Coast & Country News - August 2026

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August 2026 Issue No. 310

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 2

Looking a pillock down on the farm It was ludicrously uncool.

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And I wasn’t going to expose myself to ridicule and contempt.

Because who knows who might have been wandering around a 400ha farm on the foothills of the Southern Alps, who might have seen me looking like a plonker, and reported back to the sharp set in the city.

“The Hat” was suggesting I wear a hat. Not any hat but a sou’wester – a practical hat invented for 19th century fishermen in the North Atlantic to cope with roaring gales and crashing waves. They were not designed for image-conscious city kids who wore shoulder-length, blow-dried hair and black watch tartan bell-bottom trousers with a white belt.

Like cool!

The sou’wester – a dull, functional, dead set ugly accessory, a shapeless oilskin hat featuring a

wide, slanting brim. It’s significantly longer at the back to protect the wearer’s neck and collar from driving rain and sea spray. Rugged and weatherr beating, yes. Pretty? Not! The ear flaps and chin tie made me look intellectually challenged.

And I didn’t need a wacko hat to feed that feeling.

And even hidden away in a paddock of tupping Corriedales on the swedes I was not prepared to compromise the coolness I had been cultivating since I became a teenager. I even felt the sheep would sneer at me, and mock me, and I told The Hat so.

“I’m not landing haddock, herring and halibut in the treacherous storm lashed North Atlantic,” I explained. “I am minding a bunch of rutting rams. And a man doesn’t need a weird hat, or to look silly, to do that.”

The Hat rubbed his chin.

Made a rasping sound. He

grew iron filings on that chin. Me just “bum fluff”.

The difference between man and boys. And I loved him for it. Perhaps I should tell him one day.

Not today though.

“This hat, this sou’wester that you are getting angsty about Mr Modish, Mr Metropolis, Mr Flash Harry, cost me the thick end of $60,” said The Hat. It’s not designed to look good, but to save you getting a cold, soggy butt. And so I don’t have to send you home to the zoo you call a city with the mother of all colds. Go ask generations of North Atlantic fishermen about sou’westers. They’re part

of maritime literature and culture.” It was then I pledged never to eat herrings in tomato sauce in protest at unflattering oilskin hats.

But I compromised. I would try it.

I looked in the mirror and saw only a nose and chin jutting from beneath that confounded hat, and I gave in. Moments later when The Hat saw me looking like a trawlerman in a storm, he didn’t say a thing. But as I walked out into a driving sou’wester, wearing a sou’wester, he patted me reassuringly on the back. It told me something. What a bloke.

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 3

Cracking open change for layer hens With the first confirmed case of HPAI H5N1 (bird flu) reaching our shores from an infected migratory seabird, New Zealand is preparing for what may come next.

The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) and the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) have completed a targeted review of the 2018 Code of Welfare for Layer Hens, focusing on stocking density.

This is the first of two phases, specifically considering preparedness for bird flu. The second phase will entail a full review of the layer hens code, a review of the meat chickens code and further consideration of the specific welfare needs of breeder chickens.

NAWAC is aware that farmers and persons in charge may seek to house their birds indoors to minimise the risk of HPAI infection.

Accordingly, the welfare risks of housing birds indoors must be identified and managed.

This review explores layer hen housing options to minimise the risk and impact of HPAI H5N1 in the event of an outbreak in New Zealand while ensuring their welfare needs are met in accordance with the Act.

Layer hens proposed code of welfare changes C&C Jul 2026 CF 01: Free range layer hens. Photo / Catherine Fry

slatted area providing perching and access to food and water at each level.

It is proposed that the term “aviary” be removed as it has no functional implication for the Code and is not used to define housing systems in minimum standards or recommended best practice.

Feedback invited

“We’re seeking broad feedback on the proposed changes from both producers and the public.

“We’re proposing a new housing categorisation framework for layer hens, to ensure welfare standards are appropriate for Key changes different types of housing.

For this article, the focus is on the “This is particularly important given the proposed stocking density changes to the significant emergence and uptake of various minimum standards in the Code of Welfare: housing systems marketed as free range,” Layer Hens. says NAWAC chairperson Dr Matthew A summary of the proposed changes Stone. includes: Kaimai Eggs free-range and barn egg The current Code of Welfare does not describe the floor area used to calculate • LOGGING • TREE REMOVAL • EARTHMOVING stocking density, but internationally it is typically defined as an indoor area excluding nest areas, perches and feed troughs, with headroom of at least 45cm.

Under the proposed definition, the usable area of barns means the total floor surface within the housing system and adjoining roofed or enclosed areas available to hens during daylight hours, allowing for normal TREES - LOGS WANTED postures, movement and changes of location.

Call for free wood lot appraisal The proposed minimum under Standard Mark: 0274 426 785 6 – Stocking densities – is nine hens per sq m of usable area in barns.

The current Code states a maximum of seven hens per sq m for barns with no outdoor access and nine hens per sq m for barns with outdoor access.

Under the current Code, an “aviary” is a multi-tier barn system with access to nests and perches at a number of heights or multiple tiers, which consist of a raised

producer James McGirr feels legislation that improves conditions for layer hens and forward planning for an outbreak of bird flu are positive for the industry.

He is, however, concerned about removing the word “aviary”, which will mean less transparency over the type of indoor housing used for hens.

“As producers, we need transparency with our consumers and there is a difference between tiered barns (aviaries) and free range barns with outdoor access. It’s important that the consumer can make choices with an understanding of where their eggs come from,” says James.

The deadline for submissions on the draft Code is 5pm on Friday, August 14.

Catherine Fry

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 4

Nature’s tiny taxis under the microscope Bark and ambrosia beetles are acting as tiny taxis for fungi across New Zealand, giving researchers valuable clues about how these organisms travel through forests and crops.

To understand whether plant diseasecausing fungi are being moved this way, Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao scientists are identifying the species being carried on beetles found in New Zealand forests and orchards. “While a lot is known about the beetles, less is known about the fungi that travels with them,” task lead Darryl Herron says.

Since 2024, researchers across the Bioeconomy Science Institute, including teams from Lincoln, Rotorua, Ruakura, Auckland and Motueka, have been collaborating to trap bark and ambrosia beetles across New Zealand and analyse the fungi they carry, through projects funded

by Better Border Biosecurity (B3) and Zespri.

By combining expertise and sampling capability across teams and sites, this work has revealed a broad range of fungal associates linked to native and introduced beetle species. While most of these fungi are common plant associates, the team has detected species with the potential to disrupt plantation forestry, horticulture and native ecosystems if conditions change or new beetle species arrive.

The work includes assessing potential risks to native bush, urban environments and botanical collections and monitoring beetle activity in and around orchards,

where new associations and increased aggressiveness in the beetle-fungal system could pose future threats.

Bark and ambrosia beetles tunnel into trees and interact with fungi in different ways. The latter carry and cultivate specific fungi, while the former pick up a more mixed assortment. Together, they’re associated with a wide range of woody plants across plantation forests, orchards, urban areas and the native estate. Their rapid breeding ability means beetle eetle numbers can rise quickly – so ttheir fungal passengers are never shoort of taxis.

“It’s often these fungi that cause the greatest harm,” Darryyl says. “Some fungal species blocck a tree’s ability to move water and nutrients, weaken natural defences or accelerate disease, particularly when trees are already stressed by drought, agee or harvesting activity.

“By identifying these fungal ‘passengers’, we’re building a clearer picture of the microscop pic communities being moved across oss New Zealand and which beetles are more important to focus on from a biosecurity perspective. This helps us assess whether these beetles have the potential to facilitate the movement of fungi not currently established in New Zealand.”

Overseas, certain beetle-fungus partnerships have caused extensive forest dieback. “Our focus is understanding what risks exist here before those impacts occur,” Darryl says. “If we know which beetles can carry damaging fungi and where they’re

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Task lead and Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao scientist Darryl Herron.

Inset: Black pine bark beetle (Hylastes ater).

moving, m we can respond fasteer and reduce the risk to foreests and export markets.”

The Th research also con ntributes valuable information to national survveillance efforts led by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and industry partners, including the Forest Owners Association, alongside other research programmes. Understanding fungal diversity being carried on these tiny beetle taxis could help refine risk modelling tools, guiding where and how surveillance and monitoring is most effective and strengthening post-border surveillance.

Together, these investments support New Zealand’s ability to stay ahead of

emerging biosecurity risk, helping protect forests, horticulture and ecosystems and the industries and communities that depend on them. “Maintaining strong biosecurity pathways is critical for protecting plantation forestry and export markets,” Darryl says.

Because bark and ambrosia beetles can occasionally arrive in wood packaging and untreated wood products brought into New Zealand, sector and public awareness remains vital. Anyone noticing dying trees accompanied by significant insect activity is asked to report it to MPI (https://report. mpi.govt.nz/pest/) or the Bioeconomy Science Institute (fhdiagnostics@ scionresearch.com) with a clear photo of the damage and insect activity and the GPS coordinates or address.

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 5

Animal shelters central to review of welfare code

Calf rearing is one of the key areas focused on in a review of animal care legislation. Photo / Supplied

Barns, feedpads, and off-paddock The rising use of animal shelters in New Zealand agriculture coincides facilities are specifically covered in the Code of Welfare for dairy cattle, with with Government changes in animal strict minimum standards. care legislation.

MPI says these rules mandate that The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC), established under the Animal Welfare Act to provide independent advice to Government, is reviewing existing codes of welfare.

These include dairy and beef cattle, and sheep, aiming to lift and strengthen the codes to address changes in scientific knowledge, good practice, available technology, and the explicit recognition of sentience (capacity for sensation or feeling) in the Animal Welfare Act. NAWAC released the draft code of welfare for dairy cattle for public consultation in April 2022. The consultation period ran for nine weeks, with 3527 responses received.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), which serves as the secretariat for NAWAC and also provides its own, independent advice on the code to Government, says responses were mixed in general.

The code is currently with former Associate Agriculture Minister Nicola Grigg, who has the delegated authority for approval and issuing.

evolved.

“Instead of focusing solely on health and production, there is now a broader perspective that considers an animal’s experiences and overall wellbeing,” says DairyNZ Senior Animal Care Specialist Penny Timmer-Arends.

“While NZ’s low-cost pasture-based systems generally provides high levels of welfare, very wet or very hot weather can pose challenges.

“Animal housing can help mitigate environmental and animal welfare risks by providing greater flexibility in managing feed and effluent, reducing the reliance on winter crops, protecting pastures, and keeping cows comfortable in inclement weather,” says Penny.

“Across the country, we are seeing more dairy farmers investing in off-paddock systems such as free stall and loose-housed barns.

“Farmers tell us that once they start looking at options, they go on to choose solutions that prioritise cow comfort.

She says it is important for farmers to know what they want from their system and the trade-offs required to achieve it.

When planning off-paddock infrastructure, Penny recommends thinking about what a cow needs to be content and comfortable. By prioritising cow welfare in the design, farmers can create an environment that supports better health, productivity, and overall farm performance.

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For cattle barns to comply with animal welfare standards, they typically must meet the following criteria: -Failure to meet these minimum standards can lead to compliance notices or prosecution by organisations including the MPI and SPCA. -Industry body DairyNZ says globally, our understanding of animal welfare has

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 6

Planning a burn-off? Check before you light As winter settles in, many rural property owners start clearing vegetation and tidying up around their properties.

At the same time, Bay of Plenty Regional Council sees an increase in complaints about smoky or smelly outdoor fires, often caused by green garden waste being burned before it has had a chance to properly dry out.

Fire can be a valuable land management tool, but it must be used responsibly.

Outdoor burning is subject to both fire safety and air quality rules, and these apply in both rural and urban areas.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council regulatory compliance manager Stephen

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Mellor says the council received about 115 complaints about fires at rural and semi-rural properties across the region in 2025, representing about 38% of all smoky fire-related complaints received that year.

