Keeping it local October 2026 Issue No. 312
Environmental Stewards PG 10-11
Young Farmer District Finals PG 12
Raw milk, vegetables and homegrown meat underpin the self--sufficient lifestyle Loren and Michaela Gibbs have built in Welcome Bay. Read more on pages 4 and 5. Photo / Catherine Fry
Fertiliser PG 14-16
Effluent & Irrigation PG 17
Country Lifestyle PG 20-22
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Page 2
Smitten with her peepers Maeve had beautiful big brown eyes. And they entranced this city boy. And long, curving eyelashes, 2.5cm at least. She was a bonny thing.
Maeve, traditional Irish. Pronounced, “Mave”. Meaning intoxicating. She would get me drunk with joy when she saw me leaning on the gate and wandered over for a nosey. We didn’t have much in common, this house cow and me, but there was a connection. I told Maeve the cow I had read a book written by a “Maeve”, Maeve Binchy. Light a Penny Candle it was called, about a London girl who shelters in Ireland during the Blitz. An emotional and dramatic tale. But my Maeve didn’t give a moo about the other Maeve. She didn’t care for the classics. She just eyeballed me, adoringly, I think, I hope, and continued ruminating.
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Traits
That, I found, was one of her less attractive traits. She chewed sideways. Endlessly. On the same mouthful. Grinding away. Side to side. Intensely annoying. I told The Hat I was worried about Maeve’s eating habits. More particularly, her bite. He lapsed into his Pa Rugg from The Hillbilly Bears laugh, a slow, wheezy “he-he-he”. His dismissive, dumb-city-kid laugh. The one that hurt. “It’s all about ingestion, fermentation, regurgitation and
urges.” re-mastication.” Suddenly one of our They sounded like good gang was all au fait with names for a rural rock band. with The Hat social niceties. Ira and the Ingestions, Comment by Hunter Wells Now, before we wash Francis III and the our hands and return to Fermentations, Maximillian the dinner table, one more thing and the Mastications. Or a rural intrigued me about Maeve. They rugby backline. Ingestion fires it insisted on calling her a house cow. from the base of the scrum onto But she’d never been in the house, Fermentation, Regurgitation breaks never been near the house. Couldn’t the line, Mastication dots down in spell the word. Didn’t know what it the corner. meant. Whenever I puzzled out loud “You’re being silly now,” said about it, they just laughed. The Hat. I never got a straight answer. Two other things baffled this boy Any answer. Why aren’t country from the ’burbs. For an elegant cow, folk straight up? Or do they see us Maeve lacked a certain couth, a certain slickers, us rural holiday warriors, as sophistication. She would not stop fair game? Keeping us in the dark. eating to poop. She would be grinding “I probably wouldn’t get too close away on another mouthful of cud to that cow,” quietly suggested Mrs when there would be a spontaneous, Hat over dinner that night. explosive ejection of steamy green She didn’t offer a reason why. matter from the non-eating end. Another half a fact, another “Excuse me, Maeve, other cows have country conundrum. to eat out there.” Another episode in the But she just keptt munching, side life and times of Maeve to side. The produ uction line, next month. The the pooping proceess, cow, not ground on. the author.
hanging
House cow w
The dynamics off Maeve’s pooping, the sheer forcefulness and volume of it, were memoraable. The stuff of stories. An nd I would later relate, in greaat detail, to the kids in the ’hoood at home how a cow poops, and eats, and poops, and eats aggain. “At least city peoople put down knives and forks, say ‘excuse me’ and disappear intoo the dunny when we’re overtaaken byy such
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Farmers plan for El Niñ ño The words “Super El Niño” are on everyone’s lips, spoken in delight by those hoping we get a scorcher of a summer holiday, and spoken with some trepidation by our farming communities for whom Cyclone Gabrielle is not a distant memory.
According to Earth Sciences NZ, El Niño is one phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a naturally occurring climate phenomenon centred on the tropical Pacific Ocean. Although El Niño originates thousands of kilometres away from New Zealand, it can significantly influence our climate by altering atmospheric circulation patterns across the Pacific basin, bringing high winds, torrential rain and droughts. With a “very strong” El Niño on the horizon, Coast & Country News spoke to three different Waikato growers, all of whom are at the coalface and at the mercy of the weather.
