Coast & Country March 2018

“Pretty uncomfortable,” is how Jessie Rogan, trainee orchard manager with Seeka, describes sitting in a LUV balancing on just two wheels while Andrew Simpson of Carnz Training Ltd explains that he is in fact quite safe. Read about the driver training session on pages 24-25. Photo Elaine Fisher

New Editor PAGE 5

WHAKATANE

Katy Day PAGE 6-7

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Kiwifruit PAGE 11-15

Horse of the Year PAGE 16-17

Avocados PAGE 20-21

Country Living PAGE 26-29

Pasture Renovation PAGE 34

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Page 2

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Future of food in print Food produced by 3D printers, plants grown on vertical structures in the middle of cities, robots which harvest fruit crops 24 hours a day, and fruit and meat grown in laboratories instead of on trees or in animals are among the future realities predicted for the primary industries.

The six contestants in the Bay of Plenty Young Grower of the Year competition outlined these and many other possibilities in their speeches at the awards night, based on the topic of future disruptors to the horticultural industry – see page 4.

The contestants suggested that rather than fearing change, the industry should embrace it and turn technology to its advantage. Failing to do so could be fatal, they warned.

They cited examples of the impacts o com anie li e et i on ideo i e businesses and Uber on the taxi industries.

The pace of change is more rapid than at any other time in human history, thanks largely to the internet and advancements in computer and robot technology.

Which is why Beef + Lamb isn’t ignoring the advent of laboratory produced ‘meatless meat’ made

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from plant proteins – see page 3.

Technological advancements are among the topics I’ve been lucky enough to report on during my six years with Coast & Country News and, scary as the future may seem, what I’ve observed is that individuals and industries who move with the times to either embrace or find a to co nte otential t eat are successful.

It’s also worth remembering that not everyone wants laboratory or ‘robot’ food and there will always be a place for safe, natural wholefoods, produced in environmentally sustainable ways.

I’m delighted that Merle Foster, a talented young journalist I’ve been fortunate to know for many years, has been appointed the new Editor for Coast & Country News. I know she and the team of journalists who support her will continue to bring readers great stories from throughout the regions – see page 5.

I’m off on holiday and then hope to embark on a new writing project.

Thank you to all our columnists, contributors, readers, advertisers and the team at SunMedia for your support throughout my time with Coast & Country News. I wish you all the best. Elaine Fisher

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 3

Social tensions may work in meat’s favour New Zealand can use consumer concerns about food and farming systems to demonstrate a strong point of difference for its grassfed, natural red meat products, says Nick Beeby, general manager of marketing development at Beef + Lamb New Zealand.

“New Zealand companies are using ‘clean meat’ as an effective slogan to promote what they do, and this is resonating with consumers. They are tapping into a social tension which is being driven by food anxiety and concerns about factory farming, which does not represent farming practices

in this country. New Zealand can use this same social tension as a strong point of difference for our products.”

However, the industry is not ignoring the growing trend towards alternative forms of plant-based protein.

Protein research

In August last year, B+LNZ initiated a study into alternative proteins to better understand the shifts in food and food production technology that’s occurring today; identify threats and opportunities for New Zealand’s red meat sector; and identify the types of shifts and activities required to address these threats and opportunities.

“Our research partner conducted an

in-depth analysis of the market, interviewing a range of experts across the value chain for red meat and alternative proteins.”

These included cultural experts, sociolo i t in ence c e n t itional guideline specialists and regulatory bodies. Primary and secondary consumer research was also conducted in the US and China to test research results. The outcome of this research will be announced shortly. e e ea c findin ill c a t a path for the red meat sector to follow, but what will be crucial is the development of a New Zealand red meat story to help raise awareness of our premium grass-fed products.

‘Impossible Burger’ product of Silicon Valley On the streets of New York, and in fact throughout the USA, hamburger outlets are selling the ‘Impossible Burger’ with patties which look, smell, taste and even bleed like meat, but are made entirely from plants.

meat. We discovered that heme is what makes meat smell, sizzle, bleed, and taste gloriously meaty.

“We genetically engineer yeast to make a key ingredient: heme. The process allows us to produce the Impossible Burger at scale with the lowest achievable environmental impact.

“We start with the gene for a protein called leghemoglobin, a heme protein that is naturally found in the root nodules of soy plants.

“We add the soy leghemoglobin gene e e i t efi t to a yeast strain, and grow the yeast commercial product of via fermentation. Then we isolate the Impossible Foods, the comleghemoglobin, or heme, from the yeast. pany founded by Patrick O “By producing our heme in yeast, we Brown, as a Silicon Valley start-up avoid digging up soy plants to harvest the with a mission to make the global root nodules, which would promote erosion and food system more sustainable.

The Impossible release carbon stored in the soil. This enables us The patties are unashamedly a manuBurger, available to produce heme sustainably at high volume and factured product; the ‘magic’ ingredient make plant-based meat for millions of people, in New York of which is heme. The company’s takeaway outlets. offsetting the environmental impact of animal website says “Our burger is made from agriculture.

Photo: Rebecca Fisher. simple, all-natural ingredients such as “The Impossible Burger uses a fraction of wheat, coconut oil, and potatoes. What makes the the Earth’s natural resources. Compared to cows, the Impossible Burger unlike all others is an ingredient Impossible Burger uses 95 per cent less land, 74 per called heme. Heme is a basic building block of life on cent less water, and creates 87 per cent less greenhouse Earth, including plants, but it’s uniquely abundant in gas emissions,” the website says.

Elaine Fisher

‘Alternative protein has its place’ says top chef There is a place on restaurant menus for plant-based proteins, says MacLean Fraser, a top New Zealand chef and inne o fi e ee and am Excellence Awards gold plates.

“When I began my career as a chef, very few restaurants included vegetarian or vegan meals on their menus, but now they are widely available.

“I love cooking with meat but am also happy to use quality plant-

based proteins in my cooking and respect that some people don’t want to eat meat,” says MacLean, who was also a winner in the NZ Vegetarian Dish Challenge of 2015.

“There are some strong environmental arguments in favour of growing plant protein as opposed to growing meat, as there is only so much available land from which to produce food to feed the world.

“However, personally I love New Zealand beef and lamb, and am a keen hunter. I can’t see quality

meat dropping off our menus in future.”

MacLean, who is today executive chef at the Bolton Hotel and Artisan Dining House, Wellington, has worked in restaurants and hotels around the world.

In his youth he spent much of his time hiking and hunting.

This direct connection with wild food and the knowledge of where meat comes from has instilled in him an immense respect for fresh produce.

Elaine Fisher

“This will be underpinned by a National Farm Assurance programme which partners the New Zealand government’s world-class regulatory scheme and our investment in an environment strategy to ensure that our farmers and customers can be proud of what we do.”

Nick says the sector needs to focus on its story and getting that out to consumers.

Healthy diet

“Trying to regulate to stop alternative proteins using ‘meat’ or being placed alongside meat products will not stop the consumer trends which are driving this.”

Beef + Lamb is working with other meat industry bodies worldwide on campaigns to promote their products. One example is meatMATTERS.com, an informative website aimed at consumers and the media in the UK. Another is the Tri-Lamb Group, an initiative between the USA, Australia and New Zealand lamb producers. It’s website is www. nourishwithlamb.com/ When it comes to what foods to eat, Nick says that’s a matter of personal choice.“Ultimately, this is a decision for consumers, but grass-fed hormone-free New Zealand red meat is part of a healthy and balanced diet.”

Elaine Fisher

Page 4

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Danni – role model for other young women Danni van der Heijden’s triumph in t e a o lent o n Grower of the Year awards means young women now have another outstanding role model to encourage them into careers in the horticultural industry.

Danni took the title and the trophy after com etin a ain t fi e ot e conte tant four of them men, in a day-long skills e ent at t e e e o on e a and e entin a eec e o e an a dience o at a ala dinne fi e days later.

Last year Danni, who is avocado services mana e at e el an ac ool o e in e e came a clo e nne to in Atkinson who won the trophy and went on to win the national Young Grower title.

The performances of both women, in what is still largely a maledominated industry, demonstrates that with the right attitude, willingness to learn new skills and work hard, women can enjoy an exciting career in horticulture.

Five challenges

“Last year I came second, so I pretty much had to come back. I’m especially glad to have won the avocado challenge, that’s my area, and I can’t wait to get to t e final in t. e e not a lot of women that enter these events, so women winning two years in a row is great.” anni too fi e indi id al c allen e awards, and especially impressing judges with her speech on science and technology as disruptors to horticulture.

Labour MP Kiri Allan with Danni van der Heijden, the 2018 Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Grower, at the award dinner in Tauranga.

Six of the best – the competitors in the 2018 Bay of Plenty Young Grower Competition are Hamish McKain, Danni van der Heijden, Rochelle Kerkmeester, Aaron Wright, Levi Smith and Rishi Preet Singh.

Aaron Wright came in second place, while Hamish McKain was third.

Danni’s prize includes an all-expenses paid trip to Gisborne in August, to compete for the title of national Young Grower of the Year 2018, as well as $1500 cash.

Danni credits her success to her training, and says that e com etito t a eat fi t.

“I’m feeling pretty good,” says Danni. “We all did our best, it was a really tough competition, and I’m glad to have won.”

Vital for growth

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated CEO Nikki Johnston says attracting young people into horticulture is vital to continue the industry’s growth. o tic lt e ofit t e e ion approximately $1.8 billion per annum and this is growing as the industry expands. It is important to attract and retain employees by focusing on job opportunities through careers and education within the industry. ent c a t e com etition ill t ate this commitment to developing our young people and are an excellent chance to create awareness about the roles and development opportunities that a e a aila le. con at late all o t e o n it Grower competitors who have shown themselves to be upcoming stars of our booming industry." at c init c ai o t e a o lent o n it o e illin ommittee a t e alit of the contestants was exceptional.“It was great to see such a high calibre of competitors at the 2018 event.

I would like to offer my congratulations to all of the contestants who illustrated not only their own skills, but also the roles and development opportunities that are available in the horticulture industry.”

Rewarding career

Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Mike Chapman agrees on the importance of youth engagement and recognition. “The Young Grower competitions show there are capable, ambitious young people entering the primary industries, and demonstrate to the country that horticulture is not only an option for their future, but an exciting and potentially very rewarding one. The competitors are a great example of young people who are passionate about the industry’s future and their role in it.

“Danni and the other contestants are exactly the kind of people the future of our industry will be based on; young and passionate. We want them thinking about careers in horticulture."

Elaine Fisher

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 5

Growing up on a dairy farm ‘best childhood ever’ for new editor “The best childhood ever,” is how Merle Foster describes growing up on her parent’s dairy farm in Oruaiti Valley south of Mangonui in Northland.

“I have a strong interest in news and politics and found I really enjoyed writing, and particularly helping people tell their stories.”

When Merle was offered the chance to be chief reporter at the weekly newspaper the Katikati Advertiser, near Tauranga, she jumped at the opportunity.

It was while working in the town that Merle met her partner Stephen Cave and later the couple spent two years living and working in Australia before returning to New Zealand six years ago.

While in Australia Merle had a number of jobs, including a stint at the Queensland Times and helping carry out research for a health sciences book at the University of Southern Queensland.

Not long after returning home, Merle joined the team of reporters working on Tauranga’s community newspaper The Weekend Sun, owned by SunMedia, where she eventually became its assistant editor.

Northland, carrying out interviews and taking photographs for articles in the annual publication New Farm Dairies.

She and Stephen have two daughters, Isla aged two-and-a-half and Eden, seven months. Merle is looking forward to her new role with Coast & Country News, supported by a team of journalists from throughout the regions.

“Coast & Country News is a

high-quality, grassroots publication and editing it will enable me to keep in touch with the side of my childhood which I loved so much.

“The regions the paper covers, the wider Bay of Plenty to Gisborne, Coromandel and Waikato are home to unique, innovative and diverse primary industries and I’m looking forward to findin o t a o t at eo le a e doin on the land and telling their stories.”

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Merle Foster is the new Editor of Coast & Country News.

“Among my earliest memories is waking up in the cowshed and hearing the clicking sound of the pulsators and the cows chewing their cud,” says Merle, who is the new Editor of Coast & Country News.

Merle takes over the role in March, replacing Elaine Fisher who has stepped down after six years with the publication.

“I’m delighted Merle has accepted the editor’s role as she is a talented journalist who knows the rural sector well. I know she will do an excellent job and will bring a fresh new perspective to what is a very well read and popular publication,” says Elaine.

Merle’s parents Colin and Agnes Foster still live on their 110-hectare farm where they milked 120 cows and involved their daughter in every aspect of farm management and life.

Merle attended Mangonui Primary School and late ai a ea c ool e o e fini in e econd ary education at Kerikeri High School. She then embarked on a four-year Bachelor of Communications degree at Auckland University of Technology, majoring in journalism.

Telling stories

“I was open-minded as to what career I would pursue when I went to AUT but enjoyed the journalism major so much I decided that was what I wanted to do,” says Merle, who worked for the weekly paper the Whangarei Report for two years after graduating.

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Children part of dream job Managing one of the world’s most innovative sheep farms focused on breeding a superior milking ewe is the dream job for Katy Day. What makes it even more fantastic is the fact that she and husband Jason can share every aspect of their farming lives with their children, twins Cody and Delta, 14, and Troy, 12.

“Our children are our world and one of the major reasons we took this job is because the owners are happy for the children to be on the farm to help and learn and share what we do,” says Katy, who manages the 770-hectare Waikino Station on Lake Taupo’s western shore.

“On so many farms today children are not allowed to do that, but we believe kids learn so much from farming, including risk management, which prepares them well for later life.”

The family moved to Waikino Station, home of Maui Milk, in July last year before the property’s extensive complex of barns and high-tech dairy were complete. “We were lambing 2000 ewes with work going on all around us.”

Six months on and Delta, Cody and Troy know so much about the farm and the sheep that they e e a le to confidentl tal to man o t e mo e than 400 visitors, including Chinese investors, who attended two open days in January.

Alternative future

It’s exciting for Katy and her family to be living and working on the station, which is a showcase for an ambitious and innovative venture which proposes an

Waikino Station on Lake Taupo’s western shore is the showcase for a new sheep milking venture. alternative future for New Zealand’s dairy and sheep industries.

That innovation includes not only the state-ofthe-art ewe milking dairy, but also a programme to od ce a e io mil in e e ed ecificall o New Zealand conditions.

Leading that work are Peter Gatley, general manager of Maui Milk, and Southern Cross Dairy Sheep geneticist Jake Chardon who have secured the genes necessary to create a crossbred milking sheep with genetic diversity and hybrid vigour.

These sheep will incorporate the main Northern Hemisphere dairy sheep breeds (East Friesian, Awassi and Lacaune), with a Coopworth base to create a new breed, to be known as the ‘Southern Cross’.

Progress towards producing the Southern Cross sheep includes mating last autumn involving more than 2000 straws of French Lacaune semen and 450 UK East Friesian embryos, with backup by Awassi/ East Friesian-cross rams.

French experience

“At lambing time we had extra help from a small team of French people experienced in milking ewes. ome e e ent in n li t ot e not o e ot by with a lot of sign language. We learned such a lot from them on how to manage these ewes,” says Katy.

