Rural News 7 November 2023 by Rural News Group

AGRIBUSINESS

CANTERBURY SHOW

What next for fertilser?

Showcasing why farming matters. PAGE 18

PAGE 11

TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS NOVEMBER 7, 2023: ISSUE 788

www.ruralnews.co.nz

Ag courses safe! PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

“WE ARE open for business.” That’s the clear message from the head of Massey University’s School of Agricultural and Environment, Professor Paul Kenyon. There has been some confusion about which courses at Massey University might be closing, as it goes through its current ‘proposal change process’. This has led many people to draw the conclusion that Massey is cutting its suite of agricultural science degree programmes. That is not the case. Massey has been getting enquires regarding what the proposed changes might mean for the agricultural courses at the university. This has prompted Kenyon to go public and set the record straight. “To suggest that Massey is no longer in the business of teaching quality agricultural and horticultural

Paul Kenyon says that Massey is not cutting its suite of agricultural science degree programmes.

HORT A GREAT OPTION THERE IS especially high demand from the horticulture sector for graduates. Kenyon says if he had his time again, he would do a horticulture degree. “Going forward that sector will be a real strength for NZ and there’s a real opportunity for students to build a fulfilling career in that sector,” he told Rural News. “The misconception people have is that if you come to do a hort degree you are going to end up in low paying, low

level role picking or pruning. But we are actually training people for jobs across the value chain ranging from orchard managers though to packhouse managers through to exporters and other key roles across the whole value chain.” Kenyon says horticulture needs young, innovative minds that are willing to do things differently. Looking to the future, he believes that technology will play a massive role in horticulture’s

GET A

GREAT DEAL

MORE SCAN HERE TO VIEW NOW

growth. He says agriculture and horticulture will both require people who can manage large data bases. ”People need to embrace technology and not be afraid of it and recognise the positive impact it can have to grow all farming systems. I think there has never been a better time for young people to get into agriculture and horticulture.” @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

courses is completely wrong,” he told Rural News. “As a school, we are investing significantly in our resources. We have been and continue to employ new staff, as well as upgrading our facilities on our farms. I am concerned that people are getting the impression that Massey is no longer involved in agriculture and horticulture – because that is far from the case.” Kenyon says the current cuts in science do not directly relate to the Bachelor of Agricultural Science, Bachelor of Horticultural Science, Bachelor of Agribusiness, Bachelor of Animal Science, Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science major and Bachelor of Science (Earth Science major), as well as their associated postgraduate programmes, masters and PhD programmes. Kenyon told Rural News that usually in the first year, across those six programmes, they have about 200 to 230 students and traditionally they have had good strength. He is concerned that people think those programmes aren’t open for business. Kenyon added that, prior to the current confusion, the university had seen renewed interest in the various agricultural and horticultural graduate courses. He says his school has a huge number of scholarships to help reduce any financial burden to prospective students. Kenyon says the message from industry is that they want more graduate to fill the vacancies across the whole spectrum of the primary sector.

UPGRADE EU FTA SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

DAIRY PROCESSORS want New Zealand to upgrade the free trade deal signed with the European Union by the former Labour Government. Dairy Companies Association of NZ (DCANZ) executive director Kimberly Crewther says the way the NZ-EU trade deal was closed for dairy highlights that we are very far from a point of “peak FTA”. Her comments come as Australia walked away from an FTA with the EU last week, after failing to win meaningful access for Australian agricultural products. Crewther told Rural News that the approach taken by the EU in negotiations with Australia appears to have mirrored the approach the EU took with New Zealand: Seeking to keep its own dairy market largely closed, while at the same time advancing an agenda to monopolise certain cheese names that have been used internationally for decades. “We are not surprised to see the Australian industry backing its government in walking away from a deal on these terms,” she adds. “It is a matter of public record that DCANZ requested the New Zealand Government to not close out an agreement with the low level of dairy access we were granted. Especially when the EU had previously eliminated dairy tariffs in TO PAGE 3

SOMETHING’S

WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE.

The tractor’s insured for more than they are.

INHD10/23

Insuring key assets on your farm like vehicles, machinery and buildings is a given. But what about yourself and your family? If one of you becomes ill, disabled or even dies, what decisions would you need to make, and what support would you need? With FMG Life & Health cover, your family and your business can be looked after should the worst happen. To find out how, go to fmg.co.nz/picture, or call us on 0800 366 466.

We’re here for the good of the country.

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

NEWS 3

Mysterious departure!

ISSUE 788

www.ruralnews.co.nz

SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

NEWS ��1-10 AGRIBUSINESS ��11 HOUND, EDNA �� 12 CONTACTS �� 12 OPINION �� 12-14 MANAGEMENT �� 16 ANIMAL HEALTH �� 17 CANTERBURY SHOW ��18-19 MACHINERY AND PRODUCTS �� 20-22 RURAL TRADER ��22-23

HEAD OFFICE Lower Ground Floor, 29 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland 0622 Phone: 09-307 0399 Fax: 09-307 0122 POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 331100, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 Published by: Rural News Group Printed by: Inkwise NZ Ltd CONTACTS Editorial: editor@ruralnews.co.nz Advertising material: davef@ruralnews.co.nz Rural News online: www.ruralnews.co.nz Subscriptions: subsrndn@ruralnews.co.nz

FONTERRA’S ANNUAL general meeting in Canterbury this week would have been Neil Beaumont’s first as chief financial officer. However, the co-op’s top number cruncher abruptly departed last week, leaving shareholders puzzled. Fonterra chair Peter McBride will face questions around Beaumont’s sudden departure at the AGM in Methven on Thursday (November 9). Last week, the co-operative issued a statement to the NZ Stock Exchange, stating that Beaumont was leaving the co-operative and that his last day would be November 3. No reason was given for his departure. Pointedly, Fonterra’s statement had neither any appreciation for Beaumont’s nine-month stint nor good wishes for the future. Fonterra Co-operative Council, a watchdog holding the board to account on behalf of shareholders, is “very surprised” by the announcement. Council chair John Stevenson says councillors have received “plenty of questions” from farmers looking for

Fonterra’s chief financial officer Neil Beaumont abruptly departed the co-op last week, leaving shareholders puzzled.

more information. Many shareholders are speculating on the reasons for the short tenure within a senior executive position, he says. “The council has no insight into the reasons for his departure,” Stevenson told Rural News.

“The direction of our co-operative is positive. We are coming off the back of some strong financial results. Farmers will be looking for reassurance that this disruption does not affect the direction of travel.” Stevenson says the council will be

asking questions of the board on behalf of its members. Fonterra shareholder and Kaikohe farmer Richard Dampney, who has submitted four remits for the AGM this week on board representation, says he’s keen to know why Beaumont lasted only nine months in the job. Dampney intends to question McBride and chief executive Miles Hurrell on Thursday. “This has come out the blue and, like me, shareholders are keen to know what happened,” he told Rural News. “Did we pick the wrong man and did we force him to go?” Another Fonterra shareholder Garry Reymer says the CFO’s departure isn’t a good look for the co-op. “It’s a concern: I note that in the shareholder council report they talk of the need for more transparency from the board,” Reymer told Rural News. “They also note the declining shareholder trust in Fonterra. This sort of thing will only increase the concerns in the shareholder base.” Simon Till, Fonterra’s director capital markets, will act as CFO while the recruitment process is underway, the co-op told NZX.

Calls to upgrade EU FTA ❱❱ FROM PAGE 1

trade details with Canada and the UK.” Crewther points out that bilateral and plurilateral trade agreements might cover over 70% of NZ’s current trade, but the trade negotiating job is far from over. “New Zealand dairy exports continue to incur more than $1 billion in tariffs annually and 86.8% of global consumption takes place behind tariff barriers of 10% or more. These trade barriers suppress the value of New Zealand dairy exports,” says Crewther. “This means it is important that

New Zealand’s trade agenda includes upgrading the EU FTA to put us on a level playing field, as well as completing the unfinished business of tariff elimination with other FTA partners including Japan, Korea, Canada, and Mexico.” Federated Farmers dairy section chair Richard McIntyre says it’s no secret that Kiwi dairy farmers were disappointed with NZ’s free trade deal with the EU. “The deal gave very little in the way of market access to NZ dairy products, while imposing restrictions on the use of geographic indicators such as Feta,” he told Rural News.

NO DEAL AUSTRALIA TURNED down the EU’s trade deal offer following the latest round of talks. Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell said they had not been able to make progress. National Farmers’ Federation David Jochinke thanked the Australian Government for “standing by Australian farmers and walking away from an unacceptable offer”. “It would have locked our farmers in at a disadvantage to competitors in New Zealand, Canada and South America.” Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC) chair Rick Gladigau says that despite the best efforts of the Australian Government, the EU has continued to make unreasonable demands by insisting Australia adopt an anti-competitive Geographical Indications (GI) regime, while at the same time not providing equitable market access into the EU dairy market.

High quality innovative and reliable machinery - robust and easy to maintain.

SIDE SPREADER

SLURRY TANKER

KOMPACTOR

www.hispec.net.nz www.gaz.co.nz Call Eric Crosby | 027 838 7990 CAMBRIDGE | ŌTOROHANGA | ROTORUA | TAUPŌ

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

4 NEWS

Fonterra to set Scope 3 emissions targets soon SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

FONTERRA WILL shortly be introducing a Scope 3 emissions target, which will seek to reduce emissions intensity on supplying farms Chief executive Miles

reports which detail their individual farm’s greenhouse gas emissions,” he says. “By knowing where their emissions come from, farmers can see where they need to take action on farm.” Fonterra’s plan to introduce Scope 3 emis-

Hurrell told the International Dairy Federation’s world dairy summit in Chicago last month, working with farmers to collectively achieve this goal is imperative for the co-op. “We already provide farmers with insights

EDNA CALENDAR 2024

“We’re going fishing and I’ve got Edna driving the boat up and down to charge its battery.”

EDNA!!

❱❱ $25 including post & packaging ❱❱ 12 of Edna’s best cartoons

ORDER NOW! T: 09-307 0399

then press 1 to be put through to reception

E: julieb@ruralnews.co.nz

“Help! – someo

ne just set Ag

1 7 14

8 15

JANUARY 2024 T

2 9 16

3 10

4 11

SUNDAY

sector plans

to slash methan

e emissions

RURAL NEWS TO ALL FARMERS,

HORTNEWS

FOR ALL FARMERS

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

1 4

back ten years!”

FEBRUARY 20 24

MONDAY

14 21 28

15 DAYS

SOUTHERN FIELD

4 11

6 13

8 15

2 9 16

SATURDAY

7 14

19 26

SOUTHERN FIELD

5 12

18 25

16 DAYS

MARCH 2024 T

31 3 10 17 24

FRIDAY

WAITANGI DAY

SOUTHERN FIELD

17 DAYS

29 NORTHLAND

Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell says the co-op will soon set Scope 3 targets which cover indirect emissions from its farm suppliers and account for more than 90% of its tally.

indirect emissions from its farm suppliers and account for more than 90% of its tally. Fonterra claims New Zealand’s pasture-based farming model produces low carbon dairy with a footprint one third the global average. Hurrell points out that despite this natural advantage,

they’re always looking to improve, so that the co-op can continue to meet the needs of customers, regulators, and financial institutions. “But we also know that finding a solution to methane will be a huge unlock for our farmers’ emissions profiles. Agriculture makes up almost

half of the New Zealand’s domestic greenhouse gas footprint, so we know as an industry and a country we must find a solution.” Hurrell says any methane solution must do four things – it must be good for the cow, good for the milk, good for farmers, and of course good for the planet. He adds that it is no easy task, but the co-op can achieve more through partnering with others. One of these partnerships is between the New Zealand agri-industry and Government, in a Joint Venture called AgriZeroNZ. Over the next three years around $165 million has been committed to accelerate the development of emission mitigation tools and technology through targeted investment.

PGW RETURNS TAKE A HIT

2024 Edna Calendar

❱❱ 330mm x 240mm, spiral bound

sions target was first announced at its annual general meeting one year ago. The co-op had initially planned to release the target around June. However, the co-op delayed it by six months after pushback from farmer shareholders, already under pressure from rising interest rates, soaring farm input costs and lower farmgate milk price. Fonterra claims it is facing pressure from overseas markets, big customers and banks to improve sustainability. While the co-operative has been reducing its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, generated primarily by its manufacturing sites and transport operations, it hasn’t yet set a target for Scope 3. These cover

RURAL SERVICES company PGG Wrightson has warned its returns for the year will be down as it feels the impact of the challenges facing the rural sector. The company issued guidance, ahead of its annual meeting, forecasting operating earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) of around $52m – down from the $61.2m it reported in the 12 months to June 30, 2023. PGW noted that trading in the

first quarter was “back” on last year, influenced by the macroeconomic environment and a subdued real estate market. Its retail and water business made up 80% of the company’s revenue in the last financial year, with its agency group – which includes real estate – making up the balance. The rural sector is under pressure – particularly red meat and dairy – with prices at low levels and on-farm inflation sitting at near 40-year highs. Farmer confi-

dence has hit a record low, according to Rabobank’s most recent rural confidence survey. PGW acting chair U Kean Seng says farmers have tightened their belts and there was a “significant degree” of volatility in the global economy and international markets. The company says it was still early in the financial year and they would be in a better position to assess the full-year forecast after the spring trading period. – David Anderson

FIELD DAYS

Sizes: 60L - 100L - 160L

NEW MEAL TROUGHS

LIQUID FERT MIXING TANK CONTACT US: 0800 668 534 info@adplasnz.com advantageplastics.co.nz “A great way to self-mix/dissolve a range of Fertilizers yourself on farm.” Advantage Plastics Ltd

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

NEWS 5

Urban/rural divide debunked MEDIA HAVE ROLE TO PLAY

JESSICA MARSHALL jessica@ruralnews.co.nz

NEW RESEARCH out of Massey University suggests that the concept of an urban/rural divide may not be accurate. The Diverse Experience of Farming project, co-funded by Our Land and Water National Science Project, saw over 1300 urban and rural New Zealanders interviewed to build a picture surrounding attitudes towards farming. Rural scientist Dr Janet Reid from Massey University’s School of Agriculture & Environment, co-led the research. She says she and research co-lead Dr Alice Beban from Massey’s School of People, Environment & Planning initially sought to look at the idea about a social license to farm. “From our perspective, we weren’t comfortable with that idea that there was this urban/rural divide. We had a sense that it was a whole lot more complex than that,” Reid told Rural News. She says that in exploring the concept of the social license to farm, they were able to explore the perception of farming across the country. Reid adds that the idea of an urban/rural divide does not reflect the reality of what they are seeing in the research.

