Coast & Country News - September 2025

Dwas the day I dumped the hole shebang down the “awful” pit.

Awful pit? When The Hat had at sodden roll-

that sodden, tarry stub of a roll your-own sandwiched between his lips, the word “offal” became “awful”.

So there were some very basic and insurmountable obstacles to me own

Regardless, it was the day I gave The Hat very good reason to fix me with his curious, puzzled stare. Then he nodded in despair and looked away He was all but crying. Sometimes I sensed I was a disappointment to him made him sad, made like a failure. he saw me as a e, and that, with time right sort of moulding, might transform this urban waster into a er for Young Farmer of challenge he wasn ’ t up wasn ’ t ever going to I didn’t like the smell of et-weather gear, I didn’t

like the smell of wet sheep, or “awful” pits I preferred the cosy, comfortable dry fug of the city

The Hats plans for me.

“What do you want to do with your life?” asked The Hat one night. I think he was hoping I might have had an epiphany, a realisation, and had suddenly embraced the soil as the true meaning of life.

But no, it was just yukky stuff that got beneath your nails.

“I don’t know what I am doing tomorrow, or next week, let alone my life,” I admitted to The Hat A ship without a compass A person without purpose A lost cause He nodded in despair yet again and shuffled off And I went back to my school history essay on Giuseppe Garibaldi, though that was as interesting as lambing percentages and facial eczema spores Next day, The Hat was again

staring despondently at me as he threw his head 45 degrees to save his eyebrows while lighting his pet cigarette stub He then asked me to take the old truck and dump some stuff in the “awful pit” – three blue, bloated, moulting carcasses on the deck. I backed the truck up to the “awful” pit and tipped the tray I would raise it until just the carcasses fell off into the pit, then drop it again.

I wasn ’ t counting on the avalanche. Everything on the deck – shovels, post-hole borers, other fencing gear, rolls of wire and a large tool box, as well as my future in the agri-sector –careened off into the “awful” pit. I was doomed and damned. And it would only confirm what The Hat was already thinking.

Hunter Wells

Meander with us through fairytale English villages, quaint historic cottages, cobbled seaside towns, and gardens so gorgeous they’ll knock yer gumboots off!

Digby Macdonald’s remarkable life remembered

He was a Nobel Prize nominee, internationally known in his chosen field –surely one of Rotorua’s most successful sons

Yet most in the city have likely never heard Robert “Digby” Macdonald’s name.

Reporter Annabel Reid tells the story of a Reporoa farm boy who became a renowned scientist.

A Nobel Prize-nominated scientist, adventurous farm boy, devoted family man, and proud son of Reporoa “ never forgot his roots”.

Professor Robert “Digby” Macdonald died in California on June 11, aged 81, after a long battle with illness

that each of them would go on to university “We were a bit different as a family [for the time],” Sweetman said.

Their mother, Francis Helena Macdonald, was a graduate from Otago University, and their father, Leslie Graham Macdonald, was a “ pretty bright chap” too, despite missing out on formal education due to the Great Depression, she said

Sweetman said the family moved into a threeroom bach, like many settlers in Reporoa had at the time, and lived there for about two years before shifting into a “ proper house” when she was 6, Macdonald 8

Academic pursuit

Surrounded by books and encouraging words, the Macdonald parents urged their kids to master any and every academic pursuit you could think of, Sweetman said Macdonald became a leading figure in science for more than five decades.

Macdonald earned a master ’ s degree in chemistry from the University of Auckland before moving to Canada to complete his PhD in electrochemistry at the University of Calgary

The middle child of five, Macdonald grew up with three sisters and a brother on a Reporoa farm bordered on two sides by the Kaingaroa Forest

His sister Rhondda Sweetman was exactly two years younger to the day

Sweetman said moving on to the farm, the family initially lived in tents, with electricity limited to only the cowshed

Life in early-1950s Reporoa was “real pioneering” and “ wasn ’ t easy ” , she said Stormy weather sometimes blew their tents down at night, forcing them to set up camp with other people

“So how does someone come out of a situation like that and go on to achieve?” Sweetman said She said it came from an unspoken household expectation A quiet belief instilled by their parents that they would all succeed and “simply expected”

From 1984 to 1991, he worked at California-based research centre SRI International (formerly the Stanford Research Institute) where he led the Chemistry Laboratory and the Materials Research Laboratory, served as deputy director of the Physical Sciences Division, and spent two years as vice president He went on to hold senior academic roles, including Distinguished Professor at Pennsylvania State University from 2003 and Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Ohio State University In 2012, he was appointed Professor of Residence in the Departments of Materials Science and Engineering and Nuclear Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley

Over his career, Macdonald published more than 1000 peer-reviewed papers, authored four books,

and earned global recognition in corrosion science

The papers he treasured most were the ones co-authored with his wife, Professor Mirna UrquidiMacdonald, who worked alongside him at Pennsylvania State University’s Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics

His research transformed the world’s understanding of how metals resist corrosion, with applications widely adopted in the nuclear power industry Science

Macdonald’s work in electrochemical systems laid the

groundwork for advancements in energy storage, battery design, nuclear reactor safety, and advanced materials Using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, he pioneered innovative models for data interpretation and was among the first to apply KramersKronig transforms to validate results Renowned for bridging theory and practice, he combined rigorous mathematical modelling with practical engineering solutions, leaving a lasting mark on both the scientific community and industry Sweetman said he was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2011

Proffessor R Robbert “Digbby” ” Macddonalld died in California on June 11, aged 81, after a long battle with illness.

Photo / Supplied

Annabel Reid

Digby Macdonald was described by colleagues as “intensely curious, intellectually fearless, and deeply principled”.

Small oversights, , big g conseqquences

As dairy inspections get under way across the Bay of Plenty, Bay of Plenty Regional Council is hopeful that more farmers will fully understand and be able to meet their resource consent obligations – particularly regarding the storage and application of farm dairy effluent

These requirements aren ’ t optional; council says they’re essential for protecting waterways and ensuring long-term sustainability Effluent produced during milking, if not properly managed, can pose a serious threat to water quality

While most farmers are doing their part, compliance team leader Fraser Toulmin says every year the team come across neglected effluent ponds, clogged sand traps and poorly maintained irrigators

Checks and upgrades

“Farmers need to be very familiar with the conditions of their resource consent to ensure they are operating lawfully and sustainably Depending on how the farm is run, farm managers and workers need to be fully aware too

“Without regular checks and upgrades, effluent systems and device can fail without warning, quickly undoing the conservation work of others. Older systems, especially those without modern controls such as fail-safe irrigators, are particularly vulnerable.

“Even minor lapses can lead to over-application, potentially causing major downstream consequences, environmental damage and costly fines ”

Inspections for the 2024-2025 year showed 54% of farms that were visited were rated as compliant on the first visit

Conservation

One area where conservation efforts are making a real impact is the Waiōtahe River The Waiōtahe Watercare Catchment Group was formed in 2015 as a way for farmers in the area to get involved in taking care of their own backyard, to improve water quality, address effluent issues and better understand how what they do on the land is contributing to the health of the awa.

Since then, the group have worked with partners (such as the regional council, Fonterra and NZ Landcare Trust) to implement good land use practices, including raising awareness of nutrient and effluent

management effects and options, undertaking pest control and holding numerous volunteer planting days which have seen more than 11,500 native plants established in the area. Riparian planting

Dairy inspections are happening across the Bay of Plenty, so now is a great time to make sure you’re familiar with the environmental rules and the conditions of your consent During these visits, our team will be checking if your effluent treatment and disposal systems comply with consent conditions

We’ll inspect key areas like effluent sumps, pipework, ponds, stormwater diversions, and irrigation systems to ensure everything is running smoothly Common issues include over-irrigation, effluent ponding, and overland flow of effluent to water

Make sure your team is well-trained and your systems are properly maintained to avoid these problems

helps improve water quality by reducing sediment and nutrient runoff, improves bank stability, shades waterways and enhances biodiversity

If you ’ re unsure about your consent requirements or need

help understanding what’s expected, reach out to the regional council Alternatively, you can access all resource consents online at: boprc govt nz/consents-mapping-tool

Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Fonterraups milkprice forecast

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd

increased the 2024/2025 season forecast Farmgate Milk Price from $10 00 per kgMS to $10 15 per kgMS, with the range narrowing from $9.70 - $10.30 per kgMS to $10.10$10 20 per kgMS last month

CEO Miles Hurrell says “ as we close out the FY25 year, I’m pleased to be in the position to increase the forecast for the 2024/2025 season by 15 cents

“We began the season with a wide forecast range to account for potential volatility in commodity prices and exchange rates resulting from geopolitical dynamics

“However, Global Dairy Trade prices have remained stable, and when coupled with our well contracted sales book, we have been able to increase our forecast Farmgate Milk Price

across the season ”

Fonterra will confirm the final Farmgate Milk Price for the 2024/2025 season alongside its FY25 annual results released later this month. Fonterra has also retained the $10 00 per kgMS forecast for the current 2025/2026 season and narrowed the range from $8 00$11 00 per kgMS to $9 00 - $11 00 per kgMS

“Global Dairy Trade prices continue to be strong, supporting the $10 00 per kgMS forecast midpoint for the current season

“However, it’s still early in the season and the risk of volatility remains, which is reflected in the wide forecast range. ” The Co-op’s FY25 forecast earnings of 65-75 cents per share remain unchanged

Waiotahe planting day

COAST & COUNTR

China partnership: NZ velv gains market boost

Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in June 2025, Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ) is looking forward to working with one of China’s largest traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) companies, Dong’e Ejiao

It represents a commitment to take NZ velvet into China’s health and wellness market in all-new contemporary products, delivering on strategic goals of getting more value for NZ velvet and returns for their producers.

