acquaintances) who ‘were just in the area’ over Christmas and New Years, then we salute you. But there are a few things to know which will make preparing for the coming ‘tent city’ that little bit easier.

First, tell them what to expect. A holiday in the country is not the RitzCarlton, and that’s a big part of its appeal. Be straight up and honest about the need for your rellys to bring plenty of insect repellent, and all the gear to keep their little camp site self sufficient.

Running countless cables from the barn, house and garage for fridges, xboxes, televisions and hair

straighteners isn’t really camping, is it? If you’re playing host while summer farming chores are still ongoing, it’s also good to gently remind the folks that the concept of a ‘holiday’ is a bit blurry in the agricultural sector.

And that a farm comes with hazards for the unwary.

That being said, there’s something great about helping teach the young ones just where their breakfast eggs and milk come from.

The hard part of hosting your family and friends out in the country is not becoming like John Cleese’s mad hotelier Basil Fawlty.

There’s such a thing as being a gracious host, but don’t try to be a chef, butler, valet and tour guide as well.

Expect your guests to pitch in and they’ll likely be happy to help.

Remember that sometimes a gentle reminder that you can’t take hour long showers on tank water in summer goes a long way.

That a bit of help around the barbie and the beer fridge goes along way toward securing next year’s hearty welcome.

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

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RHDV (Czech strain) already exists in New Zealand after it was introduced in 1997. This 2017 application is for a Korean strain that isn’t currently found here.

MPI has notified the application under the Agricultural Compound Veterinary and Medicines Act (ACVM), and will consider any submissions before making any decision on the data that has been submitted in support of the registration.

“We are keen to hear from the public, including pet owners. The consultation closes on December 14, 2017,” says MPI’s Allan Kinsella.

“We will consider benefits of the release to the agricultural sector, as well as identification and management of risks to animal welfare, agricultural impacts, trade and public health matters associated with the virus. This will include consideration of the risks posed to non-target animals such as pet rabbits.

“The strain of RHDV that already exists in New Zealand has a vaccine which is being used to protect against the new strain in other countries. As part of MPI’s assessment we will be considering evidence of protection against the new strain.”

Any new strain that is released, propagated, and sold also needs to be approved under the Biosecurity Act.

Allan Kinsella, MPI director systems audit, assurance and monitoring

RHDV1-K5 strain will only be approved if it meets the requirements under the ACVM and Biosecurity Acts.

The Canterbury Regional Council has made the application and the intent is to introduce the strain nationally.

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November 2017

13

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Green Jersey Explorer Tours owners Stuart Edwards and Joe Howells have been busy building up the Martinborough based business for the past few years.

Recently Joe and Pam Howells became Martinborough residents, Joe having left the town he grew up in to undertake university studies and a business career some 40 years ago.

Joe and Pam are hosting the tour and we are aiming to attract up to a dozen like-minded individuals to make up the tour group.

“We have arranged the accommodation, luggage transfer and bikes, including electric assist bikes if that’s required. We are now also planning Italian tours for 2019 and 2020,”said Joe. They covered the route three years ago

and found it a fantastic adventure. “We cycle between 45 and 60 kilometres a day — all easy going — mainly on canal pathways, under 300-year-old plane trees.

It is a great way to improve your fitness while having a fantastic holiday”, says Joe. “We cover about 560 kilometres all up with two rest days. The countryside is just awesome and the historical aspects very interesting. The fine cuisine and wine experienced along the way is an added bonus.”

Green Jersey Explorer Tours is a local success story with its base now well established in Martinborough wine tours, the Rimutaka Cycle Trail and general cycle and other tours. To find out more email them on tours@ greenjersey.co.nz

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Escape Winter 2018. Green Jersey are hosting a group of up to 12 riders cycling from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Get some friends together or join the group to meet other like minded riders. We will arrange all the logistics.

This ride is exclusively offered through Farmers Lifestyle Magazine.

Register you early interest by emailing: tours@greenjersey.co.nz Website: www.greenjersey.co.nz Phone: 021 074 6640

14

November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

H O L I DAY G U I D E

A whole world to experience

by Andy Bryenton

They say that travel broadens the mind, but in this era of broadband and globalised entertainment it does far more than that.

Travelling to far-flung places makes all the images you’ve seen of them more real, and adds that elusive element often missing from documentaries and movies — the real, down to earth culture of the people who live there.