Managing a dairy sheep farm was not somewhere Katy ever envisaged her farming career would take her. She grew up on a deer farm near Taupo and went on to manage small drystock and calf-rearing units before joining husband Jason working in the pest control industry for 10 years. ...continued

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 7

Shearing adds extra dimension to milking venture The extensive milking parlour and barn complex at Waikino Station.

in the concept of milking sheep in New Zealand, including in the purpose-built dairy with its 64-bail internal rotary imported from France. The plant includes in-line electronic milk meters, automatic cup removers, backing gates, and an adjustable height platform in the pit to ensure comfort and ergonomic e ficienc o mil e . il om t e a m i collected by a tanker for transport for processing at the Waikato Innovation Park.

The extensive complex adjoining the dairy and its yards also includes a lamb-rearing facility and two large barns complete with feed conveyors, capable of housing 1000 ewes each.

Elaine Fisher continued...

Katy Day, manager of Waikino Station with husband Jason and children, from left, Delta, Cody and Troy.

“We worked throughout the Central North Island trapping possums and then had three years doing the same work in the South Island where we got to see some amazing scenery.”

When Katy became pregnant with Cody and Delta, she and Jason moved north again and Katy took up a position on a dairy farm.

Katy’s most recent role was as secondin-charge for the Chinese-owned company ‘The Land’ on a dairy farm at Rangitaiki on the Napier-Taupo Highway. “Last winter we were snowed in for 10 days, with no power.”

Much to learn

Katy was encouraged to apply for the Waikino Station job by friends.

“We stayed on the station to get a feel for the property and in effect had a two-day interview. We love it here. It’s a beautiful part of the world and the role combines what I’ve learned about sheep farming and dairying, but there is so much more to learn.”

The major difference between milking cows and milking sheep, says Katy, is “you don’t have to shear cows”.

“The sheep are shorn twice-a-year, and we don’t empty them out by keeping them off the grass as you would in drystock farming.

“Instead they go to the shearing shed straight from being milked and shearers have to learn to shear them with full bellies, and be very careful of those

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Because ewes’ milk is a relatively new human food product in New Zealand, work is also being done at Waikino on withholding protocols for veterinary medicines required to ensure the animals are healthy.

Different pastures

The station is also trialling different pastures for the sheep. “We have plantain on the hill country and lucerne on t e atte a ea and inte e tin l t e weight gain on both types of pastures are the same, which is impressive for hill country.”

Katy is looking forward to this spring en t e fi t e e c o e o t e ne breed come into milk.

“Training the existing ewes was quite hard work but I think this next generation are going to be so much easier. “Already one of the lambs has managed to sneak in with the milking e e and fi ed o t e et ed i e steps onto the rotary platform. She did it three times and seemed very happy.”

The development of Waikino Station has been funded by the Maui Food Group Ltd, a Shanghai-based marketing company. That company formed Maui Milk with joint venture partner Waituhi Kuratau Trust, which had pioneered sheep milking in the region in 2007.

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Growing undercover An innovative and ambitious venture to not only breed new fruit varieties, but also develop protected and sustainable systems of growing them, is underway near Katikati.

David, who has a degree in botany and strong science and business backgrounds, says the impetus for the venture includes the fact that protected cropping is well-established overseas, “New Zealand is lagging behind in this area,” he says.

Elanza Fresh, a partnership between David Saunders of Katikati and business partner Peter Molloy, an established berry fruit grower of Matangi, aims to o e t at a ide an e o it om e ie to fi persimmons and stone fruit, can be grown commercially under protective canopies.

To this end new ‘high tunnel houses’ have been erected covering 1.25 hectare of a 16ha site the company is leasing near Katikati, and plant breeding of a range of fruits is underway. A four-hectare development under protective canopies is also in operation in the Waikato. Unusually for a business venture, and in particular for a start-up, Elanza is investing more than e cent o it financial e o ce in e ea c and de elo ment ta in a i nificant i on ac ie in its aims to develop intellectual property both in plant varieties and growing systems, which can be marketed to clients.

“I also believe New Zealanders are no longer going to tolerate the degrading of water quality in our rivers, so ways of growing food which reduces nutrient run-off have to be found.”

Protective cropping uses 90 per cent less water and 80 per cent less fertiliser than outdoor growing and, with enhanced plant varieties and correct management can ield i nificantl mo e it e ecta e David says.

When compared to traditional glasshouses, there are savings too. It costs around $1 million a hectare to build glasshouses, which for resource consent purposes, are classed as permanent structures.

By comparison, David says high tunnels cost between $120,000 or up to $400,000 per hectare depending on the sophistication of associated systems, including ventilation and automation.

“The structures we have built come as kitsets and a e not cla ified a e manent o can e di mantled and relocated if necessary.”

Growing undercover also negates the need for elite soils, such as those around Pukekohe, famous for vegetable production, but now under threat from encroaching urban development.

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– the future for horticulture?

It’s the synergy between the growing systems and the plant varieties which are vital to the success of the venture, so plant breeder Harvey Hall, previously of Plant & Food, and David’s wife Dr Camo SaunderVasconcelos, an expert viticulturist with international experience, who also formerly worked for Plant & Food, brings key talents to the programme.

When it comes to plant selection, David says “taste, taste, size and size” are paramount. So too is the plant’s ability to thrive under cover, growing in a neutral substrate, nourished by fertigation with water and nutrients especially formulated to suit each plant variety and stage in its growth and fruit production.

“I have recipes for all the plants, which includes trace elements and minerals and changes as they grow. All the nutrients must be water soluble,” says Camo.

on high outdoor structures, encouraging their canes to hang down. When plants are transferred to ground level in the growing tunnels, the canes are lifted and tied in place, forming a dense vertical canopy, encouraging fruiting on the outside of the canes.

c

s f figs

The blackberries are also prompted into early fruiting by experiencing a ‘false’ winter in a chiller. Camo has been able to achieve two crops a year from several a ietie o fi o n nde co e it a ca e l pruning regime to control their vegetative growth. e final election o a e lant i clo e. e want large, high-tasting fruit, which looks great, holds together well when picked and has an acceptable shelf life,” says David.

Red and yellow varieties are under consideration to develop varieties which will produce up to 60 tonnes No spray drift per hectare under a protective canopy and fertigation “Growing plants in substrate instead of soil avoids management system. problems caused by soil-borne diseases and providing Elanza’s aims include developing crops and water via the roots instead of leaves, reduces fungal growing systems which increase infections,” she says. production of export-quality fruits, In the event that sprays are needed reduce seasonality, facilitate to control pests or diseases, there is growing in more diverse areas, no spray drift and application is meet minim m financial more effective. performance criteria and Currently water is pumped have a consumer demand from a bore, but to make which make them protective cropping even commercially viable. more environmentally Another advantage sustainable, water will of protective cropping, be collected from the says David, will be the canopy of the covered creation of more fullareas. Recycled water time jobs, but, with the from the plants will potential to automate also be channelled into many of the growing collection bladders for reuse. which raspberry variety systems, staff will need to The tunnel houses have . se Final section of a clo ry ve sty fruit is mattin on t e oo to e ect be more highly-trained. “This produces large, ta light back to plants, increasing industry will increasingly need well-educated and capable people, photosynthesis. especially those with a sound knowledge How the plants are managed is also of plant physiology.” innovative. Blackberries are propagated in pots

Elaine Fisher

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Sports academy poised for Term 2 launch

t lete eali e t at i at fi t you don’t succeed, you get back up and do it all again.

That is what United World Sports Academy is doing with its Ministry of Education approval.

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“We’ve had a challenging time getting all of the required bits and pieces to et e to finali e t e a lication process due to the construction not being completed at the Bethlehem Community Church Centre that UWSA will be based out of,” says Caroline Dafoe, United World Sports Academy managing director.

“We have had to revamp our approach and the academy’s programmes will now launch for Term 2 on April 30.”

The new programme will provide sports training with high-performance coaches, alongside a learning centre for student athletes who will have to get a ‘sports exemption’ and enrol in a home-based learning programme or correspondence courses of their choice.

UWSA then will assist with tutoring for the students, providing them with alified teac e to a i t t em it

their academic studies.

The sports academy is now a member of the NZ Tutoring Association and will complete its Ministry of Education application process for approval as a private school once the construction is completed and the nece a in ection can e finali ed says Caroline.

“In the meantime, we have seen tremendous interest in our academy, especially our sport karate, competitive swimming, and surf lifesaving programmes, as well as tremendous interest in the snowboarding and winter sports programmes being launched in the South Island for 2019. We are also working out our programme for basketball.

“Many of our programmes allow tremendous potential for students to acquire scholarships while getting their university education once they have graduated from college.

“It’s pretty exciting being part of UWSA at the moment, seeing all the pieces coming together for education, sports training and student development. UWSA and the Sports Education Trust wishes to thank BarterCard and Tauranga Chamber of Commerce members for their tremendous support,” says Caroline.

Maximising student potential Set in the heart of Auckland on the grounds of Epsom Girls Grammar School, Epsom House gives girls from outside Auckland the opportunity to access a leading girls’ state school.

girls from Year 9-Year 13. All students have their own room and easy access to the school for sports and cultural activities. Tutors are provided during prep to help students if needed.

A new building for Year 13 was completed in 2016 which is providing a modern living and learning environment. “We are presently constructing another new building to accommodate 25 students. This is due for completion in October 2018.”

“Epsom Girls Grammar School provides an excellent education focused on maximising the potential of the individual,” says Sarah Stenson, deputy principal.

“Epsom House reinforces the focus of the school through building independence and achievement. Students make life-long connections and develop the social and learning skills to take them right through life.”

Epsom House provides Epsom House provides a pleasant living boarding facilities for 143 environment for boarders.

KIWIFRUIT

Page 11

Biosecurity vigilance is constant The kiwifruit industry has learned to li e it a t till ace i nificant threats from other pests and diseases, says Stu Hutchings who takes up the role as chief executive of Kiwifruit Vine Health this month.

“The focus is on continuing to manage Psa-V but also on keeping out other unwanted pests and diseases, including the brown marmorated stink bug which would be a major threat if it became established here,” says Stu. i e i edece o a eil t i a alified veterinarian. In his most recent management role at OSPRI, Stu has been responsible for establishing the framework for delivery of a new long-term pest and disease management plan and several innovative research projects, and has managed relationships with the Ministry for Primary Industries and other primary industry groups.

“I know I have a lot to learn about the kiwifurit industry and I’m really looking forward to that, but when it comes to managing biosecurity risks, there are many similarities between kiwifruit and the industries I have been involved with,” he says.

“The big thing in both the livestock and horticultural industries is working with all the ta e olde . mon t e fi t io itie in m new role will be getting to know kiwifruit growers to understand what they want and need to protect their livelihoods and for their ind t to emain ofita le.

which aims for every New Zealander to become a biosecurity risk manager and every business to manage their own biosecurity risk, in effect creating a biosecurity team of 4.7 million.”

Stu is also impressed with the inititaives of KVH and the Port of Tauranga to educate port staff about the risks to the horticultural industry of a wide number of insect pests and help them identify any which may arrive at the port.

Readiness and response

It’s an example of the leadership in the area of biosecurity that KVH and the kiwifruit industry a o n. at i i it a t e fi t ind t to sign up to the Government Industry Agreement on Biosecurity Readiness and Response is another example, he says.

“KVH chief executive Barry O’Neil was the driver behind the early adoption of GIA by the industry and other primary industries have now followed that lead.”

The joint government and industry approach to planning, readiness and response to biosecurity incursions which the GIA facilitates also brings a degree of transparency, he says. t a e e ienced fi t and o t o management, coordination and a buy-in by the stakeholders involved, diseases can be managed.

“When I was a vet practising at Taupo in the 1980s I got involved in ther management of TB disease in deer. Nationally at the time around 1700 herds were infected. Today that’s down to about 50.”

Before taking up his new appointedment with KVH, Stu was group manager, Stop pests programme design and partnerships The most robust approach to biosecurity is for OSPRI and has had previous to stop pests and diseases at the border, roles as acting chief executive and even better before they get for the Animal Health Board here. However, with thousands and OSPRI. He’s also held roles of travellers arriving at airports within private vet practice and every day, an increasing number risk management product of cruise ships visiting ports, and development for the New the growing volume of imports, Zealand Veterinary Association. the biosecurity risks are high.

He and wife Gaelyn Douglas “Education to increase are looking forward to moving awareness among the public from Wellington to Mount Stu Hutchings is the new chief is vital, in line with MPI’s Maunganui. executive of Kiwifruit Vine Health.

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New measure to stop marmorated stink bug The Ministry for Primary Industries has introduced new measures to reduce the risk of brown marmorated stink bugs arriving in vehicles and machinery from Japan.

The changes will require all used vehicles (cars and trucks) to undergo inspection and cleaning at an MPI-approved facility in Japan prior to export.

In addition, any used machinery or other types of used vehicles from Japan will e i e ce tification o in it has undergone cleaning by an appropriate provider, says Paul Hallett, MPI biosecurity and environment manager. “Nearly 95 per cent of used vehicles from Japan already go through approved facilities that are designed to

eliminate the biosecurity risk.

The requirement will now be compulsory for all imports. The c an e ill i nificantl ed ce the chance of transporting dirty vehicles and machinery that could contaminate other cargo.The move came after an unprecedented spike in the number of stink bugs arriving at the border from Japan in bulk carriers.”

My Name is Neil Woodward.

I am a director of Z-Contracting- we are family run business, our team consists of three, being myself, my son and my brother.

Our organisation has been established for over 18 years. I have been involved in applying crop protection programmes within the horticultal industry since 1966.

We specialise within the kiwi fruit industry, We have the equipment to spray orchards with our two Atom sprayers and one recently purchased Tracatom Formula tractor which is also available for mulching and mowing.

My Name is Neil Woodward.

I am a director of Z-Contracting- we are family run business, our team consists of three, being myself, my son and my brother.

Our organisation has been established for over 18 years. I have been involved in applying crop protection programmes within the horticultal industry since 1966.

We specialise within the kiwi fruit industry, We have the equipment to spray orchards with our two Atom sprayers and one recently purchased Tracatom Formula tractor which is also available for mulching and mowing.

Our Atoms are set up with radar speed sensors, this combined with fully automated sprayer controllers and three nozzle rings enhances application efficiency and accuracy.

We also use a quad bike for strip weed spray applications.

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Page 12

KIWIFRUIT

We’re the kiwifruit packer accountants love.

There’s a reason we’re the industry’s fastest growing post harvest company.

With our new Lakes Packhouse poised to set new benchmarks in processing efficiency and deliver even higher grower returns we’ve prepared for that growth to continue.

As well as having capacity and scalability to burn, our new Lakes site also boasts the most central location a seasonal labour force could ever dream of.

We’re confident what we’ve created is the most staff friendly site in the business, and we all know what happens when you have good people working in a great environment with the best gear - it’s call productivity.

If you’re not packing with us now, you should be. It would certainly make your accountant a lot happier.

We’re happy to show you round.

If you’re currently packing with someone else and would like more information or a personally escorted site tour, contact Tania on (07) 547 4400

Mount Pack & Cool

Phone (07) 547 4400 admin@mountpac.co.nz www.mountpac.co.nz

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New era packhouse takes shape at The Lakes

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ta e t o eat e ne cont olled atmo e e cool to e ac in a ea me anine oo o ac a in to a e and con t ction o fice a ea ta oom t o li t a in ti a ea a in c in a ea and a deli e cano .

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Under construction - Mount Pack & Cool’s new packhouse sits on an elevated 65,000m² site adjacent to SH29 at The Lakes, Tauranga.

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KIWIFRUIT

Efficiencies - quality focus continued...