REID RECKONS that one of the major things that fuels the perception of a disconnect from a rural perspective is misinformation within media and the role of the media, “painting what they saw as not an accurate picture”. Reid says farmers saw media as highlighting ‘bad apples’ rather than accurately representing the sector. “But we also know from the survey that over half of urban respondents, the main way that they learn about farming and the perception of farming come from the supermarket when they go and buy food,” she says. “So… I think it is complex in that there is no one thing that is contributing to that and people have slightly different

The research found that farmers felt that the urban public doesn’t fully understand the many challenges they encounter.

“What we found, which is what we expected to find to a large extent, is that of course it’s not that straightforward. It’s a whole lot more nuanced and complex than that,” she told Rural News. One key finding, that Reid says proves that point, is that one in five of those surveyed identified as a combination of rural and urban. “When we looked at who identified as rural, some aren’t farmers and likewise [some] farmers identify as urban. This assumption that we can put people neatly and nicely into these pigeonholes and then argue for this divide and this lack of connection is not accurate at all,” Reid explains.

“We need to understand in a whole lot more depth the multiple dimensions of this continuum.” She adds that there’s variety amongst the farming community as there is diversity and variety amongst those people that don’t live in rural areas but live in provinces as well as in cities. Beban told Rural News many of the people interviewed for the research said they felt a disconnect and for farmers in particular there was a feeling that the urban public doesn’t fully understand what they face. “But at the same time, there were really shared concerns and shared values and so what we found is that while there may be this kind of sense

ENTER THE NATIONAL WILD GOAT HUNTING COMPETITION

that there’s a disconnect,” she says. “When we asked people: ‘What comes to mind when you think about farming? What’s the first word?’, for the majority of people, no matter what

the demographics were, it was food.” Beban believes that food is a connection point but so is the natural environment, with both urban and rural valuing them. When asked about concerns about the farm-

perceptions on that.” Beban says they asked respondents what they can do to build trust because while they found a shared value of the sector, there was a lower trust amongst urban populations. “For the urban public, the biggest thing was that they want confidence that farmers are really farming sustainably, that they’re doing their bit for the environment.” She adds that there was a sense that they didn’t trust what they saw as “PR spin if it’s stuff that comes straight out of the farming industry organisations”. “On the farming side, they want to see real stories of farming in the media that go beyond sensational headlines,” she told Rural News.

ing sector, she adds that – regardless of the demographics – costs and environmental impact came out on top. “Those were shared concerns, shared values,” she says. “So, what we’re saying is, yes, there is

this perceived sense of disconnect but actually when you think about the concerns, the values, what people underneath are feeling, there are all these shared points that can be a place that we can build dialogue on.”

TIP TRAILERS 14 Tonne Bathtub Tip Trailer with Leveling Bar fitted.

Designed and built for you!

Improve your time and efficiency! “Go out loaded and level on your next load”

1 August – 26 November 2023 To enter, visit www.doc.govt.nz/wild-goat-hunting-competition. Supported by Federated Farmers of NZ and Hunting & Fishing NZ.

Enter the National Wild Goat Hunting

STRENGTH / QUALITY / PERFORMANCE 0800 622 276 WWW.MCINTOSH.KIWI

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

6 NEWS

New MP’s journey of thousands of ‘Miles’ LEO ARGENT

SOUTH CANTERBURY farmer and former Federated Farmers Meat and Wool chair Miles Anderson was recently elected in a landslide as Waitaki’s new MP. The fourth generation to run the family farm, in 1992 Anderson co-established a pioneering livestock pregnancy scanning business in the central South Island regions – eventually expanding into South Australia. In 2004, he took over the family farm and was Fed’s Meat and Fibre chair from 2017-2020. Anderson had the organisation renamed to give wool more prominence and helped introduce updated codes of practice for livestock agents. He says that New Zealand is currently facing many challenges, internally and externally. “People are under pressure because interest rates and cost of living have gone up dramatically,” Anderson told Rural News. “China, where we send a good 60% of our product to, is going through their own challenges. A big concern is that our overseas income might not be as good as it could be and it is overseas income that pays for our hospitals and schools.” He feels that the last few years have

Newly elected Waitaki MP Miles Anderson says he intends to push for sensible legislation leading to sensible regulations for the agriculture sector.

seen little rural-provincial representation in government, resulting in farmers’ challenges being overlooked. “It got to the stage where farming families are either exiting the industry or discouraging the next generation to follow in their footsteps. I think primary industries in NZ need to be a big part in paying off our debts.” Nevertheless, Anderson believes that things can get better. As an MP he intends to push for sensible legislation leading to sensible regulations. “Not only has the

primary sector been impacted by the amount of legislation and unworkable regulations that have come out over the last six years, but business sectors feel much the same,” he adds. “They feel overregulated, impacting business profitability and their ability to invest in their own business as things move forward. He believes a new National-led government needs to be more aggressive in coming to FTAs with other countries. “Particularly places like Vietnam, Cambodia,

For Higher Productivity + Lower Servicing Costs TORNADO RANGE

• UDOR ceramic plunger pump & gear-box • Genuine Honda petrol engine • 10 models from 1800 to 5000 psi

Malaysia etc. If we’re trading with those countries and not relying on China so much, we’ll hopefully spread the risk of dealing with one big economy.” One of Anderson’s big hopes is for the divisions across the country to repair over the next three years. “We’ve sort of got this rural-urban divide, landlords and tenants, employers and employees… We need to forge ahead as a united country, not a divided country. “I quite like working with people with different styles and differ-

Sales & Service dealers throughout New Zealand

ALBERTI HOT CLEANERS • UDOR ceramic plunger pump • Heavy duty 1440 RPM motor • 230 & 400 Volt • User friendly

ELECTROBLAST RANGE

FREEPHONE

0508 78 78 78 www.aesblasters.co.nz

• 230 or 400 Volt 1440 RPM electric motors • 8 models from 1600 to 5000 psi

ent ways of doing things than I do, because you always learn something from those people. There can be a narrative spoken or a policy direction taken that doesn’t have a good guy-bad guy type story with it.” Anderson has been busy preparing for his swearing in as MP, getting a new parliamentary wardrobe, talking with other MPs such as retiring Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean and leasing out the family farm whilst on the campaign trail. Although he is excited to begin his new role, he admits that he will miss actively farming. “It dawned on me in the last six weeks when I was on the campaign trail (where he clocked up over 50,000 km in six months) and Parliament rose, normally I’d be lambing and tailing. Lambing is one of my favourite times of year. It’s going to be a big change for me and [wife] Kim and even the kids. Even though they’re not here, they could always come home and there was farming going on. “I particularly like the seasonal changes where you go from winter into spring, getting your crops in and summer with the harvest. No doubt about it, it’s going to be a big change.”

AG’S WISH LIST KEEPS GROWING WHEN THE new National-led government is finally formed there will be a long list waiting for it to action from the primary industries sector. Farmer lobby Federated Farmers says if the new government is serious about restoring farmer confidence it will need to hit the ground running. Feds says the new government needs to look at things like unworkable wetland rules, fertiliser caps, freshwater farm plans and the need for winter grazing resource consents. “All these issues could be resolved quickly through simple amendments with immediate effect.” Rural Contractors NZ, the lobby group for the agricultural contracting sector, says it has already written to Prime Minister-elect Christopher Luxon asking that his incoming Government urgently remove job check requirements, which are causing delays on some visas. RCNZ chief executive Andrew Olsen says his organisation wants changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) as part of any pre-Christmas legislative or regulatory changes. “I spoke to Christopher Luxon on the campaign trail when he was in Wairarapa. I raised with him the concerns of rural contractors across the country about the unfair difficulties posed by the new AEWV,” Olsen says. “In short, it requires employers to show no New Zealander wants to fill a job. This drags out the process of recruiting an overseas resident for months, causing unnecessary stress and cost to our $2b industry supporting farmers.” Olsen says by contrast, anyone here on a Working Holiday Visitor visa can be turned around to gain Immigration clearance in a couple of days, without the job check prerequisite. He is hopeful that dropping the job check requirement could be done in time for the maize season, which kicks off in February. Meanwhile, Apple &Pears New Zealand is asking the new government to urgently review the Recognised Seasonal Employment (RSE) scheme. Apple and Pears chief executive Karen Morrish wants changes to the scheme that she claims “would deliver phenomenal benefits”. She believes these could be implemented in the first 100 days of National forming government. Morrish is preparing a briefing paper for the incoming minister setting out some of the key issues in her sector that could benefit from government input. She says the industry should be proud of the RSE scheme and while it works well after 15 years it’s time to make improvements. Morrish believes that a government review of the scheme is needed and would be welcomed by the industry. – David Anderson

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

NEWS 7

Massey’s best options open PETER BURKE

KENYON HONOURED

peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

MASSEY UNIVERSITY’S top student for 2023 is still thinking about what she’ll do when she graduates. Alyssa Hayes, from Eketahuna, won the top prize – the coveted William Gerrish Memorial Award – at the annual awards ceremony, held in Palmerston North recently. The award is special in that it not only recognises an outstanding farm management student and the winner also needs to demonstrate a high level of personal integrity, intellectual curiosity, vision and social conscience. This is the 30th year the event has been run and the venue was packed with students, academic

AS PART of the graduation celebration for Massey Ag students, their boss and head of the School of Agriculture and the Environment – Professor Paul Kenyon – was recognised. He was presented with the Massey University Research Medal. The medal recognises that Kenyon’s scientific reputation reaches far beyond NZ and his research findings have been made to numerous farmer and industry organisations worldwide. Kenyon is an animal scientist who grew up on a sheep and beef farm. His speciality area of research is sheep, which he has done for more than 20 years.

staff and sponsors. Hayes is studying for a Bachelor of Agribusiness and Farm Management and will complete her degree this time next year. Normally, this degree would take three years, but Hayes has been

His notable achievements include his work on hogget mating and the management of twin and triplet ewes. He’s also been heavily involved in the use of alternative herbages to improve sheep performance. Kenyon has a number of research linkages and programme nationally and internationally – including Uruguay, China and Ireland. Kenyon told Rural News it was great to be recognised for the work his group has done in the sheep and beef sectors. “While the award is given to me, it’s a reflection of work of the whole team,” he says.

doing it remotely because she has been helping look after her grandmother who has dementia. She has also been helping out on her mother’s sheep and beef farm. “I am very proud and honoured to receive this

award, but at this stage I am not certain about what I’ll do when I graduate,” she told Rural News. “I’d like to go shepherding for a couple of years to get hands-on experience and then maybe get into consultancy.”

Massey University’s top student for 2023 Alyssa Hayes is still thinking about what she’ll do when she graduates.

Guest speaker at the graduate ceremony was Dr John Roche from MPI who told the graduates and students about what he’s learned in the 30 years since he graduated. He says young people need to understand that life isn’t always

rosy and that there will be challenges. Roche says, from his experience, ag, hort and animal science degrees will set them up and make them resilient in the face of adversity. “One of my key messages is always say ‘yes’ when the first challenges

comes. Later, you can figure out how to do it,” he says. Roche says that looking back, he thought he knew more than he did and his advice for young people is to listen a bit more. “A little humility goes a long way.”

6G SERIES

PERFORMANCE YOU CAN COUNT ON

2700

SPRING DEALS

POWER, COMFORT AND CONTROL » »

6 cylinder Deutz engine Highly efficient transmission

» »

Class-beating hydraulic system Isobus and auto-guidance options

Best of all, we’ve got your back with flexible finance options. Scan the QR code or call your local dealership for more information.

*Terms and conditons and normal lending criteria apply. Prices valid for a limited time only and while stocks last. 4000 hour/4 year warranty.

Power Farming NZ | www.powerfarming.co.nz | 0800 627 222

deutz nz

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

8 NEWS

Irish show how it’s done PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

MPI DIRECTOR general Ray Smith reckons NZ has a lot to learn from the Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority – called Teagasc (pronounced ‘Chog us’) Teagasc is an organisation that looks like what the old MAF did until it was remodelled back in the 1980s and 1990s. Before then MAF provided advisory services to farmers, did actual research and gave policy advice to government. There was a direct line between farmers, researchers and policy makers. Teagasc does all these things, including running field days for farmers all around Ireland, which regularly attract thousands of farmers and rural professionals. Smith was recently in Ireland where he met with top officials from Teagasc. He told Rural News that he was amazed with what the Irish are doing in bringing applied science to and engaging with farmers. He believes NZ could learn from that. Smith was impressed by the way

Ray Smith is impressed with what the Irish are doing in bringing applied science to and engaging with farmers.

Teagasc staff were engaging with farmers and trying to help them with the same issues that NZ has – such as climate change and nitrogen in waterways.