Here are some top tips from questioning seasoned world adventurers about how to enjoy the wide world around us.

1. Go somewhere off the tourist trails.

We all want to visit the pyramids, Machu Picchu or the Eiffel Tower,

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but the reality which lives around these monuments and attractions is what you’ll remember. By all means visit the icons of world travel, but look below the surface too — go where the locals go to eat, check out small music venues, theatre or cinema in the local language, and, just like a Kiwi holiday, remember that some of the most interesting attractions are often under-advertised.

2. Don’t be afraid to try the local cuisine. Tales abound of world travellers sticking to fast food franchises for fear of food poisoning. But most nations have tourist-friendly rules for food prep, even for street vendors. Of course there are exceptions, but no dirty chef stays in business long. See where the local folks eat and be adventurous. Telling tall tales about trying scorpions in honey or spicy squid is much more interesting than a parade of hamburgers.

3. Be cautious with your currency. But don’t treat everyone as a potential criminal. Sadly, every country has it’s bad apples, so it’s prudent to

invest in a money belt that sits close to your skin, and beware of crimes uncommon in New Zealand like pickpocketing. This being said, most people will be happy to help you with things like advice, directions and translations — just as we are in New Zealand.

4. Learn a little of the language. The locals will appreciate you trying, even if you mangle their dialect a little. Try to study some key phrases even if you plan to use a translation device or app — being able to say thank you, hello, good

evening, and ask for the location of key facilities will make you seem more approachable. Research local customs too — little things like whether or not to take your shoes off, shake hands, sit or stand for cultural ceremonies — it makes you seem like a clued-in world traveller and a gracious guest.

Most of all, have fun. Try to get the most out of each day, even if it means throwing carefully made plans out the window to explore or join in an event that’s happening where you happen to be.

Enjoy arts, music, the landscape and our rich heritage.

Whanganui is big enough to entertain and small enough to keep it real.

Spend a weekend.

See much more at:

www.visitwhanganui.nz

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

November 2017

15

CHRISTMAS HOURS PROUDLY SUPPORTING NEW ZEALAND’S RESCUE HELICOPTERS

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

HAPPY NEW YEAR from

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To complete the skills needed for our consultancy we have encouraged participation from specialists in specific fields. Mark Dixon focusses on feed balancing and making the best of the choices of feed available. I have invited him to share his thoughts:

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your cows have everything they need to come through the second half of the season on top and be profitable.

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is not a complete diet but luckily it doesn’t take much to balance some of the shortfalls that limit production and health. After experiencing one of the wettest springs in history this season, one would say the first half has been challenging and your cows may not have hit their peak. Don’t give up. Holding cows at a reasonable production level once in-calf for most of the second half can make up for them not peaking where you would have liked. How many times have we seen the All Blacks come from behind and win.

To do this we need to head to the changing sheds have a rock solid halftime discussion, and formulate a total farm system approach to ensuring

as

To maximise genetic potential in dairy cows having a solid game plan is crucial. The game plan needs to begin at least 21 days before calving.

Consider the season as a world cup rugby test match.

History has taught us that winning that game requires more than an 80 minute performance.

This is no different in ruminant dairy nutrition. Our transition period is our vital warm up but without a good transition plan we can’t expect our cows to perform to their potential. A strong start sets the platform for a winning season.

As far as purchasing genetic potential goes, most farmers are buying the ‘Ritchie McCaw’s’ for performance. I haven’t met a farmer yet that has not been extremely proud of the genetics in their herd, but when it comes to formulating a plan around unlocking the genetic potential the conversation always comes back to cents/kg/dm, or residuals.

I am sure the All Blacks nutritionists don’t go and buy the cheapest nutrition on the market and monitor the residuals on the plate or bowl as a gauge of profitability and performance Unlocking your cow’s genetic potential requires planning and preparation around nutrition. Your cows are looking for this every day when you pull the feed cord in the shed, the bat latch drops to the feed pad, or they make it to the paddock that you have chosen for their daily nutritional requirements. Despite what you may have been told, pasture

17

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November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

Irrigation Matters with Clem Powell The mystery of irrigation sprinklers

With the impending proposal for a reduction in irrigation water take in many parts of the country, it is possibly a good time to consider efficiency in water application.

Sprinklers are ubiquitous on the irrigation landscape but how well do they actually do their job? There are many claims bandied about, often from branded sprinkler systems, such as ‘they require less water than other methods’ or ‘they have less evaporation than big guns’ or ‘they achieve greater soil penetration with less quantity etc etc. How true are these claims?