Strawberries
Emma Kane and Hayden Laws run Kane’s Strawberries in Cambridge. They took over from Emma’s parents Grant and Heather Kane, who established the Emma Kane from business in 1992 and retired 2022. Kane’s Strawberries. Photo / Catherine Fry “I remember long strawberry seasons easily stretching through to late January and sometimes into February,” says Emma. “It’s now becoming harder to keep picking after Christmas due to increasingly unfavourable weather conditions.” The family have noticed October, November and December slowly becoming hotter with more extreme weather events. Hayden explains that strawberries are vulnerable to all extremes of weather. “If temperatures reach 30-plus degrees, pollination stalls and plants get stressed, producing more runners and leaves whilst reducing flowers. “If we get high humidity, consistent rain or heavy downpours, the berries are more at risk from fungal diseases. “Hot, high UV days can cause burning on berries, turning them mushy.” Kanes try mitigating some issues ethically with chemical-free sprays, and also incorporate irrigation tape laid in the rows ready to combat drought conditions. Otherwise, it’s hoping for mild sunny days with minimal rain to grow the best strawberries.
Seasonal veg
Dan Taylor and Ali Ruthe run Little Pirongia Farms in Pirongia, where they grow seasonal veggies for veggie boxes and local retail outlets. They grow sprayDan Taylor and Ali free produce using Ruthe from Little organic methods. Pirongia Farms. They both feel Photo / Supplied that the “100-year” extreme weather events are now yearly. “We learned the hard way that soil health is the key, and we focus on growing quality, healthy and vigorous plants indoors before planting outside in healthy, compost-rich soils with bio-char. This helps the plants establish a good root system,” says Dan. “Bare soil is kept covered with black tarps, or cover crop or a veggie crop, and beds are rotated.” The couple are on the Pirongia town water supply which is subject to summer restrictions. “We’ve taken the plunge and installed two 30,000 litre above ground tanks to collect roof water, and they will feed our drip tape systems,” says Ali. Last year, super dry, high winds ripped out a polytunnel. The new tunnel is well anchored and vented for wind. The most vulnerable crops are the salad and microgreens, and the couple water them well and use small tunnels for shade and wind protection. “On really windy days we can remove the covers from the tunnels completely.” “Our farm is powered by people, not machinery, so all tasks are very manual. We are always on the farm, constantly monitoring conditions and making changes,” says Dan.
Organic food
Brittany Stembridge started Tomtit Farm in Matangi in 2019 using around 2000sqm of a three-hectare block. She grows organic, nourishing food to share with the local Brittany Stembridge community and from Tomtit Farm. added PYO flowers Photo / Supplied in 2021. Committed to regenerative farming methods, Brittany takes care of her soil yearround, knowing that strong, healthy plants are less stressed by weather conditions and are resilient to pests and disease. Brittany is big on both organic matter in the soil and the nitrogen cycle. “Over winter I add organic compost and leaves to my beds and cover with a tarp, so it breaks down into mulch,” says Brittany.
“Chopped and dropped cover crop ps can provide mulch over the growing seasson. Organic silage and haylage also makke good mulch.” She works with the soil biology, inocculating flower seeds with beneficial fungi and bacteria before sowing. During growth, she sprays with orgaanic foliar feed that contains microbes, bio-stimu ulants, trace minerals and macro nutrients. The farm relies on rainwater collecttion and a 7m bore. If the bore level drops, they may run out of water. Brittany hopes that this potential stress period is in February after the springg flush of flowers and she relies on her soil health and heavy mulching to see them thrrough Cath herine Fry until rain comes.
Page 3 El Niño 2026
Likely Spring impacts North & Central North Island • Increased dryness • Extended dry periods • Warmer than usual
Western North Island
• Windier than usual • Dryness uncertain, but need to watch
Eastern North Island
• Increased dryness • Periods of very warm temps • Windy periods • Increased wildfire risk Source: Earth Sciences New Zealand | Te Whatu Ao
COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Page 4
Living The Good Life - Raw milk, Move aside Tom and Barbara, The Good Life in Tauranga has stepped up its game, Loren and Michaela Gibbs are living the good life with their four children and are almost self-sufficient in seasonal food while also supplying locals with produce through their farm shop in Welcome Bay. Loren and Michaela had been living in Melbourne, where Michaela worked in event management and Loren worked as a trained chef for 12 years. “It got to a stage where we both really
wanted to come home and be near family. Michaela’s parents Daryl and Larisa were retired dairy farmers, had owned TVMG in Matamata and were now living on a lifestyle block in Welcome Bay,” says Loren. After moving in with Michaela’s parents, Loren did a stint as a stay-at-home dad while Michaela worked. “Then the veggie and raw milk set-up where Michaela’s parents got their raw milk from came on the market.” Daryl and Larisa proposed that if they bought the land, would Loren and Michaela run it? “It has a good symmetry to being a chef,
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Wellcome Bay farmer Loren Gib bbs in th he eigh ht ASHB dairy sh hed d. Photos / Catherine Fry
but I had no experience in farming. We still said yes!” While the contract and funding for the land was being sorted out, Loren worked alongside the old owners for six months, learning how to grow produce from seed, animal care and milking in the eight ASHB shed.