“Building relationships with key partners who can deliver greater value for our NZ velvet is where we want to be,” says DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths.

“We are looking to shift velvet out of the commodity trade of the past and into a new era, where velvet is used for premium, contemporary nutraceuticals and health foods, ultimately returning greater value all the way down the value chain to the farm gate ”

Changes in legislation

Deer velvet was previously exported to China under the requirements for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), w the majority exported frozen.

Chinese authorities advised in 2023 that going forward, only dried deer velvet could be exported to China, which meets domestic TCM requirements

“Under the new trade protocol, frozen velvet can now be imported into China under a different designation, which is as an ingredient for further processing ”

The majority of the processing plants are in north-eastern China

hygiene and quality assurance programmes, backed by audits, in place and have for years, so there’ll be no change for farmers there.

“Where the shift may come will be from the desire for the Chinese market to buy smaller velvet, both from the healthy foods and the commodity markets, as it is more valued in TCM, versus the larger velvet that has traditionally gone into the Korean market.”

Showcasing NZ velvet

Showcasing NZ velvet as a hero ingredient in marketing materials is already happening in South Korea and has been a point of difference in the South Korean market in recent years.

“In China, where we have been in the commodity markets for longer, we are starting to see the brand value of NZ velvet, backed by top-tier farming practices, with quality assurances and traceability systems all the way to market, really take off “These systems were a big part of what attracted the Chinese companies to signing the MOUs.

“Our partners in South Korea have invested significant funding into research on products they’ve made using NZ velvet, some of that money being spent here in NZ We expect that Chinese partners will follow a milar path ”

markketing and premium pricing, we would certaainly hope to see somme of that added value find its way back to behiind the farm gate

Some small changes were required to processing plants in China to bring them up to speed under the changes to the Chinese regulations, but these were all in place before market access restoration.

Rhys says consumer demand for NZ velvet has remained consistent during the last few seasons, though growth in demand has slowed post-Covid, when health and wellness products experienced a boom

“The MOUs we have signed with our Chinese partners in the last year or so will lift demand, or that is the plan. But the impact of these MOUs will take a bit of time to reach NZ producers in a meaningful way, as the companies need to develop products and figure out marketing.”

The NZ deer industry already has stringent

Mark McCoard is chair of the NZ Deer Farmers Association (NZDFA) Executive Committee and a Taihape deer/velvet farmer McCoard is in the position of being able to view the MOU from both an executive role in the industry and also a deer farmer producing velvet.

“Having established partners in any market, wi reliable channels to the end user through trusted brands, plus the money to put into marketing, that can only be a good thing

“In saying that, as those partners put the hard work of NZ farmers to work for them through

Catherine Fry

Young red deer stag. Photos / Supplied

Left: NZDFA chair Mark McCoard. Right: DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths.

Climate-Smart Farming: How ASB is

Rural Aotearoa Adapt and Thrive

For Waikato dairy farmers, Mark and Alison Wilson, sustainability means looking at their property with fresh eyes rather than simply following the footsteps of previous generations.

“I know how much effort my father put into breaking this land in,” said Mark “Seventy years ago, there was nothing here; just swamp and tea tree”

The couple is now working to restore wetland areas to their 300-hectare property at Taupiri which not only lowers carbon emissions but also adds pockets of natural beauty and wildlife to the uniform green pastures

“We inherited a large area of planting with a recent land purchase and got to witness the growth and change since its first establishment,” smiled Alison “It’s been lovely to see the birdlife returning”

The couple is adding strategic stock

shelter and continue to be innovative with their effluent management But Mark admits that being sustainable can be challenging in what is a constantly evolving space

“It’s not just planting; it’s being financially in the black to give yourself the opportunity year on year to make change and this only happens with a net-positive business,” he said “I’m proud of what we’ve achieved in terms of people, animal health, milk quality and our environment We had clear direction from our milk processor to set a sustainability plan and vision for what we want and ASB jumped on board to back us All those things on our ‘to-do list’ are now starting to come to fruition”

“The initial outlay and payback can be off-putting, but by funding projects that Mark and Alison wanted to do their compliance risk was reduced and they’re improving their business for the future,” said Lizzie Gurnell, ASB

senior manager, rural sustainability

Mark was already recycling silage wrap, and plastic containers from ag chemicals, as well as using variablespeed drive pumps in the milking shed, using insulated wrap on his milk vats and running heat exchanger on refrigeration to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency

An ASB loan enabled him to push ahead with native wetland replanting and to maintain standards like erosion control and sediment traps on projects

“Mark and Alison qualified for a loan that has a special variable interest rate and is designed to support sustainable land and water use initiatives,” said ASB senior rural manager Karl Williams

Now, they’re planning to utilise another ASB loan to install solar that will power their chilled water pad, as well as irrigation and effluent systems

“We have ripple control for hot water

and effluent so we’re already running efficiently, but we’re spending $30K a year on electricity and that makes solar a good fit for us,” said Mark “When we crunch the numbers, it’s a six-year pay-back on solar panels that are guaranteed to last for 25 years”

ASB rural managers make around 10,000 farm visits each year with solutions often reached while leaning against a fence with a hot cuppa

“A lot of our bankers are farmers; I have a dairy and beef farm, and Karl is a farmer too,” said Lizzie “We walk the talk because we have the shared experiences and connection to the land”

“ASB is a good fit for our business, and we have a strong team in Karl and Lizzie,” said Mark “When it comes to sustainability, we get great support and the reassurance that we’re doing it right Our ethos is continuous improvement We want to leave the land better than we found it”

New career in farming ticks all the boxes

and calf-rearing work. “I absolutely loved the hands-on stock work and being outside, and I started to ask myself if I could do this all the time?

I knew nothing about driving a tractor or riding a motorbike, I’d only ever driven an automatic car ”

Caitlin was offered the role of farm assistant at Stu and Karen Davey’s 220-hectare, 650-cow Paeroa farm, working under sharemilkers Tessa and Brendan Hopson, and has proved to herself that she can do the job

She is 85% of the way through her Level 3 ITO Apprenticeship in Dairy Farming.

She is particularly proud of how far she has come with her practical skills and this city girl now handles tractors, motorbikes and farm implements with confidence.

being a confident and competent farm manager I’m looking for a herd manager or 2IC position next, but first I have a ‘ now or never ’ two-month trip to Europe coming up ”

Happy

Caitlin and her partner, who has contractmilking experience and is a beekeeper, would like to contract or sharemilk together in the future. They will be moving in together after her European adventure. “Beyond that I’m open to farm ownership or a research-based role focusing on preventative health and genetics, or, if life permits, all of the above.”

During her first season working in the dairy industry, 30-year-old Caitlin Snodgrass was runner-up in the Dairy Trainee section of the Auckland/Hauraki 2024 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA)

In 2025 she entered the awards again and this time took home the title of NZDIA 2025 Auckland/ Hauraki Dairy Trainee of the Year along with two Merit awards – the Franklin Vets Farming Knowledge Award and the Taylor Brothers Transport Communication and Industry Involvement Award

“The first time I entered was due to an extremely strong push from a friend saying it would be a really good experience for me I was petrified but I did it, all the while feeling like a complete imposter and right out of my comfort zone, ” says Caitlin.

“The second time I was challenging myself and trying to beat myself I focused on enjoying meeting all the judges and sponsors and I was really happy to have stepped up and taken the win.”

An academic background

It may come as a surprise that Caitlin was raised in Central Auckland and went to Epsom Girls’ Grammar School For her tertiary education, she started studying for a Bachelor of Commerce at Otago University

“Started is the operative word, as I decided I wanted to study for a health-related degree. I moved back to Auckland and graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science from AUT”

Caitlin moved into the corporate side of health services, working with mental health, disability, aged care and general health helplines and digital platforms The focus was on service user experience and understanding what people wanted and whether the services met those needs.

“I’ve struggled with my own mental health since I was 12 Covid-19 and working within the sector exacerbated everything and my own mental health started to go downhill ”

Burnt out and suffering from depression, Caitlin knew she had to stop and get help

“I took a year out and went through some intensive therapy, received a surprise adulthood diagnosis of ADHD, and rebuilt my confidence to look for work outside the industry I had trained for”

Caitlin knew she loved animals, and she had the skills to study, so she studied for a one-year Certificate in Rural Animal Technology through WINTEC

A new career

“I did placements at vets in the Hauraki Plains during the course. I met heaps of farmers and was soon being asked to do relief milking

“Once I wasn ’ t strong enough to roll a down cow and that really annoyed me, so I got back into the gym, which is good for both my physical and mental health. Now I can roll cows and heave around big bags of minerals.”