“If you need to burn green waste, make sure it is dry, well-aerated and loosely stacked in small piles so it burns hot and produces minimal smoke. Burning damp vegetation, hedge trimmings or wet green waste creates excessive smoke, which can affect neighbours and impact health,” Stephen says.

“People often think they are doing the right thing by burning or burying waste rather than sending it to landfill.

However, burning household rubbish, plastics, treated timber, or other waste materials releases harmful contaminants into the air and soil, which can affect people, waterways and the wider environment.”

Stephen says staff often find inappropriate materials mixed into burn piles when responding to complaints.

“We understand that transporting green waste to a transfer station or landfill can be inconvenient, particularly A little planning before you light can help keep our communities safe, healthy and smoke-ffre ree. for rural residents, and that most farmers • You are only burning clean, dry Agrecovery (available at participating and rural landowners are trying to do the vegetation.

Farmlands stores), composting green right thing. However, it isn’t acceptable • The smoke is not noxious, dangerous, waste, or using a woodchipper. to burn rubbish or create excessive offensive or objectionable beyond the smoke that impacts neighbours.”

If you are planning a large burn-off property boundary.

Before you light a fire, check that: • You have checked www.checkitsalright.nz over several days, consider notifying the Pollution Hotline on 0800 884 883 • Your fire is more than 100 metres to confirm burning is permitted at beforehand. This helps Council staff from a neighbouring dwelling. your address. understand the nature of the activity • Weather and wind conditions are • If you need to dispose of waste, suitable. and provides context if enquiries or consider using your nearest transfer • Neighbours who may be affected have complaints are received from the public. station, recycling suitable materials been informed.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council through programmes such as

New investments see more care closer to home for rural communities

Helping our region thrive – together Thriving communities and a healthy environment go hand-in-hand. That’s why we work with local landowners, offering practical support and technical advice for good land use practices. From compliance to conservation, every action helps ensure a bright future for the Bay of Plenty.

Rural New Zealanders are set to benefit from improved access to urgent healthcare closer to home following a series of new investments announced by Health New Zealand as part of the Government's rural health package.

The initiatives focus on strengthening the capability and capacity of rural clinicians through increased training, equipment and workforce support. Health NZ Co-Director Rural Rachel Pearce says the changes are designed to reduce the need for patients to travel to larger centres for urgent treatment by enabling more care to be provided safely within local communities.

Key investments include expanding Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) training and support, increasing funding for the Primary Response in Medical Emergencies (PRIME)

programme, and enhancing national recruitment and locum services for rural primary care providers.

Pearce says the initiatives have been developed in response to feedback from rural clinicians and providers and are aimed at improving access to training, advanced equipment and peer support networks.

Findings from the Rural and Remote Urgent Care Prototype Project showed that clinicians who received training gained greater confidence and competence in delivering urgent care, particularly when training alongside colleagues.

Health NZ believes the package will improve access to high-quality healthcare for rural communities while helping to attract and retain more clinicians in rural areas over the longer term.

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CHT Chief Executive Carriann Hall and pelvic floor physiotherapist Hannah Orr.

NEW GUIDE HELPS OLDER KIWIS TAKE CONTROL OF CONTINENCE HEALTH Continence challenges affect up to one in four older New Zealanders, yet they are often not discussed openly.

For some, concerns are accepted as part of aging yet can greatly impact confidence, independence, social connections, and overall wellbeing.

“This guide reflects our commitment by bringing together practical information, expert guidance, and support to help older people maintain dignity, confidence, independence, and wellbeing. We are incredibly grateful to receive funding to bring this resource to life.”

The CHT Aged Care Fund has provided a grant to Continence NZ to develop a new free guidebook designed to help older people and their families better understand and manage continence issues by providing practical, easyto-understand information and encouraging people to seek support when they need it.

The partnership also reflects the ongoing mission of CHT Aged Care Fund to invest in initiatives that enhance the growing elderly population and the aged care sector by empowering older people to make informed decisions about their own health and wellbeing.

By improving awareness and understanding, the guide strives to reduce the stigma often associated with continence problems, while reassuring older people that these issues are common, manageable, and with the right information and support, can improve to maintain their independence for longer.

An online survey by Continence NZ of over 670 people revealed that feeling embarrassed to talk about continence issues was the leading reason most people said they hadn’t reached out for help before.

“I meet people every day who assume that incontinence is inevitable with age”, says Hannah Orr, pelvic floor physiotherapist. “It is so important to get the message out there that although incontinence symptoms are more common as we age, there is so much that can be done”.

“Whether that is aiming for a complete cure, improving or managing symptoms so that everyone can thrive into older age without being limited by incontinence” Continence NZ Executive Committee President Dr Anna Lawrence, MBChB, FRACS (Urol) says the organisation is committed to empowering people affected by incontinence to thrive.

Feeling worried about continence issues is natural when it comes to older family members says CHT Care Homes Chief Executive Carriann Hall.

“We understand bladder and bowel health can be a delicate subject. This guide for older people is freely and easily accessible to help ensure no one feels embarrassed or isolated by continence challenges, and that everyone has access to the information and support they need to live well.”

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The guide is available to download at continence.org.nz

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 8

Women in hortic horticulture seek a fair go Neew research commissioned

by Women in Horticulture has fou und that women working in th he sector aren’t asking to be givven an advantage – they’re askiing not to be disadvantaged.

Women in Horticulture members. Photo / Supplliedd

Thee research, carried out by indep pendent research agency Scarllatti, gathered 244 survey respoonses and 34 in-depth interrviews with women and men acrosss the horticulture industry.

Danaa Carver, spokesperson for Scarllatti, says women are succeeding in hoorticulture despite facing more hurrdles than men throughout their

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careers, including higher rates of career breaks, less access to leadership training, and gender discrimination that men rarely encounter.

Eighty per cent of women surveyed and interviewed said they had experienced discrimination in their careers because of their gender, compared with 28% of men.

Survey

In interviews, women described what this looked like in practice – having to arrive over-prepared to be taken seriously, having their ideas overlooked until a male colleague repeated them, being excluded from using machinery or equipment they were capable of operating, and fielding comments about their appearance, capability or pregnancy that their male colleagues simply didn’t face.

“This research tells us women in horticulture aren’t looking for a leg up, they’re looking for the same shot as everyone else.

That’s a much easier ask for the industry to say yes to – it’s about better recruitment, more visible career pathways, and workplaces that judge people on what they can do, not what they look like.”

When asked what kind of support would help, women were divided. Six of the 15 women, who answered this question, said targeted support for women is beneficial in some areas – such as increasing the visibility of opportunities and providing mentoring – while feeling other things, like training and development, should be equally open to everyone. Another six of the 15, who answered this question, said there should be no targeted, women-only support at all, warning it could reinforce the idea that women succeed because of help rather than merit.

“We’re...alienating people by

segregating ourselves.

Aren’t we all in it together?

It’s saying we need somebody to help us because we don’t have our own talent,” one woman told researchers.

Some of the women pointed to a simpler fix: make existing opportunities visible, remove unnecessary barriers, and let skill and performance speak for themselves. More than half of women surveyed and interviewed (52%) said greater visibility of career development and progression opportunities would make the biggest difference – well ahead of any calls for gender-specific programmes.

Career progression

The research also found men and women share many of the same barriers to career progression – lack of self-confidence and unclear organisational pathways topped the list for both. But gender was the third-biggest barrier for women (39%), compared with just 3% of men, with women most commonly citing their input not being valued as highly as their male colleagues’.

Women in Horticulture is calling on employers and industry leaders to focus on four practical actions: 1. building awareness of the disadvantages women face, 2. promoting career pathways more visibly, 3. hiring and promoting on skills rather than quotas, and 4. offering flexible, understanding workplaces that don’t penalise caregiving responsibilities.

Dana says the findings should reframe how the industry thinks about supporting women.

“Removing a barrier isn’t a favour to women, it’s just good business. The industry that gets this right first will have first pick of a talented, committed workforce,” she says.

Biosecurity summit The BOPs leading biosecurity event returns next month with its strongest speaker line-up yet, bringing together experts, innovators and community leaders to explore the future of protecting NZ’s environment and primary industries.

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Hosted by Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital, the Biosecurity Excellence Symposium will be held at Trinity Wharf in Tauranga on August 13, with the theme Biosecurity in a Rapidly Changing World.

The day-long programme features 13 speakers, including former Primary Industries Minister and Special Agricultural Trade Envoy Nathan Guy, Biosecurity New Zealand Deputy Director-General Stuart Anderson, SYOS Aerospace founder Sam Vye, conservationist Sam “The Trap Man” Gibson and Te Tira Whakamātaki chief executive Melanie Mark-Shadbolt.

Hosted by broadcaster and entertainer Te Radar, the symposium will examine emerging threats, technological innovation, funding models, community engagement and mātauranga Māori approaches to biosecurity.

TMBC programme and event manager Natalie Rutene says the event showcases the growing importance of biosecurity across sectors, from trade policy and conservation through to drones and artificial intelligence.

COAST & COUNTRY NTRY NEWS

Page 9

Fifth generation farmers receive two environmental awards A 60ha Te Ranga block has been in the Mark family since 1912.

One hundred and fourteen years on, the family have won the Bay of Plenty Bayleys People in Primary Sector Award and the Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award at the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

John Mark was the first European owner of the initial grazing and firewood block farmed in conjunction with his home farm on Mark Road. The property was expanded across the road in the 1960s, where his great-grandson Peter Mark now farms with his wife Megan Richards.

Their daughter Niamh Mark is the fifth generation of the family to farm there.

Converting back to dairy

The farm was converted to sheep and beef by Jack Mark in 1964. It was converted back to a dairy unit by Peter and Megan in 2014.

“It was a small one-person sheep and beef farm and I love contact with people so it wasn’t really working for me,” says Peter. “We leased the farm out for eight years and I enjoyed tutoring for ToiOhomai and Primary ITO.” Immersed daily in dairy information, Peter felt that the farm needed to be made more viable. He decided on a dairy unit, with Jersey cows as they are lighter on the land and can manage a long walk to the shed.

“Getting finance from the banks for the conversion proved difficult as everyone who came on site said it was too hilly.”

A chance conversation with a BNZ staff member who was selling Peter a motorbike led to the family acquiring finance.

Milking started twice a day in the new 30 ASHB shed with 260 Jersey cows on the 100ha milking platform on the 170ha (127ha effective) property.

Megan Richards (left) t) and Niamh Mark (right) with the family’ss Jersey herd. Photo / Cathheriine Fry “The first year the payout was $3.90 per kg/MS and the second year it was $4.20 stayed on through all the lockdowns. damage and nutrient leaching. per kg/MS so the process to manageable Towards the end of 2020 I met my now Solar panels on the cowshed roof reduce debt and profit took a little longer than husband, Breno Codognolla, who works environmental impact. Sustainability is hoped.” in the kiwifruit industry. We live on the deeply integrated into the farm’s structure.

Now around farm,” says “Over the past four years, we’ve planted 275 Jersey cows Niamh. over 10,000 native trees on steep, are milked Niamh was unproductive land, aiming to create a once a day and in the New vital wildlife corridor in conjunction average 319kg/ Zealand Dairy with neighbours that could eventually MS per cow Industry Awards link regional kōkako breeding groups in annually.