Going out on their own
“Because the farm was already set up, any capital could be put straight into the business.” The first task was to get the raw milk
supply consistent, achievable by having cows calving throughout the year. “With 30 cows, we aim to have two calves a month to keep the milk supply constant. We run a Hereford bull so all our calves can be sold as beefies. There are no bobby calves in our set-up.” Loren runs half the number of cows that could be run on the 7.5 hectares set aside for grazing. “It means the pasture has time to recover and there’s plenty of grass available. We have healthy, well fed cows.” The soil and pasture is slowly being
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homegrown veggies, and family “I’m also fascinated in edible weeds and flowers, and I add them to our salad mix. It’s probably the chef in me coming out, I want people to have healthy AND attractive food!”
A new way of life
As well as learning how to care for the animals, Loren has taught himself how to butcher the pigs, sheep and chickens they raise for homekill. He finds it fascinating to butcher the cuts of meat he used as a chef. Each family has their own home on the property, and it works well for all
of them. Daryl works on the farm two days a week doing anything from relief milking to building all their ideas for developing the property. Larisa does the accounts, fills in on the farm and helps look after her four grandchildren so Michaela can get out on the farm as well as doing the marketing and socials for the business. Loren says he gets to spend so much time with his family, a far cry from his cheffing days, and eight years on, he wouldn’t change their good life for anything. Catherine Fry
Serious machinery for serious work. Loren feeding the sheep and chickens.
improved using natural fertlisers through Eco Farms. Cleanliness and hygiene are essential around raw milk, and Loren says he spends more time cleaning, sanitising and stripping the teats than he does actually milkingg. “The milk goes through a paperr filter and cooling system before enterin ng the cooled vat for dispensing. “The kids often sit at the cowsh hed with their bowl of dry cereal and chooose a cow for me to hand milk until their ccereal is covered with creamy, fresh milk.”” Producing around 150 to 180 litres a day, that’s 1000 litres a week, the raw milk is the backbone of the business.
Seasonal produce is started from r seed in polytunnels but is grown outside.
The veggie garden
The team want to keep the 1000sqm market garden manageable and not too intense. They don’t claim to be organic growers but avoid synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers. “We use ‘no dig’ gardening principles. By not disturbing the soil, but layering the garden with the nutrients it needs to feed the soil and thus the plants, you have a healthier nervous system within the soil.” In winter they slow the garden down, letting areas rest and restore. During summer, the garden is pumping, and it’s all hands on deck with harvesting produce for the farm shop. They only growoutdoors and in the season.
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How bees and crop load affect the harvest
Now is the time for avocado growers to sort the flowers from the fruit. New Zealand Avocado research manager Phillip West says that in spring, avocado orchards should focus on managing the crop load to reduce irregular bearing, as well as bringing in bees and doing your best to look after them. “Achieving regular crops on avocado trees is a challenge for many avocado growers in this country,” he says. “Only 0.3% (3 in 1000) flowers generally set fruit and carry it to harvest.”
As the whole purpose of growing avocado trees commercially is to produce fruit, Phillip says understanding the fruit set process and what can go wrong is important knowledge for all avocado growers. Avocado trees can flower without producing fruit when pollination, temperature, wind, drought, or nutrient conditions are inadequate. Fruit set can also be reduced because of tree resources being depleted from carrying an excessive crop the season prior. Phillip says by preventing trees carrying excessive crop loads, growers can smooth
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Avocado trees depend heavily on bees to move pollen and set fruit.
out the amount of fruit produced from one season to another. “Th Thiis can be achieved by pruning Th excess flowers off the trees as early as possible to prevent an excessive crop. “This is ideally done in October when new leaf flush is more visible.” He sayys havingg a good idea of how many flower buds are developing and the progress of flower bud growth are useful pieces of information for growers in their decision-making and whether flower pruning might be appropriate. Limited, or slow, new leaf growth in spring is a good indicator of excessive flowering. With the frosts experienced in August, Phillip says growers may want to wait a bit longer than October to adjust crop load to see how many flowers set fruit.