“Everything is optimised, and all movements a e een minimi ed to c eate e e ficiencie which will allow us to deliver top quality fruit and sharp pack prices,” says Jan. “Most packhouses are smoking hot in March and freezing in May. But this packhouse will have a controlled temperature from end-to-end which will eliminate problems caused by humidity such as fruit labels not adhering properly.

“We’ll also have a 1600m² curing room which can hold 6000 bins. Other operators store their freshly picked fruit under a canopy for a couple of days but we will cure ours in a controlled environment where heat and humidity won’t affect their condition.”

Environmentally friendly

The entire site will run on extremely low levels of energy. “Our new refrigeration technology will be t ice a e ficient a at e a e at e ent and it ill also be more environmentally-friendly. This packhouse is phase one of our Lakes development and we’re considering installing solar panels and a rainwater catchment in our future stages.”

Site works began in June last year and around 60 builders and tradesmen from construction company, Form Construction, have been working hard on-site during summer.

Form Construction site manager Karl Smith says approximately 850 tonnes of structural steel and 7000m³ of concrete will be used in the build.

Mother Nature has already thrown a few challenges into the mix, including heavy rain and high humidity in early-February. But industrial fans, heaters and tarpaulins were all put to good use to dry out and fini t e ac in a ea in time o t e ne oda machine to be installed.

On track

“We’re currently on track to deliver early access to vital operational areas required for processing to start in accordance with this year’s fruit season,” Karl says. a com an e a e e o d to e a ociated with a build that will be a world-class facility in the kiwifruit industry.”

Once the new packhouse is open and fully commissioned, Mpac will vacate its current site on e od ome d. an says all staff will transfer over and the operation will immediately be up and running – no extra staff are required and everyone’s already fully trained.

Mpac directors Steve Saunders, Craig Lemon and Jan Benes look over the plans for the company’s packhouse with site manager Karl Smith from Form Construction. ntil t en e od ome d ac o e ill continue to run as normal so there is no risk to growers if construction is delayed for any reason.

“Our staff are looking forward to the move and have had a huge input into the new design – from its confi ation to t e deco . ne cent al location should still allow us to attract seasonal staff who won’t a e to t a el o t to ati ati o e e to find o he says.

In October last year Mpac announced a merger with several other well-respected players in the kiwifruit industry in order to unlock a set of commercial synergies in preparation for the forecast growth that lies ahead. ac alon it c land ac ool td o Plus and PollenPlus have all been amalgamated under a single ‘umbrella’ company but all will continue to operate under their individual trading names.

Collectively, the new amalgamated company currently packs 9.2 million trays of kiwifruit, and manages 560 hectares of privately-owned and leased kiwifruit orchards.

Jan says Mpac’s new Lakes facility signals a strong commitment to the kiwifruit industry, and to growing the company’s post-harvest market share. e e confident this will be the most e ficient ac o e in the Bay of Plenty. It’s been exciting to see the physical building emerge and we’re looking forward to it meeting the future needs of all our clients.”

Work began on the new facility in June.

KIWIFRUIT

Twenty Italian Zespri kiwifruit growers, in Tauranga to tap into local knowledge and e e ti e a e t e fi t of a number of ‘technical tour' groups that will bring 120 people from Korea, Japan, China, France and Italy to the region throughout the year.

Zespri global production manager Shane Max says the e i a filiated a tne growers, postharvest operators and l c ain ta a i e thirsty for local knowledge.

“They want to know how to

grow better fruit and more of it, and they want to meet the people who are doing it well here,” says Shane.

“This kind of face-to-face, practical, on-the-ground technical advice helps our overseas growers produce plenty of top quality fruit and ensures Zespri's standards are maintained throughout the supply chain.”

The knowledge exchange is vital to ensure the yearround supply of kiwifruit internationally, allowing Northern Hemisphere o c a di t to fill a in t e New Zealand growing season.

“It's essential we keep Zespri fruit in front of overseas consumers for 12 months a year to keep them loyal to our

brand,” adds Shane.

The delegates will visit the com an ead o fice a ell as kiwifruit-related businesses including coolstores, nurseries and retailers in the Bay of Plenty and beyond.

The group from Italy spent six days in New Zealand and a Korean group will arrive in March, with tours carefully tailo ed to meet ecific needs.

“For instance, the Korean contingent who arrive in March will travel to Gisborne because conditions there are very similar to their main growing region.

“And the Italians particularly wanted to see young nurseries and how we've dealt with the disease Psa.”

Page 15

espri a filiated partner talian grower ar o S i aro in the ay o lenty on a te hni al to r .

Rabbit numbers creating hazards on kiwifruit orchards If Katikati orchards are anything to go by there is a huge rabbit problem on our doorstep, says Hume Pack-N-Cool orchard operations manager Alistair Grant.

“And we all know how rabbits breed so it can only get worse.” ofin t e com an t at doe it am lin o Zespri, put rabbit holes high on its list of hazards on the orchard. Whether staff are walking or riding quad bikes where long grass covers the holes, the safety issue is accentuated.

“At least 60 per cent of our health and safety boards at the entrance of the orchard indicate rabbit holes as a major hazard.”

With this is mind, in October 2017 Hume Pack-NCool set out to lower the number of rabbits and, if possible, eliminate them from the orchards.

“We called Donna Watchman from the regional council who spent one morning training and signing o a n m e o o field ta in t e a e and e ecti e use of Magtoxin, a rabbit fumigant used in the burrows,” says Alistair.

“Through a concentrated effort over three months we have managed to lower the rabbit population considerably and reduced the risk of injury on our orchards.”

Rabbits thrive in hot, dry weather so the rain in February, though not good

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Hitting the spot this harvest

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HORSE OF THE YEAR

Page 16

Get the home that’s right for you G.J. Gardner Homes is once again a sponsor for the annual Horse of the Year event held from March 13 to 18 at the Hawke’s Bay A&P Showgrounds in Hastings, building on its long-standing association with the premiere equestrian event.

with adjustments to materials, room size, colour, and more. If you love to entertain G.Js can expand on the kitchen and dining areas or if you like to escape and relax, a larger bathroom o en ite can e fitted a ant.

Many customers bring in their own sketches and ideas and have been amazed at what can be created for them. Talk to the G.J. Gardner team about your ideas, how you live, what is important to you, and they can personally design a home just for you.

Alternatively, if you have your own design already, G.Js can build that too.

By building a unique home you create your own mark that your family will have for generations.

G.J. Gardner have more than 20 years’ experience in building homes in New Zealand and have built an incredible range of individual homes for thousands of delighted customers, so they know what Kiwis want and need in a home.

At G.J. Gardner Homes the choice is yours - your plans, their plans or design and build. For more information visit their website today www.gjgardner.co.nz

Starting from humble beginnings in 1997, G.Js has built itself into the market leader of home builders with 28 locally owned and operated businesses all over the country.

Grant Lee franchise owner of G.J. Gardner Homes Hawke’s Bay says that findin a o e to call o o n can be a challenge.

“Many disregard the option of building new, thinking that it can be too expensive. Building new is not only affordable by also very attainable, G.J. Gardner Homes are New Zealand’s most trusted home builder, we make it easy.”

With more than a 100 different house designs, there is a plan that will suit you and your section. These tried and tested plans have been designed to suit a range of New Zealand environments.

“If you’re looking for an inspirational starting point, try utilising one of our designs, and altering as Building new you choose. With hundreds of plans, there are countcan be affordable less of ways they can look and attainable.

Top international judges for HOY Horse of the Year is used to international visitors, but the 2018 line-up is looking particularly diverse. The week-long event from March 13 to 18 will play host to a number of global equestrian e ta o ill t e define t e show as a truly international event.

and spectators alike at HOY, where the Swiss native will be a judge and member of the ground jury.

Christian will be joined by Annabel Scrimgeour, o al o old t e i e t alification a a t ee and o ta d e. nna el ie in om t e where she works closely with Kiwi rider Andrew Nicholson and many others at the top of their game.

South Islander Helen Christie will head the ground jury as one of few New Zealanders with the to alification . elen a een in ol ed it The eventing discipline is looking especially staro ea fittin e ome co nt e ent studded, with both the CIC2 star and into a calendar packed with international CIC3 star classes important for e ectation incl din o ficiatin at t e rider ratings at the international World Equestrian Games. level. There are few opporFinally, eventing tunities in New Zealand brings their superstar to gain these points, line-up to a close with HOY providing with technical an excellent chance for delegate Christian riders to make a mark Persson. An on the charts of the Olympian in international equeshis own right, trian federation.

Swedish visitor Christian is al o eaded to i e fi t UK judge HOY and couldn’t be more No stranger to eventpleased with the opportunity. ing at the highest levels, A previous member of three and four star judge Sweden’s eventing team at Christian Landolt is looking the 1984 Olympics, he’s been o a d to i fi t time at involved in eventing for decades Horse of the Year, though he Clarke Johnstone competing at the and has been the TD at a number of already has his own connection Hawke’s Bay Horse of the Year. major international events. to the Hawke’s Bay. In addition to his judging career Christian also Next generation rides, and his eventing mount is Toblerone “The next generation of Kiwi eventers are ready to NZPH, bred and born at Ocean Beach stud NZ break into the international circuit, so it’s important Performance Horses. to get them in front of international judges, and for Christian is a regular judge at the world’s most them to ride in an international atmosphere,” says prestigious events, including Badminton and Burgheventing director Erika Herries. ley Horse Trials, and was a member of the ground With New Zealand history steeped in eventing success at an Olympic level, it’s a discipline that jury at the recent Adelaide 4 star where Kiwi Clarke deserves to be front and centre of the country’s Johnstone triumphed. His experience at the upper biggest horse show. levels of the sport will be invaluable to competitors

HORSE OF THE YEAR

Everything equestrian on site Hoofcamp Saddlery will be at Horse of the Year at the Hawke’s Bay A&P Show grounds in Hastings from March 13-18 to showcase its range of everything equestrian.

means Hoofcamp has a comprehensive range of everything equestrian.

“Our website is proving popular and makes shopping easy for anyone, anywhere in New Zealand,” says Kathryn.

Hoofcamp has a large second-hand corner with sadKathryn Cook of Hoofcamp Saddlery says the dles and everything else equestrian which is popular retailer is one of with customers the largest equeswho may have a trian stores in New limited budget.

Zealand. “What “We sell on behalf. makes us so popular This service takes all is that we carry a of the hassle out of wide range of gear dealing with buyers for all equestrian for the private disciplines.” person selling gear.

Hoofcamp imports Hoofcamp deals a range of western with questions and and stock saddles, makes the sale for and gear from Ausyou. You just tralia which includes collect your payleather saddle bags, ment after the item i e ca a d la o is sold,” says t en e buys equipm stock whips and Lilly Isaac of Whakatan Kathryn. p. am ofc y from Ho everything for the and feed for pony Denn Hoofcamp outback rider, bushSaddlery has a man/hunter and stockman or shepherd rider. workshop with a saddler available for all types of “We also cater for the show jumping rider, dressage, repairs. Anything that needs a heavy duty machine, pony club, endurance and pleasure rider and have stitching, rivets, domes, clips, buckles or zips, they just taken on board the New Collegiate range of sadcan do it. Horse cover repairs are their specialty. “We dles, which have a great, affordable price tag. We will also launder the rugs and re-proof them.” have these saddles at HOY.” Hoofcamp’s Facebook page is proving very popular Hoofcamp is always increasing its range of prodand Kathryn encourages people to ‘like’ Hoofcamp ucts. New suppliers continue coming on board to on Facebook. enhance the wide range of gear, equipment, Hoofcamp’s site at HOY is Site D10 just above the products and supplements for customers. This dressage arena.

Equestrian gear made ‘to last a lifetime’ Circle M Brand’s co-owner Terry Marshall has more than 40 years’ experience custommaking Western saddles and tack.

Terry says he started “messing around with leather” when he was a kid at school.

“Me and my mates had horses and we always played at being cowboys. When I left school I went to work on my parents’ farm and working with cattle and the ‘cowboy’ developed. This led to following the rodeo circuit for 20 years.

“I used to make belts, bags and rodeo gear, and this led to making western saddles to support my rodeo hobby.”

This early love of leather-making has continued into Terry’s equestrian business, Circle M, located near Otorohanga. In the late 1980s Circle M started making oilskin coats as well.

“At the time ‘The Man from Snowy River’ was a hit at the movies which really pushed the oilskin drovers’ coats; we couldn’t make enough of them and oilskin coats and vests have become a signature

manufacture for Circle M.” Terry says the success of Circle M has a lot to do with starting from scratch and understanding horses and the needs of the rider.

“We designed, made and tested everything ourselves, and sourced the best fabrics and hardware. We taught ourselves how to sew and it is still the same today.

“The saddle-making is just the same. I taught myself by repairing old saddles; pulling them apart and rebuilding them. As time moves along and you do enough of this, you get pretty good at what you are making.

“Riding horses a lot during my rodeo days gave me the understanding and the ‘feel’ of how a good saddle should sit on a horse and how it should also be comfortable for the rider all day long.

“There is a great deal of satisfaction in making something yourself that you know someone is going to get a lot of use and pleasure out of and that’s why our coats and saddles are made to last a lifetime.”

Visit Circle M website at: www.circlem.co.nz

Terry Marshall of Circle M Brand.

Page 17

Page 18

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Plan for future of land before changes affect its potential With a new year you may have plans to develop your property, add to it or relocate completely.

So, if you’re planning a subdivision or boundary adjustment on the farm this year you must check the rules early on.

Councils are regularly making changes to their district plan rules, particularly around subdivision. Currently there

are ongoing Environment Court hearings in relation to the Thames-Coromandel Plan, and Waikato is about to announce a major change that will cover their original area, plus the part annexed from Franklin when the ‘Super City’ was established.

We expect this to be a major change for the ex-Franklin a ea and a t e i nificant tightening of the rules in Waikato generally.

Other surrounding districts such as Hauraki, Waipa, Matamata-Piako, Western Bay of Plenty, Whakatane and Rotorua Lakes have also made changes in recent years.

In our dealings with clients it is very apparent that they often learn the rules from talking to mates at the field da o a local e ta li ment. n o t natel the time they want to do some form of subdivision, which includes boundary changes, the rules have changed – perhaps several times. The only way to keep up-to-date is to respond to public notices and mail from your council advising of pending changes.

Have a say

There is always a submission phase where you can voice your support or opposition to any proposed rule change. You then have a say in the process and may have some chance of completing any plans that you may have had. However, from my experience, you don’t want to wait for that time as it is full of complexities and high costs. You should simply get on and plan the future of your land well before rule changes take the potential away from you.

Many people I work for have separated their properties into several titles over the years and retained the titles, particularly the ones with productive land. This gives them options in the future, such as boundary adjustments and relocation of titles.

Most councils are lifting the minimum areas for rural subdivision to more than 40 hectares. Needless to say, given that most titles are already below this area, there

is little opportunity for further subdivision. This often equally applies to unproductive land, as councils do often implement blanket rules.

Matamata-Piako

Matamata-Piako is an exception and has allowed subdivision of certain rural blocks above 28ha in size, with lifestyle blocks still being allowed on some ‘older’ productive titles over 40ha in size, as well as on some of the lower quality land.

Hauraki District Council, while implementing the 40ha minimum on the plains, has allowed lifestyle subdivision on the foothills and smaller rural blocks around Waihi. Western BOP has established a lifestyle zone close to Tauranga in an attempt to accommodate the demand.