2022 Bay of Kaharoa and Otanewainuku Reserves.”

“What’s lost Plenty Dairy The team’s commitment to biodiversity in production, Trainee Award is backed by intensive pest control efforts we gain in cow and runner-up for possum and rats across the property reproduction, in the 2025 and neighbouring areas. condition score Bay of Plenty Forty hectares of the farm was put under and worker Farm Manager QEII protection in the early 1980s. A Receiving the Bayleys People in Primary wellbeing. I Award. bush classroom has been developed on Sector Award 2026 - L to R Bayleys rural sales work on the During 0.8ha of native bush, complete with its manager Matt Clutterbuck, Megan Richards, farm, Megan Niamh’s time own glowworm track, is used by the local Peter Mark and Niamh Mark. Photo / Supplied does the at the farm, primary school. books and our the team have “A grant funded specialist environmental daughter Niamh is th he farm manager. impllemented d new tech hnollogy on the farm teacher.”

Contractors do the extra jobs.” including contracting in drone technology The Marks are involved with the Paraiti for precise weed control.

Catchment Care Group with other Niamh joins the farm A virtual fencing system manages their like-minded local landowners. Focusing grazing patterns and monitors cow health initially on pest control and native tree In 2019, Niamh Mark was working for and behaviour. planting, they received funding and AsureQuality after finishing a degree in “We’re definitely getting more out of our assistance from BOP Regional Council agriculture. pasture this way, pushing the cows further and other environmental organisations.

“I came home to help dad after a staff uphill into new areas. It’s also reduced the The judges said that Te Ranga Pamu member resigned. During Covid-19, I workload by half a manpower.” dairy farm demonstrates how exemplary The judges praised the family’s robust leadership can merge profitability succession planning, saying it provides with environmental stewardship, a transparent, long-term framework for ensuring the land looks set to thrive for family continuity. future generations.

Catherine Fry “We are moving the business structure from a partnership to a company to allow future generations to hold shares in Te Ranga Pamu. My sisters, Abi and NATIVE LOGS OR BUSH BLOCKS Gwyneth can all own shares.”

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A 60m x 30m composting barn that provides shelter and significantly reduces soil damage and nutrient leaching. Photo / Catherine Fry

The steep terrain has prompted sophisticated management, including the recent installation of a 60m x 30m composting barn that provides shelter and significantly reduces the risk of soil

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Page 10

Farm job puts student on path to agriculture Cameron Beck’s path into agriculture became clear while working alongside Hawke’s Bay farmers repairing fences and infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle.

The Lincoln University student is completing a Bachelor of Agriculture and is the recipient of Perrin Ag’s 2026 John Perrin Scholarship, receiving $6000 towards his studies.

Cameron grew up on a lifestyle block south of Rotorua. Although agriculture was part of his upbringing, he says he did not initially appreciate the breadth of career opportunities available within the sector.

“Throughout high school, the law and business pathway was heavily encouraged, and there wasn’t a lot of information about the opportunities available in agriculture,” says Cameron.

After spending several years travelling, Cameron returned to New Zealand and began reconsidering his future. He had nearly committed to studying law when he received a phone call offering him an opportunity to work on a Hawke’s Bay farm following Cyclone Gabrielle.

His work included repairing fencing and other farm

infrastructure, alongside the farm’s usual summer stock work. “With limited practical experience in the sector, it had been difficult to get my foot in the door,” says Cameron.

“Having someone recognise my drive and willingness to learn, and then give me the opportunity to do so, was exactly what I needed.”

The experience confirmed Cameron’s interest in agriculture and prompted him to reconsider the career path he had previously thought he might follow.

“Coming home after travelling gave me the chance to think again about my values and what I was genuinely passionate about,” he says.

“I realised law wasn’t something I could see myself pursuing with the same passion, and that led me back to agriculture.”

one of the most rewarding parts of his time at Lincoln.

“There have already been countless moments this year that have made the work worthwhile. I get a real kick out of seeing people enjoy and make the most of the opportunities the club provides.”

In his view, maintaining public confidence in farming and protecting New Zealand’s access to international markets will be two important challenges for the sector.

“Negative perceptions of animal welfare could lead to customers or markets rejecting our products. That risk is greater than ever because of the reach of social media and the increasing influence of personal values on food choices.”

Any loss of market access could have similarly serious consequences for farmers and the wider New Zealand economy.

Lincoln University student Cameron Beck has earned the 2026 John Perrin Scholarship, supporting his study and ambitions in farm management and d hilll country devellopment. him a deserving recipient of that strengthens the viability University of the farm business while also this year’s scholarship. With his Since enrolling at Lincoln supporting environmental drive, passion and introspection, Future goals University, Cameron has embraced performance and staff wellbeing.” we see him having a significant both his studies and the wider Looking ahead, Cameron hopes to Cameron plans to continue contribution to NZ agriculture.” opportunities available within pursue a career in farm management. his studies with a Master of the sector. He was appointed “I’m interested in the opportunity Management in Agribusiness About the scholarship chairperson of Lincoln Young to improve both the physical and at Lincoln University. The Perrin Ag awards the John Farmers for 2026 and has received financial performance of hill country scholarship will give him more Perrin Scholarship each year to several academic awards, including farms and contribute to food time to focus on new projects and support a promising student the Sir James Wilson Prize and the production as the global population areas he wants to become involved continuing their agriculture or Luisetti Seeds Award. continues to grow.” in and learn more about. horticulture studies at Lincoln, Cameron describes his “For me, successful development Applying for the scholarship Massey or Waikato University. involvement with Young Farmers as means lifting production in a way was also a valuable opportunity Named after Perrin Ag founder to clarify his ambitions and John Perrin, the scholarship consider how he will achieve recognises the qualities he them. “The interview challenged has brought to his clients and my thinking about the direction I want to take and how my plans colleagues over many years: will help me achieve my goals in passion, dedication, the pursuit the future.” of excellence and a desire to The scholarship selection make a positive impact on our and interview process was led communities.

by Perrin Ag Directors John Perrin Ag is also a foundation Perrin and Carla Muller. They sponsor of the Tupu Rangatahi were impressed by Cameron’s and Tupu Ahuwhenua academic achievements, Scholarships, part of the leadership and commitment to University of Waikato Māori building a career within NZ’s Agribusiness Programme. primary sector.

Delivered in partnership with “Cameron has demonstrated a the New Zealand Institute of genuine willingness to learn, take on new challenges and contribute Primary Industry Management, the programme supports to the wider agricultural rangatahi to develop the skills, community,” says John. knowledge and networks needed “His academic achievements, circle.m@xtra.co.nz or phone us on 07 873 1770 leadership within Young Farmers to become future leaders in and clear sense of purpose make Māori agribusiness.

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 12

A culture of care beyond high-vis and helmets

Since 2016, Safer Farms has led initiatives to help farmers adopt practical safety solutions and reduce the human toll of harm, injuries and fatalities across the sector.

Now Safer Farms director and Farm Without Harm ambassador, Lindy Nelson MNZM, has been named the winner of the Leadership category at the 2026 New Zealand Workplace Health and Safety Awards.

Lindy says the award recognises the initiatives the organisation is leading, including the Farm Without Harm programme and the Safer Rides campaign, which provides incentives for farmers to install crush protection devices on quad bikes.

Safer Farms was launched in 2016 as a member organisation working with farmer members

alongside industry bodies and government to address agriculture’s high rates of fatality and injury.

Safer Farms director and Farm Without Harm ambassador, Lindy Nelson MNZM.

While ACC figures show farm injuries are trending down, agriculture continues to have one of New Zealand’s highest rates of workplace accidents.

During 2024, 16 workers lost

their lives on farms, and during 2025 more than 16,000 people suffered injuries on farms, needing an average of 37 days to recover.

Vehicle and machinery accidents are a leading cause of farm-related fatalities and a strong area of focus for Safer Farms. Between 2021 and 2025 there were 19 quad bike fatalities and many injuries.

The average time for recovery from a quad bike accident is 82 days - almost an entire season, with potential long-term impacts.

Lindy, a Wairarapa farmer and founder of the Agri-Women’s Development Trust, joined the Safer Farms board in 2021.

“I realised some fantastic work was being done but the knowledge was only within the membership,” says Lindy.

The launch of Farm Without Harm in 2023 was “really putting a line in the sand to

An example of crush protection on a quad bike. Photo / Supplied

improve things”.

“We have a five-year partnership with ACC to look at high-harm areas, providing more funding to gear up the operation.

“It’s important that the conversations are farmer to farmer, and that experienced farmers are willing to discuss

problems and solutions.

“Talking with farmers and not to them makes a huge difference.

The key here is how we connect farmers to a collective solution within their environment.”

For more details, including how to become a member of Farm Without Harm, visit: www.farmwithoutharm.org.nz

Meridian secures consent for Morrinsville Solar Farm

The reliable Waikato sunshine will soon be providing more power for New Zealand, with Meridian Energy receiving consent to build a 110MW solar farm near Morrinsville.

With around 230,000 solar panels, Morrinsville Solar Farm will produce up to 200GWh of electricity per year

– enough to power more than 25,000 average Kiwi homes.

“It’s great to have received a green light,” says Meridian chief executive Mike Roan.

“This solar farm is one of a large number of projects we have in our development pipeline that’ll help boost the country’s energy supply and help bring prices down.

Each of these projects will also provide

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The 134ha site is 2km east of Morrinsville and 600m south of the Piako substation, where the solar farm would connect to the national grid. The consent also allows for electricity storage in the future through a distributed battery energy storage system.

“We know that New Zealanders want reliable and affordable electricity supply, and that’s what makes developments like this so important,” says Mike..

“Harnessing more electricity from the sun means we can hold more water in our hydro lakes for when it’ss needed most.”

“Meridian has a big role to play in building the new capacity New Zealanders are asking for, which is why we’re planning to invest around $3 billion through to 2030 to add more new renewable energy projects, further strengthen New Zealand’s electricity supply, and stay ahead of the growing demand for electricity.”

Morrinsville Solar Farm is expected to generate in excess of 100 local construction jobs and contribute tens of millions of dollars in local spend if it is built. Following construction, around four to five permanent jobs are expected to be created.

In line with Meridian’s sustainability commitments, the project will enhance existing habitats and waterways, and add new native riparian planting as part of the project. Sheep grazing will take place alongside the solar panels to maximise land productivity, and screen planting will minimise any visual effects.

Thee project is still subject to fi Th fin nal investment decision by the Meridian Board. If approved, construction could begin in 2028 and take around two years to build.

Meridian Energy has been given the green light to build a 110MW solar farm near Morrinsville, expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 25,000 homes.

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NZ BOAT, FISH & DIVE EXPO

Page 13

NZ Boat Expo reels in big crowds Boats are just the beginning of a spectacular marine lifestyle event returning this month.

The third annual NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo is on at Mystery Creek Events Centre, near Hamilton, on August 29-30.

Organisers say sites sold out well in advance, with more than 100 exhibitors lining up including 40-plus boat brands plus an extensive range of fishing tackle, dive equipment, marine electronics, accessories, clothing, kayaks, adventure destinations and seafood products.

After two successful years of growth, organisers say this year’s event promises to be the biggest and most exciting yet, bringing together boating, fishing and diving enthusiasts from across the country for a weekend packed with products, experiences, education and entertainment.

“Whether you’re a seasoned offshore angler, passionate diver, weekend boatie or simply enjoy the Kiwi marine lifestyle, the expo offers something for everyone.”

Organisers say education and marine stewardship remain key pillars of the event.

“A range of New Zealand organisations, clubs and foundations will be involved, helping promote responsible boating, sustainable fishing practices, marine conservation and water safety.”

This includes LegaSea, a non-profit organisation dedicated to restoring the abundance, biodiversity and health of New Zealand’s marine environment.

Other presentations/demonstrations at the expo will come from Coastguard NZ, on topics such as seamanship and bar crossing, while fishing tackle company Daiwa will host a variety of podcasts and guest speakers.

“We want to get the right message across,” says the expo organisers. “As the event continues to grow, the focus remains firmly on delivering a positive experience for everyone involved.”

“We want the expo to be enjoyable, informative and welcoming for everyone – from first-time visitors and families through to serious boating, fishing and diving enthusiasts.