“I think they had a very good plan and I’d like to steal some of their ideas.” Smith liked the way Teagasc staff talked with farmers to find solutions

and also its move to lift education levels. He says the two countries have the same problems and are trying to find solutions and already a lot of good collaboration is taking place. Smith believes one of the challenges worldwide is getting a common understanding and a narrative that is common to all on these issues. “We need to have a common language and understanding of what all this means. I feel we have quite a lot of work to do with our farmers and growers to make sure we are all on the same page.” Smith adds that in addition to the collaboration already taking place with Ireland, good work is also being undertaken in the UK and the EU – primarily as a result of the recent FTAs. “I think the signing of the FTA agreements has really broken the back of what has sometimes been a challenging relationship,” he adds. “There is a real warmth and a willingness to share and willingness to listen and learn about NZ.”

CHINA RECOVERY FOLLOWING HIS trip to Europe, Smith made a separate trip to China. Here he met with his counterparts in the Chinese government who deal with agriculture, rural affairs, customs and the imports of infant formula. Smith says his engagement with these influential government officials could not have been warmer and he adds that both parties are working closely together to improve our respective systems and trading relationships. He believes the Chinese economy is slowly recovering after the Covid lockdowns, which saw China’s consumers adopt conservative spending patterns. He says the situation is slowly starting to change and that the higher prices at recent GDT auctions are an indicator of this. Smith adds that there are hundreds of thousands of Chinese people growing into the middle class. “We just have to be involved in China for the long run and my message to farmers is to just be patient, and while there may be dips from time to time, things will come right.”

RANGER 570 HD EPS ADC

RANGER XP 1000 HD EPS ADC

$22,895

INC GST

$30,995

FREE ROOF, GLASS SCREEN & REAR POLY PANEL

FREE FARM KIT (VALUED AT $5,000)

INC GST

FARM PACK INCLUDES A ROOF, GLASS SCREEN, WIPER KIT, REAR PANEL & A TOW HITCH VALUED AT $5,000^^

44 HP

ON DEMAND TRUE DUMP BOX ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE (AWD) CAPACITY - 227KG

VERSATRAC TURF MODE

SEAT BELT INTERLOCK

IRS WITH 25.4CM OF TRAVEL

82 HP

VERSATRAC HEAVY DUTY ENGINE BRAKING HIGH PERFORMANCE ON DUMP BOX DEMAND TRUE ALL- CAPACITY - 454KG TURF MODE FEATURES SYSTEM & ACTIVE WHEEL-DRIVE (AWD DESCENT CONTROL (ADC)

4.99% FINANCE ON ALL SXS MODELS

1/3

UPFRONT

1/3

IN 12 MONTHS

1/3

IN 24 MONTHS

Finance and accessories offer is available on a selection of in-stock models only, check with your participating Polaris Dealer for more details. Not valid with any other promotion. Excludes Fleet Clients. Finance is provided by Polaris Finance, a program operated by De Lage Landen Limited Company No 1355515 and available for business purposes only on a Hire Purchase Agreement. Credit approval, fees, terms and conditions apply. Finance rate is 4.99% and is based on a 24 month term, for full promotion details and structure please contact your Polaris Sales Representative. Delivery & Finance Settlement must be prior to 30th September 2023. *Terms and conditions apply. *Offer ends 31/12/23 or while stocks last. Offer only available at participating Polaris Dealers. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes fleet clients. ^^The free farm pack includes a roof, glass screen, wiper kit, rear panel & tow hitch valued at $5,000 inc GST. Must be claimed at time of purchase.

0800 440 290 | www.polarisnewzealand.com |

/PolarisNZ |

/polarisorv_nz

Knock down grass weeds for thriving forage crops

Remove grass weed competition in a wide range of forage crops and allow them to thrive. A combination of SeQuence® and Bonza Gold® will control over 20 grass weeds.

ONF208280NF

Contact your local Rural Supplier or Nufarm Territory Manager today, or for more info visit nufarm.co.nz/sequence

® ®

Sequence is a registered trademark of Nufarm Australia Limited. Bonza Gold is a registered trademark of Nufarm Limited.

208280 Nufarm RN SeQuence FP Advert 390x265mm.indd 1

2/10/23 3:47 PM

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

10 NEWS

Rural students at disadvantage JESSICA MARSHALL jessica@ruralnews.co.nz

A RECENT University of Auckland study shows that students from rural schools are at a disadvantage when attempting to gain university entrance. The study, published in the Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand earlier this month, compared NCEA and university entrance attainment rates across secondary schools from 2012 to 2021. It found rural high school had lower pass rates and marks than urban high schools. Lead author Dr Kyle Eggleton, who is Associate Dean (Rural) at the University of Auckland, says there are a myriad of reasons why rural students may not be achieving university entrance at the same level as their urban counterparts. “It relates to different demographic characteristics between rural and urban. So, you’re more likely to have socio-economic deprivation in rural areas so the deciles are different between urban and rural,” Eggleton told Rural News. He says another issue at play is that rural areas have higher populations of Māori people “and we know that Māori are discriminated against in the education system”. Eggleton claims this is because teachers may not offer as supportive a learning environment to Māori students as they would to students of other ethnicities. Addi-

“It relates to different demographic characteristics between rural and urban.”

tionally, he says, differing characteristics between urban and rural schools are having an impact as well. “The majority of schools in rural areas are co-educational public schools whereas only about 60% of urban schools are co-educational and public. There’s a higher percentage of private schools and single-sex schools and they have different resources that go into them.” Eggleton says the issue of fewer students being able to gain university entrance has significant ramifications for the country on the whole. He adds that it will have an impact on the size of the rural workforce when it comes to subjects – like medicine – which require university entrance. “It’s going to impact on our rural workforce because one of the key drivers of a rural workforce is having rural origin students,” Eggleton says. “You’re one and a half times more likely to work rurally if you come from a rural background so it’s a really important thing for us at the medical school to get rural students to come

Kyle Eggleton says the issue of fewer rural students being able to gain university entrance has significant ramifications for the country.

UNDER REVIEW THE MOE is currently undertaking a review of achievement standards offered to NCEA students (Years 11-13). Jackson says this includes the creation of new standards designed to show clearer pathways for further education, employment and training. “For rural students, this means designing learning and assessment opportunities that work for them as well as showing how future study can open doors to jobs which might not feature in their local community,” he told Rural News. “Many rural schools are part of Virtual Learning Networks (VLNs). These networks are clusters of schools that collaborate to use digital technologies to enhance learning outcomes and oppor-

• High Flow • Compact/Robust • New Pilot Flow Filter • Side/Bottom Mount • Detach to Clean

tunities. VLNs can support schools to share expertise with other schools in their network so students can access additional NCEA subjects through online learning,” he adds. But Eggleton believes that may not be enough. The University of Auckland study makes a number of recommendations. These include an equity focus for rural entry pathways, specifically targeting rural Māori students in Māori admission pathways, pre-programme preparatory courses in rural high schools and increased funding for rural high schools. “It is clear that more needs to be done to address the educational attainment inequities faced by rural students, particularly rural Māori students,” Eggleton says.

• For Water Storage Tanks • Adjustable levels from 50mm-2.5m • Minimises pump operation •Available in 20/25/32/50mm

0800 JOBE VALVES jobevalves.com

in,” he says. The lower achievement for rural students is also considered a major issue by the Ministry of Education (MOE), says Andy Jackson, deputy secretary, policy. “Regardless of where you live and go to school, all our young people should have the chance to succeed at school,” Jackson says. He told Rural News that one of the biggest challenges facing the sector at the moment is the retention and participation of students who are at risk of leaving school without any quali-

fications. “Secondary-Tertiary Partnerships (STPs or Trades Academies) play an important part in addressing this risk,” Jackson adds. He says that STPs provide students with an alternative pathway to gain skills and qualifications. “They enable young people to combine school and tertiary study through a range of tradesbased and technology training options. This means that our kids have more choices to explore and more opportunities to achieve.”

• Stainless steel bracket and Shaft • Fits plastic and concrete tanks • Rugged and long lasting

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

AGRIBUSINESS 11

What’s next for fertiliser? LEO ARGENT

AFTER EXTREME market volatility and record-high prices in recent years, global fertiliser prices are expected to settle in 2024, despite uncertainty posed by the Israel-Hamas conflict as it currently stands. That’s according to agri-banking specialist Rabobank’s just-released Semi Annual Fertiliser Outlook, titled What is Next? In it, Rabobank says while escalating tensions

that’s a large part of the oil supply.” Israel exports 6% of the world’s potash and 8% of its phosphate fertilisers (2022 data), while the broader MENA region accounts for 30% of the world’s nitrogen fertiliser exports. The region also accounts for more than 25% of global mixed fertiliser exports, 10% of potassic fertilisers and almost half of the phosphatic fertiliser exports. It remains to be seen how

combined with the recent crude oil hikes, how much is left in those budgets to increase fertiliser application rates?”

Global fertiliser prices are expected to settle in 2024, despite uncertainty posed by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

REAL WORLD. WORK READY. The UFORCE 1000 takes UTVs to the next level and, even more importantly, at a price that’s simply too good to refuse.

Overall, farmers around the world may feel some negative impact due to potentially rising costs of energy and fertilisers. in the Middle East create some uncertainty in the outlook for fertiliser markets, the current impact for the food and agri sectors is manageable. Report co-author, RaboResearch farm inputs analyst Vitor Pistoia says that, overall, farmers around the world may feel some negative impact due to potentially rising costs of energy and fertilisers. He adds this comes on top of slightly lower import demand and prices for grains and oilseeds due to the IsraelHamas conflict. However, Pistoia warns if the conflict spreads to the broader Middle East/North African (MENA) region, impacts on fertiliser supply – as well as grain, meat, and dairy demand – could be notable. “If the conflict escalates to surrounding countries and one of these countries is Iran, and we have proper military movement from Iran versus Western countries, it can drive crude oil up to 160 USD (90.07 USD as of October 30th),” he told Rural News. “Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz and if there is an escalation they will very likely close the strait so that can impact the surrounding countries i.e. Iraq, Saudi Arabia –

much of those trade volumes will be impacted in the coming months. Pistoia says while 2024 is still some months away, this year has been a much calmer year for the fertiliser market and can be seen as a transition year, even with some remnants of all the market complications from 2022. The bank’s models indicate a recovery in global fertiliser usage in 2023, up by around 3%, compared to the 7% drop in 2022, with an initial analysis suggesting an increase in global fertiliser use of close to 5% in 2024. Pistoia said local fertiliser prices were significantly lower than a year ago, but this would not necessarily lead to increased fertiliser usage across New Zealand farms over coming months. “Farm margins are incredibly tight across the majority of New Zealand farming businesses due to lower commodity prices and ongoing elevated costs for other farm inputs – like fuel and feed – as well as higher interest costs,” he adds. “And a key question is how much the recent drop in the New Zealand dollar will offset the reduced cost of fertiliser in farmers’ budgets. When this lower dollar is

CFORCE RANGE

$7,990

9,990

8,990

7,490

NOW

SAVE $500

400cc engine, 30hp Selectable 4WD Steel wheels Steel carrier racks Available in Sky Blue

11,490

EX GST

$11,990

400cc engine, 30hp Selectable 4WD Power steer Alloy wheels 2500lb winch Available in Lava Orange

495cc engine, 34hp Power steer LED headlights Alloy wheels 2500lb winch 5-inch display Available in Force Red

NOW

EX GST

SAVE $500

580cc engine, 40hp Power steer Front and rear diff lock Alloy wheels 2500lb winch Available in Velocity Grey

UFORCE RANGE

$15,490

14,490

NOW

15,490

EX GST

SAVE $1000

Limited Edition Camo 800cc V-twin, 62hp Power steer Front bar & bonnet rack Headlight guards 3500lb winch Available in Camo

580cc engine, 41hp Two drive modes Hill descent control Power steer LSD - rear limited slip differential 3500lb winch 680kg tow capacity 250kg rear tray capacity Available in Velocity Grey

NORTH ISLAND

Andys Moto Services, Waiuku 027 944 5442 Autohaus Rotorua, Rotorua 07 348 7444 Brown Brothers Bikes, Whanganui 027 572 7696 Country Engineering, Tauranga 07 552 0071 Country Machinery, Sanson 06 329 3900 Darryl August Motorcycles, Taupo 07 378 8342 DP Williams, Gisborne 06 863 2612 Dr Moto, Tauranga 07 578 9902 Gatmans Mowers, Silverdale 09 426 5612 Hamilton Motorcycle Centre, Hamilton 07 849 1919 JC Motorcycles, Waitara 06 754 6420 Johnston’s, Inglewood 06 927 3566

*Valid from 1/11/2023 to 31/12/2023 or while stocks last. Ride away prices quoted exclude GST. Visit www.cfmoto.co.nz for more information.