If subdivision or boundary adjustments are on your radar for this year, I would encourage you to check the le fi t and not el on ea a . a t om t e a ea requirements for subdivided lots, there are many other rules that we need to comply with when making an application. I am happy to discuss the opportunities for now and the future, so don't hesitate to give me a call.

Brent Trail, managing firector of Surveying Services, specialises in resource consent applications for subdivisions across the Coromandel, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty. For further information call 0800 268 632 or email btrail@surveyingservices.co.nz

Facial eczema risk high until possibly May Clinical cases of facial eczema are now being seen in the Bay of Plenty.

Rain has hit most parts of the North Island during the last month and with the humid weather continuing, all farmers should be monitoring spore counts closely as part of their facial czema prevention programmes.

Signs to look for include a drop in milk production in cattle; animals that are restless, seeking shade and cows that lick their udder; and exposed, unpigmented or thin skin that reddens, thickens and peels.

Not all affected animals will show signs.

For one clinical case there are likely 10 animals with subclinical liver damage. These animals will have reduced production – growth or milk. Chronic

wasting or death can occur from a badly damaged liver, especially under times of stress.

The fungus Pithomyces chartarum produces spores, containing the toxin sporidesmin, when grass minimum temperatures are above 12 degrees Celsius for two or three nights and humidity is high. This combination can last from December/January right through to May. nimal need to e t eated t o ee prior to the rise in spore counts to have adequate protection. oid a d a in and to in a t e during these times.

With more showers expected heading into the autumn, spore counts could stay high with mild tem e at e . ll a m o ld e on i ale t monitoring spore counts closely and carrying out their own on-farm assessment of the risk.

What to do

Oral zinc oxide prevention, preferably through slow release boluses, offers best performance. In-line zinc sulphate water systems is the other main prevention alternative for stock. e e i no ecific treatment for facial eczema and any therapy considered should be symptomatic and alliati e. nti i tamine anti in ammato ie vitamins and zinc-based creams for skin lesions are commonly given.

For more information on Facial eczema cases facial eczema in your area, are not all as obvious contact your local vet clinic for advice and as this one. treatment options.

HORTICULTURE

HortNZ – the industry’s voice Commercial fruit and vegetable growers know the cost of everything.

With challenges such as unpredictable eat e it can e di fic lt eno to grow high quality fruit and vegetables, but then growers also face a list of costs.

They pay for processing, packaging, transportation, promotions, and all the other costs to get produce to the point of sale. In recent years, increased compliance and a land takeover for urban development and lifestyle blocks have increased these costs.

On top, the grower pays for industry organisations that support their right to farm and enable them to continuing growing with the least possible red tape. It is therefore important that, like every other person the grower pays, industry organisations such as Horticulture New Zealand deliver value to every grower.

Prime functions

nc ea in t e ofile o o tic lt e and de elo in the public’s understanding of the industry are prime functions for Horticulture New Zealand. This extends to being a strong advocate with local and central government as they develop policies, to ensure that o tic lt e can contin e to o i and o . oac tive industry organisations engage with mainstream and social media channels to gain public support and promote industry positions to government.

Examples of recent issues that Horticulture New Zealand has been active in include being a strong advocate for Country of Origin labelling for fresh fruit and vegetables to give consumers the information they want; pointing out during last year’s election campaign the problems with a proposed water tax; getting media and political attention on the need to protect areas where we grow our fruit and vegetables so that we can

continue to feed New Zealand without importing produce; and pointing out the need for water storage for future production, particularly in the face of climate change.

Right to farm

The right to farm is a strong focus for industry organisations and this includes making submissions to central government and regional and district councils.

At the most basic level, these submissions permit growers to grow their fruit and vegetables. This is an area where industry organisations need to be vigilant and produce the best evidence-based submissions.

Our challenge has been to get horticulture recognised as part of the primary sector and to get people to understand the particular needs around enabling plants to be grown successfully. Access to water is a key area, as without the right quantities of water at the right time, plant growth cannot be achieved.

Page 19

Giving language ‘heaps’ The word ‘heaps’ has made a uniquely New Zealand transformation. Starting life as a humble mound of things, over a few decades it has become, and developed, a real attitude.

The University of Waikato’s Dr Andreea Calude has been looking at how it has gone from a word used to describe size, to a word used to be cheeky.

She has been analysing New Zealand speech, and her data indicates some big changes: “That was heaps stressful.”

She says like many other language changes, this one is being driven by young people. As part of the evolution of New Zealand English, the word has moved away from British and American English usage, and only Australia comes anywhere near its new idiomatic persona.

Andreea is also researching how words are exchanged between Maori and English, and how the loaning of words is changing how society sees, treats, and values te reo Maori.

Pests and diseases

Another key area is protecting New Zealand and our growers from unwanted pests and diseases from other countries. The devastating incursions that New Zealand’s primary sector endures are the only evidence needed for this to be all industry organisations’ prime concern.

Attracting talent, providing viable career pathways, and working to have immigration options in place so t e e a e ficient o e a aila le en t e a e needed are also aspects industry organisations work on.

At Horticulture New Zealand, we aim to create an enduring environment where growers and the communities they live in prosper. To achieve that, we are doing all of the above, and working closely with other industry organisations, the commercial entities that service the industry, and growers.

Manuka Provenances

Kaitaia

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AVOCADOS

Page 20

Great NZ avocado stories to tell in Chinese market

Following an audit in January by Chinese o ficial t e ati ati a ed eciali t a ocado e ice o ide t ocado td a i en t e een li t to e lo e t e ne ma et.

t ocado o e ation and o e e ice a od ed ood a t e a ditin a a c allen in oce and e i o d o t e team cce . e ad t e o e ionali m and ca a ilit to ta e on t i c allen e and t e team demon t ated t at it t e immen e amo nt o time and ene t e t into en in e e detail o t e ac o e and o tem met t e ina ecification . a od a alt o t e i o o t e a dit a e een accom li ed t e e o t m t contin e. t a i tic a in o ac in and e o tin i ned o o ina t t i i t t e e innin . e al o need to en e o o e a e to eed it com liance c an e o t i ma et omet in o o e e ice team ill contin e to o on in t e lead to t e ne ea on.

Optimise performance

emand in ina o a ocado contin e to o it tonne im o ted in e tonne in . t ocado i t e t i d la e t e o te o e ealand a ocado and e e ent e cent o t e ind t o e e e ill e e oc ed on t e ma et c annel t at e e ice.

Growing demand

it t e cce o t e ecent e ealand a ocado ind t t ial i ment to ina e ind t em t ocado and a lin o a e no oc ed on o in it t ei in ma et a tne to nde tand t e e t a to o ition e ealand a ocado it con me . aco a t at e ta li in a oint o di e ence and a emi m o e ealand a ocado in t e ina ma et i a io it o a lin o . e a ean m e o great stories to tell about New Zealand a ocado t e ni e ealt enefit ein the strongest to le e a e in this

n ind t t ial i ment a ent to ina in e a . t ocado ill e in i in comme cial ol me in t e comin ea on t e tem e and ill e e e ented in t e ma et a ent com an a lin o . a lin o ale and a etin aco a lin a t e e i o to e done in t e ma et t ollo in t ei cce l cit o amme into an ai la t ea i a a e o at i e i ed to e ta li t e cate o . ea nin om o cit o amme ill e ed to o timi e o e ealand a ocado o amme in t e comin ea on. ddin a ocado to o e ta li ed e od ce e o t o amme to ina i a eat enefit o and o Jacob Darling ma et., Darling Group GM Sales and Marketing, o e . a tne in ina a e says customers in China are excited about the market e cited a o t t e it om e ealand opening for avocados from New Zealand. a aco .

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emi m

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Exports of New Zealand avocados to China have been approved and now Avoco i finali in lan o it fi t comme cial i ment late t i ea . t li el t at oco e ealand la e t e o t l o o a ocado ill end a minim m o t a to ina a te im o te di t i to a an ement a e finali ed ne t mont d in a e ea on ma et i it. oco e o t a ocado to a io ian ma et nde it an a and and t e com an a een e a in o acce to ina o ome time. elimina lannin a incl ded t e de elo ment o a ma et ecific and name de i ned to e t e e em la and om e ealand o ina. ntici atin acce o ld e anted o t e an a ma et mana ement team ad al ead d a ted an initial ma et lan o ina in ol in ta et ol me i e ofile and l a in . ina li e ndia and o t o ea ill e de elo ed it t e ie to it ecomin a ma et o emi m alit la e i e it. e it ill e a aila le t o i end omni

Page 21

it Deed of cooperation

channels’ where shoppers have the option to pur c aet o eit e online di ital ale lat o m o at etail to e . oco ma etin and comm nication mana e te e ic ett a ina a t e otential to e a i nificant ma et o e ealand. ian economie contin e to de elo and an inc ea in n m e o ealt ie con me eme e diet ecome mo e a ied and demand o i alit n t itio inte national ood o e a . e o ect t at o t in demand o a ocado i onl et to inc ea e. ina c entl im o t a ocado om e ico e and ile. o e e t e ni e alitie o e ealand a ocado o ld i e t em an a eal in oint o di e ence. e ni e climate and e tendin o in ea on New Zealand avocados are produced in will help to di e entiate an a it in t e od ce ai le a te e. i ill e o ted oint o ale con me ed cation mate ial co e in n t itional att i te andlin and eci e idea .

eade om e a e anan a o an ia an i oi omai n tit te o ec nolo and t e ni e it o ai ato ecentl met to ea fi m t ei commitment to t e a o lent e tia d cation a tne i i nin a ene ed eed o oo e ation. e a tne i aim to im o e o o t nitie o a t dent to

acce te tia ed cation o e in a an e o alification om ce tificate to de ee all t e a to o tdocto al t d . t al o lan to inc ea e e ionall ele ant e ea c ic ot ocial and c lt al de elo ment economic taina ilit and te tia a tici ation amon t ao i.

Nutritional values

e ea c a al o o en t at a ocado o n in e ealand a e e cent mo e olate and t ice a m c itamin t an a ocado o n el e e e. ein t e clo e t and t e e o e e e t o t e n emi e e o ce o a ocado to ina t e tle di e ence in t e ta te and te t e ofile o o it a ell a e entin con me it a la e iece o it ac ed omotional in e tment ill el nde in o and to all aimed to ec e a emi m lace in t e ma et a te e. a et acce to ina ollo a cce l tec ni cal a dit o t e e lato tem o e o tin . o o de oce e e e t en t e te ted it t e a i al o e ealand fi t ai ei ted con i nment o a ocado .

Export requirements

Avoco marketing and communications manager, Steve Trickett.

e ini t o ima nd t ie and ina ene al dmini t ation o alit e i ion n ection and a antine ad ea lie i ned t e otocol to a ee e o t e i ement in o em e . te e a it i e citin t at an a can no add ina to it li t o ian ma et o . an a i t ted e in ia to l eat ta tin a ocado and o lon te m commitment to ia and o e la e ence t e e a ilt ma et lo alt . e com ined e o t o man to in acce to ina i eat ne o oco o e and t e e o t ind t a a ole.

Size counts AVOCO’s focus is producing results – improved orchard health, knowledge growth and outstanding OGRs, each and every season, big or small. All the while developing new markets to future-proof your investment.

Phone: 07 362 8433

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PIAKO & DISTRICTS FOCUS

Page 22

Cycleway extension planned Plans are underway to extend the existing Hauraki Rail Trail from Te Aroha to Matamata.

The Matamata Piako District Council is compiling a business case with the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust, which manages the existing Hauraki Rail trail, for additional project funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. The outcome of this application will likely determine the start date of the construction phase.

In the meantime improvements have been made to the design of the planned cycleway. This has included additional directional, information and educational signage; additional seating along the route; engineering design and trail surface improvements in some areas; and a landscape design for various sections of the trail, including rest areas.

The route will follow the Kaimai Ranges along Manawaru Road in the road reserve.

A number of submitters to council supported the cycleway, but suggested a more scenic/varied route

along Old Te Aroha Rd, rather than the proposed route along Manawaru Rd. Council says on its website that both routes were investigated but Manawaru Rd was chosen as this will mean the trail can be ‘Grade 1’.

Grade 1 trails are suitable for all levels of cyclists, and would be consistent with the rest of the Hauraki Rail ail. e o o al i t at t i ne e ten ion i o ficiall incorporated into the Hauraki Rail Trail, which will be eneficial o omotin t e e o a atamata le .

Council also believes this route will result in better economic enefit o t e di t ict enco a in eo le to stay overnight in Te Aroha or Matamata when cycling the rail trail.

It said the route along Te Aroha Gordon Rd may have had more features of interest, however could not be completed as a Grade 1 trail, and would cost substantially more.

The plan is to signpost features of interest along the Kaimai Ranges such as Waiorongomai, Wairere Falls, the Kaimai Air Crash Memorial and Stanley Landing, however the links to these sites would be along the road rather than the dedicated cycleway.

Processing plant consented Air discharge and land use consents have been granted for a meat rendering and blood processing plant at Greenlea Premier Meats Ltd’s existing abattoir property in Morrinsville.

The applications were granted by the Waikato Regional o ncil and atamata ia o i t ict o ncil ollo in a com ined t o da ea in in o in ille la t November.

During the hearing, Greenlea said it was committed to building a plant with a number of layers of protection – greater than any other plant of its kind in New Zealand.

The hearings panel concluded the effects of the proposal

Years of Innovation

are “likely to be no more than minor, and can be avoided, remedied or mitigated by conditions of consent”. o e e it a ac no led ed t at a no mal di charges of odour – while potentially not happening often – would have high impact and couldn’t be prevented despite “an extremely high level of good management and design”.

The panel agreed to grant the consents because of the applicant’s agreement to an “extreme condition” that requires the plant to stop processing and, if necessary, emo e all mate ial o ite i a alidated odo com laint is received.

The applications were heard by independent hearings commissioners Kevin Mahon and Murray Kivell.

PIAKO & DISTRICTS FOCUS

Page 23

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RURAL DRIVER

Driving ‘on the edge’ to improve safety skills

Seeka trainee orchard manager Levi Ryland comes to grips with driving a LUV on a slope under the guidance of Andrew Simpson of Carnz Training Ltd.

Feeling the fear, and not tipping over the edge – that was part of the experience for those involved in courses to learn the safe operation of Light Utility Vehicles on orchards.

Conducted by Andrew Simpson of Carnz Training Ltd in association with Jacks Machinery of Whakatane, the three, two-day courses put 24 trainees “on edge” in order to improve their understanding and skills at handling a range of LUVs. One exercise involved trainees driving at slow speed along a sidling. Andrew, known as Simmo, instructed the driver to stop when the vehicle was at an angle where it appeared about to tip.

He then pulled the Polaris over so it was resting on just two wheels, where it stayed in balance until he gently pushed it back onto four wheels. Simmo used the dramatic demonstration of the vehicles’ stability to illustrate how, when operated correctly, the driver has time to assess a situation and recover from it.

RURAL DRIVER

Page 25

On-orchard experience increases trainees’ knowledge and confidence “If the driver had come round the corner and up the sidling at speed, they would have tipped over. By going slowly and letting the vehicle do what it’s designed to do, they were quite safe.

Not that we encourage driving along sidling like that.”

“It felt pretty uncomfortable,” says Jessie Rogan, a trainee orchard manager with Seeka at Te Puke.

“I thought it was going to tip over onto Simmo, but it didn’t.”

Jessie says the two-day course increased his no led e and confidence in o e atin ide ide vehicles. “It’s important we know how to operate them properly. We have gone away from quad bikes and use the Polaris machines for orchard work, such as pollination,” he says.