“Equally important is ensuring exhibitors receive value and have an opportunity to connect with thousands of passionate marine consumers.”

Charity initiatives

As in the previous two years, organisers say the 2026 expo will also drive sponsorship initiatives for three very important charity organisations in New Zealand that contribute so much to the fishing and boating communities – the Wish4Fish Charity, LegaSea and the Coastguard NZ. “Supporting entities like this is extremely important given that these organisations rely so heavily on donations and support to be able to achieve the fantastic work that they do.”

While there will obviously be boats galore at the exp po,, orgganisers sayy the show floor

at Mystery Creek will also be packed with many requests we leading trailer manufacturers, the latest were very excited to marine electronics, cutting-edge marine brring the region its accessories, and an enormous range of fishing veery own boat show and diving gear from some of the industry’s on nce again,” say the most recognised brands. cu urrent organisers.

“Whether you’re upgrading your current Steve Edwards set-up or searching for the latest product releases, you’ll find everything marine in one convenient location.

“From exclusive new product launches and unbeatable show specials to hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, family entertainment, and the latest innovations from across the marine industry, the NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo truly has something for everyone.”

Family fun

Expo organisers say families will be well catered for, with children’s competitions and activities, interactive displays, plus a photo competition that celebrates the incredible experiences New Zealanders enjoy on the water.

Visitors can relax at the Seafood Cafe & Bar or choose from an impressive selection of delicious food trucks offering something for every taste.

“It’s the perfect place to recharge before exploring even more of what the expo has to offer.”

Every visitor has the chance to win a door prize boasting $8000 worth of premium fishing gear from Daiwa.

In addition, visitors will have the chance to win thousands of dollars’ worth of spot prizes throughout the weekend.

The expo was resurrected after a break of more than a decade.

Between 2002 and 2011 the Waikato region hosted the Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show, which at its peak attracted more than 23,000 attendees.

For 12 years the region did not have the privilegge to enjjoyy such an event,, so after

More than 100 exhibitors and 40-plus boat brands will converge on Mystery Creek for the NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo on August 29-30.

The NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo returns to with more than 100 exhibitors, dozens of boat brands and plenty of attractions for marine enthusiasts and families alike.

Page 14

NZ BOAT, FISH & DIVE EXPO

Built for the way Kiwis really boat For many New Zealanders, a boat is not just a weekend toy. It is how we reach remote beaches, chase kingfish, dive offshore reefs and spend time with family and mates.

It needs to perform when conditions change, fish hard when required, and still be comfortable for a full day, or night, on the water.

That philosophy sits behind Innovision Boats.

Designed and built in Auckland, Innovision is a boutique New Zealand boat builder producing a limited number of premium aluminium boats each year.

Rather than building hundreds of identical boats, every Innovision is developed around the way its owner wants to use it, whether that means offshore fishing, family adventures, diving or exploring.

Every design decision starts with a simple question: how can we make time on the water better?

Differences

One of the biggest differences is the distinctive plumb bow hull. Unlike a conventional

raked bow, the vertical bow creates one of the finest hull entries on a New Zealand trailer boat while increasing waterline length. The result rides more like a boat 1 to 1.5m longer, slicing through chop and swell while cutting slamming and pitching.

Owners can also choose Innovision’s split chine hull, developed to solve one of boating’s most common annoyances: the hull slap that rattles through a boat sitting at anchor. The split chine dramatically quietens that noise, for a calmer night waiting on the next bite or overnighting aboard.

Transom design matters just as much. Most owners choose the rugged Portofino transom cage, customised with two integrated dive ladders or a dive ladder and door for easy boarding and diving. For dedicated anglers, the refined Game Chaser enclosed transom creates a secure, maximised cockpit around the stern.

“For me, boat design is about constantly chasing refinement,” says Innovision owner and designer Simon Minoprio. “Every customer uses their boat differently, and that creates design challenges we genuinely enjoy solving.

Innovision’s distinctive plumb bow hull is desiggned to create a finer entry and longer waterline, helping deliver a softer, more confidence-inspiring ride in New Zealand conditions.

I love the process of working with an owner, understanding how they fish, dive, travel or spend time with family, and then refining the design until the boat feels like it was built specifically for them, because it was.”

Collaboration

That collaborative approach reaches its fullest expression in the IV616 Venture, recognised with

a 2025 Designers Institutee Best Design Award. It blends the fishability of a centre console with the comfort and overnight capability of a cabin boat, built for owners who refuse to compromise between serious fishing and family time.

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NZ BOAT, FISH & DIVE EXPO

Train for a career you can take around the world Omne Marine is proud to be New Zealand’s only commercial diving school and one of only a select few training providers worldwide offering internationally recognised commercial diving qualifications.

“Our programmes are accredited by both the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and the Australian Diver Accreditation Scheme (ADAS), giving graduates qualifications that are recognised across the globe,” a spokesperson for the organisation says.

“Training is conducted at our purposebuilt facility on Lake Puketirini in Huntly, H l a former f open-cast coall mine i

A commercial diver training to use underwater tools at the OMNE Marine training centre.

with depths of up to 75m. Our courses are designed to prepare you for the real world, with approximately 80% of your training spent in the water, gaining practical, hands-on experience under the guidance of industry professionals.”

Graduates leave Omne Marine jobready and are highly sought after by employers throughout the commercial diving industry.

Career prospects include: underwater inspections and maintenance of ports, wharves, and marine infrastructure, work on commercial vessels, cargo ships, and cruise ships, along with bridge, pipeline, and underwater construction projects, and demolition and d civil infrastructure work.

Other work opportunities range from salvage operations involving vessels, aircraft, and other submerged assets to offshore oil and gas projects, with further sp pecialist training.

“C Commercial diving is more than just a joob – it’s a career filled with challenge, advventure, and opportunity. With exceellent earning potential, the chance to ttravel the world, and a different worrksite every day, it’s a profession unlike any other.

“If you’re ready to build an exciting careeer with globally recognised quaalifications and endless opportunities, con ntact Omne Marine today. Your future cou uld take you anywhere in the world.”

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Page 15

StabiX’s range aims to remove traditional barriers to boating.

Photo / Supplied

Removing the barriers to boating New Zealand boat builder StabiX is making waves with a range of high-performance amphibious vessels designed to give owners greater freedom, confidence and convenience on the water.

Designed and built in New Zealand, StabiX specialises in amphibious boats that can seamlessly transition between land and water. The company says its innovative approach allows owners to launch, retrieve and enjoy their vessels with ease, while exploring destinations that may otherwise be difficult to access.

StabiX currently offers eight models, ranging from the compact 205 SuperCab through to the larger 290 UltraCab. For customers seeking a more traditional option, non-amphibious versions are also available in models 25 feet and larger.

A key part of the StabiX philosophy is recognising that every customer has different needs. Rather than producing identical vessels, the company works closely with buyers through a

collaborative process to create boats that reflect individual lifestyles, preferences and boating ambitions.

The result is a fleet where no two StabiX boats are exactly alike.

Behind the brand is a team of 17 experienced marine professionals whose combined expertise exceeds 180 years in the industry. The company says that depth of knowledge underpins it focus on craftsmanship, attention to detail and customer service.

StabiX boats are built and tested in New Zealand’s Southern Ocean and delivered to customers around the world, with the company reporting a growing global customer base.

The company says its focus remains on delivering vessels that help owners go further in comfort, access more locations with ease and spend more time enjoying their boating adventures.

Whether heading out for fishing, family recreation or coastal exploration, StabiX aims to provide a boating experience without compromise.

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

NZ BOAT, FISH & DIVE EXPO

Page 16

Stable, durable and built for adventure With the warmer months just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about getting out on the water.

If you’re looking for a boat that’s built to last, easy to maintain and designed for New Zealand conditions, FSP New Zealand’s range of polyethylene boats is well worth a closer look.

Manufactured from UV-stabilised polyethylene, FSP Bevy Crafts are incredibly durable and won’t rust, corrode or require the ongoing maintenance often associated with traditional materials.

They’re lightweight enough to handle with ease, yet tough enough to withstand

years of adventures on rivers, lakees and the coast. Available in a range of colours and sizes, whether you’re after a sm maller boat for solo adventures or a largeer model for the whole family, FSP has a booat to suit your lifestyle.

The feedback from customers haas been outstanding. One recent owner su ummed it up perfectly: “FSP Boats don’t bang like a tinny and are unbelievably stable at rest.” It’s this combination of comfort, stability and durability that continues to make polyethylene boats an increeasingly popular choice for Kiwi boaties.

FSP has been proudly manufactu uring quality polyethylene products sincce 1994, supplying customers throughout New

Built for Kiwi conditions, FSP Bevy Craft fts t combine durability, stability and low-maintenance performance for years of family adventures on the water.

Zealand with innovative solutions built to perform. Alongside our growing range of polyethylene boats, our product range extends well beyond the water. We also offer floating pontoons and dock systems, storage lockers, agricultural products, safety equipment and a wide variety of other polyethylene p y y products p designed to deliver

long-lasting g gp performance in demandingg environments.

If you’re visiting the New Zealand Boat, Fish & Dive Expo, be sure to stop by and see our boats up close. Our team will be on hand to answer your questions and help you find the right solution for your next adventure. For more information, see FSP Bevyy Crafts’ advert on this page.

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NZ BOAT, FISH & DIVE EXPO

Page 17

A taste of Fiordland in Hamilton A slice of New Zealand’s wild deep south will be on show in Hamilton next month when expedition charter company Pure Salt exhibits at the NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo.

Operating small-group voyages through Fiordland, Stewart Island and surrounding southern waters, Pure Salt offers visitors the chance to experience some of the country’s most remote and pristine environments.

Based aboard a 27-metre vessel carrying a maximum of 12 guests, the company’s expedition-style charters are built around flexibility, with no fixed itinerary.

Guests can tailor their days to suit their interests, whether that be fishing, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, hunting, birdwatching, photography or simply soaking up the scenery.

The company says diving and fishing are among the biggest drawcards for visitors to Fiordland. The region’s unique underwater environment, where tanninstained freshwater sits above seawater, allows marine species usually found at greater depths to be seen much closer to the surface.

Divers can encounter black coral, crayfish, blue cod, moki and stingrays among dramatic underwater landscapes, while anglers target species including blue cod, tarakihi, kingfish and groper.

Pure Salt promotes a sustainable “oceanto-plate” philosophy, encouraging guests to take only what they need and make full use of every catch.

For those who prefer to stay on land, opportunities include walking rainforest trackks, pad ddling sh hellterred d coves an nd hunting in Fiordland National Park before returning to relax axx aboard the vessel.

Pure Salt founders Maria Kuster and Seán Ellis say their years working on the water have reinforced the importance of protecting the environments they operate in.

The company works alongside the Department of Conservation on initiatives including predator trapping, habitat restoration, camera monitoring and underwater clean-up projects throughout Tamatea/Dusky Sound. It also partners with educational organisation LEARNZ to share stories and learning experiences from Fiordland with school students across New Zealand through virtual field trips.

Visitors to the NZ Boat, Fish & Dive Expo will have the opportunity to speak directly with the Pure Salt team about life in

Pure Salt’s ocean-to-plate ethos centres on making full use of every catch.

some of the country’s most remote marine environments, as well as fishing, diving and conservation efforts in the south.

For more information, see Pure Salt’s advert on this page.

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BULL SALES

Page 18

Quality Herefords ready for work

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Born and bred on the Coromandel, Kairaumati Polled Herefords are renowned for their quiet temperament, excellent mothering ability, high fertility and premium beef quality.

They thrive in a variety of weather conditions, with the coastal hills and abundant kikuyu grass providing the ideal environment for breeding the hardy, high-quality stock produced by the Kairaumati Polled Hereford Stud.

“They are grown bulls, not fed bulls,” says Nicole Ward of Kairaumati.