16,990

EX GST

580cc engine, 41hp Power steer Hill descent control Dual snorkel kit Front, rear & side bars Half windscreen 3500lb winch 680kg tow capacity 250kg tray capacity Available in Camo

Law Heat & Leisure, Whitford 09 530 8469 Maungaturoto Motorcycles, Maungaturoto 09 431 8555 Motorcycle HQ, Pahiatua 06 376 7163 Northland Powersports, Whangarei 09 437 5451 NZ Motorcycle Importers, Upper Hutt 0210 828 9789 Outdoor Power, Hastings 06 878 2369 Peninsula Motorcycles, Thames 07 868 6104 RevTech Powersports, Stratford 06 765 7712 Rob Titter Farm Services, Kaikohe 09 401 1774 Rouse Motorcycles, Hikurangi 09 433 8471 Tahuna Motorcycles & ATVs, Tahuna 07 887 5790 Whyteline, Paeroa 07 862 8783

$19,490

18,990

NOW

EX GST

SAVE $500

963cc V-twin, 71hp Two drive modes Power steer Hill descent control 800kg tow capacity 350kg rear tray capacity Available in Twilight Blue

SOUTH ISLAND

Action Sports Direct, Wanaka 07 928 8045 Ag & Auto Direct, Balclutha 03 418 0555 Colin Clyne Motorcycles, Oamaru 03 437 0559 Dan’s Motor Centre, Geraldine 03 693 8536 Diesel Tech Machinery, Frenside 03 313 6465 Diesel Tech Machinery, Methven 03 302 8946 East Coast Powersports, Ashburton 03 307 4846 Franks Motorcycles. Mataura 03 203 7309 Ian Day Farm and Lifestyle, Alexandra 03 448 9007 Marlborough Motorcycles, Blenheim 03 579 2500 Nelson Motorcycles, Nelson 03 548 3786 Remarkable Motorcycles, Queenstown 03 441 4653

www.cfmoto.co.nz

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

12 OPINION EDITORIAL

EDNA

Reality vs fantasy RESEARCH OUT of Massey University claims the concept of an urban/rural divide may not be entirely accurate. Anecdotal reports suggest that such a divide does exist in NZ. This is especially the case when we see largely urban-based groups like Greenpeace constantly attacking the farming sector – particularly the dairy industry. It can also be seen in the growth of rural ginger group Groundswell, which has done much to highlight the reality of the numerous regulations that farmers currently face and what many – more often than not urbanbased – critics claim are the poor environmental standards of the agricultural sector. Janet Reid from Massey University’s School of Agriculture & Environment, who co-led the research, says the idea of an urban/rural divide does not reflect the findings of their research. However, she concedes that it’s not that straightforward and the issue of a rural/ urban divide is more nuanced and complex. Reid argues that we can’t put people neatly into pigeonholes – rural or urban – as there is a whole lot more depth to the multiple dimensions of how New Zealanders see themselves. As she points out, there’s variety amongst the farming community as there is diversity and variety amongst those people who live in provinces and cities. Despite the research’s finding of no rural/ urban divide, it does show a real disconnect between the two – where farmers feel that the urban public doesn’t fully understand what they face on the land. An interesting finding of the research is how the media fuels the perception of a disconnect. Many farmers point to what they see as misinformation within media and the role it plays in highlighting ‘bad apples’ rather than accurately representing the sector. The research suggests the urban public wants confidence that farmers are really farming sustainably, that they’re doing their bit for the environment. While on the farming side, they want to see real stories of farming in the media that go beyond sensational headlines. A key takeaway is that bridging any divide requires building trust through connection, and the media has a role in achieving this.

RURALNEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS

HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 331100, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 Phone 09-307 0399 PUBLISHER: Brian Hight .......................................... Ph 09 307 0399 GENERAL MANAGER: Adam Fricker ....................................... Ph 021-842 226 CONSULTING EDITOR: David Anderson .................................Ph 09 307 0399 davida@ruralnews.co.nz

“Strewth – I hope we end up with a better coalition than that!”

THE HOUND Good!

According to political scientist Bryce Edwards the new parliamentary intake is heavy on farmers and professionals, but light on unionists. Edwards has researched the backgrounds of new MPs, to analyse what it says about our political leadership. He says the 2023 intake is very diverse relative to decades past. “It’s more business, more professional and more managerial”. Edwards added that in the last parliamentary term, ACT MP Mark Cameron claimed he was the only ‘working farmer’ in parliament. Now he’ll be joined by party colleague and former Feds president Andrew Hoggard, as part of a wider group of seven farmers becoming new MPs. Edwards says on the current numbers, 18 out of the 121 parliamentarians will have some kind of farming or agricultural background. Your old mate suggests that less unionists and more farmers in the parliament has to be a good thing!

Not funded by NZ On Air

That’ll do!

While most of the country is still lamenting the All Blacks one point loss to the South Africans in the Rugby World Cup final, the Hound – always on the outlook for a cloud with silver lining – found one bright spot on the sporting front. Just 24 hours before the ABs heart-breaking loss, New Zealand regained the coveted Wayleggo Cup in the hotly contested Trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial Test Series held, late last month, in Ashburton. The event saw the country’s four most talented sheepdogs taking on their Australian counterparts vying for supremacy. The Kiwis dominated, winning by 84.25 points across the two tests. NZ has now won 22 of the 36 matches since the competition’s inception in 1985, which is far superior to the Springboks’ four RWC victories (as opposed to NZ’s three) since the William Web Ellis Cup came into existence in 1987.

PRODUCTION: Dave Ferguson ................... Ph 027 272 5372 davef@ruralnews.co.nz Becky Williams ......................Ph 021 100 4381 beckyw@ruralnews.co.nz REPORTERS: Sudesh Kissun ........................ Ph 021 963 177 sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz Peter Burke ........................... Ph 021 224 2184 peterb@ruralnews.co.nz MACHINERY EDITOR: Mark Daniel ..............................Ph 021 906 723 markd@ruralnews.co.nz

Want to share your opinion or gossip with the Hound? Send your emails to: hound@ruralnews.co.nz

Hitting the fan?

A mate of yours truly wonders if the rush by some to implement taxes on agricultural emissions might just leave the country’s farmers in the proverbial. “Has anyone considered that if a bull harvests say 10 kilograms of DM a day and puts out less methane while digesting it – ( i.e. it farts and belches a little less than the bull next door),” he asks. “What happens when he excretes? Does his sh*t emit more methane on the ground than the next door’s bull does?” Old mate suggests the industry need to ‘get to the bottom of this crap’ and analyse the whole process. If we don’t, he suggests farming in NZ will become “unprofitable, un-bankable and unsustainable”. He wonders if we are being fed with a whole lot of “bulls*t” and will find ourselves “soundly in the crap”.

Ouch!

Your canine crusader notes that the Reserve Bank forecasts that more than 80% of beef and sheep farmers would be unprofitable if any future emissions pricing on carbon dioxide equivalent hit $150 per tonne. It says 82% of sheep and beef operations would be in the red and nearly half of dairy farms would also be unprofitable. These figures came after stress testing undertaken by banks, who were tasked by the Reverse Bank to look at what any potential price between $15/t and $150/t meant for farmers’ bottom lines. Your old mate suggest these figures will be a nasty wake-up call for the incoming National government as it looks to put in place a pricing system by 2030. It is also a reminder to those proponents of taxing ag emissions about what the real cost to the country would be. As they say, it is hard to be green when you are in the red!

AUCKLAND SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Stephen Pollard ......................... Ph 021 963 166 stephenp@ruralnews.co.nz

WELLINGTON SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Ron Mackay ................................. Ph 021 453 914 ronm@ruralnews.co.nz

WAIKATO SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Lisa Wise .................................. Ph 027 369 9218 lisaw@ruralnews.co.nz

SOUTH ISLAND SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Kaye Sutherland .......................Ph 021 221 1994 kayes@ruralnews.co.nz

PRINTED BY INKWISE DISTRIBUTED BY REACHMEDIA

DIGITAL STRATEGIST: Jessica Marshall .............. Ph 021 0232 6446

Rural News is published by Rural News Group Ltd. All editorial copy and photographs are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions or comments expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of staff, management or directors of Rural News Group Ltd.

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

OPINION 13

Balance is important! DOUG EDMEADES

IRRESPECTIVE OF where you fall on the human-induced-globalwarming spectrum – alarmist or sceptic – there is one thing we should all be 100% sure about. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a fertiliser because it carries one of the 16 essential nutrients (carbon, C) required for plant growth. Plants acquire this essential nutrient in the form of CO2 via a process called photosynthesis. The rate of plant growth is directly related to concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere, all other things being equal. I can recall as a young scientist in the then Ministry of Agriculture much talk about a new special glasshouse being constructed at the Levin Horticultural Research Station. It was special because it was sealed so that plant growth – in this specific case, tomatoes – could be enhanced by increasing the concentration of CO2

in the atmosphere! There is now a large body of research quantifying this effect. From this data it is predicted that if atmospheric CO2 was increased by 300ppm – and this, some say, is possible given current emissions – plant growth will increase by about 30-40%. A fertiliser indeed! Satellite images have captured this fertilising effect. The planet is becoming greener, and this effect is most discernible in arid areas. Why should this be? The “skin” – the outer layers of the plant leaf – have little openings called stomata through which gases can enter (e.g. CO2, water) and leave (oxygen and water) the plant. As the CO2 increases, the number and the size of these stomatal “holes” decreases and consequently the plant becomes more efficient at using water. The rule of thumb is that if you double the CO2 concentration, the amount of water required

by the plant is halved. These, I emphasise, are not trivial effects! These scientific facts about the important role of CO2 are immutable and therefore we should be very careful how we use words like “pollutant” and “decarbonise” when talking about CO2. That “stuff” that you

see pouring out of industrial chimneys cannot be CO2 for the simple and sufficient reason that the gas CO2 is colourless. That acrid smog hanging over our large cities is not CO2 because CO2 is odourless. The pollution – the smog, if you like – that you can see is largely due to micro-particles

suspended in the air, not CO2. So, can we agree to stop calling CO2 a pollutant? Similarly, some balance is required when talking about the negative effects of CO2, especially in the context of agriculture. Sure, farmers need to be informed

@rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

P.A.

FINANCE*

MF 5700

MF 4700

BORN FOR ZERO REGRETS WITH 0% P.A. FINANCE* Right now, Massey Ferguson has an unbeatable 0% P.A FINANCE* offer on MF 4700, MF 5700, and MF 6700 tractors. Enjoy interest-free repayments for the entire loan term. Get in quick. This offer is limited so you have zero time to lose.

See your local Massey Ferguson dealer now. While stocks last!

Finance under chattel mortgage with an interest rate of 0% p.a., 30% cash deposit, the GST component repaid in the 4th month and monthly repayments in arrears over a 36 months term. Available for new retail orders placed before COB 31 December 2023, and installed within two calendar months of arrival, to approved purchasers for business purposes only. Fees, terms & conditions apply. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Finance provided by AGCO Finance Ltd GST No 88-831-861. Offer available at participating Massey Ferguson Dealers only, while stocks last.

www.groundswellnz.co.nz

in controlling the beast, we need to remain balanced. • Dr Doug Edmeades spent 20 years as a soil scientist at Ruakura. In 1997 he established his own science consulting business, which has evolved into agKnowledge.

MF 6700

It is so refreshing to have a number of actual farmers elected into Parliament. As we await the ﬁnal numbers and the o�cial forma�on of the new government, we remind these newly elected rural MP’s that grass-roots farmers, producers and supporters need them now more than ever.

if their district is likely to become more arid because of global warming. But equally they should be informed that pastures will grow much faster, and they will be more drought resistant! The whole narrative around ‘climate change’ has become clumsy and if we are to make progress

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

14 OPINION

Top line-up of speakers THERE’S AN air of anticipation and excitement around February’s East Coast Farming Expo – especially with the announcement of the speakers. “Post cyclone, farmers are really wanting to get together and just reconnect,” says event organiser Sue Wilson. “We’re got quite the lineup of speakers come over the two days.” Included in the lineup is television personality and mental wellbeing exponent Matt Chisholm alongside Craigs financial chick Fleur Gardiner, Lincoln University adjunct professor Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, Julia Jones and John Roche, the chief science advisor at Ministry for Primary Industries. All are excited to be back in the rural sector sharing their knowledge,

WHAT: East Coast Farming Expo WHEN: February 21-22, 2024 WHERE: Wairoa Racecourse MORE INFO: http://www.eastcoastexpo.co.nz/

and reconnecting with people. Rowarth is very much focused on the vibrant future ahead. “Reading, listening or watching any of the news you would be forgiven for thinking the world population is becoming vegan, embracing plant-based food from vertical farms and cultured protein from vats while relegating animals to the role of pets,” she says. “In fact, the world needs sustainably produced animal protein more than ever and New Zealand is leading the way in showing

Jacqueline Rowarth is one of many top speakers lined-up for next February’s East Coast Farming Expo.

how what is needed can be achieved. The key is to consider the essential amino acids that make meat and milk such efficient deliverers of what human physiology requires.” Former head of analytics for the NZX Julia Jones says she’ll be drill-

ing down on what is happening around the world, including protectionism, geopolitical issues, climate resilience. “As an export-led economy our revenues are dependent on what is happening globally,” Jones explains. “It is important we understand

and have perspective on what is happening. For Gardiner the Expo is a chance to encourage people to plan and consider their options and investment dos and don’ts, and she’ll have case studies to show how investing off farm can provide an alternate

income stream and help with succession planning. All agree events like the Expo are crucial to wider community wellbeing. “These give a moment of positive shared experience and support, and the opportunity to gain new information and see

new technologies,” Rowarth adds. “That combination can lead to new thinking and opportunities. For speakers it is a chance to see and hear what has been endured and achieved by the local community and take that to other parts of the country.” Jones says such connection is like oxygen. “We need it, but we don’t always appreciate that. It’s the laughs, smiles and hugs that fill people’s cups.” Wilson says the Expo always pushes to raise the bar and meet what they know the farming community wants to see and hear. “We are all really excited to be bringing the 2024 Expo to our region once again.” @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

ROTOWIPER...

IT JUST GOT BETTER! New electric height adjustment

HOME OF RURAL NEW ZEALAND

TR Rotowiper

Trailing model towed by a 4 wheel bike

FANTASTIC NEW FEATURES! • Single height adjustment • Roller drive disengagement • Fold-up drawbar • Tank leveller adjustment • New strong design frame • New stub axle hub arrangement • All covers now stainless steel

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.COUNTRYTV.CO.NZ OR CALL 0800 759 759 *Conditions apply. Only available to SKY direct customers with at least SKY Starter and a SKY box in the home. Country TV costs $18.40 per month in addition to your standard monthly subscription and is subject to SKY’s standard terms and conditions. For full terms and conditions visit countrytv.co.nz/terms-and-conditions/ Prices are correct as at 1 October 2021, are payable in advance and subject to change.

48 Bremners Road PO Box 333 Ashburton • W: www.rotowiper.com P: 03-308 4497 • M: 027-311 9471 • E: rotowipersales1@gmail.com

Sick of paying too much for brass trough valves?