Steve Donoghue of Jacks Machinery says the courses were so successful that a second series has been planned.

Relevant to all LUVs

“The courses focus on all LUVs, not just the Polaris, so are relevant to owners of any other vehicles too,” says Steve.

“The feedback we have from those who took part in t e fi t e ie i anta tic. ent alon to atc some of the training and could see the drivers growin in confidence and t ei ent ia m o at

they were learning.”

Trainees were also taught the unique features of different LUVs, including their transmission and suspension systems. Vehicle maintenance was also part of the training.

“We teach drivers to do a pre-check of the vehicle; not to just jump in and take off. Each model of vehicle is slightly different and they need to familiarise themselves with its capability, and operation.”

providing lunch o ver the six days.

For more information, or to register for the next series of training courses,

contact Steve Donoghue of Jacks Machinery email: steve.donoghue@jml.co.nz

Towing experience

Part of the course also included towing a spray tank, initially empty, and then half-full of water, downhill in the orchard. “This gave the drivers the chance to experience the different feel and operation of the vehicle when towing, and learn how to control it.”

Simmo says those who took part in the courses did really well, enjoyed themselves, learned valuable ne ill and inc ea ed t ei confidence in o e at ing the vehicles.

As well as Seeka staff, employees of other postharvest and quality assurance sectors, the owners and staff of KW Kiwi Ltd and some of Jack’s Machinery’s own staff took part in the course which was held on the Katikati orchard owned by Stephen Kenna and Phillipa Wright.

All attendees would like to thank Zespri for

A group of driver trainees enjoying the experience. Photo: Steve Donoghue.

RANG

0 ER 50

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COUNTRY LIVING

Page 26

Colourful fishing despite dull weather Due to the spell of inclement weather in February, the team at Blue Ocean Charters has had a bit of a quiet time. However, the two trips I did to Mayor Island on Te Kuia provided some quite interesting results.

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Cost Effective Easy To use Improves Soakage Reduces Solids and Scums Eliminates Nasty Odours Reduces Costly Pump-outs

e fi t t i con i ted o a mi ed o of keen anglers wanting to get out and have a it o n and e e ience a a o Island) close up. Most people see the island in the distant haze from shore and those that venture out love seeing it close up.

Fishing near to the island, the crew managed to put together a good feed of tarakihi, porae and snapper.

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Some of the worst tangles still produced some ood fi . a ellin to and om t e i land i e t e opportunity to pick up some skippies to add to the bait selection for the day.

The second day was a little bit slower with a group of locals from Tauranga. We headed off to Mayor land in ea c o t e all and in fi it ome mi ed e lt . e mana ed to catc a e t e all and a eat n m e o nde i ed in fi ic were returned to potentially grow to their full size – this being dependent, of course, on their penchant for schooling under boats and sampling the baits on offer.

Although playing with in fi i a lot o n o attention turned towards ettin fi o t e ta le

before the call came to wind up and head for home.

Sashimi enjoyed

A good number of colourful species came on board; rainbow wrasse, pink maomao, granddaddy hapuka, along with tarakihi and porae. We decided to head back towards ome to catc a it o e enin fi in clo e to shore in some shallower water. A few skippies took the lures on the way back ic added to t e e citement. e promptly got turned into sashimi. e fi t to ed at t e mile to ic o a e ta a i i t en to ed at a o t t e m ma onl a e mile o t o a c ee e enin fi o snapper. This is where one very lucky lady managed to et t e fi o t e ee . inae im mana ed to land a nice 9lb snapper, resulting in a great end to the day.

Bonus day-off

ata i eaded o t on an inne ee fi in t i on aitan i a . i in in a o t m o ate t e fi in fi ed a oon a t e anc o ent do n.

Small snapper and rat kingis were the main catch, it t e odd ta ea le na e comin in t e cm an e. o in a it t e o t t e ood fi in continued and over the course of the day three people actually got their limits on snapper. Everyone else took home a good feed for dinner. What a great way to spend a bonus day off work.

Happy fishers Neil Olive and Shinae Kim and those with a tangle.

Customs legislation revamp Customs will have new legislation t i ea to ein o ce it fi t a ain t t e o o ille al d into New Zealand, says Customs Minister Meka Whaitiri. g Reef Fishin

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e tom and ci e ill c entl before Parliament will modernise the whole business of Customs. The new ct ill e t e fi t ma o o e a l in mo e t an ea o t e le i lation o e nin c tom and i e ected to take effect later this year.

“I am also looking in the future at legislation that will improve the ability of Customs to make seizures at our borders.

“Open and honest dialogue between

Customs, traders and travellers is the key to keeping the country’s borders secure without interfering unnecessarily with travel and trade.

“By making it easier and more e ficient to mo e ood and eo le across the border, Customs makes an important contribution to the economic well-being of the country as a whole.

But it has to do so without compromising its key role of keeping out illicit substances and materials that harm our communities and people.

“As an organisation, Customs is constantly striving to make improvements; to provide greater transparency, guidance and certainty for all the people who interact with it,” says the Minister.

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 27

Untreated water is risk to health Waterborne diseases are caused by drinking water contaminated with bacteria, viruses and small parasites.

The Arctica Pure Water system provides a range of UV systems to suit all sizes of homes.

E.coli, campylobacter, and giardia are just a few, says Alan Jones, technical director of Arctica Pure Water, who has some essential information for rural water users.

“We all need water, and while the vast majority of drinking water in New Zealand is safe to drink straight from the tap thanks to proper treatment, untreated water, particularly in a rural area,

is susceptible to contamination, putting you, your family, or visitors at risk of getting sick.”

Disease-causing organisms are carried by animals, birds, and humans, and these risks are increasing as subdivision and inten ification o land e contin ues, says Alan.

“The danger is greatest for babies, the elderly and those with immune system issues. Visitors who are not used to your water may also fall victim.”

For the farm home, a combination o filte and lt a iolet treatment are the most e ficient and economical met od

of protection.

The Arctica Pure Water system provides a range of UV systems to suit all sizes of homes. t ee ta e filt ation nit it e filte and t o ca on loc filte assist in cleaning the water from minerals, bad tastes and sediments, and

reduces bacteria and parasites, allowing the ultraviolet light to clean up (kill) the remaining disease-bearing pests.

Visit: www.arcticapurewaternz.com to find o t mo e a o t o ctica Pure Water can protect you and your loved ones.

Growing in relationships C

O U NT R

N NIE

www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz

Some relationships just seem to do us in. Either we feel like we lose ourselves or feel burnt out from futile efforts to make things right for another. In our relationships we can experience the very best of ourselves and the very worst.

The message of the book ‘Growing Yourself Up’ by Jenny Brown is that you can’t separate understanding the individual from understanding relationships. All of life’s relationships are integral to increasing self-awareness and maturity.

And it’s not necessarily ‘Growing Yourself Up’ the comfortable is the book prize for relationships that promote March. personal growth. In this second edition of the best-selling book, Jenny examines how to help others without fostering dependency, and how to determine what kind of help you or others want from therapists. This is in response to the many lay and professional people who have found this book valuable personally and want to know how to help others grow.

Drawing from Bowen family systems theory, the

S

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book takes you on a journey through each stage of life to see predictable patterns of relationships and to show how to use this knowledge to make purposeful adjustments in yourself; as well as lending a mature helping hand to others. The result is a sturdier self, sturdier relationships and a refreshing new way to view life’s challenges and opportunities.

Jenny Brown is the founder and executive director of the Family Systems Institute and the Family Systems Practice in Sydney, Australia, where she has a counselling practice and trains mental health professionals and organisations.

Thanks to Exisle Publishing, Coast and Country News has a copy of ‘Growing Yourself Up’ by Jenny Brown to give away. To be in to win email captions for the photo below and send with your name and address with Country Funnies as the subject line to merle@ thesun.co.nz Or put these details on the back of an envelope and post to Country Funnies, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3140 to arrive no later than April 16.

Y

To be human is to be in relationships. We can’t survive without them, but it’s in relationships that we can so easily get unravelled.

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i in do n NZ Adventure Tours Eastern lo e fi e da to and i o nt e ita e i da to ta e client t o t e i co nt o t e o t land.

ine o t e i land a onde

onnie and o ie ic ett o d ent e a all accommodation i in motel and meal a e in e ta ant it l nc e on tation it t e n olde o a icnic to en o a iet ot amon t e cene ome e e o t e eaten t ac .

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Skin Cancer is by far the most common cancer in New Zealand and here in the Bay, and the number of diagnosed cases continues to rise each year.

Skin Cancer can be life threatening, s e ifi a e ano a i not t eated early, so ensure you receive the right analysis and treatment at an early stage.

e ocial ide o t e e t i i ama in . t i o ten aid e ta t a t i a t an e and o a a a iend . o an d ent e t i t e onl manda to ti lation i o all e icle to a e decent all te ain t e t e in ood condition and a lo an e t an mi ion fitted. e e icle i lied it a adio o a commenta and t o a comm nication i a aila le. i ea t e a te n lo e i endin t o ni t in an l at t e ea ti l a d n od e a onnie. e a te n lo e ta t in e aldine and ead o t ea t t o t e mo ntain an e o o t ante t o an e a and into an l o t e ni t. e i li t o t e fi t da ill e t e a e c ance to d i e t o o ea tation. e econd da o te ta e t e t i into ome o t e old old o in a o nd a e and an l . e ni t i in an l .

Oceania Goldmine

a t ee ta e in ie o t e ceania oldmine at c ae lat a ell a ome eat t ac in t e little no n t at aie i a ea eadin do n to an o e ni t in o iel. a o ta e t e t i into

l e e ience

t e ta o inte land and a mi t e o o e t and a mland. n t e a te noon e t a el o e t e amme moo an e t o t e e a an i on e ation a to o e ni t in i to ic and aint a ence. a fi e t e o te ollo t e l t a i e e o e t nin into t e mo ntain and ollo in old old minin o te t o e i olated and a el ettled co nt e o e a i in at o ne end in le and a.

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i o nt e ita e ta t in len iem and t a el t o iconic ole o t tation on t e fi t a te noon and into anme in ee t a elle o e ni t. e ent ni t a e in et en ai lie ma ama om ell and la t ni t at a d ona. i li t incl de t a ellin o e t e ill om t e ai a alle into t e ate e alle ai o e and t e e tation o t e ac en ie a in and a e enmo e. t e o t o t e tea e on e ation a aint t at an and t e lcan otel alon it t e n tan and i a an e ill not di a oint. onde l t i do n t e ine o t e i land.

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NZ Adventures offer more than just great scenery. Friendships among travellers are made as well.

oollen ca et clot in ma el ocean 171 Cameron Road, Tauranga Freephone: 0508 578 578 www.skincancercentre.co.nz

lo al conce n o a o t oll tion o o ocean and e ect on ma ine li e and ea ood e ea c i t d in o di e ent mate ial ea do n in t e ate to el ee con me in o med. t die indicate t at mic ofi e to mm in i e a e ente in t e ocean in la e antitie a tic la l om clot in and ot e mate ial in a in mac ine e e t e tin fi e can come loo e and t a el it t e ate into t e d ain and ltimatel to ocean o t all . o e e idence i al o e i ed o mic ofi e om inte io te tile li e ca et eddin and ot e od ct t at a e cleaned le o ten. n t e ocean malle mic ofi e can e in e ted t e ma ine li e and can end in o ea ood oten tiall c eatin ealt i e a ol me inc ea e. e ea c enio cienti t te e an o d a t e lim ited data a aila le e t ool ein a nat al otein fi e ea do n at a a eate ate in ea ate and t e e o e e ent a le i to t e ma ine en i onment t an nt etic fi e li e ol e te and n lon.

Biodegrading test

o te t t at e ill e o in it anot e o n e ea c n tit te cion in an e e iment t at te t o am le om ot oollen clot in and ca et iode ade in cont olled alt ate condition com a ed to am le om t e nt etic alte nati e te e a . i initial t d ill ta e lace o e a da e iod and om t at o cienti t ill anal e t e e lt and doc ment at i le t o t e am le and ill e a le to o ide ome in o mation a o t o t e e mate ial ea do n and at at ate.

Objective information

om t e e o e ea c ill con ide ot e acto elatin to t e di e ent mate ial and o t e ea do n. e aim i o ide t e lic it o ecti e in o ma tion a t e ma e c oice a o t at t e a ell a in o m man act e and etaile o t e e o mance o ood li e clot in and ca et. e e i a o in mo ement a o nd t e o ld ind t and o e nment to a d mo e t an a enc a o t od ct and t ei otential im act on t e en i onment and a in ood alit e ea c i im o tant o t i di c ion.

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 29

The benefits of turmeric My motorcycle tour around Rajasthan in India in 2015 was a feast for my senses including, of course, my taste buds. Most curry recipes contain the brilliant yellow spice turmeric.

It has also been a mainstay of Indian Ayurvedic medicine where it is used for it anti in ammato antio idant and immune-supporting qualities.

The active ingredient in turmeric is the yellow pigment curcumin which ma e a o t fi e e cent o t me ic o de . ile t e enefit o c c min have been part of Indian healing for centuries, it is no t e oc o e te n cientific e ea c . a e n me o client o a e enefitted om c c min o ten to calm ti e a ected in ammation. cienti t a e identified t e otent anti in amma to ca acit o c c min. n e cellent t d titled ‘Curcumin: a new paradigm and therapeutic opportunity for the treatment of osteoarthritis.’ (Henrotin et al, Springerplus 2013) investigated the application of curcumin in osteoarthritis.

The study concluded “curcumin represents a new paradigm since it is not yet a recommended intervention in osteoarthritis but should be con ide ed a ed on it a et and e ficac . ea

to eo le almo t dail o et enefit.

The study outlines the impact of c c min on e e al anti in ammato pathways, including inhibiting the i l in ammato en me . i en me i t e ta et o mo t anti in ammato d and ile e ecti e these drugs come with a range of often serious side effects. e a tanda di ed e t act o e cent c c min e t act and a e created a proprietary blend to improve curcumin absorption into damaged joints and tissue. The normal dose of two capsules daily gives 1000mg o t i i otenc e t act. i i equivalent to about a tablespoon of raw turmeric.

This is especially effective when combined with high otenc a e eed e t act.

I use curcumin mostly for joint support, digestive support and wherever tissue is affected by in ammation. eel ee to contact me o ad ice.

I offer a complementary programme for joint health support for those with osteoarthritis and other joint problems.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on: 0800 423559 or email: jahn@abundant.co.nz. Join his full weekly newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.

John Arts on a tour of India with locals at a gas station in the middle of the desert between Jaisalmer and Jodpur.

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RURAL BUILDING

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Top three issues on conference agenda Water quality and availability, rapid urbanisation, and the impact of natural hazards and climate change are the top three planning issues affecting New Zealand in 2018 and beyond, according to the New Zealand Planning Institute.

These challenges will be among those addressed at NZPI’s annual conference ‘Breaking New Ground’ held in Tauranga from March 21-23. Agri-food disruption, housing supply, biodiversity offsetting, new technologies and reviewing the implications of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development Capacity are also on the agenda.

Speakers at the conference include international planning expert David Dixon, global head of Agribusiness Ian Proudfoot, Victoria Planning Authority CEO Stuart Moseley, renowned researcher Richie Poulton and US neighbourhood crowdfunding platform founder Erin Barnes.