Early intervention
“As long as excessive crop is removed before the end of December, growers should expect a net benefit from the effort, but the earlier intervention can be made the better.” He says bees should be brought in for pollination when 5-10% of flowers have opened, with eight-10 hives per hectare being the best practice. “It’s important to note that bees won’t fly in less than 10 degrees C, windy days, or very cloudy days.
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“T Talk to your beekeeper about how best to look after your hives. “This might be as simple as putting out some sacks in buckets of water to provide safe drinkingg stations if conditions are dryy. Fruit set depends on proper pollination, says Phillip. “Type A and type B varieties have different flower opening timing and by having both, you can maximise the overlap of male and female flowers during the middle of the day, when bees are most active.” Cut back to healthy foliage and target flowers likely to set fruit in exposed areas prone to sunburn and wind damage. Make cuts on wood 1-2cm thick rather than a lot of cuts on smaller flower panicles. Avoid cutting off flower panicles with leaves at their apex as leaf growth is desirable, says Phillip. “A balance of 60% of flower panicles with no leaf at the end and 40% with leaves at the end is ideal.”
Spring planting advice
• It’s okay to plant trees any time if protected appropriately from frost and wind. • Review the updated New Zealand Avocado planting guide on how to take delivery of trees, inspect them, plant and care during early development. • Plant trees as soon as practical after delivery. • Plants will get going once they have recovered from transplant shock and once temperatures are warm enough. • Follow planting guidelines and avoid overwatering. • If replanting avocados into an existing avocado orchard, it is strongly advised to replant with a clonal rootstock with tolerance to Phytophthora root rot. Steve Edwards
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Fig. 1 Seasonal distribution of pasture growth under 28 day cuts
Fig. 2 Seasonal distribution of pasture growth under 14 day cuts
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Boundary changes strengthen dairy awards Reflecting its farming strength, Waikato has been split for the annual New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA). Morrinsville will become part of a new North Waikato/Hauraki region, which will continue to include the Franklin and South Auckland districts. Previously, the Dairy Industry Awards comprised the Auckland/ Hauraki and Waikato regions. NZDIA Trust chair Paulette Johns says the adjustment creates a more balanced structure across two of the country’s most active dairying areas. “It is designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of both regions and to better reflect where dairy farming happens today.” • LOGGING • TREE REMOVAL • EARTHMOVING
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Challenges and growth
Over recent years, she says the former Auckland/Hauraki region has faced challenges, including land-use change and lower entrant numbers, resulting in an increasing reliance on a smaller group of volunteers to run the awards programme. “Meanwhile, the neighbouring Waikato region has continued to grow and has become one of the programme’s largest regions, with high entrant numbers, a strong volunteer base and solid sponsorship support. “Adjusting the boundary gives both regions a large dairying base of potential entrants, strong committee succession and sponsorship opportunities, helping to continue the work behind the NZDIA awards programme.” Paulette says the boundary change is about setting both regions up to thrive for years to come. “Dairy farming has evolved, and our regions need to evolve with it. “By adjusting the boundary and bringing in the Morrinsville district, we’re creating two strong, sustainable regions that better support the farmers, volunteers and sponsors who make these awards what they are. “We acknowledge farmers in the Franklin and South Auckland areas value the region’s dairy farming identity, and they remain an incredibly important and valued part of our awards programme.” The boundary adjustment and name change follow consultation with current and former regional managers, committees, regional stakeholders and national sponsors.
Equal opportunity
NZDIA National Committee chair Maegan Legg says, at its heart, the programme is about opportunity. “This change is about making sure those opportunities stay strong and fair right across
the country, so that no matter which region a farmer is in, they have the same chance to take part, be recognised and grow. “This also strengthens the volunteer base, which is such an integral part of what makes this programme work,” says Maegan. “Many of our volunteers are former entrants themselves, people who came through the awards and now give back by helping run them. “Without strong numbers, we simply couldn’t do what we do for the sector.” The boundary change has been welcomed by Federated Farmers. Waikato Federated Farmers dairy section vice-chair Jimmy Cleaver says the new name and boundary changes will benefit the region as a whole without significantly affecting sponsorship or entrant numbers in the Waikato region. Jimmy, who owns a small dairy farm with his parents in Meremere, won the Auckland/ Hauraki Share Farmer of the Year title in the 2022 Dairy Industry Awards. The following year, he served as team leader, guiding new entrants on the regional organising committee. Jimmy says changes to the southern boundary should attract more entrants. “Previously, the North Waikato region has struggled for entrants, particularly in the share farmer category, which over the last few years has seen only one or no entrants, making it difficult to run a competition. “So, moving the boundary south into what was previously the Waikato region should hopefully draw more contestants into the North Waikato region.” Jimmy says the Waikato region has never struggled for entrants because it has the highest concentration of dairy farms.