BESTFLOW V A L V E S

U IVID AL

IND

B R A S S

STED

The Brass Bestflow Trough Valve is a highly affordable trough valve that delivers class leading performance with a massive 205 L/min at 500 kPa. It’s ideal for any low or high demand troughs.

• Valve fits 20/25mm

• Suitable for top and side entry

• Massive 205 L/min @ 500 kPa

• Every valve individually tested to ensure leak free performance

• High flow rate compared to other similar valves

Available exclusively at Farmlands

Only

.99 Incl GST

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

16 MANAGEMENT

Early weaning of lambs a way to beat the dry A PREDICTED dry summer, thanks to El Nino weather patterns, may make weaning a proportion of the lamb crop a good option this season. The prospect of hot, dry weather along the east coast of both islands builds a strong case for weaning at least a proportion of the lamb crop early. This will allow high-quality feed to be partitioned into lambs while ewes recover body condition. It also provides the opportunity to sell cull ewes early. Trials run at Massey University found lambs over 20kg LW coped best with early weaning (min-

imum weaning weight was 16kg LW). However, it was the quality of the forages on offer that was the greatest determinant of how well lambs grew post-weaning. Professor Paul Kenyon, who led the early-weaning trials, says early weaned lambs should be given unrestricted access to legumebased forages such as a herb clover mix at a minimum cover of seven centimetres in height. If lambs are weaned onto the crop, they should be given time to adjust to a change in feed. Running the ewe and lambs onto the crop a few days before wean-

Expected dry weather along the east coast of both islands builds a strong case for weaning at least a proportion of the lamb crop early.

ing, then running the lambs back onto the crop after weaning will help minimise the weaning

Ask for Germinal

Futureproof your farm and budget Germinal has a unique understanding of pasture systems. For over 30 years, our plant breeding has been focused on providing farmers with solutions that improve productivity and profitability, while addressing environmental impacts. Our specialty is driving the most efficient protein conversion into meat and milk. With meticulous research, we have developed cutting-edge grass and clover cultivars that naturally advance the competitive advantage of New Zealand’s grazing system. Germinal pasture advantage supersedes previous feed measures, utilising digestibility, along with palatability – animals can simply gain more from less. When production, profit, and footprint matter, ask for Germinal.

For more information:

0800 171 825 www.germinal.co.nz

check. He says in late lactation all lambs, but especially multiples, are

receiving very little nutrition from the ewe, so when grass-growth is limited the ewes are compet-

ing with their lambs for feed, compromising the performance of both. Early weaning can

also be particularly useful in hoggets as it will give them more time to recover body condition between lambing and mating again as a twotooth. Partitioning high quality feed into lambs in the late spring early summer period will benefit the whole farm system. It means more lambs can be sold prime before the height of summermaking more feed available for capital stock – and ewe lambs can be grown out to heavier weights early. This means there is flexibility to hold them back later when feed resources are more limited.

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

ANIMAL HEALTH 17

Animal antibiotics sales down TOTAL SALES of veterinary and horticultural antibiotics in New Zealand have decreased for a fifth year in a row, dropping by 23% in 2022. The drop is a key finding of the ‘2022 Antibiotic Agricultural Compound Sales Analysis’ released recently by New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS). The report summarises the trends in the annual sales of veterinary and horticultural antibiotics as part of a national action plan to reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR). “The World Health Organization has identified AMR as one of the top 10 global health

VETERINARY ANTIBIOTIC SALES BY SPECIES/SECTOR ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

● ●

57% sold for use in dairy cattle 16% sold for use in pigs 9% sold for use in horses 4% sold for use in beef cattle 4% sold for use in meat poultry 4% sold for use in sheep 4% sold for use in companion and non-production animals 1% sold for use in layer poultry <1% sold for use in deer

threats facing humanity, so seeing a 23% drop in the sale of antibiotics for plants and animals is good news,” says NZFS deputy director-general

Vincent Arbuckle. “Antibiotics are antimicrobial medicines essential to the health of humans, animals, and plants, but using them

CUT OUT DOCKING DRENCH IN A normal year, lambs do not require a drench at docking/tailing. A routine drench at this time may not be generating as much value as farmers might imagine. Wormwise programme manager Ginny Dodunski says the scouring, reduced appetite and poor growth rates associated with worms are partly a result of an animal’s immune response to internal parasites. She explains that young lambs have no immune response to worm larvae, so don’t suffer the same negative consequences associated with worm burdens. Many of the worms that young lambs are ingesting cannot complete their lifecycle so cannot build up numbers until the lamb has a fully functioning rumen at around four to five weeks of age. “So, if you’re drenching at docking you may not be kicking out as many

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITES

Antibiotics are essential to the health of animals but using them excessively can lead to the emergence of resistant bacteria.

worms as you think you are,” Dodunski adds. Another reason for not drenching at docking is the presence of a worm called Strongyloides. This worm has a completely different lifecycle to other internal parasites in that lambs will pick these worms up through their skin or from the ewe’s udder. However, lambs do set up a rapid immune response to Strongyloides at four to five weeks of age. While lambs may appear dirty, they will dry up of their own accord irrespective of whether or not they have been drenched. Dodunski says the only time lambs may benefit from a drench at tailing is where ewes are in poor condition, are underfed and not milking – so lambs are forced to eat a lot more grass than would be typical and a drench maybe useful in this circumstance.

CRAIGCO

excessively can lead to the emergence of resistant bacteria that don’t respond to antibiotic treatment.” Arbuckle adds that, with AMR increasing around the world and few new antibiotics being developed, careful use of the antibiotics will help to keep them effective. Of the 16 classes of antibiotics NZFS monitors, five are critically important for human

tant medicines are used appropriately.” He says continued vigilance of veterinarians, farmers and other industry stakeholders, as well as ongoing monitoring and support, are an effective way to minimise the incidence of AMR. “We are also reviewing our regulatory oversight of antibiotics used in plants and animals, which could lead to a further reduction in antibiotic

Glenview Romneys Bred for high performance and ‘cast iron’ constitution

We deliberately challenge our Romneys by farming them on unfertilised native hill country in order to provide the maximum selection pressure and expose ‘soft’ sheep.

FERTILITY

SHEEP JETTERS SENSOR JET

health, meaning they should be considered the last line of defence in animal infections. “Overall, the sale of antibiotics has dropped from 71,361kg in 2017 to 41,033kg in 2022. That’s a drop of 42%,” Arbuckle says. “The ongoing decrease in the use of antibiotics can be put down to a concerted effort from industry and NZFS to ensure these impor-

use as controls for some antibiotics might be tightened,” Arbuckle adds. “This extensive piece of work has a five-year timeframe as it involves reviewing hundreds of antibiotic products.” In 2017, the New Zealand Antimicrobial Resistance Action Plan was jointly developed by the Ministry of Health, New Zealand Food Safety and representatives from across the human health, animal health and agriculture sectors. Its vision is for New Zealand to manage antimicrobials as a valuable shared resource and to maintain their efficacy so they can be used to treat infections in humans, as well as to manage diseases in animals and plants. An update to the action plan is due to be released next year.

Over the last 20 years ewes (including 2ths) have scanned between 190% and 215% despite droughts.

GROWTH RATE Over the same period weaning weights (adj. 100 days) have exceeded 36kg from a lambing % consistently above 150%. & SURVIVAL • • • •

All sheep DNA and SIL recorded. Ram hoggets have been eye muscle scanned since 1996. Ewe hoggets have been mated (to Romney sires) for over 20 years. Breeding programme puts an emphasis on worm resilience - lambs drenched only once prior to autumn. FE tolerance introduced more recently. • Scored for dags and feet shape. Sires DNA rated for footrot and cold tolerance. • We are ‘hands on’ breeders with a focus on detail and quality. • We take an uncompromising approach - sheep must constantly measure up.

We aim to breed superior Romneys that produce the most from the least input. www.ruralnews.co.nz www.dairynews.co.nz

Guaranteed Performance Save Time and Money . Flystrike and Lice cost $$$ Quick to Set up - Easy to use - Job Done Robust construction. Auto shut gate. Adjustable V panels Total 20 Jets. Lambs 5 jets. Side jets for Lice. Davey Twin Impeller Pump. Honda 6.5 or 9.0Hp

@rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

06 8356863 - 021 061 1800

www.craigcojetters.com

Glenview Romneys & South Suffolks GEOFF & BARB CROKER Longbush, RD 4, Masterton email: bob_barb@slingshot.co.nz • Ph: 06-372 7820 www.glenviewromneys.co.nz

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

18 CANTERBURY SHOW

Showcasing why farming matters NIGEL MALTHUS

A RENEWED emphasis on how farm produce makes it from the paddock to the consumer will be a feature of the 2023 New Zealand Agricultural Show. The show, being staged by the Canterbury A&P Association in its 160th anniversary year, is again expected to draw 100,000-plus visitors over the three days from November 15-17. Show general manager Tracy Ahern says entries are expected to be similar to last year’s 5449 entries in 262 categories. She says there will be a big focus this year on sheep, wool and other natural fibres including alpaca and mohair. “We will have an immersive 160 years’ celebration of wool, right from what it used to be

160 years ago, back to what it is now, and the innovative products that are now being made with wool.” Live displays will include spinners and weavers and hand blade shearing demonstrations. Among the large marquees now being erected on the site is a new “artisan pantry” that will highlight foods such as the 30 different handmade cheeses being made from different milks. Ahern says they felt that the baby animals ‘farmyard’ for children, traditionally placed in a corner of the sheep pavilion, wasn’t really giving children a true farmyard experience so it has been completely revamped and expanded on a new site. “We have a sheep milking pavilion where children will get to have a chance at milking a sheep

The 2023 New Zealand Agricultural Show, being staged by the Canterbury A&P Association in its 160th anniversary year, is expected to draw 100,000-plus visitors over the three days November 15-17.

and they’ll get to be able to try sheep milk butter on bread.” Meanwhile, an educational trail starting from

the cattle lawn will take children around a large loop to the new farmyard experience. Teenagers are also

being catered to with the Clash of the Colleges competition, with 34 schools entered, and Agrifutures where young

people can go and find out about careers in agriculture. “We’re trying to create a real big zone that

encourages youth aged eight to 20,” said Ahern. “I ‘m most proud this year of what we’re doing with the kids.” New competitions will include farriers and axethrowing. Meanwhile, some new roading is being constructed, specifically to facilitate the annual Christchurch Santa Parade, to be held on the site on November 26. With the framework of the major marquees now going up on the park, Ahern describes the preparations for the Show as “building a city.” “The city that we build this year is not just going to be packed down within three days. It will actually stay up and facilitate the Santa Parade, which means that everybody who comes to the Santa Parade will have a better experience.”

To Give A ‘Better Use Of Water’ We connect your data to give a real basis to use water • Correct irrigation

Actively working in the North Island from our new Hamilton base

Measure Monitor Manage Your Farm Water Data With:

• Tank and pond levels • Soil moisture • Climate station

Clients use us because

• Tailored Presentation

• Environmental reporting

• Good Value... cost effective data

• Real Time Data

• Meter Verification

• Easy setup and easy to use

• Action Alerts

• Blue Tick accreditation

• Mobile Friendly

• Clean water setup

• Uncomplicated presentation giving simple farm management decisions • Saves staff time

See us at The Canterb ury Show Site FB 5

• We have nationwide service and backup • We are well established being the leading provider of water measuring systems • Reliable leading global equipment • Industry expertise designed for and by agri people

Talk to us about: Water metres ❙ Soil Moisture ❙ Rainfall and Climate ❙ Tank and Pond Level ❙ Clean water

0800 4937626

sales @watermetrics.co.nz watermetrics.co.nz

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

CANTERBURY SHOW 19 THE C SEE US ANT AT SITE ERBURY HG25 SHOW -26A

The 2023 Agricultural Show president, alpaca breeder Anne Rogers, with a mob of her ‘’mums and bubs” on the farm at Sefton, near Rangiora. NIGEL MALTHUS.

Show’s new leading lady’s love of fibre NIGEL MALTHUS

A LOVE of animal fleece is the driver for Anne Rogers who is this year’s President of the Canterbury A&P’s New Zealand Agricultural Show. Rogers, an alpaca breeder, sings the praises of alpaca fleece – very high tensile strength, very fine, very soft. However, the longtime alpaca convenor for the show emphasises that she loves the fleece of all animals. Just the second woman to take the reins as show president, Rogers and her husband Bevan started their alpaca journey when they bought five wethers for their first lifestyle block in the late 1990s. “And then we kind of got bitten by the bug,” she says. They then invested in some breeding females, using outside studs, before importing their own males from Australia. Since then, they have used a combination of their own and imported genetics in an effort to improve their stock. Rogers told Rural News that while New Zealand has some large-scale commercial alpaca farms there are also many lifestylers with just a few alpacas, as a very interactive animal that people

WOOL’S TIME TO SHINE! AS SHOW president, Rogers has been instrumental in a major revamp of the show’s Wool Zone this year. It is something she has been “passionate about for many years,” she says. By moving the popular City Farmyard experience – where children can interact directly with young animals – out to their own expanded children’s display area, more space has been made in the sheep pavilion for the expanded Wool Zone. Described as an immersive 160 years’ celebration of wool, it will showcase the history of fibre farming from its beginnings to modern uses such as fibre reinforcing in plastic composites. Rogers told Rural News that it’s a collaborative exercise between the wool

enjoy as pets and “nice lawnmowers”. Having exported fibre to Norway, Germany and Italy, she describes their farm as being at the higher end of the lifestyle scale. “For us, the fibre is the driver. We love the animals themselves, but we also really love their fleeces.” A feature of alpaca fleece is a range of microns in the same fleece. Some harder, stronger fibres among the soft can give a garment a prickly feel. Rogers says the main aim of alpaca breeders at the moment is to reduce the strength of those pri-

and fibre section, the trade section, the home industry section and commercial entities – including NZ Merino sponsoring a big alpaca experience. Live displays will include spinners and weavers, as well as hand blade shearing demonstrations. “It’s bringing the competition fleeces into the same area next to the sheep which is a really good idea and we finally managed to achieve it,” Rogers explains. She claims the change has come about through her “rabbiting on about it” for the last four or five years. “We need to do something with wool. We need to support our local wool producers and New Zealand wool producers and really, it’s wool’s time to shine,” Rogers adds.

mary fibres and improve the uniformity of the micron and fibre length across the fleece. The Rogers have also specialised into trying to breed for grey fibre, but it has been even harder to find the breeding stock for that, she says. “They may not be grey themselves, some of the studs we’ve used, but that grey colour will come into the next generation.” She says that while they could be termed lifestyle farmers, they have put a lot into trying to upgrade the quality of their fleeces. “We’ve managed to achieve it with some of our animals, not with

all of them,” Rogers explains. “We’ve got beautiful fleeces that are nice and deep, some great coverage and a wonderful crimp style, but some of them have got those strong black fibres in them.” They currently have 32 animals. “We’ve cut down a little bit. I think the maximum we ever got to was about 42 or 45, but we try to keep it manageable for the two of us.” Both Anne and Bevan have ‘day jobs’. He’s the principal doctor and she the practice manager at the medical centre they own in Rangiora. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

morrifield CELEBRATING

40 YEARS IN BUSINESS 1980-2020

MORRIFIELD GREENHOUSES

Thank you to our Valued Customers for

• Grow vegetables your allcontinued year support over the years • Over 10,000 happy PROUD TO BE NEW ZEALAND MADE round and extend your customers growing season. Greenhouses www.morrifield.com • 100% New Zealand made. • Very affordable and easy to • Range of models 2m to install. 10m long. • Strong construction • Nationwide delivery that resists all weather available. conditions.