The Ward family will hold their 27th annual bull sale on September 10 at 68 Ngataipua Rd, Turua, Thames, starting at 12.30pm. A total of 34 rising two-year-old bulls and 18 yearling bulls will be offered for sale. The bulls are well suited to both beef and dairy operations.

Careful selection

All bulls have been carcass scanned, DNA and genomically tested, BVD tested, twice vaccinated and vaccinated for leptospirosis. Years of careful selection by Kay and Roy Ward, now continued by James and Nicole Ward, have produced

Raised on the Coromandel’s coastal hills, Kairaumati bulls are known for theiir hard diness and d functtionallity. is proud to have Kairaumati sound, high-quality stock exceptionally well.” displaying all the traits sought Silver Fern Farms launched Maverick included in the in Polled Herefords. This is its dairy-beef programme lineup of sires selected for the an opportunity to purchase in March 2026, offering programme. quality cattle presented at a premium for steers and If you’re looking for their best from breeders who heifers of dairy origin. beef genetics that deliver know their bulls.

Producing quality dairyprofitable calves from day Well-known PGG Wrightson beef calves is central to the one, Kairaumati Maverick auctioneer Cam Heggie will programme’s success, and deserves your attention. His conduct the sale. He says: Fonterra is working with “When I was starting out, Silver Fern Farms to position credentials are impressive, someone said to me, ‘Cattle calves sired by selected and his semen is marketed are an extension of the people bulls as the programme’s

by GENEZ. who breed them.’ This is preferred animals.

The sale will be livestreamed personified at Kairaumati on bidr.co.nz, and catalogues Genetics Herefords. They are honest, will be available at This collaboration is focused hard-working, functional www.agonline.co.nz. on building a future-proof cattle that perform exactly as For more information, see they promise on paper. Grown dairy-beef value chain, and it Kairaumati Polled Herefords’ begins with mating decisions on the Coromandel hills and made today. The Ward family advert on this page. raised on kikuyu, they move

27th Annual Bull Sale 10th September, 12.30pm 68 Ngataipua Rd, Turua, Thames Born and Bred on the Coromandel

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EFFLUENT & IRRIGATION

Page 19

Innovation flows with ceramic filtration Access to clean, reliable water is one of the biggest challenges facing modern farming, and a New Zealand company is helping rural businesses tackle that challenge head-on.

FORSI Innovations is gaining attention for its advanced water treatment technology, designed to help farmers improve water quality, reduce waste and make better use of on-farm resources.

At the heart of the company’s approach are its flat sheet ceramic filtration systems, built around Silicon Carbide ceramic membranes. The technology is capable of treating bore and surface water with elevated levels of iron and manganese, producing clean, compliant water suitable for stock drinking supplies, washdown operations and food processing applications.

The modular systems are designed to be energy-efficient, low-maintenance and scalable, providing farmers with a longterm solution that can grow alongside their operations while minimising environmental impact.

FORSI is also breaking new ground in dairy effluent management. Its advanced treatment system separates dairy effluent into compostable solids,

nutrient-rich liquid and clean water that meets New Zealand Drinking Water Standards.

The process allows farmers to recover valuable resources from waste streams while creating opportunities for water reuse on farm, supporting a more circular and sustainable farming model.

With installations operating successfully in New Zealand and overseas, FORSI’s ceramic membrane technology is proving

that innovative engineering can deliver both environmental and operational benefits for the agricultural sector.

As pressure grows on farmers to manage water resources more efficiently, companies such as FORSI are demonstrating how technology can help future-proof farming businesses while protecting one of the industry’s most valuable assets.

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AVOCADOS

Page 20

Understanding global avocado preferences Wh hen it comes to avocados, bigger isn’t always better.

Avvocado export markets requ uest different fruit sizes, and the preferred size often depends on the unique habits and expeectations of consumers in each h market.

Hoousehold size is one of the bigggest influences on consumer prefference. In countries wheere larger families are more com mmon, bigger avocados are ofteen seen as better value because they can be shared across a meal. In contrast, marrkets with smaller households or a higgher proportion of single-person hou useholds tend to favour smaller fruit thatt can be enjoyed in one sitting, thereby redu ucing waste.

Cu ulture

Foood culture also plays an important rolee. In some markets, avocados are Whether large or small, every avocado has its used as a key ingredient in meals such as guacamole (USA), salads or family-style place. Understanding what consumers want helps growers, exporters and retailers maximise dishes (Australia), making larger fruit more desirable. Elsewhere, avocados are the value of each crop. Photo / Alexia Santamaria

commonly used in sushi, smoothies, breakfast dishes or as a simple ‘side’ (Japan and South Korea), where a smaller serving size better suits consumer needs. Understanding how people incorporate avocados into their daily diets helps exporters supply fruit that aligns with those eating habits.

Retailers also influence size preferences.

Supermarkets work hard to offer products at price points that shoppers find attractive. A smaller avocado allows retailers to maintain an affordable shelf price; larger fruit, obviously, has a higher price point. As a result, retailers often specify preferred size ranges that support their merchandising and pricing objectives, all umbrellaed under the socioeconomic location they reside in.

Presentation

Packaging and presentation are other considerations. Many retailers sell avocados individually, while others package them in two-packs, four-packs, or fixed-weight bags. Consistent fruit sizing makes these formats easier to manage in the store, improves shelf presentation and helps deliver a more predictable customer experience.

For growers, these varying preferences have a direct impact on orchard management and returns. Fruit size is influenced by a range of factors, including crop load, irrigation, nutrition, pruning and seasonal growing conditions. While growers cannot control the weather, they can adopt on-orchard practices that encourage fruit sizes that are most sought after by their target markets.

At Trevelyan’s, our packhouse team are busy processing this season’s avocados, and it is fascinating to see the countries this fruit is destined for- not only the size of the fruit but also the assortment of packaging options. Equally, the BayFarms team is strategically working with local market avocados to ensure that value, for both the grower and consumer, is balanced.

Demand

Ultimately, there is no universally perfect avocado size; a small avocado destined for one market can be just as valuable as a large avocado shipped to another. Success comes from understanding consumer demand and matching supply to market expectations.

This alignment helps retailers meet customer preferences, provides exporters with greater market opportunities and enables growers to maximise the value of every crop; from there, our NZ avocado industry can thrive.

Changes to RSE scheme welcomed The horticulture industry says changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employment (RSE) scheme will give employers clarity and help to protect workers.

The Government says rule changes will be phased in over the next two years.

They include stronger and clearer accommodation standards for RSE workers, who also will have greater flexibility to move between employers during their time in Aotearoa.

The workers will soon be able to apply for a migrant exploitation protection visa, allowing them to break contract and stay in the country for up to six months.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says other changes aim to “simplify” wage deductions, while extending accreditation time for “exemplary” growers to six years.

Horticulture New Zealand says the changes will reduce unnecessary compliance for trusted employers.

Chief executive Kate Scott says standardised cost-recovery agreements, clearer rules on allowable costs and stronger complaints processes will make the system easier for workers to understand and navigate.

“This policy review is timely for a scheme that has delivered enduring benefits for growers, workers and Pacific communities for almost two decades,” she says.

“Practical changes are needed to keep it fit for the future.

“The RSE scheme fills genuine seasonal gaps when enough local workers are not available, helping growers harvest crops on time while continuing to recruit, train and employ New Zealanders.”

Orchardist Paul Paynter, general manager of Yummy Fruit, says the changes will make complying less onerous for growers.

He says seasonal fluctuations mean growers are sometimes short-staffed, and it will be less complicated to transfer workers from one grower to another.

Paul told RNZ’s Morning Report problems in the sector had been “90-plus per cent with labour contractors rather than with established businesses like ours”.

“When you’re long-standing, and you’re a family business, and you’ve got to do this harvest every year, you’re not going to play ducks and drakes.

“You’re very reliable operators, and they’ve got a track record to prove it.” -RNZ

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AVOCADOS

Page 21

Asian demand reshapes NZ exports New Zealand’s avocado sector is increasing shipments to Asia as exports to its largest internatiionall markket, Australlia, trend lower, according to a new Rabobank report.

In the report Global Avocado Update 2026, Rabobank said New Zealand’s avocado exports in the 2025/26 season – September to March – reached 3.445 million trays, down about 9% yearon-year because of wind damage and constrained market windows.

“Australia remained our largest export market, at 750,000 trays or 22% market share,” RaboResearch senior analyst and report co-author Jen Corkran said.

Corkran said export volumes to Australia had declined and New Zealand’s avocado sector was less reliant on the transtasman market than it was five years ago, when Australia accounted for more than two-thirds of Kiwi avocado exports.

She said the sector continued to diversify fyy its export markets, with strong growth across Asia helping offset weaker Australian demand.

“Exports to South Korea surged by

70% year on year to 625,000 trays in the 25/26 season, while shipments to China, Hong Kong and India nearly doubled, and exports to Taiwan increased by 50%.”

Corkran said optimism was growing among sector participants that the recent New Zealand-India trade agreement will support further export growth into the subcontinent over time.

“Avocado exports into India are already growing strongly and further growth is now expected given the new trade deal will see tariffs on avocados – and other fruit – phased out over the next 10 years,” she said.

The report said global avocado exports remained on a strong growth path supported by production from major exporters and rising output from emerging players.

Corkran said global exports had risen from 0.73 million metric tonnes in 2010/11 to more than 3.3 million tonnes in 2025/26, with Mexico and Peru the dominant contributors.

Other countries increasing output included Kenya, Spain, Colombia and South Africa.

The report said global avocado volumes were expected to increase further in the 2026/27 season;

Rabobank New Zealand analyst Jen Corkran.

however, the developing El Niño was expected to heighten but unevenly distribute weather risks.

On the demand side, the report said some established markets showed signs of maturity while new players continued to drive growth.

Corkran said Mexico and Chile remained the highest consumers of avocados, with annual per capita

availability of about 14kg and 9kg respectively.

However, she said there was significant growth potential in larger markets such as the European Union, where per capita availability reached 2.24kg in 2025.

Corkran said Italy, Germany and Turkey also showed rapid relative growth in consumption. -RNZ

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Page 23

A homegrown love of knitting and fibre Just north of Rotorua, the craft of knitting is well and truly being kept alive by Aimee van den Eng who has a passion for both knitting and fibres and sharing her love of New Zealand wool.

Aimee describes her childhood as a “typical” farm one spent on a 700-acre sheep and beef farm in Waiotira, Whangarei and going into town once a month for supplies.

“I remember spending my childhood on a horse, helping dad on the farm and my brother and I were involved in docking, shearing and lambing from a young age,” says Aimee.

The farm had Romney/Perendale cross sheep providing both meat and wool.

“I was taught how to knit by my mum when I was nine. She used to spin her own wool and knit garments in lovely natural colours. Dad and my brother always had 10-ply Arran knit fisherman jerseys.

“I handknitted jerseys for my

local knitters supply handmade garments to me.”

She learned to expand from the brown and cream Arran knits and experiment with colours, textures and styles.

Hand-knitted vests show the colourful variety of wools available.

“I tried spinning my own wool but that wasn’t for me! I have had much more success with hand dyeing cream or white ‘blanks’ or ‘naked skins’. I followed YouTube tutorials and used food grade food Keeping your gutters clear all year round dyes for the colour.”

Aimee has developed a range of 15 Year Guarantee tonally dyed merino/silk blend wool, which she sells on her online Keeps out leaves, shop. “I’ve really leaned into birds, pests & hail our own backyard, and they are rich earthy colours appropriately Prevents water named after the beautiful and damage diverse nature the Rotorua region Locally offers. People don’t buy just yarn, Suitable for any owned & operated! they buy the memory it invokes.” type of roof Her yarn range includes possum, merino, silk, Romney and Call Martin on 0275 787 807 Corriedale wools plus various blends of them. martin@gutterprotect.co.nz “I enjoy sharing my knowledge www.gutterprotect.co.nz of yarns and knitting with others and I want to keep the nostalgia of the handknit going.”