Looking to the future

“The awards experience is incredibly valuable, offering excellent networking opportunities with industry leaders, potential employers and inspiring mentors

“It’s helped me to identify my strengths and areas needing growth so I can further develop my learning and skills ”

Work/life balance is crucial, and Caitlin takes part in Surfing for Farmers and is a member of the Young Farmers, though she laughs and says that she’ll be too old for that soon, so she’ll join the Dairy Women’s Network instead.

She is looking forward to mentoring the Auckland/Hauraki 2026 NZDIA Dairy Trainee entrants “I love learning and I’m keen to deepen my knowledge of farming and working my way to

Caitlin finds being outside and working with stock very grounding.“The main thing is I’m doing something that makes me happy”

NZDIA Waikato Trainee of the Year

Caitlin Snodgrass.

Photo / Catherine Fry

Catherine Fry

Looking after yourself means looking after your farm.

We’re proudly partnering with Farmstrong to discuss the little things that bring us happiness, like this warm jersey on a chilly day or the simple pleasure of a coffee break to connect with others Farmstrong’s 5 Ways to Wellbeing are simple, daily habits to help you stay well on farm.

To find out what works for you, visit www farmstrong co nz

Subdividing rural land: what’s really involved?

Across rural NZ, many landowners are looking at ways to make better use of their rural blocks

For some, it might be creating a lifestyle section for family; for others, selling off part of a farm to free up capital or reduce debt On paper, subdivision sounds straightforward, draw a line, split the paddocks, and create a new title In reality, the process involves several stages, each with its own requirements Understanding these steps before you begin helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures the project runs smoothly

Step One: Initial Investigation

Every subdivision begins with a careful check of the basics Council zoning rules, district plans, and environmental factors such as waterways or flood zones all need to be reviewed Access to the property and suitability of potential building sites must also be considered This stage gives landowners clarity on whether their idea is practical before investing further

Step Two: Planning & Design

Once the project is confirmed as viable, a site plan is prepared This looks at how the new lot or lots will function – from access and boundary layouts to service connections A Planning Report and an Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) are prepared, addressing every rule in the council’s District Plan Together, these documents form the application for Resource Consent.

Step Three: Specialist Reports

the detailed survey plans required for LINZ. At the same time, legal advice is important Lawyers check conditions of consent, handle any easements or covenants, and ensure the new title is sound.

Subdivision involves coordination across planning, surveying, legal, and construction fields. For many landowners, engaging an experienced project manager is the simplest way to keep the process on track. A project manager brings all the specialists together, navigates council requirements, and helps reduce stress.

While subdivision can take 12-18 months from start to finish, the outcome can be well worth the effort. Creating a new lifestyle lot or freeing up capital from a rural block provides opportunities that may not otherwise be possible.

If you are considering subdividing rural land, the best first step is to seek expert advice As your local subdivision specialist I can assess your property, explain the process in plain terms, and help you decide whether subdivision is the right move for you

Rural blocks often come with unique conditions. Depending on the property, specialist reports may be required. These can include geotechnical assessments to confirm soil stability, stormwater and drainage design, or checks on road access. The reports reassure council that any new section is safe, practical, and able to support future development.

Step Four: Council & Government Approvals

work is complete and the survey plans are certified, LINZ issues the new legal title.

Step Five: Infrastructure Works

Subdivision requires approval from both the local council and Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). Council reviews the consent application, considers the specialist reports, and ensures that all relevant conditions are met. Once the

Beating mastitis without antibiotics or Teatseal

Wharepapa South farmer proves probiotics can cut mastitis cases and Somatic Cell Counts (SCC) – and save money

After four years transitioning to organics, Wharepapa South dairy farmer Fraser Higham is seeing a dramatic reduction in mastitis and SCC through a comprehensive probiotic programme from Probiotic Revolution.

“This spring, halfway through calving, we ’ ve had just one mastitis case and our 10-day average SCC is 156,000, down from 260,000 last year, ” says Fraser In his first two years of organics, Fraser could still use Teatseal But in 2024, without it, there was concern about winter and calving mastitis

That year, his 200-cow herd recorded 40 winter mastitis and 19 calving mastitis cases All were successfully treated with Bovine Boost, the strongest probiotic available

In 2025, guided by Chris Collier from Probiotic Revolution, Fraser moved to a more proactive prevention strategy In March, with SCC at 240,000, the herd was fed Rumicell daily to boost immunity and successfully reduce cell counts. At drying-off the 40 highest SCC cows were treated with Bovine Boost, helping to lower winter mastitis cases to 15 – all of which cleared quickly

Subdivision isn’t just a matter of paperwork. Practical works are usually required to service the new lot. In rural areas, this might include forming an accessway or farm track, installing boundary fencing, ensuring stormwater and wastewater solutions, and arranging connections to power and communications. These works ensure the section is usable and compliant.

Step Six: Surveying & Legal Work

A Licensed Cadastral Surveyor physically places boundary marks on the land and prepares

The next step, pre-calving, was to add SuperStart Lead Feed to the springer troughs for long enough to nearly eliminate calving mastitis, followed by Rumicell for milkers to maintain a lower SCC through the season.

“We are happy with the results we are getting and are looking forward to seeing how the rest of the season goes. Its great having an economic alterative for managing udder health for our organic and conventional dairy farms.”

Probiotic Revolution programmes are designed to build immunity, improve cure rates and cut mastitis – without antibiotics.

For more information, see Probiotic Revolution’s advert on this page.

Rural land

The end of cheap nitrogen?

The ammonia urea plant at Kapuni was built in the late-1980s to utilise excess natural gas from the Maui field off the Taranaki Coast

The oil shock of the 1970s saw oil prices rise to the point where New Zealand was unable to fund sufficient petrol to meet requirements

Car-less days were introduced to limit petrol usage, with car owners nominating which day of the week they would not use their vehicles Mayhem ensued, with innovative Kiwis quickly devising plans to get around the regulations

The government at the time decided the country would have to become far more energy self-sufficient and development of the offshore oil and gas fields was fast-tracked

The conversion of cars to run on natural gas was subsidised, with large cylinders taking up much of the space in boots while reducing range

Energy

Looking back, it seems quite weird; however, we have not become, although well-endowed with options, more energy self-reliant

The supply of gas for the manufacture of urea is becoming limited Increasingly, demand will be met with more imported product and prices will escalate

Add to that the coming user-pays regulations determined by the weight of vehicles and distance travelled, and the on-farm cost of nitrogen will increase

With the steadily decreasing net gain in growth resulting from the application of synthetic nitrogen, the cost-benefit ratio will narrow further

That’s not an issue for those already non-reliant on synthetic nitrogen usage, and it’s a growing number These operators are growing steadily more feed as they hone their

grazing management skills

The products CalciZest and DoloZest from Functional Fertiliser ensure the “transition” from a highcost to low-cost nitrogen system is seamless and angst-free

Natural

Clover is, and always has been, capable of fixing sufficient nitrogen for 18 tonne-plus of dry matter per hectare annually Clover naturally outgrows grasses

from October until late autumn and because each leaf acts a solar panel there is greater energy available for grazing animals

This manifests itself in higher milk volume, increased growth rate of lambs, and improved weight gain of beef animals

There is no downside as a strong clover sward provides excellent ground cover, reducing moisture loss

The objection that flea and weevil are prevalent quickly dissipates when sufficient extra calcium is applied to lift soil pH close to the ideal 6 3 This is the pH where increased levels of nutrient, particularly phosphorus, becomes available for plant uptake

It is also the soil condition that favours beneficial biology and although grass grub and porina are still seen, their numbers are markedly reduced

The focus is on creating the conditions that favour beneficial biology and the outcomes that benefit us most A well-managed calciumdriven system, with phosphorus and sulphur remaining essential elements, will always outperform a synthetic nitrogensoluble nutrient-based one For more information, call Peter on

Early pasture clover

NZ crowned best for young g adventurers

Wondering where the best place in the world is for budding thrillseekers? Turns out you won ’ t have to travel overseas to find it.

New Zealand has been named the top adventure destination for young travellers in a global study, beating 69 other countries with its array of accessible extreme sports backed by a solid safety record.

Conducted by Ohio-based student travel company, Rustic Pathways, it compared 33 relevant metrics from 70 popular countries to derive a score out of 100 indicating each destination’s appeal to junior adrenaline junkies.

Industry operators also remain confident in Aotearoa’s ability to draw adventure-loving customers

Intrepid Travel’s NZ general manager Simon Mckearney says bookings from Australian and Kiwi customers are up more than 80% year-on-year

“What’s interesting is the mix of people choosing New Zealand – 65% are women and 51% are travelling solo

“The biggest groups are younger travellers aged 21 to 40 but we ’ re also

seeing strong interest from those over 50.

“New Zealand’s appeal comes from its ability to offer meaningful, small group travel experiences that combine adventure with safety and cultural connection.”

He points to trips crossing the Southern Alps and taking in Queenstown as examples that balance challenge and scenery while “allowing travellers to connect with local communities”.