Win!!

t/f 03 214 4262

| e info@morrifield.com

www.morrifield.com

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

20 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS

Bigger booms add more bang MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

AT NEXT week’s Agritechnica Event – in Hanover, Germany – Amazone will showcase several tweaks to its sprayer line-up, alongside the arrival of some new additions. One such ‘newbie’ will be the Panterra 7004, with a tank capacity of 6,600 litres. It joins the existing 4504 and, like the 4,500 litre version which is now adorned with the latest Claas supplied cab, the big self-propelled sprayer shares the same ‘wet’ setup controls and

spraying hardware. However, there is some differentiation. It comes with a new chassis that uses a trailing arm linkage at each corner. This is said to ensure that the wheels stay in contact with the ground. However, the hydraulic pneumatic suspension provides slope compensation, working in a similar manner to hillside levelling on a combine – so the machine remains level at all times. Other highlights include a hydraulic track width adjustment to accommodate different track widths but, that also

World’s most powerful variable speed clipper is here!

handypiece

allows the rear wheels to be extended slightly wider than those at the front, allowing the tyres to travel on fresh ground. Already seen on the UX01 machine, Direct Inject will also be available on both self-propelled models. The system allows a second product to be added while spraying, where a blanket application approach is not warranted. When combined with application maps, the system can respond more quickly to maximise chemical saving. Looking at the trailed model offering, the new Super L3 boom on the UX5201 increases the maximum working width to 48m. Featuring a fourfold design, the inner sections are steel and the outer aluminium to save

The new Super L3 boom on the UX5201 increases the maximum working width to 48 metres.

weight on the 30-45m layouts. For the widest 48m version, the second to last section is constructed from lightweight carbon fibre.

The Super L3 also features a new boom control system to reduce fore and aft movement. With the UF02 mounted sprayers now having the option

of swapping out the mechanical control to an active hydraulic setup. This option will be offered on booms wider than 27m as Contour-

Control, bringing independent left and right boom raise or lower movement to maintain an even spraying height on uneven ground.

BUCKET GRAB GETS IT DONE! Make dirty jobs EASY this season ■ Ideal for shearing sheep, alpacas, goats and cow tails. ■ Variable speed from 2600-3500rpm. ■ Latest brushless motor technology means minimal heat build up ■ 1400gms means 100-200gms lighter than standard handpiece. ■ At 2800rpm the 12v lithium battery will crutch 300-400 sheep or trim up to 400-500 cow tails. ■ Tough alloy switch box with auto rest fuse for overload or lockup – clips to belt.

GET YOUR REPAIRS & SERVICE DONE ASAP! View in action go to www.handypiece.co.nz

0800 474 327

Freephone email: dave@handypiece.co.nz

SWEDISH IMPLEMENT manufacturer Quicke is expanding its Powergrab series with two new models – designed for silage handling with front-end, telescopic and wheeled loaders. The L+ model is designed for loaders with lift capacities up to 5.5 tonnes. Meanwhile, the XL+ is suitable for loaders with up to 10 tonnes lift capacity. These two newcomers are powerful bucket grabs for silage handling. The models are suited to farms with high feed demands, utilising powerful hydraulic cylinders to handle all types of silage – including grass and corn silage, loose feed and liquids. The two new models offer sig-

The Powergrab L+ model is designed for loaders with lift capacities up to 5.5 tonnes.

nificant improvements. These include a grab design that uses four pivot bearings for improved

stability, alongside a cut-out to allow it to be used on loaders with Z-link kinematics for the

Spray Equip Trailer Sprayer 30m of 10mm spray hose

400L Tough HDPE rated tank

SPRAYEQUIP.CO.NZ Give us a call 07 544 5673

FACTORY PRICES!

Rapid Spray SprayScout 360 & 600

MADE

Genuine Honda engine Quality Udor pump (43 LPM)

SPECIALIST IMPORTERS AND MANUFACTURERS OF QUALITY SPRAYERS & PARTS SINCE 1999

ASK US ABOUT OUR

6m Italian made folding spray boom NZ made galvanized frame

crowd and dump functions. Both models hold silage loads securely in place. The side plates and side tines designed to prevent spillage, while the bucket body features an integrated spill guard at the top to prevent any losses. The Powergrab L+ has an opening width of 2 metres and has a capacity of 2.1 cubic metres. While the higher capacity XL + unit opens to 2.14 metres with a capacity of 3 cubic metres. Both models are available with the M24 bolt-on-hook system, making them suitable for all popular loader types, with availability for autumn 2024. – Mark Daniel

360L or 600L tank

Galvanised frame

Quality Maruyama pump

Honda GX200

Buddy smart reel – 100m or 150m

17L Built-in rinse and flush tank

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

Precision agriculture portfolio expands MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

CANTERBURY-BASED VANTAGE New Zealand has recently acquired Carrfields soil moisture technology and services business. The company claims this move will offer expanded choices and innovative solutions, while underscoring Van-

This advanced datadriven approach allows users to determine optimal irrigation and spraying schedules – based on real-time evapotranspiration and crop requirements. It can also help farmers to strategically schedule fertiliser applications based on soil nutrient levels and crop growth stages, minimising costs and maximising

The ability to monitor weather conditions in real-time also enables farmers to proactively mitigate risks associated with frost damage and other weatherrelated challenges. tage’s commitment to provide precision agricultural solutions – helping farmers and growers to minimise input costs, maximise profits and optimise their operations. As the only authorised reseller of Trimble Hardware and Software products in New Zealand, the addition of Carrfields’ offerings sees Vantage’s product range significantly broadened. The company says existing customers can expect the continuation of customer support via precision ag specialists across New Zealand. Both Vantage and Carrfields says they are committed to a seamless transition process and ongoing services will proceed without interruption. In addition to product and support continuity, customers will now have access to comprehensive training and educational resources, empowering them to maximise the potential of advanced solutions, such as METOS products. METOS, by Pessl Instruments, is designed to provide precise, sitespecific meteorological insights. It provides farmers with the data needed to optimise decision-making processes and achieve efficiency in crop management. This is done by monitoring air and soil temperature, relative humidity, evapotranspiration, rainfall, wind speed and direction.

crop productivity. The ability to monitor weather conditions in real-time also enables farmers to proactively mitigate risks associated with frost damage and other weather-related challenges. Disease modelling has also been developed with leading scientists to utilise data from cloud-connected weather stations to predict disease progression of over 80 different diseases in 45-plus crops. This will allow growers to identify infection risks hourly, optimising fungicide application for enhanced crop protection and yield. Likewise, an insect monitoring solution uses historical and realtime data to predict pest occurrences. This is achieved by utilising cameras and electronic traps with remote inspections, to reduce field visits and optimise pesticide application timing for efficient management. At the core of METOS is its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with a diverse range of agricultural software and hardware systems. Vantage claims this makes it an accessible and indispensable tool for farmers of all scales and proficiency levels. Business development manager and co-founder of Vantage Jemma Mulvihill is enthusiastic about this transition. “We are committed

to providing our customers the very best products and service. The METOS product range compliments and further enhances the range of products and services we can offer.”

MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 21

METOS products provide precise, site-specific meteorological insights to provide farmers with the data needed to optimise decision-making processes in crop management.

S E T A R S E T MA T CENTRE CLAAS HARVES

NOW ON!

CLAAS CLAAS ARION

MOWERS, TEDDERS & RAKES

RANGE

INTEREST FOR 48 MONTHS* JCB LOADALL SERIES III

Call your local dealer for your mates rates 0800 425 227 | claasharvestcentre.com

* Standard CLAAS Financial Services lending criteria, terms, and conditions apply. ARION: 0.20% pa requires a minimum 30% deposit followed by monthly repayments over 36 months, GST back in month 3. Offer applies to all new CLAAS ARION Tractors in stock or arriving in 2023. Finance must be applied for by 30/11/2023 and settle no later than 31/01/2024. GREENLINE: 0.99% p.a on CLAAS Greenline equipment requires a minimum 33% deposit followed by two six-monthly repayments over 12 months, GST back in month 3. Offer applies to in-stock and on-order new Category 2 Greenline equipment only and excludes triple mowers, quad-rotor rakes and balers. JCB: 0% pa requires a minimum 40% deposit, followed by monthly repayments over 48 months, GST back in month 3. Offer applies to all new JCB Series III LOADALL telehandlers. If finance base rates move by more than 0.25%, CLAAS Financial Services reserves the right to re-quote. ARION and Greenline offers are valid until 30/11/2023 and JCB is valid until 15/12/2023. All offers are while stocks last. Images illustrative only.

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

22 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS / RURAL TRADER

Wide harrow helps cover more ground lum type suspension to ensure optimal following of the field contour. On very uneven terrain, or when working on slopes, the optional iQ-Contour pendulum compensation guarantees optimum surface adaptation. In addition, the hydraulic depth adjustment makes it possible to respond to changing conditions and the working depth can be changed on the move. During headland turns, the implement is supported by the rear roller

MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

CULTIVATION AND seeding specialist LEMKEN has topped off its Rubin compact disc harrow range with massive ten-metre working width. Like the smaller Rubin 10 models offered up to seven metres wide, the new Rubin 10/1000 offers a symmetrical disc arrangement for fuel-efficient operation without side draft. Up front, hitching to the tractor uses a ball coupling or drawbar eye. Ease of attachment and removal is aided with the addition of a hydraulic support stand. The two rows of 645mm diameter serrated concave discs allow a thorough incorporation across the full surface width from a soil depth of only seven centimetres. A 14cm spacing between the discs helps ensures

LEMKEN has topped off its Rubin compact disc harrow range with massive ten-metre working width machine.

blockage-free work, even when operating in stubbles with high volumes of organic matter. Each disc is equipped with a coil spring overload protection with damped kickback, helping to reduce shock loadings on the main implement frame. Clever design details across the working sections feature a pendu-

FLY OR LICE PROBLEMS? The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989

Quality construction and options • Get the contractors choice Featuring...

• Incredible chemical economy • Amazing ease 1500+ per hour • Unique self adjusting sides • Environmentally and user friendly • Automatically activated • Proven effective on lice as well as fly • Compatible with all dip chemicals • Accurate, effective application

that is fitted with heavyduty bearing assemblies. The configuration, thanks to the wide contact area, ensures the machine is firmly supported for tight turns, while at the same time, minimising soil compaction. For transport between job sites, the machine is folded from the cab. The rear rollers patented folding system ensures a three-metre transport and a height of only four metres. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

HORSCH PULLS PLUG ON FIELD ROBOT WHILE SOME of the major players look to be getting deeper into autonomous vehicles, German cultivation and seeding specialists Horsch has pulled the plug on its own field robot project. It claims autonomous, standard format tractors have proven to be more practical and cost effective for farmers. The subject of around five years’ of development, the robot made its debut in fields over two years ago. It autonomously operates on tracks, with a seeder attached to its rear, bearing some resemblance to the successful AgXeed track-based multi-utility robot. However, Horsch no longer sees potential in this concept. “We were mistaken, as the autonomous machines meant to replace tractors as power units

are all stillborn,” explained Michael. “Such autonomous field robots are not cheaper than standard tractors equipped with cabins and drivers.” Horsch also believes that, especially in Europe, standard tractors equipped with autonomous kits offer a more costeffective path to autonomy in agriculture. “These upgrade kits are becoming increasingly efficient and affordable. For approximately 10,000 Euros or more, you can convert a standard tractor into an autonomous one, allowing it to operate both with and without a driver,” he added. Additionally, Horsch pointed out that questions regarding traffic safety and collision avoidance largely remain unanswered. For the future, Horsch intends to focus on creating

autonomous solutions that are as simple and cost-effective as possible. However, the company’s other autonomous project, the semi-auto-steering, autonomous planter, might struggle to meet these criteria. Officially unveiled at a Farm Show, earlier this year in Brazil, the wide-frame tractor operates on the principle of having its wheels consistently follow the same tracks year after year, using the Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF) system. Featuring a four-wheeled frame with a front spacing of 11m and a rear spacing of 4m and equipped with hydrostatic drive. It has two tanks for 12,000 litres of seed and a 1,500 litre diesel tank – offering enough capacity to sow 100 hectares of soybeans. Despite its autonomous capabilities in terms of driving and

navigation, a driver must be present to prevent blockages and other malfunctions the machine cannot detect on its own. While the driver’s focus should be on adjusting crucial settings, to shield the operator from rain and mosquitoes, the Gantry had to be equipped with a cabin. Horsch’s experience with Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF) also hasn’t been favourable. The company has worked intensively on the concept with the Czech experimental farm, AgroVation, in Knezmost. After seven years of experimenting with CTF, they have now abandoned the practice. Horsch says it observed no significant yield improvements but did encounter that, like unpaved roads, the tracks became firmer and bumpier over time.