NO MORE BLOCKED GUTTERS!

Aimee van den Engg shares her passion for New Zealand wool.

Photos / Catherine Fry

own children hild and d still ill ffavour those h natural, earthy colours.”

In 2016, Aimee and her husband Rodney were ready for a change in life. Aimee wanted to set up her own yarn shop and Rodney wanted to run his own business as a heavy diesel mechanic.

“I started with natural yarns from Wentworth and progressed to around eight suppliers. Some

Catherine Fry

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NZ Adventures offers a wide range of tours across New Zealand’s South Island. The most popular is the High Country Heritage Tour, which runs as a six-day tour in February, April and November, and in a seven-day format in March. These tours start in Blenheim and travel down the spine of the island to Cardrona.

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Page 24

Future Farmers: Building a united vision A grassroots movement that began with a simple conversation about the future of farming has grown into a nationwide network of passionate food and fibre sector advocates determined to help shape New Zealand’s agricultural future.

Five years later, that idea has evolved into a thriving charitable organisation with more than 150 members nationwide and a growing reputation for fostering collaboration and innovation across the agricultural sector.

FFNZ was formally incorporated as a charitable organisation in 2023 and has a clear vision of creating a united, prosperous and healthy food and fibre sector.

“Our food and fibre sector has been built on resilience, ingenuity and an unshakeable connection to the land,” says co-chair Aimee Blake, a sixthgeneration dairy farmer from Clarks Beach in South Auckland.

Future Farmers New Zealand (FFNZ) was born from a call to action by Lake Hāwea Station farmer Finn Ross in 2021. Concerned about the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, Ross brought together a small group of people to regularly discuss the future of food and fibre production in New Zealand.

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“Kiwi farmers and growers have always adapted to pressures and found opportunities in times of change. We believe we are at another pivotal moment where New Zealand can lead the world in sustainable, high-value food production.”

Shared belief

Aimee says FFNZ members share a belief that agriculture has an important role to play in solving many of the challenges facing society.

“Across six key recommendations, we are

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She shares the co-chair role with Katikati kiwifruit grower Daniel Kenna. Together, they help lead an organisation driven entirely by volunteers.

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for the New Zealand agriculture sector

“Our members are involved because they genuinely care about the future of the sector,” says Aimee.

“The group has been supported by volunteers, grants, sponsors and donations, and there is a lot of interest and excitement about what we are trying to achieve.”

Membership

Today, the organisation includes around 50 active members within a broader network of more than 150 people from across New Zealand’s food and fibre value chain.

The membership reflects the diversity of modern agriculture, bringing together farmers, growers, researchers, agronomists, consultants, industry professionals, entrepreneurs and university students.

“Despite having varied political and professional backgrounds, our members recognise the need for greater unity and positive change across the food and fibre system,” says Aimee.

document that outlines key priorities for Conversations about agriculture can often become politically charged, but the future of New Zealand’s food and she says FFNZ prides itself on fibre sector. maintaining a constructive and solutions- The manifesto is built around seven focused approach. themes the group believes are critical “We are a non-partisan group. The to creating a resilient and prosperous conversations are curious, respectful and agricultural future: land use design often challenging. and management, forestry and carbon “We have a lot of academics involved, credits, knowledge and education, farm which adds rigour to our discussions, management, hauora and wellbeing, while our farmers and growers bring practical experience. There is always supply chain and innovation, and markets debate and a testing of ideas.” and finance.

Alongside networking and professional Within each theme are recommendations development opportunities, FFNZ places aimed at encouraging discussion, a strong emphasis on collaboration. The innovation and long-term planning. organisation works alongside industry partners including AgriFutures, which helps introduce young people to careers in agriculture through practical, on-farm experiences.

“The manifesto is designed to spark conversations and help identify practical ways New Zealand can build a stronger and more resilient food future,” says Aimee.

Over the coming months, Coast & Country News will explore several of these themes in greater depth with representatives from FFNZ. Those interested in helping shape the future of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector can learn more or become involved through the Future Farmers New Zealand website at www.futurefarmers.org.nz

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Page 26

Farmers often develop sore joints (Part 2) Earlier this year, a farmer contacted me about severe osteoarthritis affecting his hands and shoulders.

Joint pain is common among farmers; many experience it before age 50, often due to livestock accidents or years of demanding physical work.

His hands were so painful that closing them was difficult, and the discomfort was constant. Shoulder arthritis is also common and can be especially troublesome because pain often radiates through the ligaments, muscles, and tendons that support the joint, making everyday tasks harder.

Osteoarthritis usually develops in one of two ways: from direct injury or from

gradual cartilage loss.

As cartilage breaks down, bones can rub together, causing pain because bone contains many nerve endings. Cartilage degeneration may be driven by excessive destructive enzymes, free-radical damage to chondrocytes— the cells that produce healthy cartilage—and ongoing inflammation.

To address these problems, I started the farmer on an intensive three-month programme. It included 1600mg each of high-grade chondroitin sulphate and

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After three months, the results were impressive. He reported major improvements in hand and wrist function, and his shoulder pain had eased enough to feel much more comfortable. His progress offers another reason to explore nutritional medicine as part of osteoarthritis management.

For people with similar concerns, high-dose chondroitin combined with glucosamine and curcumin, supported by an antiinflammatory diet, may provide meaningful benefits. To learn more,

The Hormuz Strait conflict has contributed to half of this rise as over 40% of the world’s sulphur passes through this stretch of water, as does a similar percentage of nitrogen fertilisers. With urea currently priced around $1350/ tonne, at a 10:1 response means that nitrogen boosted pasture costs 30c/kg of dry matter, triple what it cost several years ago. It is far better for farmers to focus on the nutrient needs of white clovers which typically work out to cost around 5c/kg of dry matter.

Sulphur is vital for clovers, and although volcanic ash soils have little requirement for additional sulphur fertiliser, for sedimentary, pumice and peat soils it is important. Historically, Marsden Point used to supply 60% of NZ sulphur requirements, with sulphur being a byproduct of the refinery, but since the refinery shut down, we have become fully reliant on imported sulphur.

Without sulphur, two important amino acids – methionine and cysteine – used

Robin Boom

as building blocks to form proteins are absent, making pasture high in nonprotein nitrogen, which can still look lush and green to us, but it does not satisfy animals.

Most of the sulphur in soils is tied up in the organic matter and thiobacillus bacteria are involved in the oxidising of sulphur, turning it into plant available sulphate sulphur.

‘Over the cooler winter months the micro-organisms are less active and sulphate sulphur leaches out with increased rainfall, and it is at this time of year sulphur deficiency is most critical.

If a nitrogen boost is required in spring, Sulphate of Ammonia is a good option as it provides necessary sulphur and currently costs between $645-$725/ tonne depending on company.

With RPR, triple super and double super products currently being cheaper sources of phosphate to superphosphate, combining SOA with these can provide additional sulphur if required. Compared to last year, superphosphate has gone up 30% to $600/tonne, whereas RPR remains around $500/tonne and triple super ranges from $925/tonne to over $1400/tonne from Robin Boom various companies.

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Page 27

Beetles boost soil, pasture and profit Procrastination can be costly, and when it comes to adopting proven farm innovations, waiting may mean missing out altogether.

Dung Beetle co-founder and director Shaun Forgie says it’s one of the key reasons why things take so long to be done, particularly the deployment of innovative tools like dung beetles across its farms.

He says when considering their cost at between $10-50 per hectare for a self-sustainable on-pasture contribution to significant reductions of surface flow of contaminants like N, P, sediment, E. coli, by up to 80% in severe rainfall, significant improvements in soil fertility, productivity, and microbial loading, dung beetles are a no-brainer to invest in now, not in 4-5 years.

“This becomes increasingly important considering there won’t be 4-5 years if Dung Beetle Innovations doesn’t receive orders for dung beetle packages now!

“Every livestock farmer will significantly benefit from the services of dung beetles

Rural entrepreneur claims top award Southland entrepreneur year, with the company now Kylie Dorr has been named employing 12 AI technicians and more than 20 seasonal the Supreme Winner of the staff. Southern Reproductive 2026 NZI Rural Women also provides pregnancy scanning services, distributes Business Awards after ultrasound technology her business, Southern nationwide and has launched Reproductive, impressed an AI training school to train judges with its rapid growth future technicians.

She says the business is and innovation. entering another exciting

Dung Beetle Innovations says a one-time investment in dung beetles can deliver lasting gains for soil health, pasture productivity, nutrient cycling and environmental performance on New Zealand farms.

both economically and environmentally. Considering the cost of fertiliser, livestock manure is a rich, free,

sustainable source of fertiliser and carbon IF it is buried rapidly by dung beetles. Every farmer will know the loss of grazing due to forage foul.”

Shaun says burying repugnant dung rapidly results in increases of 15-20% of pasture grazed, not avoided.

“Less procrastination and more action- order before it is too late, before you lose your chance to get ahead sustainably and cost effectively using dung beetles. Its NOW, or never!”

Dorr received the top honour at a gala dinner in Parliament’s Banquet Hall after first winning the Emerging Enterprise category.

Rural Women New Zealand national president Heather Sorensen says the judging panel faced a difficult task due to the high calibre of entrants.

“It was a great challenge for the judging panel as there were so many incredible, high-calibre and creative businesswomen among the entrants. To be announced as the Supreme Winner is very special and I am delighted that Kylie Dorr is the recipient this year.”

Kylie founded Southern Reproductive five years ago after returning to New Zealand from the United States. Starting as an independent artificial insemination technician, she has grown the business into a major South Island operation.

Revenue has doubled year-on-

growth phase.

“We are making some changes in our business so that I can work more on the business rather than in the business. I think we will see the growth be even bigger than what it has been to date.”

The company is now preparing to expand into Australia over the next 12 months.

NZI executive manager Christina Chellew says Kylie’s entrepreneurial spirit and customer focus made her a deserving winner.

“Kylie’s entrepreneurial spirit, customer focus and commitment to growth make her a deserving recipient, and we look forward to seeing her continued success.”

Away from work, Kylie is a national-level dirt bike racer, motorcycle club leader and mother, balancing business success with a passion for endurance sport and rural life.

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DAIRY

Page 28

A viable alternative to bigger stop bankks In 2011, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council published a land management article titled Soil Organic Matter.

It opened with: “Soil organic matter is a substance and a process. It is a mixture of materials – plant and animal remains and products of decay processes that have been going on for years.”

The article detailed the benefits of organic matter, stating that it stabilises soil structure, improves water

retention and drainage, and reduces a soil’s susceptibility to erosion.

With the excess rainfall experienced throughout the country in recent weeks, anything that helps reduce soil damage is worth examining.

For every 1% increase in soil organic matter, an additional 144,000 litres of water per hectare can be held and released steadily without causing damage as conditions ease.

It is the only viable alternative to continually raising stopbanks – there

Healthy soils rich in organic matter can hold significantly more water, offering farmers a practical alternative to continually raising stopbanks and helping reduce flood impacts. Photo / Warren Buckland is nothing else – and yet, in many beyond the point at which economic areas, soil moisture-holding capacity is models can justify its use. being reduced.

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The same Regional Council report stated that “recent research has shown that in intensive lowland livestock systems (e.g. dairying) soils have lost organic matter by an average of 1 tonne carbon/ha/yr over the last twenty to thirty years...”

That is an extraordinary figure, as each tonne lost represents an increasingly larger percentage of what remains.

It is not the intensity of land use that is the issue; rather, it is the overuse of nitrogen fertiliser, as the same research showed that hill-country soils had gained organic matter.