Backpacker Youth Adventure Tourism

Association board chairman Haydn Marriner says New Zealand’s unique mix of extreme sports, hiking, water activities and wildlife experiences make it “the perfect environment for young visitors”.

Rustic Pathways’ chief executive Shayne Fitz-Coy says the best destinations combine outdoor activities, social media engagement and safety considerations.

“New Zealand stands out by offering teens a safe environment to push their boundaries through hiking, water sports and wildlife experiences.

“For parents planning their teens ’ next adventure trip, focusing on countries with strong safety records and diverse activity options provides the ideal balance of excitement and security”

Marriner says global studies like these highlight New Zealand’s attractiveeness “should be a catalyst for serious reinvestment and renewed focus on our youth and adventure sectors ”

“These visitors bring diversity, ennergy, and immense economic benefit, annd they help secure New Zealand’s place in n the hearts and minds of future generattions of global travellers ”

Ten best adventure destinations f for travellers aged 18-22:

• New Zealand (70/100)

• Brazil (62.7/100)

• Peru (62.39/100)

• Costa Rica (61.75/100)

• Belize (58.58/100)

• Finland (58.35/100)

• Australia (57.61/100)

• Chile (56.47/100)

• The Philippines (54.95/100)

• Iceland (54.91/100)

Five least adventurous destinations for travellers aged 18-22:

• Saudi Arabia (23.78/100)

• China (30.82/100)

• Pakistan (31.69/100)

• Guyana (32.45/100)

• Turkey (32.91/100) Tom Rose

Touring NZ’s highcountry heritage

For those seeking a true taste of New Zealand’s rugged interior, the High Country Heritage tour by NZ Adventures offers an unforgettable 4WD experience through some of the South Island’s most iconic landscapes

Spanning six days, the tour winds through high country stations, conservation estates, and remote alpine valleys –places where history, geology, and pastoral life converge in dramatic fashion

The journey begins with a drive through the legendary Molesworth Station, New Zealand’s largest farm, before heading into the sweeping hill country of North Canterbury Day three brings a shift westward, toward the Southern Alps and the vast inland valleys that define the region’s dramatic topography By day four, the tour crosses the Mackenzie Country’s high plains and gravel riverbeds, offering panoramic views back to Aoraki/Mt Cook The final two days take travellers deep into Central Otago, where they ascend two of the region’s towering mountain ranges – territory steeped in gold rush history and pastoral tradition

Participants can drive their own 4WD vehicles – low-range transmission and all-terrain tyres required – or hire one through NZ Adventures. Accommodation is in comfortable motels or

still has availability, other popular NZ Adventures tours – Big Sky, 46 South, West Coast Explorer and Trax of Gold – are currently fully booked

hotels, with most meals provided either on-site or as stationcatered lunches and picnics.

While the High Country Heritage tour

Spanning six days, the tour winds through high country stations, conservation estates, and remote alpine valleys. Photo / Supplied

New Zealand has been named the top adventure destination worldwide for young thrill-seekers. Photo / 123rf

MAIZE, CROPPING &

Maize planting nears as soil temperatures fluctuate

The maize planting season is near Come September 20, and we will be watching closely for soil temperatures to be 12-14C and rising before the maize planter heads out to the paddock.

But as I write this in August, soil temperatures are still fluctuating, ranging from 5.8 to 11.2C, averaging 8.1C compared to 9.7C last year

Recent weather has been fickle, with conditions swinging from crisp, sunny winter days to damp, cloudy spells –highlighted by a sudden hailstorm that briefly blanketed the ground like snow

Buying versus growing

Maize silage has become a mainstay on New Zealand dairy farms due to its high energy and starch that complement proteinrich pastures. It boosts milk production, body condition and reproduction, while its fibre content supports rumen stability and reduces metabolic issues As a consistent, storable feed, maize silage fills seasonal gaps

and helps maintain cow health h and productivity year-round

While not clear cut, with a high milk price, the advantage has swung more towards buyinng in maize silage this season rather than growing on-farm. However, farmers must weigh the pros and cons. Purchasing silage offers simplicity, flexibilitty, and the ability to utilise more of the milking platform for growing more grass and runninng a higher stocking rate. On the other hand, growing maize silage on-farm enables a lower per-tonne cost, while also allowing better nutrient recycling through effluent use.

Currently in the Waikato, prices for standing maize are being battered around $0 31 to $0 35/kgDM (per kilogram of dry matter) With harvesting costs on top bringing this to $0 40-$0 48/kgDM or more depending on cartage distance This is quite a jump on last year but is reflective of the sustained high dairy prices

The economics make sense. At around $0 45/kgDM for brought-in maize silage, it is competitive with many alternative feeds.

Its value becomes clear when converted to milk solids: with a typical efficiency of 10-12 kg DM per kg MS, and using a conservative 11:1 ratio, the cost of producing 1 kg MS is about $4.95. Against the current $10 payout, this leaves a margin of just over $5 per kg MS – essentially doubling the return before overheads. Of course, labour, storage losses, and wastage when feeding must also be considered.

Economic discussion

If you are looking for maize silage or want to throw around the economics of it with me, then please give me a call. The rural

Attentionto detailcan increase maizeyield

Growers wanting to increase maize grain and silage yields and profits should focus on seedbed preparation, planter set-up and crop monitoring, says Foundation for Arable Research maize researcher Rene van Tilburg

Average maize yields in New Zealand are 12 tonne/ ha for grain and 21 t/ha for silage. In comparison, record d yiellds have been up to 23.4 4 t/ha f for maize (Pioneer Cup results) and up to 30 t/ha for silage

“To improve their averages, growers need to monitor and manage potential yield and profit robbers; particularly poor and uneven establishment, inefficient nutrition, water stress and pests

“Weather is obviously a significant contributor to yield, and while it cannot be controlled, taking temperature, rainfall forecasts and sunshine hours into account when making crop management decisions will contribute to efficient systems and maximum profits in any given season ”

The perfect crop is considered to be one where all plants emerge within 12 or 24 hours of each other,

depending on the prevailing temperature at the time.

“As growers, your job is to question (and dig) for the reason any seed is slow to emerge, or does not emerge at all. After emergence is complete, dig in the gaps and look for misses caused by pests such as cutworm, wireworm and Argentine stem weevil. These are one-off losses, with remaining plants likely to go on to reach their potential.”

Unevenness of germination can be more problematic It may b be b because of f poor seed d to soiil contact, poor soil structure, dry conditions, variable planting depth, side wall compaction and a smeared seed trench “Maize plants will not ‘ grow out ’ of these problems, which will rob yield right up to harvest ”

Understanding soil fertility and the interactions of different nutrients is also important Oversupply of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) is not the path to success and phosphorus application without consideration to other nutrients, particularly zinc, can depress yields, Rene Van Tilburg says

“Soil test regularly; smaller grids are better than large ones While there are different methods of trace element testing, choose one and stick with it ”

economy is continuing to gain strength, but the urban economy is struggling, as noted by the recent Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) announcement. The dovish statement has given hope for even more cuts before the end of the year as the RBNZ tries to jumpstart the economy For borrowers with fixed rates rolling over, the question is whether to fix long or short term? Some argue we are past “peak pain”, making a two-four year fixed rate sensible before rates rise. Others see a slower recovery and prefer one-two years to benefit from lower short-term rates My pick is a three-year rate under 5%.

Tractor plowing a dusty field under clear skies.

MAIZE, CROPPING & SPRING PLANTING

A brand that knows your land

VPMAXX makes maize growing simple by offering a handful of topperforming hybrids that perform well under a range of growing conditions, backed by good old-fashioned service

crops, but you also have the advantages maize brings as a drought resistant, C4 plant that is able to be ensiled

“We’re focused on having knowledgeable and experienced people who understand all aspects of maize growing and harvesting,” says a spokesperson for the company

“By working closely with farmers, we understand the challenges and opportunities unique to each region The local-first approach ensures VPMAXX hybrids deliver real results where they matter most – on your farm, season after season ”

People wanting to secure their summer or autumn feed supply are being told that it’s not too late to organise maize for silage

A growing number of farmers have built very profitable pasture-based systems which incorporate maize silage to fill potential feed gaps experienced when grass growth fails to keep up with feed demand, says VPMAXX

“Not only do you get the benefit of a high yielding crop like maize, meaning you require less area to produce the same amount of tonnage compared with other summer

“If you are working through your growing requirements for maize grain, VPMAXX hybrids can deliver high yields whilst also providing strong agronomic packages for a range of different growing conditions Two key dual-purpose hybrids on offer this year can deliver both high quality silage and high grain yields depending on the end use ”

VP574 (107 CRM) delivers new elite genetics as robust all-round hybrid with notable foliar health, standability, drought tolerance and staygreen for season long “ eye appeal” VP574 is widely adapted to all northern regions where this maturity is required and has been a standout for both silage and grain growers

VP611 (111 CRM) is a full maturity for the upper North Island and is an imposing, highly productive hybrid In situations where you want to maximise yield, VP611 has great standability, notable late season foliar health and staygreen delivering a long silage harvest window It also delivers high grain yields making it great option for maize silage

For more information, see VPMAXX’s advert on the opposite page

Keeping

Waipa Ag Services in Pukeatua was founded by Dwayne and Linda Little in 2021

Dwayne is the fourth generation of his family to dairy farm in the area and their venture into contracting was to offer the fifth generation, their children Chris, Jack, Ben, Ella and Charlie, another business within the family

“Having farmed in the area for so long, we know the Waikato topography and soils very well and are farmers working for farmers with an understanding of their requirements, especially their grass silage where quality not quantity is our focus,” says Dwayne

Waipa Ag Services offers the only engineering services in Pukeatua from Andrew Robinson, a skilled engineer with 25 years ’ experience H He carries out welding and machinery repairs, as well as custom modifications and builds.