NZPI chair Bryce Julyan says planning and resource management within New Zealand is continuously evolving, and the role of planners and resource management specialists is to look forward and help plan for these issues.

Sustainable goals

“While issues like water, climate change and rapid urbanisation are more pronounced than they were a decade ago, these are global concerns.

“New Zealand planners must engage with others to examine our priorities in terms of the UN’s Sustain-

able Development Goals.”

Water quality and access to water resources is fast becoming a major issue globally. “New Zealand is faced with the challenge of weighing up the need for protecting the environmental quality of our water resource while also allowing for the use of water for economic, social and cultural reasons. We must do this sustainably to ensure the resource is available for future generations,” says Bryce.

Delegates at the conference will debate the effects of a growing population on our urban centres. “We will discuss ways to better plan for the supply of housing, transport and other infrastructure. We must consider different models and forms, and innovation in our plans to futureproof our cities and ensure access to quality services and equity across social networks and community facilities.

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Immediate attention

“Planning for the long-term sustainable future of our cities and resources requires immediate attention.”

This year’s conference will tap into the considerable learnings of international speakers who will share their insights and best-practice approaches to key issues.

“Attendees have the opportunity to interact with presenters and establish relationships that may assist in developing skills and capabilities, as well as to observe and interact with technology initiatives that address a number of these key issues.”

Held annually since 1964, the NZPI’s 2018 conference will be attended by more than 500 delegates including industry leaders, iwi, resource management experts, urban designers, scientists, environmental advocates, and local and central government representatives.

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FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

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FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

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Technology creates new opportunities Precision Agriculture Association New Zealand has elected a new chairman and four new board members as sensor technology and automation create new opportunities for primary production in New Zealand.

Roger Robson-Williams has taken over the chairman’s role from Precision Agriculture Association New Zealand’s previous chairman, Craige MacKenzie.

Originally from the UK, Roger, who is Plant & Food Research’s general manager of science- sustainable production, brings a wealth of arable and horticultural science and innovation experience to the role, as well as a deep interest in what he describes as the primary sector’s digital revolution.

Enlarged board He will be chairing an enlarged board – now totalling 12 – with four new members joining the PAANZ board. They are Dr Warwick Catto, science and strategy manager Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Ina Draganova, a senior lecturer at Massey University’s New Zealand Centre for Precision Agriculture, Dr Callum Eastwood, a farming systems scientist at DairyNZ and Kenneth Irons, CEO and shareholder of Precision Farming Ltd and Precision Tracking (NZ) Ltd. “We have increased the size of the board to get the breadth of experience and perspectives we need to move the organisation forward,” says Roger.

Spring-boarding off the success of last year’s International Tri-conference for Precision Agriculture in Hamilton,

value-chains. Global positioning systems and variable rate application, Roger says, are only part of the precision agriculture story. “Precision agriculture

in its broadest meaning has a key role to play in enabling this connectivity and joining together stakeholders right along the value-chain.”

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Roger Robson-Williams is the new chair of the Precision Agriculture Association.

Roger says PAANZ will be looking to use the many connections made during the conferences to raise awareness of precision agriculture and its diverse applications to every aspect of primary production value-chains – from environmental sustainability to enhancing the consumer’s experience.

Increased up-take Amongst PAANZ priorities is determining how the organisation can enable and increase the uptake of technology by farmers, growers and industry stakeholders.

“We are looking hard at what tangible activities we can engage in that will enefit ot mem e o and the wider community of stakeholders.”

Among the challenges facing precision agriculture in New Zealand is ensuring the primary sector can access and evaluate the technology t at i ited to t i co nt ecific environment, farming systems and

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PASTURE RENOVATION

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LIC has created a service called Satellite Pasture and Cover Evaluation, or SPACE – a New ealand fi t o a t e mea ement. t i e a me detailed a t e data om ima e ta en atellite emailed di ectl to t em.

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e com an e ite a t e d i e e ind t e e ice i t at c ent mea ement tool a en t al a ade ate e en t o ood a t e mana ement i ital to ma im i in a a m od cti it and ofita ilit . atellite c entl a o e e ealand dail . nce a me a e i ned to t e e ice ill ta t ecei in ima e o t ei a m om t e atellite . en t e eat e allo a clea ima e to e ta en it i anal ed and a detailed a t e data e o t ill e ent t e ne t da . e tem i de c i ed a a ame c an e o a t e mana ement tili in an al o it m de elo ed cienti t to e timate a t e co e o e ealand a me .

The SPACE report includes: n ima e o t e a m ic e ent a t e co e a iation colo o in di e ence ac o t e

a t e mana ement a m and it in eac addoc a detailed eed ed e and t e late t addoc an in and e timated d matte e ecta e a. it mo t a t e mea ement tem limita tion a ed on eat e condition a e to e e ected. e ealand i called t e land o t e lon ite clo d o a ea on and clo d can e t ict t e atellite a ilit to ca t e a clea ima e o a a m. a co nte ed t i ainin acce to dail atellite ima e ta eat e c an e o ill t e e enc o e o t . a ed on at i no n a o t e ealand cli mate and eat e condition t e com an e timate a me a e li el to ecei e a e o t e e e en to da e en in inte . a m i e a e ie ed t e e ice and endo e t e e o it to o tain a t e mea ement data.

The SPACE service is currently only available within defined a ea in ante and ai ato. cien ti t a e o in on ettin mo e e ion et to e t e e ice. en i a aila le in ne a ea o e a fi ed ee t ial e iod o a m can a e t e enefit o t e od ct it o t ein c a ed.

eed com an a o on ai e eed a a ointed aeme tin to t e ole o national ale mana e .

aeme a ad a cce l ca ee in a n m e o ole in t e ima ecto and o t e a t mont a een o in it i t ai ato a an a i ine con ltant. e a mo e t an ea in ol ement in t e e ealand mai e ind t and io to o in it i t eld ale mana ement and o a e eciali t ole it ionee eed . e a e deli ted to elcome aeme to o o in team. e in a ealt o ind t no led e ale mana ement ill and e e ience to t e ole a a id een e ealand ene al mana e o o on ai e eed a ent i t on eed . aeme a an o t tandin t ac eco d in ildin elation i and deli e in at al c tome ant. e a e loo in o a d to i el in ta in o i e o min mai e id to t e ma et. am loo in o a d to ein a a t o t e o on ai e eed i ne a aeme. a in t e o o t nit to deli e a oad an e o mai e enetic ac ed a team o eede a onomi t

ointment

Graeme Austin is the new national sales manager for Corson Maize Seed. ete ina ian and n t itioni t i ome t in am eall loo in o a d to. ai e contin e to e an im o tant eed and o a e c o at t e o e ont o en i onmental and economic tain a ilit o a me . t i an inc edi le od ct t at ill contin e to ma e a la e cont i tion to e ealand and t at an e citin lace to e.

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Artificial intelligence – time for mindset change?

Technology leaders from across the agricultural, horticultural and forestry sectors will be among the keynote speakers and delegates at this year’s MobileTECH event held in Rotorua from March 27-28.

Now in its sixth year, MobileTECH is the only event of its type where technology leaders, developers, engineers, entrepreneurs, innovators and the next generation can connect, learn, discuss, showcase and partner with the latest technologies and technology developers impacting the sector.

“The focus has been on showcasing new digital technologies and how they are, and will be, integrated into the day-to-day running of businesses throughout the agricultural, horticultural and forestry industries,” says Ken Wilson, MobileTECH programme manager.

“While we are really excited about where technolo ie li e a tificial intelli ence and mac ine lea nin are headed, this year the focus is on industry collaboration and hearing from early adopters within the sector.”

He says a new a wave of digital technologies is e e. tificial intelli ence mac ine lea nin t e Internet of Things (known as the IoTs), blockchain, big data, robotics and automation are just some of the technologies currently impacting business.

“No matter whether it’s banking, engineering, retail or agriculture, these innovations are changing how each sector operates.

“Humans have been around a while but we seem to think innovation, technology and disruption are just new. They’re not. But the speed of change and disruption perhaps is.”

Moving fast

Conor English, chairman of Agribusiness New Zealand and former CEO of Federated Farmers, is the opening keynote presenter at this year’s MobileTECH. His presentation will outline what this

means for this country’s primary sector and whether New technology which is it is time for a change in mind-set. revolutionising primary “New Zealand has a deserved reputation for industries, including being world-leading in agriculture. But the world is forestry, is the focus of moving fast. Are we living on the past?” he says. the MobileTECH event Ken says at last year’s event a lot of new technolin March. ogy was presented. “But one of the best questions asked was, ‘Is technology looking for a problem?’

Someone still needs to listen to my problems, understand my business and then look at the technology to help me go forward.”

In the race to innovate, is technology solving a problem or looking for one?

“Ian Gray, business manager for Cucumber Limited and Grant Stevenson, orchard manager from Mr Apple, will be one of the many presentations tackling this issue,” says Ken. “They are a great example of how tech businesses and the horticultural industry can better work together.”

Solving problems

Ian Gray says, it’s about a human-centred approach to solving real business problems. “We use the Design Thinking approach to understand their needs and enable them to make better decisions in assessing the right technology solutions.”

James Knapp, the health and safety lead at OSPRI, is another example of technology collaboration.

“I could not sleep at night knowing that we had information stuck in an Excel spreadsheet that, if effectively shared, could prevent an injury or death.

I wanted a tool to give remote workers immediate acce to ite ecific a a d in o mation and allo t em to a e ne a a d o nd in t e field.

James and his team at OSPRI worked with ThunderMaps to help bring that vision to a reality. Both James and Clint Van Marrewijk, the managing director (Asia Pac) of ThunderMaps will be presenting their practical insights at MobileTECH 2018.

MobileTECH 2018 will be held on March 27-28 in Rotorua. Further details can be found on the event website: www.mobiletech.events

Tree crops conference in Tauranga ‘How does your garden grow?’ is the theme for the 2018 New Zealand Trees Crops conference in Tauranga in April.

Held at the Tauranga Racecourse from April 6-8, the conference has a full programme of speakers, including those who will focus on how

we might alter crops to suit changing weather patterns, disease and environment pressures. e e ill al o e field t i o ca in c o grown in the Bay of Plenty, including to a gingko plantation and a passionfruit orchard.

The full programme, speaker notes and how to e i te a e at .t eec o .o .n

Page 35

Page 36

FERTILISER

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This has resulted in many farmers a in to c ll toc and d o e d . e e con e ence ill e felt throughout the farming service ecto o ea to come. e e a me ill need el . o i e t e ill need to – in some cases – e d ill ne a le el o t adl ed addoc and a l ca ital e tili e to et t at e tilit ac . n o t t e need a to eed t e animal . o in t e act t at a lot co ld not ma e a and e a e a eci e o ome e i o el needed e e. e e tion a i at can t e eto do to el t e e a m e et ac to ein od cti e entitie a ain Farmers are resilient, tough eo le o t et on it it t an one can c m le en t e elements are against you, and you tand el le atc in o toc dete io ate i t e o e o e e .

That dreadful decision to have to end ai to t e a t e in t e

can e e t e l. i tl give these farmers an ear, or a o lde o at a o t a i old man t let t em no o a e a in t e load it t em. o a e a a m e ice ine li e e a e et in t e e t ai t a a and i o t in o can el ead t ei load a an act o indne o a t c tom t do it. e ma e el ctant to a a mo t a e a o d eed o et in fi t. com an a led ed to ters chief old ice t e ame o t e e Alan Beck, Beck Helicop hand. a led to e tim – eo le e en t o e a e executive ad a i el and a t i e d in t e la t e mont . it o t t e a me e o ld load o ee an a e can find not a e t e ine e a e. o t e e eo le a t e need el an a e loo in o a o t e at t i time. t not all at can inte . o a e ome a e t e e a me do o t em el e o a o t ellin it at a ai ate it at can e do o t em o ette till can o donate a e o et e e can el eac ot e ale li e t e a me o a ana i o t. i e a lo an in t e la t elec did for the Southlanders in the tion –let do t i early-1990s?

By Alan Beck, Beck e ill e o t c to ac Helicopters Chief Executive

Sulphur the unsung hero i i e tili e has many clients throughout the North land and it ne e cea e to lea e t at en e inc ea e l om o tim m le el to o tim m le el ot lant and animal od ction inc ea e in all a e and o m . incl de mo e mil in t e i e lam in e centa e eate ield to ca ca ei

m t e in alance it all ot e n t ient . e in a i a l add l to Sechurra RPR, or other o ate o ce .

This leads to natural acidulation in the soil and enhances the Sechurra RPR e ect . co e ee o ate i not a lied l i till e i ed.

Organic matter

at at and t.

a e mo t o o oil o l deficient ac o a a ene o t e oil e tilit can e a m l and can c eate a m ltit de o o lem om oil n t i ent e ce e to lant deficiencie and animal ealt i e . i i a co t to t e o e o a me limitin economic o e it . co e l cannot act alone and

a el i l o nd in e ce mo e o ten it i deficient. i all occ eca e in ficient i a lied. t i al o de endent on o anic matte in t e oil. e o ten ea o cannot ild l le el t e find t e o o ite i t e. l i an anion and is not attracted to the soil colloid. n tead it attac e to t e o iti el c a ed o anic matte . i i t e o ot e anion . l i indi en a le o man eaction in li in cell . t la ital ole in lant and animal n t ition. t i a constituent of amino acids, vitamins,

FERTILISER

Page 37

Bill English’s legacy and leadership hard acts to follow This month’s column is not one I had been expecting to write for quite some time to come.

Bill English has unexpectedly announced his retirement from politics after a stellar 27-year ca ee t at a een im fill t e position of party leader, Minister of Finance – quite possibly the best we have ever had – and Prime Minister. His contribution a een i nificant and e a certainly left his mark on New Zealand’s political landscape for generations to come.

What I admire most about Bill is that throughout his entire journey he has always carried himself with the utmost integrity – grounded in the love of his family and the strong connection he held with the rural community of Clutha-Southland that he represented for 24 years. He’s left on his own terms, which is the only way this was ever going to be, because of the huge respect all in

our caucus, the wider National Party, and much of New Zealand have for him.

During the election last year I vividly remember walking through a local shopping centre with him during a campaign stop. Most leaders would have taken the photo opportunity – smiled, waved and moved on – but not Bill. He stopped and spoke with everyone who wanted to chat and you got a

real sense that he genuinely wanted to engage with each and every personal story. He truly cared, and for me, that is the measure of the man.

Bill is a hard act to follow, but we are blessed with a very deep bench in the New Zealand National Party. No doubt I will have more to say about

this next edition, but for now I just want to pay tribute to Bill English and thank him for all he has done for me personally, for our party, and for New Zealand – particularly during those e di fic lt ea ollo in t e lo al financial c i i .

Cheers Bill.

Soil fertility planning protein, enzymes (90 per cent of total S in plants).

Legumes (for nodulation), brassicas, onions, garlic and similar plants have a high sulphur requirement. ten l deficienc i ma ed e o phate applications, with the response seen owing to sulphur, not phosphate.

Correct levels

We need to see over 25 ppm of SO4 of plant available S; on dairy and intensive units 50ppm. There are many farmers/growers that already understand the importance of sulphur, so they add good quality elemental sulphur. e no t e enefit o co ect oil l le el .

Sulphur can strip out cations from soil. Some soil scientists in New Zealand say there is no economic enefit in limin oil . e do not nde tand commercial fertiliser applications. We are often disappointed when a farmer or grower may say they have an o timal o . onl to find t e i co ect t the cations are not.