The loss of soil organic matter resulting from the application of synthetic nitrogen is well documented, which is why its use is strictly regulated in much of Europe.

A 2006 article by Richard Rennie, published in Farmers Weekly, outlined concerns raised by a visiting Scottish soil scientist about the $127 million annual cost of soil erosion in the Waikato.

He noted with concern an influential AgResearch promotional video that extolled the virtues of nitrogen fertiliser as the “cheapest source of fertiliser money can buy”.

Times have changed somewhat, and the cost of energy required to manufacture synthetic nitrogen may well push its price

Soil organic matter

Continued reliance on it would be a shame because there is a genuine alternative. Decades of results from numerous farms show not only greater profitability but also significantly higher overall production.

Where synthetic nitrogen has been replaced by nitrogen fixed by clover, research has shown a 70% reduction in nitrogen losses to groundwater.

Dr Guna Magesan of Scion, who oversaw the research, was sufficiently impressed that two conferences were held on “biological” farming based on those results alone.

A fact often ignored is that soil organic matter is sequestered most rapidly under permanently grazed pasture.

In the 1960s, as a consequence of Bill Gallagher developing the first electric fencing units, New Zealand farmers justifiably claimed to be among the best practitioners in the world.

Being innovators by necessity, farmers adopted and refined the technology, and agricultural exports boomed.

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DAIRY

Sharemilkers don’t sleep in realised that their family farms backed onto each other and their paths must have unknowingly crossed many times. The rest is history.

Hannah returned to England to complete her degree, and George returned in November 2019.

Farming life in England

For George King and Hannah Lukins, the dream of dairy farm ownership began long before they arrived in New Zealand.

Raised on neighbouring dairy farms in England, the couple grew up in vastly different farming systems but shared the same ambition: to build a future in pasture-based dairying. After years of juggling multiple jobs, leasing land, raising livestock and searching for opportunities in the United Kingdom, they realised their dream would be easier to chase on the other side of the world.

Today, the pair are making impressive strides in the Bay of Plenty dairy industry.

Leadership and growth

The Matatā-based sharemilkers were named runners-up in the 2026 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Bay of Plenty Share Farmer of the Year competition, collecting four merit awards and earning praise from judges for their disciplined financial management, strong leadership and clear vision for growth.

Their journey has been anything but conventional. A chance meeting in a Dunedin bar revealed that their family farms in England backed onto each other, despite the pair never knowing each other growing up. That discovery sparked a partnership that has since taken them halfway around the world and onto a pathway they hope will eventually lead to farm ownership.

Now milking 250 cows and steadily building equity, George and Hannah are proving that determination, careful planning and a willingness to embrace

“Trapped in England during Covid-19, we did everything we could to find our next steps,” says George.

The couple looked at leasing councilowned farms, but the leases had no guarantee of renewal, and it wasn’t a path George King (28) and Hannah to ownership.

Lukins (27) were the 2026 New “There are limited opportunities available Zealand Dairy Industry Awards each year in the UK, with no mainstream (NZDIA IA) A Bay of Plenty Share Farmer of the Year Runners-up. loans for livestock. The machinery requirements for the system type is no small Photo / Catherine Fry cost, so you have to have a much higher capital outlay up front,” says George. opportunity can turn a farming dream The couple worked hard to build equity into reality. with Hannah working full time as a valuer Speaking to Coast & Country News, and George a full-time dairy farm manager, George says his family are first-generation also managing his parents’ lease block, dairy farmers, which is rare in England. contracting on the side and raising Angus X “My parents have always run a pastureyearlings on their own lease block. based system; they use New Zealand genetics, read the Dairy Exporter and are part of grazing discussion groups, George’s parents are split calving, 500 Kiwi X cows milking twice a day through a 50-bail rotary shed run in a similar way to a New Zealand production system 3/4.

“My father progressed by rearing surplus livestock, buying grazing blocks and converting them to dairy farms and making opportunities from developing land into higher productive assets.”

George completed diplomas in Agriculture in England and gained experience working on several very different farms before coming to New Zealand in 2018 to work as 2IC on a 1000-cow dairy unit near Balclutha.

Page 29

Moving to NZ

“We tried so many different things and looked for opportunities to follow our dream of owning our own pasture based dairy farm for ourselves. George was really keen to return to New Zealand and we’d both been impressed by the clear pathway and support from the industry,” says Hannah.

The couple moved to New Zealand when Hannah secured a position as a valuer and George found a job nearby. They originally came over on an Accredited Employer Work Visa but quickly moved onto a residency class visa and have now been granted residency.

Hannah had to convert her qualification and do further study at to become a registered valuer in New Zealand. George was able to secure a farm manager role on a 500-cow Matata farm where Rhys Watkins was sharemilking.

The couple leased 22 hectares and bought their own dairy heifers calves.

These cows became the basis of their 250 cow herd today where they sharemilk at Matata alongside contract milking for Michael and Kaye Watkins. Catherine Fry

Intensive dairy farming

“I grew up on a family run dairy farm milking 250 Holstein Friesians twice a day, the system is high input, closed herd with the stock housed all year round,” says Hannah.

Hannah studied agriculture at college and went on to study at the Royal Agricultural University to become a registered valuer.

In the summer break between her second and third year, Hannah came to New Zealand to milk dairy goats and do a Kiwi Experience bus tour.

Serendipitously, she met George in a bar in Dunedin and a few drinks later they

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Page 30

Once-a-day calf feeding boosts growth and milk solids Matt Collier of Probiotic Revolution has a simple message.

“See how much milk calves will drink once-a-day with our probiotic – Calf Xtreme – that’s when the magic happens.” Matt points out that the abomasum of a newborn Friesian calf is only 1.2 litres so on big feeds the milk spills into the calf ’s rumen.

He says Calf Xtreme has been developed to turn this into a positive.

“We’ve refined the probiotic strains, so calves avoid nutritional scours. At the same time, we’re establishing beneficial bacteria in the rumen at a young age, improving digestion of meal, hay and grass. Therefore, the intake of hard feed is not limited by high milk volumes, they simply grow faster and post weaning intake of grass is higher.”

Near Morrinsville, Toni Parry, from Parrydise Jerseys, adopted the programme after hearing positive reports from other farmers.

Last season her replacement heifers were fed 3 litres twice a day before transitioning to 6 litres once a day before three weeks of age.

“The calves always looked contented and full,” says Toni.

“They ate far more meal and hay than I’d seen previously – we actually ran out of hay because they were eating so much. They were also eating more grass before and after weaning. I wouldn’t rear calves without this product now.”

Growth rates before and after weaning have also impressed.

Consumption rates

Matt says Friesian calves have been consuming 7-8 litres once a day by around 10 days of age

DAIRY

A Parrydise Jersey at 9 weeks, raised on 6 litres once a day and heading for 0.9kg liveweight gain/day.

while averaging close to 1kg of liveweight gain per day from birth to Christmas – indicating no post-weaning check. Toni’s Jersey calves averaged about 0.9kg/day.

While early growth is encouraging, Collier believes the real value comes later.

“The objective isn’t simply heavier calves at weaning.

Faster early growth leads to better-developed heifers entering the milking herd, and that’s where the production gains can be realised.”

Dairy NZ guidelines indicate

first-calving heifers typically produce around 75-80% of the milk solids achieved by mixedage cows.

Crossbred cows

Last season, Ashburton farmers Rob and Hannah Stocker, who milk 1200 crossbred cows on an all-grass system, achieved 412kg of milk solids from their firstcalving heifers – equivalent to 87.7% of their mixed-age cows average. Their calves had been transitioned on to 6 litres once-a-day feeding after the first

week of life.

This season Hannah will rear the calves, and to fit in with family commitments she will go on to once-a-day feeding right from the start. “With Calf Xtreme I am confident they will be on 6 litres after a couple of days.”

As more farmers look for ways to improve labour efficiency as well as improve heifer milk production, once-a-day feeding programmes supported by nutritional technologies are attracting increasing attention across the dairy sector.

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KIWIFRUIT

Page 31

Wet pollination gives growers an edge

Precision wet pollination helps maximise fruit frr quality and gives growers the best chance of meeting premium sizing targets. Photo / Steven McNicholl

Pollination is keyy to a successful kiwifruit crop, says a Bay of Plenty-based specialist.

Katikati’s All Terrain Pollination general manager Christopher Brown says in the kiwifruit game, the difference between an average season and a massive payout comes down to a few high-stakes weeks the pollination window.

“It’s easily the most critical event of the year, directly dictating fruit size, shape, and dry matter,” he says.

“At All Terrain, we’ve been in the industry for years, and we know firsthand that getting pollination right isn’t just about checking a box - it’s the single best investment you can make for your bottom line.”

The math is simple, says Christopher.

Kiwifruit flowers need thousands of pollen grains to hit optimal seed set.

“If you miss that mark, you miss out on Zespri’s premium sizing metrics, and that hits your orchard gate returns hard.

To give growers the best edge, All Terrain specialises in wet pollination.

Traditional dry blowing works, says Christopher, but it’s at the mercy of the wind and unpredictable spring weather.

“With wet pollination, we suspend premium pollen in a specialised liquid mix and apply it with precision.

“The pollen sticks instantly and, through hydration, initiates germination, ensuring excellent coverage even when the weather isn’t playing ball.

Christopher says All Terrain is built on solid communication and top-tier service.

“We keep you in the loop every step of the way, show up when we say we will, and get the job done right so you can focus on an exceptional harvest.”

For more information, see All Terrain Pollination’s advert on this page.

Horticulture leaders honoured at industry awards Sustainable growing practices, scientific innovation, decarbonisation and support for seasonal workers were recognised at the 2026 Horticulture Industry Awards in Wellington this week.

Five awards were presented at the New Zealand Horticulture Conference gala dinner last monht, celebrating outstanding contributions to the commercial fruit and vegetable sector.

Pukekohe grower Peter Reynolds, of TA Reynolds Ltd, received the Horticulture Bledisloe Cup for his long-standing contribution to the industry, including leadership in sustainable vegetable production, soil health and grower education.

T&G Global general manager Ben Smith was awarded the President’s Trophy for industry leadership, while the FMG Sustainable Innovation Award went to the Kiwifruit Postharvest Industry Refrigerant Decarbonisation project steering group for its work reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Emeritus Professor Richard Bedford received the Manaaki Award for his research and advocacy supporting the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme over nearly two decades.

The Industry Service Award was presented to Dr Mike Currie, recognising more than 30 years of scientific contributions to New Zealand’s kiwifruit sector, helping improve productivity, fruit quality and grower profitability.

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KIWIFRUIT

Page 32

Zespri’s new strategy puts nutrition first Nutrition is at the core of kiwifruit marketer Zespri’s refreshed global brand platform.

Zespri’s Chief Marketing Officer Kok Hwee Ng says Grown for Good is part of the Mount Maunganui-based company’s 2035 strategy and reflects changing consumer and societal expectations.

“It puts natural nutrition at the centre of everything Zespri grows, markets and stands for,” she says.

“The ultimate goal is to raise awareness and help close everyday nutrition gaps for consumers while building longterm value across the industry – for consumers, customers, growers and our Zespri people

– supporting Zespri’s ambition to become the world’s healthiest fruit brand by 2035.”

On the consumer front, Kok Hwee Ng says people are trying to eat well, but the food discussion has become “noisy and complicated”.

“Many people today may consume abundant calories, but they are not getting enough essential nutrients – a situation often described as being ‘overfed yet undernourished’.”

Kok Hwee Ng says the company believes it has both an opportunity and a responsibility to play a positive role in addressing the ‘overfed yet undernourished’ challenge.

“At the same time, competition for

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A phased rollout of Grown for Good brand needs to stand out with clarity got under way in May at the start of the and credibility.