They also have a full-time diesel mechanic available for farm machinery servicing and repairs

The contracting side revolves around family with Dwayne’s father Graham driving regularly and sons Chris, Ben and Jack all being involved. Jack will be taking the lead in the business this season Staff numbers swell to meet demand at the height of the season

Waipa Ag Services’ fleet of modern, hi-tech and wellmaintained machinery ensures that every task is executed with precision and efficiency, including ecofriendly direct drilling and planting

“Our team is highly trained in the safe and proficient operation of our machinery, with the highest standards of quality and safety whether it is for drilling, planting, cultivation, harvesting, cropping, silaage or haay ”

For more information, see their advert below

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S

Always soil test before planting maize

ce t e 990s, pasto a farmers in NZ have been using maize silage to fill feed deficits in the drier months of summer, or in the colder, wetter months of winter

With an expected yield of 18t-28t DM/ha in optimal conditions, that’s more dry matter than most other crops. While optimal conditions include warm soil temperatures, good moisture levels, and lots of energy from the sun, the highest growth rates will only be achieved when nutrient levels are sufficient.

y p aren ’ t used up, and daamage to the environment through l leachhing In either case, there is wastage, avooidable when you know the nutrient staatus of your soil before planting

Guessing nutrient needs is also risky since every region has a different t climate, and each property has a different soil type and cropping h history

Maize may be cropped on the same block, a dairy effluent block, or g grown on a poor or problem paddock thhat needs regrassing. So nutrient needs will differ for each situation.

But how much is ‘sufficient’? As always, when it comes to fertiliser, the best practice is to soil test to find out.

Nutrient needs

Applying the wrong amount of fertiliser can be costly Insufficient nutrients may mean a h h f l

Nutrient-hungry

Maize is a nutrient-hungry crop which isn’ ’ t so surprising when you watch how fast it growws It needs nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, sulphur, magnesium, calcium, copper, and z zinc In some situations, manganese and boron m might also be required.

It plays a vital role in the major plant functions like photosynthesis and amino acid formation When nitrogen is short, plants become spindly and stunted with chlorotic or yellow leaves

Nowadays, providing sufficient N that lasts throughout the growing cycle isn’t a problem with controlled release fertilisers that are protected from leaching and available in a few weeks from sowing With a soil test, you can also get the quantity correct as well

Soil and mineral tests

Soil tests recommended for maize include a Basic Soil Profile. But additional tests are required for nitrogen. Being a mobile nutrient, it moves easily through the soil profile, and is also affected by soil temperature, moisture, and organic matter levels at the sampling time.

A well-established test is the ‘Mineral N test ’ which reports on the initial inorganic N content of the soil, so it tells us how much N is immediately available for plants to take up

This test is also known as the ‘Deep N’ test because soil samples are sometimes taken at depths of 60-90cm, useful because maize is a deep-rooted plant, apparently capable of extending its roots to 1.8m. Being able to factor in the available N from these soil depths

helps calculate the total N available for plants.

Disadvantages of the Mineral N test are its analytical costs, the difficulties of deep sampling, and the many contextual factors that can affect the results.

But the biggest limitation of the Mineral N test is that it can only tell us how much N is available to plants at the actual sampling time.

Available-N test

To overcome this issue, the ‘Available-N test’, or the ‘Anaerobically mineralisable N’ test (AMN), is used This test provides an estimate of the nitrogen that is potentially mineralisable throughout the growing season, or in other words, how much nitrogen will become available in the soil for plants to use while they grow

The results of this test are important because the pool of potentially mineralisable nitrogen can be significant.

While this test has its own shortcomings, it’s relatively fast to do and less costly than the Mineral N test.

But the best thing about it is that it allows us to calculate the future requirements of the crop as it grows and not just rely on results from a sample taken on a single day that is unlikely to apply to a whole growing season

Maize needs the right fertiliser to grow well.

Grower achieves ideal soil conditions after years of trials

For Raglan flower grower Nicky Brzeska, soil health has always held a deep fascination

She loves the idea that the land beneath our feet holds a microscopic world responsible for so much of what we see and eat, and it needs care

The thought is echoed by m growers seeking resilience, sustainability and a deep connection with the land

“A soil test has always been a natural starting place for large operations who have access to farm consultants or fertiliser companies for recommendations,” says Nicky

“With small growers, they aren ’ t buying huge amounts of inputs and don’t have the budget for analysis ”

Nicky hunted down Jake and found he was working as an independent soil consultant and agreed to help her

“Working from the 2021 Reams test and the 2018 soil test for two seasons found two significant issues.”

When Nicky and her husband John bought the 2 2 hectare property in 2018, she had a soil test done for her planned flower farm

“I didn’t know how to read it or who could help I knew I wanted biological inputs so I visited flower farmers to learn ”

Nicky says she put “truckloads” of compost into her soil, along with biological fertilisers inoculated with micro-organisms, and biochar

“I spent so much money trying to do the right thing.”

Jake Balle from the company she was buying from was a great help with soil testing and analysis of her 2019 Reams test, but unfortunately the company closed.

Struggling with soil tests

Another Reams test in 2021 brought more “amendment confusion” Nicky added a smorgasbord of biological amendments from different companies

S She fellt that affter thhree seasons of inputs and d regenerative practices, her volcanic ash loam should be doing really well Instead her snapdragons curled and around 800 plants developed a pink tinge

Molly Callaghan, owner of an organic fertiliser company, told Nicky that she needed to pare down her inputs

was pH 5 6 when cut flowers a pH of 6 to 6 5 This acidity remedied using Nano-Cal, ltrafine lime

Phosphorus levels were a very low 7, and should be between 25 and 50

Prioritising the soil’s microbiome, Jake recommended a small once-off amount of Mono Ammonium Phosphate (MAP) to boost phosphorus so mycorrhizal fungi could function properly, followed by slow-release Reactive Phosphate Rock (RPR).

Sharing her knowledge

Nicky was thrilled when her December 2024 soil test showed “ near perfect soil conditions” in her 600 square metre flower farm

“I’d already noticed less insect and disease pressure. There were significantly less pests and no action was needed, but the fungal-prone chrysanthemums required an ecological spray

“My harvest season went on longer, I was spending less money and the garden required less time”

Inspired by her results, Nicky wanted to help others interpret and act upon their soil tests, particularly smaller growers who often don’t have the connections

She’s combining forces with Jake to offer an Understanding your Soil Test workshop aimed at smaller growers and home gardeners on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at CROP in Raglan.

Participants will be taken through the analysis of their soil tests, looking for red flags, learning what the numbers mean, and receiving a mini one-on-one consultation and action plan

Nicky is looking at launching an online consultancy to help smaller growers with their soil tests

“It took a while to get my own

COST EFFECTIVE RETRACTING ROOF SYSTEM

Can

inputs right and understand how everything was connected It starts with a soil test and getting

REVITALISE YOUR SOIL AND OPTIMISE GROWTH

Catherine Fry

H Healthy soils mean healthy and productive flower plants for Nicky Brzeska. Photo / Cathheriine F Fry

Nicky at work in her flower farm. Photo / Supplied

amily farmyard fun in an ducational environment

Inspired by their children, Amber and Rick Millen created a petting farm to share animal joy.

fter seeing the pleasure their own three ldren got from their interactions with animals oughout their childhood, Amber and Rick set out converting their 7 28-hectare lifestyle block o a petting farm where others could share the erience of being around animals

The family have lived on their lifestyle block since 2013, and in 2019 were looking at adding to their already large menagerie of animals and opening to the public

“While the Covid-19 lockdowns affected our main cafe business of 20 years, as we had to shut it for months, it actually gave us the time to work together on the farmyard concept and open in 2022,” says Amber Livestock management

The yard area has an outer ring of paddocks where the cows, sheep, and horses are crossgrazed This also assists with reducing parasite loads on the pasture

“It’s the old-fashioned way, animals are rotated and then we harrow the paddock We don’t have to collect dung as it all gets broken up and goes back into the land ”

About 6ha of grass silage and conventional hay bales (for easier management) is grown on the land annually and is sufficient to feed the animals

in winter or summer drought

The inner paddocks house the goats, donkeys, pigs and baby animals that aren ’ t with a mother

“We get in lambs and calves each season so children can bottle feed baby animals ”

An old cowshed on the property provides the perfect sheltered area for the house pets. Visitors get to cuddle guinea pigs and rabbits and watch the antics of mice, chinchillas, rats, bearded dragons, water dragons and the blue tongued lizard.