Firstly irrigation is the replacement of moisture which is lost through the plant growing and evaporation from the ground, depending on crop cover, soil type etc. So if you need 5mm/day to beat evapotranspiration then you need to apply 50,000 l/ha/day as average.

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It also depends what the evapotranspiration conditions are.

NIWA publish data which may be some use if you have a test point near you. In any case you cannot make the plant starve/thirst without some loss in growth. For a short term you can consider the ground itself as being like a reservoir for the plant. You can let the plant sip from the reservoir (existing moisture content) but finally you have to replenish and in a greater amount to catch up. Unfortunately by the time you realise the plant has stopped growing you are way behind. The application method is somewhat secondary as long as it is achieved. So bang goes the first claim.

Secondly, science tells us that when we expose water to warm air, evaporation occurs. How much occurs is governed mostly by how much surface area is exposed and how saturated the air is. We can’t do much about the air saturation but we can keep droplet size up to reduce percentage of exposure.

Remember school science? A globe (droplet) increases mass x 4 each time you double its diameter but the surface area only doubles. This principle works

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for both sprinklers, large guns and pivot sprinklers etc. Sprinklers tend to have smaller droplets. So bang goes the second claim Thirdly, water penetration - and we are assuming the ground has not been left to go rock hard- is a hydraulic result.

Within reason, the more water you apply the more penetration you get. It’s not possible for 1mm of application to do the same as 2mm. So bang goes that claim.

I know Variable Rate Irrigation with GPS plotting/mapping is helping to reduce water used, but this is probably outside what most readers are considering.

Fixed sprinklers also suffer from excess application due to overlap. The most common placement of sprinklers is on a square pattern. Easy spacing requires not too much thinking and fits most paddocks. However some areas are getting four times the application of others.

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

Avocados step closer to China

November 2017

19

New Zealand is a significant step closer towards supplying fresh avocados to Chinese consumers and opening up access to a brand new market for growers.

Zealand exported $155.5 million of avocados into markets such as Australia, Japan, Singapore, Korea and Thailand — growth of around $64 million from the previous season.

“China is very aware of the significant global increase in avocado consumption, the associated health benefits and the strong growth and huge potential in the avocado category,” says New Zealand Avocado chief executive Jen Scoular.

Chair of the New Zealand Avocado Growers Association, Tony Ponder says their aim is to create a globally competitive, highvalue, sustainable hor ticulture industr y

delivering real returns to New Zealand.

“We are well on the way towards this, and access to China for our avocados will play a big part.”

Avocado exports will join New Zealand’s other fresh fruit exports to China that include apples, kiwifruit, cherries, plums, citrus and persimmons.

Growth in the industry is also being enabled through the New Zealand Avocados Go Global Primary Growth Partnership programme between New Zealand Avocado and MPI. It is a five-year, $8.56 million collaboration with the goal to triple productivity and grow industry returns to $280 million per year by 2023.

Photo: New Zealand Avocado

Some of the team from the Ministry for Primary Industries and the avocado industry working towards facilitating access for New Zealand avocados into China

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A series of technical discussions and the negotiation and signing of a protocol to agree export requirements for avocados have successfully wrapped up between MPI and China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine, with input from New Zealand’s avocado industry. The next step before trade commences is an audit of New Zealand’s regulatory system for exporting avocados by AQSIQ in mid-December 2017.

“Securing export access for our avocados into China is New Zealand’s top horticulture priority,” says MPI’s Martyn Dunne.

“The progress is a good demonstration of the strength of collaboration and positive, respectful relationships. The progress to date towards securing access for our avocados is underpinned by collaboration and the positive relationship shared by both New Zealand and China.

“MPI and the avocado industry are committed to getting our avocado trade underway as soon as possible.”

In the 2016/17 season, New Zealand’s avocado industry achieved its best ever season reaching a record breaking industry value of more than $200 million from 7.9 million trays.

Avocados are still relatively unknown in China, but demand for New Zealand’s avocados has boomed. In 2016/17, New

20

November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

LIVESTOCK

Restoring public support for dairy Fonterra has launched what it describes as ‘an ambitious plan’ to improve the country’s freshwater quality, including farming within environmental limits and encouraging strong environmental farming practices and Fish & Game say the plan is long overdue.