The more anions introduced to soils the more cations will be displaced. This needs to be properly mana ed and co ected. n e am le o t i i t e lind application of Gypsum (calcium sulphate). In some circumstances, the sulphate will actually reduce total calci m in t e oil. at fine i it i t e intention t counterproductive if calcium needs to be increased, which is invariably the case.

Organic matter is important to be able to build anion levels in the soil (ppm).

So how do we build sulphur levels and minimise sulphur leaching? We at Kiwi Fertiliser have many farmers and growers who do exactly that. These farmers have also had increases in all areas and are well-respected by their peers. e to fi e e cent o a me and o e e long-term thinking to plan for the future.

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Page 38

o ea

a a e alon

Many of us would be aware that fi c a almon lea e t e ea and mo e into e ate t eam to a n. t o man o o ld no t at o eel li e mo t o t ei li e in e ate and t en o do n t eam and im all t e a to nea on a to a n and t en die nd t en t e el e od ced im all t e a ac a ain and o t eam e e t e ma emain o ea o o. t e e and el e e e in t e o ld t o e t eam a e een mani

lated o man ea to d ain et and lo l in it o a ic lt e and allo to n i to e and and oad to emain a a le ate e t e eat e t o at . o e a e to an and m in tation all o ic o ide a ie to fi a a e ot and do n. en ome o o mall fi need to o ac and o t and t e ma e a le to na i ate ome o t e m and a ie it o t ettin minced. t o eel li e lon and o i and mo t o t e m ic emo e ood ate a e de i ned to mo e a lot

ate a

o mi atin eel

o ate ic l t t ei o elle a e don t do a lot o eel . nd alt o eel can e een ometime mo in o e land t e e e o ood ma e do n t eam mo ement m c im le ntil t e ddenl meet a m . nt e and o e t e dimini in eel o la tion ecame e o io and t ei a t o itie a e no ettin to on ma in e t at eel a a e e e e e i o i le. n in e ti ation e ealand a no o nd t at e a e e e al iece o le i lation ic e i e o i ion o fi a a e incl din t e and in t e ai ato t e i ion and t ate o t e i e .

Barriers and pumps

e com e en i e e o t a no een e a ed o t e ai ato e ional o ncil e e t and acce ted nation all ic e ai l demon t ate at a een a enin it a n t een noticed m c and od ce ome o endo ice o t tin t e i t o t o a ie and m into lace. ai ato a mland m c o ic a een c eated d ainin etland t n o t to a e t e i e t n m e o m in tation in t e co nt . e e ional co ncil a ecentl incl ded a d et

o e cent o t e o o ed t ee ea e ea c and t ial co t t a le t t e o ect team to find on o o t e ot e e cent o an amo nt o a o t . million. o mi t ell a e a en t ot o nd to t i e o e ell mo t o t e m in tation onl o o elati el ie e iod at time en ood a en and a tomation mean t at t e don t a e eo le a o nd t em m c . t a een noticed at time t at t e m o lo o ma e odd noi e and t e t o t a een t at it mi t e an eel in t e e. t en t e ate come o t o t e m it a idl a e an eel emnant do n t eam. o ntil one o t e t o fi iendl i al m a o t o action la t ea en a ood a i ed and t e tem ad to e e t to t e ot e m t e e tent o eel mincin a not eall o io .

Nasty interlopers

t i t e i e o o emale eel oin do n t eam ic i a t o t e o lem. at i ed o e ea onl a to co e it m c malle one . t i e ma e ole in o a ie and m tem i eno o t e i l t en o na t inte lo e t e oi ca ic a e in e ted t e lo e ai ato can o t ei a t eam to e ne otential ome . nli e mo t o t e ot e e ional co ncil ai ato a al ead ado ted an inte ated a oac to catc ment mana e ment and it ei t one committee c ai meet to et e e e al time a ea to a e idea and o e . e e a al o een c e ated a e ional o ncil i e ana e o in ol in co ncil and t i a ecentl o med a committee to o on inte atin t e catc ment t ate ie o t e ole co nt and no do t it ill ecome in ol ed in fi a a e o lem ai l oon. o t in a e a enin and ile t e otection i t a e i t to o t lame ettin it i t o e ealand t eam and fi need ome ca e l e ea c eca e t e co t ill e i ate e tem a e c o en.

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DAIRY

Page 39

How management can lessen the impact of dry weather In our second season of sharemilking there was a major facial eczema outbreak in autumn. I remember the conditions well; it was hot and muggy with little wind and low cloud cover for what seemed like weeks on end.

Not having seen animals with facial eczema, and keen to be prepared, I asked farmer colleagues what to look out for and was told I would know when it happened and there was nothing that could be done in advance.

At that stage Gladys Reid’s work with zinc had not been accepted.

In hindsight one of the things I found really interesting was that although the climatic conditions throughout the whole region varied little, not all farms were similarly affected.

Facial eczema

A large number of stock were affected on some properties, and others such as the one we were on had only one or two animals.

The difference could not be attributed to irrigation, hedges, or trees, as there was no irrigation and all farms had hedges and a smattering of trees.

Daily management would seem to have played an important role in this situation.

Pasture growth was slower than normal for late autumn and we decided to feed silage in order to lengthen the intervals between grazing, which was the only factor easily identified t at ma a e le ened t e impact.

Why the difference?

o t o ld eem to fit a imila pattern. The word ‘drought’ evokes images of brown land devoid of all

feed with skinny animals huddling together in an attem t to find ade yet the photos of late from affected areas show animals grazing greenish pastures, a clear sign that there is still growth.

Within the district there will be some farms drier than others and growing less feed, and the question is, why?

Could the overuse of nitrogen fertiliser be a contributing factor?

Drought relates not just to the dryness of the soil, but also the ability of plants to grow, with different plants able to withstand drier conditions than others.

Lucerne thrives in conditions where rye grass struggles to survive. Lucerne survives because its root system penetrates far further into the soil, allowing it to extract nutrient and moisture from further down.

Standard rye grass white clover pastures are reliant on moisture from closer to the surface, primarily the top 7.5cm, although plants in wellstructured soils have roots to 30cm and below.

The key to retaining more moisture within the root zone of the plant is being able to increase carbon levels.

Graham Shepherd states that “an increase of one per cent organic C in the top 300mm of soil can increase the soils capacity to hold water by 144,000 litres/ha”.

Soil carbon

Nitrogen fertiliser over time is known to deplete soil carbon, thereby reducing the amount of moisture available for plant uptake; the most likely reason for the rapid onset of slow growth when the intervals between rain goes beyond 10 days.

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a slightly drier than normal summer can become a Less carbon also means less genuine ordeal. For more information, call Peter on crumb, or aggregate, in the soil 0800 843 809. and the likelihood of a hard pan developing, often 7.5cm-10cm below the surface.

Soils in this condition can easily e identified eca e a lant will be growing on the surface, with their crowns proud, and easily removed during grazing.

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Procrastination is the thief of time, opportunity and money, particularly in agriculture and the aging. Procrastination is alive and well in farming. o nd it m financial t o le ootin in a ic lt e t e n m e one o lem a t ei ina ilit to ma e a en i le lo ical deci ion and t en ta e action. They listened, I would send a written report setting out the options and an action lan onl to e called ac late to find not in ad c an ed.

Are you going to stay or go? Are you going to go for more time and other o o t nit o ee doin t e ame a o no o ea o c an e t e di in t e a ema et oin to ramp up your fear of losing capital or are you going to ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’?

Procrastination spills over into health issues. We fear admitting we have something wrong, procrastinate and do not in onl to find t e o lem i o e the time we get there. Procrastination around money and financial o o t nit i al o co tl . ood e am le ma e t at it a ai l clea t at t e e o ld e a co ection in t e a ema et. id e ll o t o mone o oc a tinate and ace t e lide na le to get the changes needed? You often see a property that a at on t e ma et a lon time o a io ea on and i clea l an e cellent and ome od el e o t it. amn o ld a e o t t at it a

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o c ea t did e o e oc a ti nated. am e all t e i olle li e ett and com an ma e ic in o med deci ion it little o no oc a tina tion. That is the only way they can amass such wealth. The more logical and speedy deci ion e ma e t e ea ie it i to ma e mo e in t e t e eca e ood deci ion i e confidence. ne a to c an e o ad atte n i to c oo e t e t ee e t o tion o o o t nitie t at e i t t en c oo e t e e t one and ta e action. not e method is to have a mentor or trustee who you trust, have a meeting, discuss the options, choose and then ta e action on t e collecti e intelli ence. t e a t o ead a e ette t an one .

So, in summary, don’t let fear and procrastination o o and o o ital o o t nit . t i a e de ilitatin oce not ein a le to mo e o a d.

It can drive those around us crazy and if nothing c an e t en e ee ettin t e ame e lt. t ca e ine and ma ia e ea a one a t an iml on. o don t let oc a tination o o of opportunity, time and money.

Disclaimer: These are the opinions of Don Fraser of Fraser Farm Finance. Any decisions made should not be based on this article alone and appropriate professional assistance should be sought. Don Fraser is the principal of Fraser Farm Finance.

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“At Laser Electrical Morrinsville we pride ourselves on t e alit o o man i lea in client ati fied and t ei emi e tid and clean at t e end o t e o a e .

Laser Electrical offers a comprehensive service of repairs, installation and advice. “We can do it all; no o i too i o too mall. i e a call toda o e can el o ta a e and to date a e . e an e o e ice incl de t i not limited to e t a li t and o e oint to e and ate heater repairs; telephone and data outlets; television connections and aerials; heat pumps and air transfer tem o fice and ind t ial ildin ne o e and renovations; new cowsheds and water pumps and security cameras and security systems.

DAIRY

Page 41

Well done MPI for action on stink bugs Ships carrying hundreds of unwanted and dangerous hitchhikers have been refused entry to New Zealand ports and that’s great news.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug were found on the large cargo vessels and the used vehicles they were carrying in February, and that’s one bug we most certainly don’t want here.

As well as being a serious threat to kiwifruit, the bugs also attack grapes, apples, citrus and stone fruit, maize and many other valuable crops.

While the bug hasn’t so far established in New Zealand, it’s been found many times at the border and ports so it’s a matter of when, not if, it gets through.

That’s why we all have to be on the lookout for it – and not just farmers and growers but the public too because homes could be infested also.

During winter, these bugs gather in large numbers in homes, where they’re an unsightly and smelly nuisance. They can’t be easily treated with insecticides and they emit a pungent odour when squashed, making them hard to remove.

New Zealand has a climate which suits their life cycle.

Speaking of climate – it’s been pretty weird again, but one thing about the warmth and the rain is that the grass is growing.

So with plenty of feed available, it’s a good time to select those marginal, poorly-drained or pugged-up paddocks for renovation. Fix the drainage, remove old stumps, spray out and apply capital lime and fertiliser after doing a soil test.

Check with your seed merchants for the best grass species for your farm and region. Don’t be tempted to buy what’s cheap because it’s just not worth all the effort to get a poor result. Some of the new rye grass species are more persistent, pest-resistant and yield well, so check them out. Re-grassing now will bring the paddocks back in the grazing before winter.

Maize harvesting is about to start. It’s also time for farmers to prepare their sites for maize silage. The farmers with the least waste are those who get their preparation right before the silage arrives.

This includes making sure the site is well-drained, but away from water courses to prevent leaching. Vehicle access to the stack must also be well-formed.

Call immediately

Pukeko damage

The adults are about the size of a $1 coin and have white banding on the antennae, alternate black and white markings on the abdomen, and eggs that are light green, barrel-shaped, and found in clusters of 20-30.

Ministry for Primary Industries has a fact sheet and videos on its website to help identify the bug and differentiate it from similar local species: www.mpi.govt.nz If you think you’ve found one, catch it and call MPI immediately on 0800 80 99 66.

Doesn’t matter if the bug you report isn’t the nasty one – it’s better to be safe than sorry. If these bugs become established because someone didn’t bother to report them, then we will all be sorry. They will be very hard, if not impossible, to eradicate because

Fonterra’s restrictions on the amount of palm kernel which can be fed means farmers will need something else to keep their cows milking. So now’s a

Last year’s stack cover can be used to line the pit, but don’t put it back on top. Use a new cover, place tyres or sand bags close together on top, and seal the edges. Protect the site with fencing to keep stock away, and don’t forget the rat baits. If pukeko are a problem, cover the stack with netting to keep them off. Too often silage is spoiled by pukeko pecking holes in the cover.

The wet weather is causing me a few headaches leading up to harvest, but the maize has grown well and we are expecting yields to be slightly above forecast so we still have some to sell – but get in quick. Demand for hay and silage has slowed with the grass growth, but the wise farmer is looking ahead to next summer when they will need extra lement to fill t e a le t .

good time to have extra maize silage on hand for summer to ensure your cows are well-fed and you don’t face penaltie om eedin .

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e net o cond cted an in de t e incl din inte ie it a me ic e ealed t e n m e one i e o a me i eo le a elda e illie o ai omen et o . elda a t e net o too note o at a me e e a in and t e con e ence o ani in commit tee made o a min omen et a o t de i nin a o amme ic add e e i e. ee incl de o o on ec itin eat eo le and a in e o mance t o team en a ement. e t o da con e ence at oto a ne ent ent e om a c i called land o eo le and a a oc on in o mati e actical lea nin a o t all a ect o dai a min . to a min omen a e e ected to attend t e con e ence ic al o a o o on animal ealt ta in a ine to t e ne t le el i a ian lantin and mana ement and te in to o e nance ole . e o amme al o incl de e note ea e tine idd i ine it il e ea

land and leade o it national dai a min ine e and a m o . e ine od ce m m ac o co t o o t ante and t e ent al o t land e ion . e and etail and i in mo e t an e ma et t o o t ina alon it online and o in c annel to ma et. tine a a a ded t e e ealand de o e it o e ice to t e dai ind t and e e t ian o t in named ai oman o t e ea in and eco ni ed a t e a e a ima ecto nd t eade . a d innin ocial ent e ene i a in t e founder o at nc ill al o add e t e con e ence. e la nc ed t e ocial ente i e ine in it t e elie t at cle e ine ol tion can ol e i ocial i e . o e e l nc o at nc i e a l nc to a i i id in need. e clo in eec ill e deli e ed am al oen o a o n it ce e al al . o t en t o man attit de and otential e c o e to em ace c allen e and a ne e i i t to li e in t e it o e cellence and ma e li e a a e ome a it can e. e ecame an at letic old medalli t i l e ecti e c a ita le nd ai e ocial ent e ene and no a lo all eno ned in i ational ea e . o find o t mo e a o t t e con e ence o to .d n.co.n d n con e ence

e em lo ment le i lation i ede ated a me a ne em lo ment le i lation ill i e a me ene ed confidence in em lo in ta it mall ine e etainin t e i t to e a da t ial. e o e nment a anno nced t at malle i ne e can contin e to e t e da t ial le o ne em lo ee . i e i ede ated a me em lo ment o e e on a ile t e ne o e nment ad een clea a o t ma in c an e to t e c ent da t ial la

elcomed

t e c an e o ea t a a elcome i e. t ood to ee a o a li tened to ome o t e conce n o t e ine comm nit and con lted it t ei e coalition a tne e ealand i t. in ton ete a made t e led e to loo a te a m e inte e t and e ac no led e i o t. a me need t e confidence to ta e a c ance on a otential em lo ee o ma a e no demon t ated e e ience o o ma a e ad e io ocial o addiction o lem .