Breeding and feeding

“We allow selective breeding so that people can experience seeing babies with their mother We have five breeding ewes and Nala our speckled park cow Red our bull has sired some of our cows ”

You can ’ t move around the farm without an entourage of ducks and chickens While their breeding isn’t thwarted, eggs are collected daily, so it is rare for anything to hatch

Care is taken with prolific breeders like rabbits, mice, rats and guinea pigs, keeping males and females separate unless babies are wanted

Rick and daughter Katie do most of the work on the farm Keeping the pet animal cages clean takes a considerable amount of work each week. Children Sophie and Jake, Amber and her parents all muck in on open days

When pony rides are on, it’s labour intensive for safety reasons

“The grazing animals eat the pasture and homegrown supplement feed. The horses do require more specialised feed, but we have found a pretty universal pellet that a lot of the animals can be hand-fed by visitors ”

The pet animals enjoy greens from a local greengrocer and the pigs eat the other veggie scraps Amber says Red the bull loves eating bananas

Wheelbarrows and buckets of appropriate feed are stationed around the farm walk so visitors can hand-feed the animals themselves

Red the bull will meekly take silage from over the fence Amber hastens to add that even they don’t go in with him at close quarters, “ at the end of the day he’s a bull and precautions are needed”

With home section sizes getting smaller and smaller, Amber says it’s getting harder for children to be exposed to pet and farm animals

“It’s such a pleasure to see the excitement on the children’s faces when they actually get a close-up encounter with an animal they’ve only previously seen in a pict or on TV

“It really makes the har work worthwhile ” Catherine Fry h ture rd

Amber with a favourite pony Poppy.

Twin lambs born three hours previously

Sonny the donkey

Amber Millen with Evie, left, and Paris, right. Photos / Catherine Fry

BOP student ins national rural PhD scholarship

y y

PhD student, Sarah van der Boom, is the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Roland Stead Doctoral Scholarship in Dryland Pastoral Research.

The scholarship is described by Lincoln University, the institution through which Sarah, as one of the most prestigious scholarships from an external trust that the University manages The scholarship is intended to provide financial support for the University’s best postgraduate student to assist in study towards a research degree

Sarah says the scholarship is pivotal in enabling her to complete her studies.

“I felt a bit emotional when I received the news and read the offer letter I feel a huge responsibility to produce

privilege, and at the same time, I am super excited to work toward this challenge.”

Sarah’s early research explored how women are responding internationally to rural social and environmental issues, including what might be applicable in New Zealand

The research highlighted rapid and significant changes in rural society during the last 35 years

She says, “in New Zealand, less than 25% of the rural population is now employed in primary industries, and only 15% of working-aged women living rurally are working in primary industries”.

What is rural?

“Many people living rurally now are on lifestyle blocks and commuting or telecommuting for work This is a huge shift from the 1990s when most rural dwellers were engaged in some

The importance ofCo

I regularly have contact from readers about CoQ10, especially from those wanting help with the side effects of statin cholesterol lowering medication

CoQ10 moves high energy electrons within our cell mitochondria where energy is made. CoQ10 collects these electrons and moves them to an enzyme called ATP synthase to make the energy we need.

Studies show that statins can reduce circulating CoQ10 by as much as 50%. The side effects are so common they are diagnosable diseases called Statin Myopathy and Statin Neuropathy The main side effects are muscle and tendon pain. Muscles and nerves have huge energy requirements and reducing CoQ10 can have devastating effects on muscles and nerves.

Reductions in CoQ10 can affect mood, memory and general cognitive function In most cases two months of a naturally fermented CoQ10 will improve muscle and brain function and allow people to better tolerate the medication.

Theese changing dynamics chaallenge the idea of ‘what is rural?’ and can impact how moodern rural society functions ”

During the next six months

Sarrah will interview women living and working rurally in t the Bay of Plenty and Cannterbury, to find out how theey are responding, or wanting to respond, to rural issues

She e says research participants are from very diverse bacckgrounds, including rural leaddership, healthcare, science, envvironmental consulting, law, horrticulture, dairy farming, orgganics, sheep and beef inddustry, deer farming and d more

“ThThe research has been an incredible journey so far It is a privvilege to take a glimpse into the e busy lives of really diverse rural women. I am very grateful to all of the women who have agreed to participate so far”

EnzymeQ10

I recommend CoQ10 for several reasons most commonly for statin support. I also add CoQ10 for those fatigued without medical causes and for those with cardiovascular, autoimmune and neurodegenerative problems For example, I include at least 200mg for those with Polymyalgia Rheumatica and higher doses for those with MS

For statin support I use a high-quality naturally fermented CoQ10 and for autoimmune or neurodegenerative support, a mitochondrial support formula that includes high grade CoQ10 with several energy co-factors

The first improvement felt by those with these conditions is usually a lift in energy and general well-being

Those with autoimmune or neurodegenerative problems should be working to a personalised diet and supplement plan complementary to their regular medical treatment. Most people feel a real difference within three months

John Arts (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 john@abundant.co.nz Join his newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz

Bay of Plenty PhD student Sarah van der Boom was awarded 2025’s Roland Stead Doctoral Scholarship for her rural research

AI safely tackles a dangerous job for humans

Chainsaws, drones and AI might not scream safety – but a University of Canterbury team has built a chainsaw drone that could revolutionise high-risk arborist work

Leader of the project, computer science professor Richard Green, says using automation has progressed extensively over the years but it has got to a point where we need computers that understand the 3D environment they are moving in and

can actually interact with it

“Over the last eight years, we ’ ve been developing unmanned aerial vehicles [UAV] like drones. Before submitting our proposal, we met with lots of different industries to see what could be useful to explore. We didn’t want to be a group of academics coming up with solutions that may not actually be needed ”

Funding

The project has received a $10 million grant across five years from the Ministry of Business,

Innovation and Employment. The team includes Richard, UC mechanical engineering professor Dan Zhao, UAV expert Dr Sam Schofield and University of Auckland mechanical engineering professor Karl Stol.

Safety

One topic was the safety of trimming trees around powerlines that remain live while nearby arborist work is carried out.

“Initially, we developed a drone to carry an electric pruning tool that trimmed smaller branches, offering really good precision.”

For branches larger than 30mm in diameter, a chainsaw drone was developed

“We’re using a small batterydriven chainsaw that can prune branches and twigs larger than 30 millimetres in diameter We use a DJI Matrice drone which has a USB-C socket interface for our processor

“When we plug the processor in we can see all the sensors and fly it using the controller We fly near to a branch, tap the branch on the screen and the drone takes over, using AI technology”

The drone operators have been working with drones for 10 years and are very

with their chainssaw drone

Right: A chainsaw drone e at work Photos / Sacha Skinner University of f Canterbury

experienced flyers The AI in processor is “trained” using th examples of branches, negotia twigs and wind and learning h navigate once a branch has be

the computer housands of ating leaves, how to autoeen identified

Commercial use

Richard says the team, along and international UAV expert and manufacturers, hopes to p AI-driven chainsaw drones co next year for use across a rang industries where jobs are inac hazardous for humans Catherine Fry

g with Kiwi ts, researchers produce ommercially ge of different ccessible and C therine

Above: University of Cannterbury, Computer Science Professoor Richard Green, left, and UAV expeert Dr Sam Schofield

The seasons, the regions, and the reasons

About 1600 growers contribute to avocado production in New Zealand; the Bay of Plenty being the leading region –producing about 50% of the country ’ s avocados

But, how does the avocado season actually work in New Zealand?

It all begins in the spring when the avocado trees flower Avocado seasons differ from many other fruits in that they have a longer overall growing period, meaning the fruit continues to grow on the tree for more than 18 months; so that avocado you recently ate, possibly began its journey as a flower in spring 2023! Crops like kiwifruit and apples, also flower in the spring, but are harvested the following autumn This schedule allows for pruning to be completed in winter when the plant is dormant However, for avocado growers, finding the right time to prune is tricky – fruit is often still hanging on the trees!

Good news

On the flip side of this, there is good news for the avocado grower

The advantage of a long growing

season is that growers can target different markets at different times of the year The export season for avocados in New Zealand is generally between July and February, while supply to the New Zealand domestic market continues year-round Historically, most New Zealand export avocados have gone to Australia during their summer, but our industry is diversifying and expanding into exciting new markets in Asia and North America.

preference for New Zealand products in offshore markets.

Domestically, the avocados you see in supermarkets are all New Zealand-grown Most are packed through one of seven main packhouses between Northland and the Bay of Plenty

Strengthen opportunities

On top of this, you may have seen in the news that in August 2025, our New Zealand avocado exporters have jointly secured a coalition license under the FernMark License Programme – New Zealand’s official mark of origin – which will undoubtedly continue to strengthen our export opportunities. This recognisable NZ symbol can be displayed on product packaging and marketing collateral to help drive

Avocado industry secures FernMark, aims to boostexports

In a landmark move for New Zealand’s horticulture sector, avocado exporters have joined forces to secure a collective FernMark Licence – the first of its kind for the industry

The FernMark, New Zealand’s official country of origin mark, is awarded by the Government to products that meet rigorous standards of authenticity, quality, and governance

While individual exporters have held licences before, this coalition represents a unified front, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to collaboration and excellence. Minister of Trade Todd McClay hailed the initiative, saying it “demonstrates quality and trust ” and will help elevate New Zealand’s presence in global markets.