“Fonterra has been around for 16 years and in that time we have seen cow numbers soar, irrigation explode and water quality plummet,” says Fish & Game’s Martin Taylor.

“Fonterra has realised it must act quickly to meet public demand for better water quality instead of relying on spending millions on slick PR campaigns promoting the dairy industry. The admission dairy farming needs to clean

up its act is welcome, but long overdue.”

There are now more than six million cows in New Zealand. In regions like Canterbury where dairying was once uncommon, there are now one and a quarter million cows.

“That is more than the number of humans in the whole of the South Island. The environmental impact of that volume of untreated dairy effluent being dumped on land is the equivalent of the raw sewage produced by tens of millions of people,” says Mr Taylor.

“By Fonterra’s own admission, sediment, nutrient and E. Coli levels in our waterways is increasing or indeterminate in up to nearly 80 percent of the small number of rivers it refers to in its report.

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“Make no mistake, the present dire situation has been caused by Fonterra’s single-minded focus on increased production at all costs, aided and abetted by weak regional councils.

“It is ironic a multi-national corporate which relies on New Zealand’s clean green image for its marketing has damaged that clean green reality. Now they realise spending millions of dollars on slick TV ads to persuade people otherwise isn’t working.”

He says Fonterra must do more to turn things around and do it quickly, and cutting cow numbers and protecting small streams are good places to start.

“The bottom line is there are too many cows. Herd numbers need to be reduced until they are in balance with the environment.

“Other equally aggressive measures also need to be taken, including reducing the volume of nutrients being dumped on our soils.”

He believes Fonterra’s announcement shows the power of public opinion.

“New Zealanders are fed up with the plunge in water quality — that’s why it became one of this election’s defining issues. Public anger is now at a level where Fonterra’s social licence to operate is under serious threat and they’re being forced to respond.

“Every New Zealander is now watching how Fonterra will fulfill its environmental promises. It needs to act quickly and decisively to prove its commitment is real and not just public relations spin.”

The plan is based around six strategic commitments, and will underpin Fonterra’s efforts to promote healthy streams and rivers, including a strong focus on sustainable farming and manufacturing.

Recent examples include Fonterra’s commitment to restore 50 key freshwater catchments, its membership, the Farming Leaders’ Pledge, and to work with the Department of Conservation on the Living Water initiative.

“The Co-operative and its farmers had been working hard to address water quality, but we’re ready and willing to do even more,” says Fonterra Farm Source’s Miles Hurrell.

“Like all Kiwis, we want healthy rivers.

All intensive land uses have had an impact on water quality in this country — that is why we have to work together to address the issue. We are putting up our hands and promising to work with communities to promote healthy waterways for Kiwis to enjoy. Importantly, we are backing up our words with action and making tangible commitments that we believe will make a real difference.”

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

November 2017

LIVESTOCK

The fight against pests Protecting New Zealand sheep and beef farmers from pests and disease incursions is vital for the future prosperity of the sector and many farmers believe biosecurity risks are among the biggest issues faced as an industry.

“The unfortunate reality is that to date, Beef + Lamb New Zealand has had little say in deciding how the biosecurity needs of sheep and beef farmers are met with the Government making all the final decisions. We now have the opportunity to change that,” says Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Sam McIvor.

Farmers will have recently received an information pack detailing why B+LNZ, alongside DairyNZ and Deer Industry New Zealand, is seeking your support to sign a Government Industry Agreement for Biosecurity Readiness and Response Deed.

“The GIA is our door ‘into the tent’ with the Government and other sectors and will give us a say in decisions that affect our farmers, particularly around funding and response. Signing the GIA will give farmers and the sector increased certainty and control over our own biosecurity destiny.

“It means we would be better-prepared, have a pre-agreed set of minimum readiness and response commitments between industry and government, and agreed limits on our potential cost-share for readiness and response activities.

“GIA does come at a cost, however it also means we pay to have a say in ensuring

our sector’s biosecurity needs are met going forward.

“If we don’t sign the GIA, we would be unlikely to improve our influence over the decisions that affect our sector and the Government could also use powers under the Biosecurity Act 1993 to recover costs from industries that benefit from a response even if they have not signed the GIA. “We would also lose the opportunity to work together with government and other industries under the GIA to manage fundamental risks to all livestock farmers.”

Following the end of the consultation on December 6, B+LNZ will review the submissions and other feedback before making a decision about whether or not to seek recognition from the Minister of Agriculture and Biosecurity that they have a mandate to sign the GIA Deed.