07 573 8512 | dipping@electrodip.co.nz – www.electrodip.com

SPRAY UNITS

30m Hose Reel c/w Spot 300 Spray Gun 650kg Break Strength Strapping

TRAILED 12V SPRAYER

• •

www.mckeeplastics.co.nz

PETROL DECK SPRAYER

Honda GP200 Motor • 40 Bar/580 PSI • Flow Rate 41L per min • Comet APS41 Diaphragm Pump •

• 5D Suction Filter • Pressure Regulator & Return System NORTH ISLAND:

SOUTH ISLAND:

23 Mahinui St, Feilding. Ph 06-323 4181

35 Wilkin St, Waimate. Ph 0800 625 826

• •

SIDE BY SIDE/ATV SPRAYERS

Petrol & 12V Trailers available Comes in 200L, 400L & 600L models

Hot dipped Galvanised Trailer

RURAL NEWS // NOVEMBER 7, 2023

RURAL TRADER 23 Quadbar introduces the new $

FLEXIBAR

780

+GST & Freight

ELECTRIC FENCING

NON SLIP UTE TRAY MAT

TO YOUR DOOR

NO MORE CARGO MOVEMENT!

SAVE TIME AND EFFORT! Trusted name in fencing for over 30 years OUR FULL RANGE ON-LINE

Flexibar includes all the safety and convenience features of the Quadbar with the added advantages of: • A flexible joint that allows the bar to flex rearwards in the event of contact with an overhead obstacle

Heavy Duty 

Made in NZ 

www.taragate.co.nz info@taragate.co.nz 0800 82 72 42

0800 80 85 70

www.burgessmatting.co.nz

• The joint facilitates some sideways flexibility before locking and becoming more of a traditional crush protection device • In the event of a rearwards flip there is negligible movement from the flexible joint

Recommended by Worksafe. ACC subsidy available

Jump on-line or call us...

In Stock Now 

Sizeable rural shed with power and amenities wanted for sculpture work in north Taranaki. Rent or buy.

• The top section of the Flexibar can also be easily removed for transportation inside a vehicle.

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

HARDY, LOW INPUT EASY CARE MEAT SHEEP

BOOK SHIRE® RAMS & EWES FOR SALE

• No dagging, no shearing • No drenching, vaccinating or dipping since March 1989 • No cast sheep or hassles because of wool • Easy care, high fertility sheep • Strong constitution with great longevity • Hardy, fast-growing lambs • No shearing/dagging equipment and shed needed

Ph 027-222 8481

CAL A BET L FOR TER D EAL

HAIR SHIRE® Stud Ram Sire “SILVER” progeny for sale

HAIR SHIRE® Stud Ram Sire “GLADIATOR” progeny for sale

Hair Rams Ewes & Lambs available MANGAPIRI DOWNS ORGANIC STUD FARM®

215

www.organicstud.co.nz • Email: tim@organicstud.nz Phone Tim & Helen Gow 027-225 5283

BEST QUALITY | BEST Price | BEST ADVICE BEST QUALITY | BEST Price | BEST ADVICE

BEST QUALITY | BEST Price | BEST ADVICE WATER TANKS, PUMPS & FILTRATION WATER TANKS, PUMPS & FILTRATION

WATER TANKS, •PUMPS & FILTRATION DEVAN CALPEDA PURETEC • OASIS CLEARWATER DEVAN •• PROMAX PROMAX • •CALPEDA • PURETEC • OASIS CLEARWATER

WATER PUMPS & CLEARWATER FILTRATION DEVAN TANKS, • RX • CALPEDA • AQUA • OASIS

DEVAN • PROMAX • CALPEDA • •PURETEC • OASIS CLEARWATER P: 326 8888 www.thetankguy.co.nz P:0508 0508 326 8888 • www.thetankguy.co.nz A: A: 30 30 Turners RoadRoad – Feilding Turners – Feilding

P: 0508 326 8888 • www.thetankguy.co.nz A: 30 Turners Road – Feilding

NORTH ISLAND

SOUTH ISLAND

23 Mahinui St, Feilding

35 Wilkin St, Waimate

Ph 06-323 4181

Ph 0800 625 826

Single Dog Box – no steel work ........... $625.00 Single Dog Box - with steel work ........ $699.00 Wellside Dog Box ................................ $985.00 Flatdeck Dog Box ................................ $985.00 ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST BUT MAY INCUR FREIGHT

BUFFALO BOOT & RAINWEAR sale

ENDS SOON WHILE STOCKS

$145

$80

NEW - WIDER TOE BOX NEW - WIDER STEEL CAP ** NEW - KEVLAR PENETRATION RESISTANT SOLE ** NEW - 250 DEGREE HEAT RESISTANT OUTSOLE NEW - BALL BEARING SPEED LACING NEW - FLEXIBLE RAND NEW - STRONGER OUTSOLE STITCHING NEW - STRONGER MIDSOLE NEW - STRONGER FORESTRY GRADE SHANK (**safety models) 175% more crack resistant than normal leather PHONE

9am-5pm

Buffalo Leather

BIB OVERALLS

JACKET

valued at $320

$140 $100 valued at $230

valued at $280

LAST

LEGGINGS

$70

100% Waterproof Fleece Collar Hood Visor Flexible Acid Resistant

BUY Stitched On Soles

0800 16 00 24 earthwalk.co.nz

Plain Toe or Steel Toe

New Zealand owned & operated

free shipping

Durable Seams

sizes: BOOTS 5 - 13 (NZ)

RAINWEAR XS - 4XL

CULVERT PIPES Made from polyethylene & recycled plastic

www.mckeeplastics.co.nz 300mm x 6 metre ............................. $410 400mm x 6 metre ............................. $515 500mm x 6 metre ............................. $735 600mm x 6 metre ............................. $989 800mm x 6 metre ........................... $1496 1000mm x 6 metre ......................... $2325 1200mm x 6 metre ......................... $3699

•

SOUTH ISLAND 35 Wilkin St, Waimate Ph 0800 625 826

Culvert joiners FREE with pipes on request Water Transport

ALL PRICES INCLUDE G.S.T.

NORTH ISLAND 23 Mahinui St, Feilding Ph 06-323 4181

•

Water Troughs

•

Lightweight, easy to install

Water Storage

Nominations are now open Gala Dinner New Zealand Rural Sports Supreme Award New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year Award

at Awapuni Racecourse, Palmerston North, Friday 8 March 2024 Find out more at ruralsports.co.nz

New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year Award New Zealand Rural Sportsperson with a Disability Award Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award Lifetime Legacy Award Thanks to our award sponsors

Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand Rural Sports Award Sir Brian Lochore Memorial Award for Outstanding Sportsperson from a Rural Background

With support from

RURAL NEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS

Mowers, accessories and add-ons

Up to 36 months interest free for a limited time* *Must purchase before 30 November 2023. T&Cs apply.

Available nationwide

Get in touch to find out more 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

Amazing comfort, incredible quality of cut in Kiwi conditions, and great pricing to match. Made in USA.

BOBCAT ZT2000 Zero turn Mower · Kawasaki FR series engines · TufDeck™ fully fabricated cutting deck · Available in 42” or 48” deck sizes · Speeds up to 11.2km/h

FROM

$12,995

SAVE UP TO $500

BOBCAT ZT3000 Zero turn mower

BOBCAT ZT3500 Zero turn mower

BOBCAT ZT7000 Zero turn mower

· Kawasaki FT series engines · TufDeck™ Pro fully fabricated cutting deck · Large 22” drive tyres for a smooth ride · Available in 48”, 52” or 61” deck sizes

· Kawasaki FX series professional engine · TufDeck™ Pro fully fabricated cutting deck · Available in 48”, 52” or 61” deck sizes · Up to 16km/h ground speed

· Kawasaki FX1000 engine · AirFX™ deck – amazing cut quality · Available in 61” or 72” deck sizes · Top speed of 32km/h in transport

FROM

$16,995

SAVE UP TO $1,500

FROM

$19,995

FROM

$35,645

SAVE UP TO $3,500

+FREE POWER UP PACK *Service kit varies by model. All Power Up Packs include spare set of blades.

includes spare set of blades and first service kit* ALL PRICES INC. GST.

Up to 36 months interest free financing available on select models* *Must purchase before 30 November 2023. T&Cs apply.

Accessories and add-ons

PECO Pro 2B + blower assist catcher unit

BOBCAT Side bag catcher · Easy to fit, and take on/off · Perfect for collecting grass in smaller areas · Easy to empty

· Fits all standard Scag and Bobcat mowers · Rear-mounted for more power and less blockages · Modular design and tool-less removal

CATCH PRO Alloy side catcher · Easy to fit, and take on/off · Perfect for collecting grass in smaller areas · Durable alloy construction

$4,395 $1,200

$1,899

BOBCAT Mulching kit

CHECKMATE™ Striping kit

KART-AWAY KA10 Garden Trailer

· Finely mulches grass, to leave less visible clippings on the lawn and improve lawn health

· Be the envy of your neighbours with an even better stripe on your lawn. · Fits most deck sizes

· Great for carting garden materials around your property · Fits easily to any mower with a tow hitch · Made in NZ · Available in black or red

FROM

$580

$1,195

$940

Actual may vary from image.

BOBCAT Suspension seat insert

BOBCAT Tow hitch

BOBCAT ROPs frame kit

· Transforms ordinary or EVC seats into a fully adjustable suspension seat for ultimate comfort. For ZT2000 or ZT3000

· Easily bolts onto the rear bumper – great for towing garden trailer or other accessories around your property

· Includes seatbelt · For ZT2000/3000 · For added safety on undulating terrain

$695

$995

$51

ALL PRICES INC. GST.

View our full range online

Book a free demo at your place 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

SCAG Turf Tiger II Professional Zero turn Mower · Range of diesel or petrol engine options from 25 to 40hp · Range of 61” or 72” fully fabricated Velocity Plus™ decks with mulch/catching kits available · Shaft drive to the deck for ultimate power and reliability · Made in the USA

FROM

$39,995

SCAG Liberty Z Residential zero turn mower

SCAG Patriot Z 61” Commercial zero turn mower

SCAG Cheetah II Professional zero turn mower

· 48”, 52” or 61” Hero™ fully fabricated decks · Range of engine options · Serviceable transaxles

· 61” Hero™ fully fabricated cutter deck · Fully adjustable suspension seat with armrests · Hydro-Gear commercial transaxles

· Available in 61” deck size · Super fast – up to 26 km/h · Velocity Plus™ triple-layer deck · Side/rear discharge or mulching deck options

FROM

$12,695

FROM

$21,995

+FREE POWER UP PACK *Service kit varies by model. All Power Up Packs include spare set of blades.

FROM

$34,495

includes spare set of blades and first service kit* ALL PRICES INC. GST.

Up to 36 months interest free financing available on select models* *Must purchase before 30 November 2023. T&Cs apply.

Accessories and add-ons

SCAG Clam shell rear catcher · Huge 12-bushel capacity · All-steel blower assembly · Get a tidy finish on your lawns · Suitable for Cheetah or Turf Tiger models

PECO Pro 2B + blower assist catcher unit · Fits all standard Scag and Bobcat mowers · Rear-mounted for more power and less blockages · Modular design and tool-less removal

$8,250

SCAG Side bag catcher kit · Suited for Scag Liberty and Freedom models · Easy way to collect clippings or leaves on smaller lawns · Quick to fit

$4,395 $1,200

SCAG Hurricane Plus™ Mulching system

SCAG Striping kit

· Fits most Scag Hero and Velocity+ decks · Finely mulches grass using a combination of eliminator blades and baffles, to leave a tidy finish with less visible clippings

· Get an even better stripe and be the envy of your neighbours · Available to suit a range of deck sizes

FROM

SCAG Operator controlled discharge chute (OCDC) Chute blocker · Easily open or close the chute from the operator position, to avoid grass blowout over driveways or garden beds

$750 $895

$860

SCAG Tow hitch

OMC Commercial safety kit

KART-AWAY KA10 Garden Trailer

· Easily bolts onto the rear bumper – great for towing garden trailer or other accessories around your property

· For commercial operators operating near roads, schools or public areas · Actual may vary from shown

· Great for carting garden materials around your property · Fits easily to any mower with a tow hitch · Made in NZ · Available in black or red

$940

$120

$450

ALL PRICES INC. GST.

View our full range online

Book a free demo at your place 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

WATCH THE VIDEO!

DEMOLISH TOUGH SCRUB AND STAY SAFE ON STEEP SLOPES?

The safest way to mow slopes and destroy tough scrub – Canycom is New Zealand’s original slope and brusher ride-on mower. Let nothing stand in the way of keeping your property and vegetation under control.

MADE IN JAPAN

Up to 36 months interest free financing available on select models* *Must purchase before 30 November 2023. T&Cs apply.