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Page 43

Fertiliser prices on the increase In the last month both Ballance and Ravensdown have increased their imported fertiliser prices as world prices go up for phosphorus products in particular.

Di Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) is now $100/tonne more expensive than it was in the spring, and potash and sulphur are $30/tonne more expensive, whereas single superphosphate prices have only risen marginally by $10/ tonne and Triple Super remains the same.

Some of the private importers now have DAP and Triple Super up to $150/tonne cheaper than these two big co-ops, and potassium and sulphur can be more than $50/tonne cheaper, but their stocks are limited.

Reactive Phosphate Rock fertilisers remain similar to last year and both co-ops are this autumn selling Sechura RPR blended with Moroccan rocks, although the Moroccan component in these blends by itself does not qualify as a RPR, and therefore this portion will be a lot slower working, possibly taking decades to fully work.

Unreactive rocks

These unreactive rocks are added because the source of Sechura the co-ops import has cadmium levels above the 280 ppm Cd per kg P limit set by the industry, so blending in the Moroccan rocks with Sechura (Peruvian) rock, the overall cadmium level drops below this limit.

However, for my clients who use RPR fertilisers I am not convinced of the agronomic merit of this blend and am instead recommending a lower cadmium Sechura imported by a private company or a granular RPR imported from Egypt which have good citric solubilities.

This time last year I had a lot of my sheep and beef clients try a high analysis feed grade, Dicalcium Phosphate (16 per cent P) and DAP which was very competitively priced. The blend was called Zeaphos (eight per cent N, 18 P) and was sold by Zealyn, a Timaru-based company. Unfortunately they decided to pull out of the North Island.

Farmers who used this blend, or even the straight Dicalcium Phosphate, were very impressed with the response.

One of the reasons Zealyn stopped importing this is the Chinese manufacturer increased the price by $50US/tonne. However, there are at least two other importers who are bringing in high analysis feed grade dicalcium phosphate fertilisers into the North Island.

Dicalcium phosphate

These are different to locally-made dicalcium phosphate products which are blends of lime and superphosphates which are reverted using water to

Robin Boom

CPAg MBSPC

Independent Agronomy & Soil Fertility Consultant

create a chemical reaction between the acid superphosphate and alkaline lime, left to cook up, harden, and then screened.

The imported high analysis products a e ne t to no cadmi m o o ide which are contaminants which come from superphosphate, so they are a lot safer in terms of ‘phosphate poisoning’ risks with livestock.

There has also been a big increase in the cost of some minerals added to fertiliser mixes. Cobalt has almost doubled in price compared to last year, and zinc has also gone up more than 50 per cent. Some magnesium products have also gone up, and a lot of this increase is due to the Chinese government shutting down some zinc and magnesium factories because of pollution issues. This increase is also seen in animal health-grade magnesium and zinc products.

The cobalt price lift is due to demand for its use in batteries.

Lambs worth more

On the positive side, milk prices and beef prices seem to be holding, and lambs are worth an extra $20 more than they were a year ago. January and February rainfall has meant plenty of feed and works cannot justify dropping their schedule prices when there is lots of grass around as farmers will hang onto stock and fatten them more.

For the dairy farmers, good summer and autumn o t ill e a on a te a di fic lt in .

Maize crops around the country are looking fantastic in most places after being generally two weeks later than normal plantings, but with the summer heat and rainfall they have bolted away.

When it comes to fertiliser options, there can be some big savings shopping around. Recently I was contacted by a farmer who has been using a particular rep/advisor who was interested in what I could do for them. When they found out that I could get the same fertiliser blend for $100/tonne cheaper than what they had been paying for it they were delighted.

This seems to be a common problem when a farmer only listens to the advice of one particular company selling advice or products. As I don’t work for any particular company I can line up the partic la deficiencie it ic e e com anie can provide the required nutrients at the best price.

With the co-ops, the end-of-year rebates have been a good reason to stick with them. But the last two years with much cheaper prices from some importers, this has all changed.

Robin Boom CPAg, Member of the Institute of Professional Soil Scientists, phone: 027 444 8764.

www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz

Page 44

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n i onmentall ile mana in e ent it mac ine i t e ind t acce ted a o dealin it at can e an n lea ant o o a d a min iolo ical a min con ltant a id a a t e e i an alte nati e a t at i not onl ine en i e t ed ce een o e a o t t e cent. e ind t a led a me to elie e mec anical mana ement o e ent i t e onl a . t doe o t it i co tl and onl deal it t e m tom o an n ealt e ent ond. ec anical mana ement o e ent al o doe not in to en ance t e en i onment e ea iolo ical man a ement o e ent ed ce met ane

ea c

iendl alte nati e to mec anical e l ent mana ement and nit o o ide ic a e een o e ae e cent e a . ana in e ent it mac ine i not nece a il t e onl a . e ot li ed t e ni e it o anca te in o ed l o e ent t eated it l ae o ic acte ia o ed a e cent ed ction in een o e a emi ion a te fi e ee . n a ealt e ent ond ae o ic acte ia t i e and nat all di e t olid c eatin clea oce ed e ent t at i ead o oil to a o .

Thick crust

o e e man e ent ond a e dominated anae o ic acte ia o a a iet o ea on and a e a t ic c t on t e to a id a . e a t e co t o t aditional mec anical tem incl din olid e a ato ee in all and ti e

o

et

e ea c i on a ain o e ealand e t al ene al actice eam o t e ea a d ed t e comm nit . e a a d no in it o t ea ill e anno nced at t e e ealand al ene al actice et o national al ealt con e ence in c land om il . e ina al a a d a on a lan e t oa t ealt linic in ollo ed a tin o o edical ent e in and n edical ent e in . e com etition i oin om t en t to t en t and it i t e e ect o o t nit o t e al comm nit to tell t ei to ie a o t o al ene al actice team o a o e and e ond t e call o d t in o idin ealt e ice to t ei al comm ni tie a al ealt lliance otea oa e ealand c ie e ec ti e ic elle om on. e ant to enco a e a man al eo le a o i le to tell t ei to ie and nominate t ei a o ite al actice. e a e deli ted once a ain to e

Page 45

ed to li e e ent can co t t e ten o t o and o dolla to c a e maintain and n. o led it an i i ation tem a me e entiall a e t o e ent tem it t e otential to mal nction.

The alternative

o e e t e alte nati e ic en ance nat al io lo ical oce e and onl e i e a ond and a m ee ill t ation i a lon te m ol tion co tin a ac tion o t e ice it eal enefit to t e en i onment. a id a ntil no t e e a een no eal

al

o e in t i a a d in a tne i it t e e ealand al ene al actice et o t e ealt omotion enc and e ealand octo . nt ie a e o en ntil clo e o ine on ida ac and ill e d ed a anel com i in e e entati e om eac o t e a a d a tne . e innin actice and innin nominato ill e anno nced a a t o t e o mal a a d ce emon in c land on il and ot a tie tand to in eat i e . e innin actice ill ecei e a i e to t e al e o and t e innin nominato ill ecei e a i e to t e al e o . ll ent ie ecei ed elect onicall ill al o o into a d a to in a o c e. nt ie can e mitted online o o ted. o e e to ma e collation and d in ea ie t e o ani e o ld e e a man ent ie a o i le a e com leted online. atient can com lete t ei o tca d and o t di ect to o ai a o and it to t e actice ece tioni t o can t en o a d t e ent ie in l . o tca d can e do nloaded om . aan .o .n o t e a dco ie can e o de ed om ce aan .o .n

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nde tandin o t e a e ent o . in a mec anical tem i a in no to iolo e a . e no no t at ti in o e a atin ate a a om olid di allo t e eneficial acte ia to o i and do t ei o o di e tin t e olid oce in e ent and ead in it o a t e. ond ittin at e t it no ti in di la t e t e ical c a ac te i tic o t e e ent. o e e a ond t at e a olid e a ato o a ee in all tem ma e di fic lt to ead o in t i ca e a te t ill indicate et e o ond i dominated ae o ic ood o anae o ic ad acte ia a o . i ideal. e iolo ical ol tion i not onl e manent and co t e ecti e at a o nd one tent o t e ice o c a in e ent mana ement mac ine ti o eat enefit to t e en i onment and t at o ld e a ma o con ide ation o a me .

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Page 46

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Mature couple with backgrounds in organic market gardening, business consulting, tourism seek long term rental/lease Bay of Plenty. 3 Bed home, land for small scale intensive organic operation, modest rent. Can assist with property maintenance, gardening, or existing business activities.

Refs available. Contact David on 021 880 984 to explore further.

LIST YOUR RURAL EVENT HERE! email your listing to: merle@thesun.co.nz with ‘Rural Event’ in the subject line.

March 3

The Full Monty on Growing Nutrient-dense Veges, 9.30am-3pm, The Falls Retreat, Karangahake Gorge, $120. See www.fallsretreat. co.nz

March 4

Edible Weeds & Green Smoothie Workshop, 10am2pm, Greerton, Tauranga, $65. See www.juliasedibleweeds.com 10am, Kaituna Cut carpark, end of Ford Rd. Help Maketu Ongatoro Wetland Society.

Inquiries tania@maketuwetlands.org.nz

Autumn Migration Day, 11am, Miranda Shorebird Centre. Jesse Conklin shares the latest in godwit research.

xterior wash NT ME AT

PEPP ER

March 14

March 4-5

try Awards Dinner, Awakeri Events Centre. Tickets online: www. dairyindustryawards.co.nz

Hamilton Dahlia Show, noon-

March 16

March 4-9

Simple Soil Test, 9.3011.30am, 375 Whakamarama Rd (near Tauranga), koha. Bring a soil sample for identification.

Tirau, $750. See www.lals.nz

March 7 ARRC Wildlife Trust & Holistic Vets Tour, 6-8pm, 56 Fraser St, Tauranga, $15 donation. Ph 07 578 7054.

March 8 ‘A Plastic Ocean’ film

BOP Forest Garden Design, 1.30-3.30pm, Whakamarama, $45. See www.plentypermaculture. co.nz

Educating the Experienced

screening, 6pm, Historic Village, 17th Ave, Tauranga, free.

Gardener, 9.30am-12.30pm, The Falls Retreat, Karangahake Gorge, $75 (includes lunch) www.fallsretreat.co.nz

March 9

March 16-18

Introduction to Edible Gar-

Creative Fibre NZ Workshop, Te Awamutu. See tinyurl.com/y8yatqja

dening, 9.30am-12.30pm, The Falls Retreat, Karangahake Gorge, $75 (includes lunch). Also April 13. See www.fallsretreat.co.nz

Homegrown Harvest, near Tirau, $250/person or $400/ couple. See www.lals.nz

March 10

Permaculture Hui, Apiti

Back to Basics Herbal Med-

(Manawatu), about $100. See tinyurl.com/yarsbn4w

icine, 9.30am-2pm, Katikati area, $50. See tinyurl.com/ y8xd2rv6

Living Fermented Foods, 10am-1pm, Papamoa, $50. A workshop on fermenting the excess food we have in our garden and orchards. www. teacherinthepaddock.co.nz

March 11 FREE QUOTES!

Bay of Plenty Dairy Indus-

3pm, Hamilton Gardens.

Living with the Land, near

Kaituna Cleanup, meet

BER TR TIM E S

High tide 9.30am. See www. miranda-shorebird.org.nz

Combined Rotorua & Waikato Botanical Societies Field Trip, meet 9.30am Whakamarama Hall (near Tauranga). Ph Kerry 07 855 9700, 027 747 0733.

Soap-making, Creams & Ointment Workshop, 10am-3pm, Katikati Community Centre, $85. See tinyurl.com/ycdp5xnh

Pakaraka Farm Tour, 9amnoon, near Thames, $50. See tinyurl.com/y854oy5o Edible Weeds & Green Smoothie Workshop, 10am1pm, Whakamarama (near Tauranga), $70. See www. juliasedibleweeds.com

Permaculture, Chooks & Market Gardens, 1-4pm, Whakamarama. See www. plentypermaculture.co.nz

Beginner Backyard Chooks, 1.30-2.30pm, Whakamarama. See www. plentypermaculture.co.nz

March 17 Practical Pruning: Peaches, 9.30am-noon, Tauranga area, $60. See tinyurl.com/ yc7u88gm

Environmental Expo, 10am6pm, War Memorial Hall, Katikati.

Growing Greens in Small Spaces, 10am-noon, Katikati area, $15. See tinyurl.com/ y74bs34e

NZ Plant Identification Field Workshop, 10am-1pm, Katikati area, $15. Repeated March 28. See tinyurl.com/ ybqlxxfu

Pain-free Gardening, 1-4pm, body movement workshop, Whakamarama (near Tauranga), $40. See tinyurl.com/ycjetf77 Keeping Chickens & Ducks, 9am-5pm, Pakarakara Farm, Thames, $150.

See tinyurl.com/ yd2notgs

March 18 Sustainable Backyards Tours, 9am & 1pm, 9B Park Rd, Katikati, gold coin.

Conservation & Production Forestry Walk, 10.30am, 899 Kapukapu Rd (Kaharoa Conservation Area), free.

Inquiries ph 027 306 2970.

March 23 Composting & Worm Farming, 9.30am-12.30pm, The Falls Retreat, Karangahake Gorge, $75 (includes lunch). See www. fallsretreat.co.nz

Identifying Rongoa Plants, 10am-2pm, bush walk and potluck lunch, Pirirakau Hauora, Te Puna (near Tauranga), koha.

Bush Walk After Dark, 7.30pm, Ohope Scenic Reserve, adults $15, child $10 (family $40). Bookings essential, email admin@ whakatanekiwi.org.nz

March 24 Combined Rotorua & Waikato Botanical Societies Field Trip, Mt Tarawera. Ph Paul Cashmore 027 650 7264.

Community Climate Action Workshop with Jeanette Fitzsimons, 9.30am-3pm, Tauranga Historic Village, free.

March 25 Opape Stream Cleanup, meet 9am at Opape Boat Ramp (east of Opotiki).

Edible Weeds & Green Smoothie Workshop, 10am2pm, Te Hoe, Waikato, $65.

See www.juliasedibleweeds. com.

March 31 Free Home Composting Workshop, 1.30pm, Taupo Community Gardens. See tinyurl.com/gqseptb

April 6

Growing Healthy Veges, 9.30am12.30pm, The Falls Retreat, Karangahake Gorge, $75 (includes lunch). See www. fallsretreat.co.nz

April 6-8 Tree Crops Association Conference, Tauranga. See www.treecrops.org.nz Hosted this year by Bay of Plenty branch and the venue is Tauranga Racecourse making it very accessible to a lot of people. The theme of this year’s conference is ‘How does your garden grow?’

April 8 Autumn Quarryfest, 10am4pm, Te Puna Quarry Park.

See www.quarrypark.org.nz

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 47

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 48

Above: Bounce and Toe, two huntaways in Paeroa, stop at the top to catch their breath at sunset.

Above: Phoenix, aged 3, loves to climb trees – Waitoa.

Above: ‘Lets Avocuddle’ says it all really from Lexi amongst her favourite food in the Kaimais.

BS! PRIZandEdetUailsPcan beFemOaileRd (higGh resRolutionAjpgy,s)POto Box 240,

Pictures to Coast & Countr untry Camera” or posted every entry. kathy@thesun.co.nz “Co e a name, address and phone number with lud inc ase Ple ga.

Tauran

Pesky piglets keep ste aling Franklin’s breakfast in Rotoru a.

ke

calf Cupca 5, with her Zoe, aged Club in Ohaupo. at Calf