Recognised by nearly half of consumers in key export regions, the FernMark boosts buyer confidence, with 44% more likely to purchase products bearing the mark. For

avocados, it aligns perfectly with the industry’s values of sustainability, ethical growing, and premium quality

David Downs, CEO of New Zealand Story, praised the coalition’s entry into the FernMark Licence Programme, calling it “ a fantastic example of exporters working together to amplify their impact.”

The FernMark will feature prominently in upcoming promotional campaigns across Asia, North America, and other strategic markets. With nutrient-rich soils and high UV light contributing to their rich taste, New Zealand avocados are already a standout. Now, backed by the FernMark’s seal of trust, the industry is poised to expand its global footprint

Brad Siebert, CEO of NZ Avocado, says the licence reflects a shared vision: “Working collectively raises the bar for quality and builds greater trust worldwide”.

At Trevelyan’s in Te Puke, we work with our growers and our local market supply partner, BayFarms, to supply fresh, quality fruit to the domestic market throughout the year This flexibility gives Trevelyan’s growers choice

Growers decide when they should pick, providing opportunities to capture peak market returns and even giving them more fruitless

windows to tackle that allimportant pruning!

So, the next time you drive past a local avocado orchard, you can appreciate how the

New Zealand avocado ranks as the country ’ s third-largest fresh fruit export – not bad for a country that is typically left off most world maps!

The avocado season starts in spring when trees flower

Waikato’s go-to farm machinery technicians

Tractortech has been expanding their trusted tractor servicing and repairs business since 2012.

Initially a two-man enterprise, director Nigel Ross has expanded his company to a team of eight skilled staff operating five service vehicles and a hydraulic hose trailer, who can tackle everything from routine services to urgent breakdowns without costly delays.

Understanding the demand

Raised on a dairy farm, Nigel was drawn to working with machinery He completed his heavy diesel apprenticeship with an earthmoving company and then moved into agricultural machinery. He understands the need for efficient and fast repairs of farm machinery when something breaks down at a

critical time in the farming calendar.

He has found that farmers and contractors often prefer to use a local person they can build a relationship with and has noticed that his business has grown steadily through word of mouth.

“We’re proud to offer a wide range of services above and beyond general repairs and maintenance. Our specialist services include diagnostics and fault finding, transmission and engine rebuilds, hydraulic hose repairs, electrical work and air conditioning servicing,” says Nigel.

“Offering an after-hours service and a loan tractor (subject to availability) has proved to be invaluable when timeframes are under pressure. ”

Partnering with CTM Imports

Recently, Tractortech has partnered with CTM Imports to become the Waikato dealer for Mascar, Elho, Mandam, Frontoni and Sitrex.

This alliance came about because CTM wanted a local workshop that wasn ’ t tied to a particular brand, and a partner that would stand behind its work and back the products fully

“Our mix of competitive pricing, quality workmanship, and strong customer relationships means we ’ ve seen a real growth in our business We’re already outgrowing our workshop that was purpose-built in 2020 and are building a larger workshop and parts area at the yard.

“We’re also bringing a new mechanic and

a salesperson on board.”

Concerned at the decline in skilled staff in rural trades, Nigel is passionate about investing in the future of the farming sector and has three apprentices in training

“While they need more time and patience, they are worth it, and we hope we are building a team to serve this industry for many years to come. ”

The company ’ s mix of competitive pricing, quality workmanship, and strong customer relationships has seen Tractortech firmly establish itself as Waikato’s go-to tractor technicians

For more information, see their advert on this page.

Tractortech director Nigel Ross and his family Photos / Supplied

Mechanic Kieran Barclay checking the ring gaps while carrying out an engine re-build.

Inside the Tractortech shed.

Vintage baler still in use after 60 years intage

Steve Howarth is the proud custodian of his dad Dave’s Massey Ferguson 10 baler and despite it turning 60 years old in 2025, it’s staying put and is still used when weather conditions are suitable.

Dave Howarth was brought up in dairy farming and started contracting (baling hay) to complement his dairy farming venture. He bought the baler, a Massey Ferguson 135 and a Centipede Hay tedder at the same time.

In recent chats with his dad, Steve sayys they y reckoned that the baler would have made around 500,000 conventional bales since its purchase

from new in 1965.

“On a good day, when the hay is perfectly dry and set in even rows, we can make 200 bales per hour going at a steady pace, ” says Steve. The baler is not self-propelled and gets its power takeoff (PTO) from the tractor pulling it.

The operator only has to change the twine when required and everything is always well greased

Despite its proficiency, the baler came with a few q quirks, and the family is well versed in how to handle it to avoid issues

work, making around 1500 bales, mainly around Christmas time and within a 5km distance from his home.

Steve says that when the baler finally breaks, it has such sentimental value that it will still be kept in his shed for years to come.

“Dad learned quickly that you can ’ t clean the high quality steel around the knotters with water as it rusts easily and then tangles the twine. We try not to get it too wet and carefully dry it before putting it away ”

If the hay is too wet, it jams in the chamber and shears off a bolt to save the baler

“That’s exactly what shear bolts are designed to do, but one day dad was baling green hay and went through 15 shear bolts during the making of 1500 bales. The lesson learnt was to carry lots of spare shear bolts in those conditions!”

Dave wouldn’t let anyone else drive the baler for years, and Steve only drove it for the first time in the early-2000s despite it being owned by his dad for more than three decades at that point

In 2008 when Dave sold the family farm, Steve took the baler to keep it safely in his own shed, along with two tractors, a mower and a hay bob He uses it for a small amount of contracting

Dave Howarth pulling the baler with his circa 1960 Nuffield 10/60 in 1976. Photo / Supplied

Rear view showing the bale chute Photo / Catherine Fry

Steve Howarth with his dad Dave’s 1965

Massey Ferguson 10 baler Photo / Catherine Fry

Catherine Fry

NZ breeder’s mission to p Australian White she

Waikato builder Roger Ramsey comes from a family background of sheep and beef farming

In 2006 he and his wife Justine bought 100 acres in Wharepuhunga which he describes as a “large lifestyle block”. When the couple’s four

adult children left home, it was perfect for them to branch out into sheep breeding, something Roger has always been passionate about

They started with Swiss Valais Blacknose sheep, the iconic and much loved “lifestyle” sheep

“Our hilly farm was the perfect landscape for the alpine Valais, and it was a great opportunity to start a sheep breeding stud,” says Roger

“The breed is almost ‘dog-like’, with gentle temperaments and love of being around people They make friendly pets for families on lifestyle blocks ”

In New Zealand, Valais are not commercially viable for meat and wool but for many years they were a soughtafter breed commanding a high price from lifestyle block owners Roger says that since the downturn in the NZ economy local demand has lessened due to financial i

constraints, but demand is high from overseas

To maaximise breeding potential each season, the Ramseys successfully use artificial insemination (AI), and emmbryo flushing, followed by embryo transfer to surrogaate ewes such as Romney and Wiltshire

Austrralian Whites

“I’ve a always been interested in the work being done to find the perfect sheep for New Zealand that can withstaand our weather conditions, not require shearing and proovide high quality meat. ”

This leed Roger to the Australian Whites, a composite breed of sheep developed in Australia in the early-2000s It is made up of four different sheep breeds: The Dorper and Van Rooy (both self-shedding with high fertility); and the Polled Dorset and Texel (both meat producing sheep) The meat from Australian Whites has a low melting point similar to Wagyu beef and once fully recognised in New Zealand, should fetch a high premium here as it does in Australia It became a registered breed in New Zealand in 2020

Sheep breeder Roger Ramsey with two Australian White lambs.

Photos / Catherine Fry

Yearling sale supports life-saving service

Mark, Sherrie and Jake Stokman

are proud to be supporting the rural community at their annual sale in September

Mark had a Can-Am work vehicle accident in March of 2024, and is still recovering But thanks to the rescue helicopter, and their amazing crew, he is around to tell the story

This is why Stokman Angus is donating 100% of the proceeds from LOT 111 to the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter

“Because in the moments that matter most – when seconds separate tragedy from survival – this service doesn’t just provide transport. It provides miracles,” say the Stokman family

Stokman Angus will be hosting their 16th Yearling Sale on the farm in Waikite Valley, Rotorua, on September 17, where they will be selling 133 yearling Angus bulls and 40 heifers. Known for breeding elite calving ease bulls, Stokman bred bulls are marketed through LIC, ST Genetics and Samen because of their easy calving, short gestation traits with good growth and carcass

“Yearling bulls are a good investment, with lower bull costs and due to their younger age and leaner body composition, they require less feed for maintenance than older bulls and have a longer working life because of superior fitness and lower body fat, and less stress placed on their skeletal structure

“They are easier to manage and mix with other bulls You also get the advantage of sourcing the latest and best genetics a year earlier”

More bull for your buck

In Stokman’s 2024 sale, 65 of the 115 bulls sold for between $2500 and $4900.

The average of the New Zealand twoyear-old Angus bull sales this year was $11,676.