CANYCOM CMX2402 Slope & brush mower · Honda GX690 engine · Ultra-tough shaft drive, no deck belts · Selectable 4WD and diff lock · Mow on slopes up to 25° · Made in Japan

NOW

$24,495

SAVE $3,000

CANYCOM CMX1402 Slope & brush mower

CANYCOM CMX 1808 Slope & brush mower

CANYCOM CMX2406 Slope & brush mower

· Honda GX390 engine · Ultra-tough shaft drive, no deck belts · Selectable 4WD and diff lock · Made in Japan

· Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 3564 V twin engine · Ultra-tough shaft drive, no deck belts · Selectable 4WD and diff lock · Made in Japan

· Honda GX690 engine · Certified foldable rollover protection structure · Selectable 4WD, diff lock and ultra-tough shaft drive, no deck belts · Made in Japan

$21,000

$22,500

+FREE POWER UP PACK *Service kit varies by model. All Power Up Packs include spare set of blades.

View our full range online

Book a free demo at your place 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

$34,000

includes spare set of blades and first service kit* ALL PRICES INC. GST.

P TO

Raymo mowers are the ultimate solution for mowing contractors and professional landscapers. MADE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

Available in either fully electric, or hybrid, with a great range of attachments, this amazing out-front mower performs all the functions of the best zero turn mowers on the market – and substantially more. Want to mow on steep slopes up to 40°? Need to mow under or around small obstacles? Want a mower that has extremely low running costs? Easy as!

RAYMO 4WD remote control Battery mower · 100% battery powered · Great for steep slopes · Comes with 42” or 52” deck

ENQUIRE FOR S TION PACKAGE OP

RAYMO 4WD remote control Hybrid mower

RAYMO R42FLEX Mowing deck

RAYMO R52TURF Mowing deck

· Hybrid battery + motor · Great for steep slopes · Comes with 42” or 52” deck

· 42” (107cm) wide · Rear discharge/mulching · 40-100mm height of cut

· 52” (132cm) wide · Rear discharge/mulching · 40-100mm height of cut range

ENQUIRE FOR

PRICE

ENQUIRE FOR

PRICE

ENQUIRE FOR

PRICE

MOWER + DECK PACKAGES START FROM $55,000+GST

Range of finance options available on request

View our full range online

Green Climber remote controlled mowers are some of the most advanced and safest remote mowers in the world. Popular with mowing contractors, councils and road maintenance companies they’re safe on steep slopes uphill, downhill and diagonally. MADE IN ITALY

With a range of value-adding benefits like the extendable track system and side shift mowing deck, these mowers can tackle rough terrain and overgrown thick vegetation with ease.

GREEN CLIMBER LV300 Remote Controlled Mower · Yanmar 3 cylinder diesel engine 25hp · 60° work slope in all directions · 7km/h speed

GREEN CLIMBER LV800 Remote controlled mower

GREEN CLIMBER Forestry head Mower attachment

GREEN CLIMBER Flail head Mower attachment

· Kohler 3 cylinder diesel engine · For the toughest of commercial applications · 60° working gradient · For use on steep slopes and thick vegetation

· Obliterate woody material up to 250mm · Fixed milling tools with tungsten carbon coating · 1250-1550mm working width

· Cut a wide variety of vegetation types with ease · Operates in forward or reverse · Offset and floating for easy trimming

MOWER + DECK PACKAGES START FROM $90,000+GST

View our full range online

Book a free demo today 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

ECOLAWN ECO 250S Walk Behind Top Dresser · Improve lawn quality and drainage through topdressing · An easy, fast way to apply sand, compost or other material over wide areas · Self propelled · 5.5 HP Honda GX 160 engine · Up to 8 km/h ground speed · Made in Canada

SCAN FOR VIDEO

$16,930

RYAN Ren-O-Thin Power rake/dethatcher

LITTLE WONDER Pro Vac SI Leaf and litter vacuum

DR 6.75 Premier Trimmer mower

· Cutting depth adjustable from 25mm above ground to 22mm into ground · Quality Honda engines · Made in the USA

· 5hp Honda GSV190 engine · 150L bag capacity · 70cm nozzle width · Optional hose kit and wear guards pack – $555

· 5x faster than a handheld trimmer · Easily trim around trees · Made in the USA

$5,059

FROM

$4,295

$1,995

ALL PRICES INC. GST.

We’ve got everything you need for a perfect lawn this spring

KOHLER 14RESA LPG backup generator · Available in single or 3-phase options · Outputs from 14-20kVA · Suits natural gas and LPG · Free site assessments · Complete home or business backup solution

FROM

GST 50 + CO $17,2 STS N TIO LA AL & INST

power equipment

HONDA EU70iS Inverter generator

DUNLITE DGUH7S-2 Industrial generator

DUNLITE Tractor pack PTO generator

· 7kW max output · Up to 18 hours continuous run time · Range of outlets and start kits available

· 8 kVA max/6kW continuous rated output · 13hp Honda engine · Perfect for farms, worksites or mobile uses

· Australian made, NZ assembled · 85kVA output (100kVA also available) · 1x 2 outlet switched splash proof and 1x phase connection · Full installation available on request

$7,799 INC. GST

View our full range online

$4,050 FROM

Book a free demo at your place 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

95 + GST S $13ST,9 ALLATION COST & IN

LOOKING TO UPGRADE THIS SPRING?

Up to 36 months interest free for a limited time* *Must purchase before 30 November 2023. T&Cs apply.

The OMC advantage After almost 40 years in the power equipment industry, you can be sure we know our stuff. With OMC, you’ll get the best buy for your money and the right equipment for the job. We’re problem solvers, matching the best equipment to suit your requirements. And backed by the best service in the industry, you can buy with confidence.

Expect more with OMC We want you to purchase with complete confidence, which is why we offer*: The most reputable brands in the industry Expert knowledge and advice FREE no obligation demos at your place Priority service and access to spare parts FREE first service kit supplied with every new mower *Subject to location, availability and machine type. Contact us today for more info.

Available nationwide

Get in touch to find out more 0800 662 669 | omcpowerequipment.co.nz

FARMLANDS

‘TIS THE SEASON! TICK OFF YOUR CHRISTMAS WISHLIST WITH FARMLANDS

BEAT EL NINO

Alkathene Pipe 20mm to 32mm x 100 & 200m Range

20% OFF

29.99

1000656, 1001293, 1000657, 1001627, 1000658, 1001618

Hurry limited stock available at this price

When Promax Promises, Promax Delivers. The Promax Promise Lets You Lock In Delivery Date And Price

Hansen Brass Valve Bestflow 25mm

60%

SAVE $51.51

OFF

1023896

Hurry limited stock available at this price

Promax Enduro Water Tank 25,000L

3,999.99

SAVE $312.02

ALL COLOURWAYS

1044716

HiLo 4G Tank Monitor Spark or One NZ Network

Promax Enduro Water Tank 30,000L

649

.99

4,799

SAVE $49.01

SAVE $408.01

1056837, 1056836

1044720

.99

FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE* Buy a 25,000L tank, get a $250 Digital Prezzee Card Buy a 30,000L tank, get a $350 Digital Prezzee Card

WATER FLOWING

WITH FARMLANDS

Stallion Trough Round 260L Green

199.99

*Digital Prezzee card will be supplied within one week of tank being dispatched.

KEEP YOUR

Stallion Trough Round 150L Green

299.99

SAVE $77.51

SAVE $57.96

1004004

1000524

With El Niño here, will your stock water system beat the heat? Book a free stock water design session with an Iplex stock water specialist. They’ll visit your property to discuss your requirements and design the best system for you. Scan the QR code to register for your free session today.

SUMMER SHAPE UP! Betacraft Sport Short and Cooltec Shirt 1064124, 1064097

ANY 2 FOR

M18 FUEL™ Fencing Stapler Kit

X Fence Netting 8 Line 90cm x 50cm x 100m

SAVE $379.01

1,499.99

199.00

1061234

SAVE $76.95 1007273

$79.00 +REMEMBER OUR bundle offers EVERYDAY

VALUE

FAR_11001

2 FOR $200.00

2 FOR

$75.00

2 FOR

$82.00

$59.00

Stockman & Paddock Dog Food

CopRice Cool Conditioner 20kg

McMillan Grain Free 20kg

NRM Peck N Lay Pellets 20kg

1064471

1007615

1021419

1023203

For even more deals head in-store or check out shop.farmlands.co.nz/trader *Terms and Conditions apply. Special prices and offers apply for the month of November 2023 while stocks last. Product range varies by store.

EVERYONE'S WELCOME

TAG YOUR CHARITY

And support your community

TAG YOUR CHARITY

Give to our national charitable partner Farmstrong, or the local registered charity.

Help your co-op support your local community

Supported by:

Visit your local Farmlands store to find out more.

Promotion effective 1st November - 31st December 2023.

KIDS’ BUNDLE

ADULT BUNDLE

OCP Slasher Organic Weedkiller 5L

SAVE $49.50 1032864

164.29

SAVE $6.90

SAVE $8.21

1017146

1061474

BONUS

NEW

Stoney Creek Jester Shorts & Tee or Singlet

.00

Outback Wagga Wagga Leather Hat

Farmyard 20 Tyne Plastic Rake

Buy the hive & get your Beetek Plastic Queen Excluder FREE* 1032864, 1012425 *While stocks last

Stoney Creek Kids Jester Shorts & Tee

1057521, 1051866, 1051865, 1060742, 1060743

1025230

109.00

STONEY CREEK BUNDLE OFFERS

Buy ANY Cocky Bag & get a FREE Cocky Cap

69.95

Ready To Go Hive Full Depth Original Bottom Board

13.60

great christmas Gift Ideas Outback Ironbark Leather Hat

Looking for a Summer hobby?

Daves Chicken Manure and Humate Pellets or Humate Biogro 8kg

product

18.99

SAVE $3.96

1024715

179.00

Tui Chicken and Sheep Pellets 20kg

.00

Rural Butcher Knife Set 11 Piece

SAVE $25.50

.50

1049576

SAVE $1.15

1033453, 1033451

1061474

Boonies Comfy Slipper

79.99

*Selected products

SAVE $19.96

Buy any 2 Farmyard Ash Handle Tools and get 20% off

1051470

Skellerup Red Bandal Mens

Skellerup Red Bandal Child or Junior

Tail Trimmer Tailwell2 Complete

Shoof Tailwell Tail Trimmer Titanium

SAVE $5.00

SAVE $3.00

SAVE $128.01

SAVE $150.01

1024795

1024966, 1024965

1008209

1039407

19.99

13.99

CELEBRATING 65 YEARS OF SKELLERUP RED BANDS!

370.99

548.99

Trowel Transplanter, Flax Cutter, Cultivator, Trowel and Hand Fork 1022265, 1033994, 1022262, 1022264,1032368

+ more great gifting in-store

FARM deals

It's back! Saturn Pour-On 5.5L

1,448

.00

SAVE $392.00 • Double active pour-on for cattle containing levamisole and abamectin.

Buy a 5.5L gun pack and get a bonus 2.5L free

Spend $800 on selected Animal Health products and get a $50 voucher to put towards a Christmas Ham!* Cydectin® Oral Drench Selenium 15L

418.00

SAVE $120.00

• Ideal drench for calves over 100kgs, up to 15 months of age

• Control parasites on pasture with 35 days persistent activity against Barber’s Pole worm and 21 days against Teladorsagia (Ostertagia) circumcincta

1019644|A010206

1000458|A007388

Coopers Alliance 10L, 5L & 1L • ALLIANCE is a low dose BZ/ML/clear triple combination oral drench for the management of internal parasites in sheep & cattle.

Pro Plan Performance Extreme 32/30 18kg OR Pro Plan Dog Performance 20kg

BUY 5 GET 1

FREE

BUY 12 GET 3

FREE

Arxada Tag G2 20L

Lichfield Legend Shirts

1025553, 1063739, 1063645, 1024812, 1024815, 1024811

625.00

SAVE $74.00 1004032

1039367, 1039544, 1021111, 1021112

10%

TAGR YOUR IT Y R CHA TN E PAR

BUY 2 OR MORE & GET

20% OFF

OFF

1008285|A010249 100828|A010249 1018646|A010249

Pro Plan Adult Performance Chicken 20kg

Pro Plan Performance Extreme 32/30 18kg

159.00

SAVE $51.00

1064004

1038467

*Available for shareholders only. Purchase $800 or more of any of the qualifying Animal Health Products in one transaction, and receive a $50 supermarket voucher. Max 3 vouchers per shareholder account during promotional period 01/11/23 to 08/12/23. Shareholders will receive the vouchers after the promotional period. Full T&C›s with list of qualifying products can be found on the Farmlands website.

thanks to

To see these deals and even more check out shop.farmlands.co.nz/trader or shop in-store now. *Terms and Conditions apply. Special prices and offers apply for the month of November 2023 while stocks last. Product range varies by store.

EVERYONE'S WELCOME

STOCK RUNDOWN WHEN IT’S GONE, IT’S GONE! Stock Rundown deals are available in selected stores only, while stocks last.

WATER

WaterGuard 20L

134.80

management

SAVE $33.70

SAVE $120.60

1051373

1051374

Face Mask with Helix Wool Filter

Drive Professional Front & Top Load Laundry Powder 5kg

18.00

OFF

AHD Iodine Tincture 10% 5L

Ritex Synthetic Wool Pack

360.38

482.40

HOUSEHOLD deals

ANIMAL CARE + MANAGEMENT

25%

WaterGuard 5L

31.00

SAVE $6.96

SAVE $8.50

1047975

1044162

14.00

SAVE $120.12

SAVE $2.48

1017222

1007748

me in

FENCE Summit Xtralife High Tensile Wire 2.5mm 10% Extra

Gallagher Sighter High Visibility 5 Packet

95.00

20% OFF

10.00

SAVE $27.95

SAVE 3.00

1010841

1020604

GRAB IT while you can

20%

AG-CHEM

OFF

Eukanuba Dog Food Range 3-19kgs

NOW

146.40

NOW

146.40

Nufarm Bonza 5L

Nufarm Bonza 20L

NOW

SAVE $10.50

SAVE $34.95

1015266

1015265

149.60

1011085

1011082

1056397

70.00

255.00