To have your say read the information pack and complete the submission form

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22

November 2017

WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL WHEELS

Return of the Century

by Andy Bryenton

The recent Tokyo Motor Show proved two facts — that Japanese design is setting off in a bold new direction, and that electric and hybrid powertrains are here to stay. But the star of the show didn’t wear the badge of any Japanese marque you’re likely to have heard of.

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That, in itself is bizarre, because it is without a doubt the most prestigious product Toyota have ever made. While their robotic production lines can put together a Yaris in minutes, this car is hand assembled over nine days. The bumper alone is polished for 11 hours by a man who would, in the 1600s, have crafted samurai swords.

A fleet of just five are owned by the Imperial House of Japan, and you have to be invited to an exclusive club to be allowed to own one. Nevertheless, the 2018 Century is deliberately understated — an anti-Lamborghini which is silent, unobtrusive, luxurious, silky smooth, and utterly on a par with Rolls Royce, Bentley and Maybach. It’s a classic tuxedo in a world of sports jackets and jeans. Out of time, but never out of place.

Only three design changes have defined the Century since 1967. It’s the opposite of ostentatious, and has a reputation as the vehicle for the conservative, successful — but never boastful or vulgar — Japanese VIP. Resembling a toned-down Lincoln town car crossed with a big 1980s era

ExperienceSuspension

Mercedes, the Century now comes with a 4.3 litre Lexus V8 with an additional electric motor for utterly silent power.

The outgoing edition was the one and only Toyota to be fitted with a V12.

This was in fact two of Toyota’s coveted 1JZ engines joined together. It was tuned not for speed, however, but to move all three tons of the Century in refined silence, producing over 400Nm of torque at just 1200 rpm. Most of us will never see a Century, let alone buy one. But its very existence raises a question.

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Many people think that the Hilux and Land Cruiser both peaked with previous incarnations. They, like the Century, were made by Toyota to achieve a singular purpose, and they did so with balance and sharpness. Wouldn’t you love to see what could be achieved if Toyota put the Century team on designing an ultimate, immutable, timeless off-road ute?

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WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

November 2017

RURAL WHEELS

23

Small stature, big results

by Andy Bryenton

Even the smallest lifestyle block demands something more than just a traditional lawn mower, which is why so many owners of the classic ‘few acres in the country’ opt for a powerful ride-on to tame the grass.

But there are other chores which abound on the land, especially if you’re taking the plunge into running a small amount of stock, or if your land is more wild and rugged than you’d like.

That’s when the allure of joining the big boys and buying a real farm tractor becomes appealing.

But many lifestyle block owners will freely admit that such an investment is a bit beyond what’s truly necessary. A big tractor can be a daunting machine to learn to drive especially if you’re coming to the ‘hot seat’ later in life.

Now, however, there’s a happy medium which may just tick all the boxes. The smallest tractor in New Zealand is also, paradoxically, the beefiest lawn tractor, and it comes in any colour you like so long as it’s orange.

Kioti’s CS2210 is called a ‘sub compact’, and that’s because it weighs in smaller than some big zeroturn mowers.

The classic setup for this machine is to fit a large slasher-mower to its central PTO and immediately begin smashing out neatly clipped paddocks.

Of course it will also handle pulling a trailer, carting sprayer equipment and even mounting a dozer blade up front.

A powerful water cooled diesel engine developing 21 horsepower gets plenty of torque to those wide, soil-friendly tyres.

But it’s beyond the realm of mowing where this step-up from the traditional lawn tractor to a real farming machine shines.

That’s because the baby Kioti can handle a full range of tractor sized tools.

Post hole borers, stump grinders, power harrows, disc cultivators — if you want your few acres to do more, there’s a whole utility knife of functions which can bolt on to the three point hitch at the back of this little machine. What’s even better is the classic combo that will fulfill nearly all the chores around your block or small farm — the full ‘JCB’ pattern with a big utility bucket scoop at the front and an Bridging the gap between town and country — Kioti’s smallest ever tractor is a lifestyle block champion articulated backhoe behind.

Snap on this combination and feeding out, moving bark and gravel, trenching and drain clearance suddenly becomes a much easier task, all with the help of a machine you initially considered as just the biggest and best high-acreage mower on the market.

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November 2017 WAIRARAPA FARMING LIFESTYLES

TUMU

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