“Stokman bulls are genomic, and fertility tested, well grown so you can use to breed both cows and heifers, and are known for

The breed is hardy, coping with both extreme heat and extreme cold As a hair breed, it sheds cleanly with no requirement for shearing or dagging, reducing costs on-farm

In 2021 Roger implanted 70 Australian White embryos into surrogate ewes on the farm

“I wanted to make some changes to the conformation of those initial lambs, so I went to Australia in 2022 and imported 15 live stud ewes covering eight different bloodlines, which arrived in New Zealand in February 2023 Those ewes are now the foundation of our stud.

“After impregnation using AI, I was able to flush over 150 embryos from those ewes last year and the resulting lambs last season are now like what we see in photos of Australian White Sheep in Australia

The game plan

Roger says their goal is to breed Australian White Sheep year-round, utilising the polyestrous

their quiet temperament and calving ease.

“We aim to breed curve benders, bulls that produce progeny that calve easy, but go on to above average weights.”

There will also be 40 yearling heifers that will sell on the day, the family say

“They are mates to the bulls but will sell without registrations and will have pen Estimated Breeding Values A great opportunity to improve the genetics in your herd.” An open day is planned on the farm Tuesday, September 2, between 11am and 3pm The sale is Wednesday, September 17, at 1pm

quality of Australian White ewes, where they can lamb up to three times in a two-year period with no special attention

“Some farmers in Australia now have their Australian White ewes lamb twice in one year upon joining the rams after six weeks from the first lambs being born and removing the rams at 12 weeks from the first lambs being born with 90% of the ewes being back in lamb again ”

The stud will continue to use AI and embryo transfer into surrogate ewes as well as natural mating to increase purebred Australian White sheep numbers

When required, new genetics will be sourced from Australia in the form of embryos and/or semen, says Roger

“We will soon be established as the ‘ go-to ’ Australian White stud in New Zealand for top Australian White rams bred from proven Australian genetics ” Catherine Fry

Stokman Angus

Above: Jake Stokman with some Stokman Angus bulls. Right: The aftermath of Mark’s 2024 canam accident Photos / Supplied

NZFoodNetworkteams up withkiwifruit industry to tacklefoodinsecurity

Food support charity the New Zealand Food Network says it has already distributed kiwifruit to more than 80 organisations across the country since the rescue effort began in April

The food rescue charity and its packhouse partners redistributed 160 tonnes of kiwifruit in 2024, and there continued to be growing demand for support to get healthy food into vulnerable New Zealand communities, it said in a statement

With the support of Zespri and in partnership with a nationwide network of packhouses, the network said it aimed to increase access to nutritious kai and reduce food waste in the agriculture sector

Chief executive Gavin Findlay says there are many hoops for fresh produce to pass through before reaching supermarket shelves

He says this includes needing to last long export journeys, or meeting quality standards

As a result, some of the annual harvest didn’t make the cut, but he said it was still good to eat

“We’re making sure that it’s going towards nourishing Kiwis who need it most ”

Kiwifruit is among the most nutrient-dense fruits available, with a single gold kiwifruit providing an entire day’s worth of vitamin C

Zespri head of global public affairs, Michael Fox, says the partnership works for growers and the community

“Our focus is always on getting as much of our growers ’ fruit to market as possible, but we ’ re proud to work with NZFN to ensure that fresh and healthy kiwifruit which doesn’t quite meet our export standards, but is still delicious and safe to eat, reaches those in need and makes a positive impact on our communities ”

This initiative comes as New Zealand Food Network’s most recent Food Security Snapshot revealed that more than half a million people are now being supported by the charity’s food hubs every month, with about one-third of monthly recipients never seeking food support before

Zespri achieves a first for fresh produce

Green kiwifruit has become the first fresh fruit ever to receive an authorised health claim from the European Commission.

In a statement, Zespri says this marks a breakthrough for kiwifruit marketer Zespri and the wider fresh produce industry

The European Commission has officially approved the health claim that “consumption of green kiwifruit contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency” – based on a daily intake of two fresh green kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa var Hayward) providing a minimum of 200g of flesh.

This authorisation is among only three health claims approved by the European Commission in the last five years, following a rigorous evaluation process in which only about less than 1 out of 8 claims submitted receive approval.

Validation

“This milestone is not only a first for Zespri but for the entire fresh produce industry The EU Commission’s recognition of green kiwifruit’s role in digestive health reflects one of the ways we are helping people thrive thrrough h the gooddness of kiwifruit,” says Zespri CEO J Jason Te Brake.

“The approval not only validattes Zespri’s health and innovation programme, it also delivers tangible value to the industry annd reflects the hard work of our greeen growers to produce nutritious, great-tasting kiwifruit.”

Zespri fully funded the application process and majority y of the key research submitted in the scientific substantiation,

committing more than 15 years to documenting the benefits of green kiwifruit

The approval follows the submission of a comprehensive scientific dossier in 2018 which included 18 human intervention studies, six of which ultimately were considered as a strong basis for proving the effect of green kiwifruit on intestinal function. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) delivered a positive scientific opinion in 2021, which has now culminated in the Commission’s formal authorisation.

Health

This landmark achievement demonstrates the critical value of investing in health and nutrition science – both to build trust in the fresh category and to unlock further growth and demand for green kiwifruit

In 2024/2025, Zespri supplied a total of 220.9 million trays (ZespriGreen, Zespri RubyRed and ZespriSunGold Kiwifruit) to more than 50 markets. Known for its high quality and sweet/ sour taste, Zespri Green kiwifruit is packed with essential nutrients including vitamins, minerals and is rich in dietary fibre.

As European consumers become increasingly proactive about their health and seek naturally nutritious fooods with proven benefits, Zespri’s leadership sets a blueprint for fresh produce that science-led innovation delivers real value for consumers and the i industry

With this new authorisation, Zespri will begin integrating the heaalth claim into its European commmunications, reaffirming its commitment to helping connsumers make informed choices about their health

New skills needed for evolving industry

As new technologies see the horticulture sector become increasingly automated, its post-harvest workforce will need to develop new skills

A recent report prepared by the Food and Fibre Centre of Vocational Excellence and Skills Group, looked at current horticultural qualifications and opportunities for further training in the workforce

It found the horticultural sector faced seasonal spikes in workforce demand, with relatively low barriers to entry – most roles in the post-harvest sector don’t require formal qualifications, with the industry instead prioritising experience Many of these employees gain experience while working which can lead on to greater career opportunities and training as they progress

In addition to permanent staff the sector also relies on travellers, both younger backpackers and increasingly ‘ grey nomads’, or older, often retired adults who travel in caravans or motorhomes

While this helps meet the seasonal demand, it presents challenges as post-harvest processes become increasingly automated and specialised

Report author Tracey Harkness describes the post-harvest period as “critically important” to New Zealand’s growing horticulture sector, with export revenue forecast to increase by 19% to $8 6 billion by next year

“It’s the most important aspect because you ’ ve got these growers that have put time and effort into growing fruit and getting it off the tree or out of the ground at the best time, but then it’s how it’s handled after that, that’s critical to how the fruit or vegetable is presented to the marketplace.”

Technology

She says the horticulture sector is rapidly adopting advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on manual labour This would require a skills shift in the years to come. For example, kiwifruit marketer Zespri has been advancing its digital transformation through the $160 million Horizon Programme This includes using AI-powered tools for grower enablement,

a as well as a mobile inspection tool which sets the stage for future AI-based quality assessments

“Packhouses, and they have to be big enough to afford the technology, can improve the quality of produce that goes out to market by using automation The cost savings are quite huge once they get past the initial investment I think where the skills shift is having people that know how to operate those machines or understand logistics or supply chain management, or the export or domestic market

”

Tracey found that while many businesses, particularly larger corporates, have invested in both technology and training, smaller and independent operators often struggle to access affordable, consistent, and industry-aligned training

This resulted in uneven training delivery across the sector Larger businesses had more success as they could access vendor support and internal expertise, while smaller players lacked the same support and resources

Additionally, she found that current training combined formal qualifications, vendor-led instruction, and on-the-job learning, but gaps remained in role-specific, hands-on, and standardised programmes that aligned with the “increasingly sophisticated” technologies used in modern packhouses and cool stores

Recommendations

Without standardised, targeted training these issues would persist

She said as technology continues to change, working with the industry is key so that training providers could make sure qualifications fit the skills needed now

Recommendations in the report included: Updating curricula to include automation, AI, robotics, and digital systems

Expanding hands-on, workplace-based learning opportunities, including mentorship and field demonstrations

Strengthening partnerships between employers, providers, and regional stakeholders to co-design and deliver training

Improving accessibility through broader funding, regional delivery, and culturally inclusive approaches

A recent report has looked at current horticultural qualifications and opportunities for further training

Gianina Schwanecke, RNZ

Tam y , and Bailee, 9, helping to feed the calves.

Marlowe, 5, rom Matamata, pending time with er lamb ‘Star’ f s h

Eli, 10, and Tui the dog helping out on the late lambing beat in Tuakau.

Ellie, 5, enjoying the sun while moving heifer calves in Rangitaiki.