New Zealand export season, beginning “Grown for Good brings us back to with Zespri’s core markets and expanding something simple and true: nutritious, over time. natural fruit that helps nourish people Kok Hwee Ng says the phased approach every day.” allows the platform to be tailored to local markets’ nuances while maintaining a Consumer expectations consistent global brand message.

Kok Hwee Ng says consumers “Alongside traditional marketing and increasingly seek healthier food choices advertising campaigns, branded packaging and expect food brands to deliver real, and in-store displays and partnerships, science-backed health benefits alongside Grown for Good will be reflected through quality, taste and transparency. wider communication and education “There is growing interest in nutrition, initiatives that support nutrition and wellbeing and sustainable choices, and health.” She says this includes scaling up a stronger expectation that brands nutrition literacy – helping consumers demonstrate positive impact through their better understand the role food plays actions and the products they sell. in supporting their health, using clear, “This shift is reshaping how people credible and accessible information that Steve Edwards engage with food and which brands they resonates with them.

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KIWIFRUIT

Page 33

New programme aims to grow yields sustainably The kiwifruit industry and the Government have joined forces in a nearly $50 million initiative aimed at increasing production while protecting the environment.

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay recently unveiled the five-year commercial project, which he says will unlock greater value from kiwifruit orchards through on-orchard innovation, advanced decision-support tools and new science.

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI) and marketer Zespri will deliver Optimising Kiwifruit Land Use More from Less, with the project co-funded by the Government’s Primary Sector Growth Fund, which is contributing $19.14 million.

Investment

The kiwifruit industry and Zespri will contribute a further $28.73 million in combined cash and in-kind investment.

Zespri chief executive Jason Te Brake says the project will help growers produce higher yields of premium fruit while using less water and fewer nutrients, reducing environmental impacts in the process.

“The programme is designed to strengthen the value of New Zealand’s kiwifruit exports and deliver greater value back to growers, while ensuring we can continue meeting strong global demand for premium kiwifruit.”

Jason says the industry is pleased to be working alongside the Government on the initiative. “New Zealand sells high-quality, great-tasting Zespri kiwifruit in more than 50 markets around the world each year, and we continue to see strong demand from customers and consumers for our fruit.

“We expect to more than double our

the tools, science and insights they need to lift productivity, improve returns, and manage risk on orchard.”

Improved performance

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated Chair Whetu Rolleston.

Photo / Supplied

exports over the next 10 years by releasing new cultivars, developing more orchards and, importantly, maximising productivity on existing orchards in a way that is good for people, communities and the environment.”

Jason says kiwifruit already delivers significant value to New Zealand’s regions and rural communities each season – $3.6b in direct grower returns last season – and this programme will build on that, supporting further value for growers, shareholders and the wider economy.

Industry growth NZKGI chief executive Colin Bond says the programme is an important step forward for grower confidence and industry growth.

“Growers are seeing strong global demand for New Zealand kiwifruit and meeting that demand relies on having confidence in our ability to produce consistent, highquality supply.

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Colin says the programme will deliver innovations to improve orchard performance, including new quality inspection technologies, more efficient production systems, enhanced vine management practices and advanced decision-support tools.

“It also focuses on improving water and nutrient use efficiency, lifting fruit size and yield, and developing new approaches to pest and disease management, including alternatives for Psa control.

NZKGI chair Whetu Rolleston says the programme reflects the industry’s

commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability.

“Kiwifruit growers are focused on producing world-class fruit while protecting the environments they operate in. “This programme supports that by delivering practical, on-orchard solutions that improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.”

Whetu says a strong focus of the programme is ensuring productivity gains are achieved without increasing environmental impact, including reducing inputs and supporting lower-emissions production. “The programme brings together industry and Government to support long-term resilience and sustainable growth across the kiwifruit sector.”

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FERTILISER

Page 34

Nutrient-eff ff i ciient goalls

At Fertco, we’ve been importing and manufacturing fertiliser for over 25 years now, so we’re accustomed to being part of the cyclical ebb and flow of the industry.

But post-covid, it seems more accurate to describe the industry in NZ as lurching from one unseen challenge to the next!

However, as a smaller company, we are uniquely positioned to respond to these challenges in ways that larger companies often find more difficult. For example, we’ve been able to embrace

new technologies and source innovative fertiliser products that focus on nutrient efficiency, reducing both economic and environmental wastage.

So when politicians start talking about doubling agricultural exports while simultaneously looking after the environment, we’re already perfectly placed to contribute towards this goal.

Product choice

Back in the early 2000s, when fertiliser began to be imported in containers rather than in bulk, smaller companies were able to import their own fertiliser. This was Greater product choice allows us to customise fertiliser to suit different farms.

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a crucial change: product ranges expanded and prices became more competitive.

The result is that NZ farmers now have a wide choice of fertiliser products.

Being able to import our own fertiliser means we can customise our offering to suit individual farmers, growers, and their businesses. We believe our farmers should only buy the products and quantities they actually need.

This is an obvious first step in being more efficient at increasing production and yield while reducing waste.

Controlled release technology is a more recent innovation in the fertiliser industry.

In brief, granules of fertiliser are coated with a semi-permeable membrane so that the nutrients are released in a gradual but controlled pattern. Research and field trials indicate that this release can take up to 3 months for some products.

It’s easy to see the gains in nutrient efficiency with controlled release fertiliser (CRF) products. Firstly, there’s less loss to the environment because the nutrients are protected by the coating around the granule. Secondly, because the nutrients are released gradually, plants can access them as they grow. In regards to economic gain, more of what you pay for is used.

Organics

In the case of organics growers, we have been able to source a complete range of BioGro certified products that allow them to be economically viable and globally competitive. Since some of these products are ‘less leaky’, our conventional farmers are also beginning to integrate organics products into their fertiliser programmes.

But while new products are key to improving nutrient efficiency, marrying existing products with new or existing technologies can sometimes be equally successful.

Granulating fertiliser is one of these technologies. We’ve been granulating dicalcic phosphate fertilisers and animal mineral supplements for some years now. With granulated fertiliser, nutrient efficiency is achieved through improved accuracy with product placement. The fertiliser doesn’t end up in areas like waterways and farm races where plants can’t use it.

Another benefit we’ve found with this technology is the ability to innovate. A recent product addition is SeaPhos, a dicalcic phosphate fertiliser granulated with Agrisea’s seaweed biostimulants that support soil health and nutrient efficiency.

Not widely known

Although the above products and technologies have been around for some time, the introduction of how and when to use them in NZ agriculture has been lacking. As a smaller company, we don’t always have the might and means to spread the word and influence industry decision-makers as much as we’d like.

However, while products and technologies will take us a long way to achieving the government’s aspirations for agriculture, it’s people that will ultimately get us there. That’s why we’re determined to keep our Fertco Field Reps on the road, walking your farm, and adding value to your business with their insights and advice.

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FARM VEHICLES & MACHINERY

Page 35

Keepiing horse pow wered farmingg alive Ross says he has got usin ng the horses for farm work down to a fine art. In the wetter areas on the farm, the horses are a better fit as sloower.

“There’s nothing better than driving your horses home after a hard day’s work. It becomes a way of slowingg down, time to breathe and d be grateful... and it takes me back to my roots.”

Catherine Frr y

L to R - Ernie (4), Jock (6 6) and Major (5) are all broken in for wagons, chains and ridiing.

BUY DIRECT AT FACTORY PRICES Dairy farmer Ross Wilson with three of his Clydesdale herd. Photos / Catherine Fry

For most farmers, tractors are the machinery of choice. For Pongakawa contract milker Ross Wilson, it’s a team of powerful Clydesdales.

The thundering draught horses are more than just a nod to the past. They are an essential part of Wilson’s daily farm life, helping with everything from harrowing paddocks and feeding stock to spreading fertiliser and gathering cows and calves.

It’s a practice that keeps alive a family tradition stretching back generations.

Deep respect

Raised on a Morrinsville drystock farm where his father and grandfather continued working with Clydesdales long after tractors became the norm, Wilson developed a deep respect for the giant horses. Decades later, he has built up a team of 10 Clydesdales of his own and turned their use into a finely honed farming system that blends old-world craftsmanship with modern agriculture.

“As I had my own family, I started buying and breeding Clydesdales,” says Ross. “We now have 10 and part of the deal with any farm I work on is space for my horses.”

Horses are the ultimate vintage machines dating back centuries and come in a variety of colours. Each has four cylinders and a 1hp engine which increases by adding more horses.

They run on a fuel mixture of hay, chaff,

oats and grazing older pasture, but too many oats can result in unwanted changes in gear and speed.

Ross credits Paul Symes, Vivien Simmons and his father’s friend Derrick Thornton “big time” for their help with learning about behaviour, training and picking a good horse.

“I look for horses with a steady and quiet temperament and a good, responsive mouth. There’s a lot going on with a team of horses and the steering wheel needs to be working.

“I get a feeling of accomplishment from training up a young horse.”

To keep his horses in tip-top condition, Ross rotates between the different models to keep them fit and give them purpose.

“I try to use horses every day for something whether it’s harrowing, feeding out from a sled or cart, picking up cows and calves, ploughing, discing, fert spreading, seed spreading or gathering up the family and taking them for a ride on Matata beach. We have 10 kids who all ride.”

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Equipment

For comfort, each model has their own equipment consisting of a collar and a bridle that fits them properly. Other equipment includes chains, breechings, cart saddles and back bands.

“I have an Amish-style forecart which allows the Clydesdales to pull modern day implements and a little petrol motor runs each implement’s hydraulics and PTO.”

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Page 36

COAST & COU UNTRY NEWS

Govt special interest in sika deer empowers hunters The new Herd of Special Interest status of the Kaimanawa and Kaweka sika deer population could have positive effects on local tourism, Destination Great Lake Taupō says.

Minister for Hunting and Fishing, James Meager, announced the North Island’s first Herd of Special Interest last week, which is meant to see sika deer managed under a clearer, more coordinated framework.

It’s aimed to deliver better herd management, quality hunting experiences and better conservation outcomes.

“I am a firm believer in the power of hunter-led conservation, and this designation empowers the sector to lead sensible herd management,” James says.

In a statement to Local Democracy Reporting, regional tourism organisation Destination Great Lake Taupō, also known as Love Taupō, said the designation strengthens Taupō’s position as a worldclass destination for hunting tourism.

“While visitor numbers are relatively small compared with mainstream tourism, hunters typically stay longer and spend significantly more on guided

experiences, accommodation, helicopter access and other local services.”

While the Kaimanawa and Kaweka state forests, which are home to the deer, can be accessed by hikers and on horseback, helicopters can be chartered by hunters and adventurers to access these remote locations.

Thomas Orr is a helicopter pilot working in hunting and adventure tourism.

Speaking as business development manager for Kaimanawa Alpine Adventures and Helisika, Orr says it’s too early to tell how the designation will affect the businesses he works for.

However, he noted that regardless of the economic impact, making the sika a Herd of Special Interest will have real long-term benefits.

“The HOSI designation will help Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager. to achieve a healthier Sika herd,” Photo / Bronson Perich Thomas says.

Some of those blocks, such as the “And in turn, a healthier Kaimanawa and Kaweka State Forests, are ecosystem within our native forest.” administered by the Government, while Sika deer are a Japanese species others are privately administered with introduced to Poronui Station in 1905.

The herd has thrived, expanding beyond state cooperation.

James delegated the responsibility for Poronui to the surrounding land blocks.

The North Island’s fi first sika deer Herd of Special Interest is located in the Kaimanawa and Kaweka state forests.

managing the sika to the Game Animal Council, the Crown entity responsible for managing herds of special interest.

They’re also responsible for educating hunters, promoting hunter safety and advising James. They’re effectively the voice of hunters at Government level.

The Central North Island Sika Foundation will assist the Game Animal Council in its day-to-day management of the herd, alongside DOC and other partners.

Bronson Perich LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.