Sponsorship challenge
“Sponsorship is a bit of a challenge regardless
New Zealland d Daiiry Ind dustry Award ds’’ Trust Chair Paulette Johns. Photo / Supplied of who you are or what you do,” he says. “Sponsors flocked to the Waikato region because of its name and reputation, so changing the name to North Waikato/ Hauraki will make it an easier sell when seeking sponsorship for the competition.” He does have some reservations about removing the Auckland name. “Even though it is seen as the big super city, there are a lot of farms on the outskirts that are proud to be Auckland, and losing the name could take away some of that pride. “So it’s important to acknowledge that view as well and make it clear Auckland farmers are not being excluded from the competition because of the name change.” Hauraki-Coromandel Federated Farmers dairy section vice-chair Stephanie Reid says the boundary move “makes sense”. “Land use and the landscape have changed in and around Auckland over the last few years.” Entries for the 2027 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards open on October 5.
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Keep dust under control this summ mer With summer approaching, dry and windy conditions can make dust a common problem on farms, construction sites and rural properties.
Earthworks, vegetation clearance, construction activities and exposed soil can all create dust. Dust can drift onto neighbouring properties, settle on roofs and potentially contaminate rainwater supplies. It can also be washed into waterways when it rains. “Dust is a bit like sediment. It’s the result of erosion, but it’s driven by wind rather than water,” says Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Compliance Team Leader Trudy Richards. “We receive a lot of complaints about dust, particularly when conditions are dry and windy, but there are some simple things people can do to reduce it.” The best time to control dust is before it gets into the air. Once airborne, fine dust particles can travel a long way.
Before you start moving soil
• Keep existing vegetation in place where possible. • Stage work to limit the amount of bare soil exposed. • Avoid leaving large areas of loose soil exposed during dry, windy weather. • Have water and other dust controls ready before work begins. • Plan for both dust and sediment runoff. • Keep it damp Water is one of the simplest ways to control dust. Regularly wet exposed soil during dry or windy conditions, particularly around active work areas. Larger sites may need a water cart, truck or sprinkler system.
Cover or stabilise
The two-year initiative, led by the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao, will develop practical tools and monitoring approaches to improve the management of what scientists describe as “naturally uncommon ecosystems”. Although these ecosystems cover only a small proportion of New Zealand’s landscape, they support unique plants, animals and ecological communities adapted to some of the country’s most challenging environments. Project co-lead Sarah Richardson says the ecosystems are familiar to many New Zealanders but are often overlooked as important biodiversity hotspots. “They are also often isolated and can be particularly vulnerable to pressures such as land-use change, invasive species and climate change,” she says. “Their locations can make them challenging to monitor effectively.” Researchers say a key challenge is that
Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Counciil Compliance Team m Leader Trudy Richards.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council
Cover exposed soil with suitable materials such as tarpaulins or geotextiles, or stabilise it with mulch, hydroseed or vegetation. Re-establish vegetation as soon as possible. Keep vehicle speeds and unnecessary
Science project targets protection of New Zealand’s rarest ecosystems Some of New Zealand’s most distinctive natural environments, including coastal sand dunes, wetlands, gravel beaches and geothermal areas, are the focus of a new research project aimed at helping councils and land managers better protect them.
movements to a minimum, and avoid driving over stabilised areas. Before earthworks begin, make sure appropriate erosion and sediment controls are in place and maintained until disturbed areas are stabilised. For advice on managing dust, or to report dust from earthworks or construction activities, call our 24/7 Pollution Hotline on 0800 884 883. For more information, see the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s advert on this page.
Page 9
many of these environments naturally shift and evolve because of factors such as wind, waves and storms, making it difficult to distinguish between normal environmental change and emerging threats. The project will focus on improving how naturally uncommon ecosystems are identified, assessed and monitored over time, providing councils with clearer information about ecosystem health and environmental change. Richardson says the research will provide a stronger evidence base to support conservation efforts and guide decisionmaking by land managers. “By combining ecological expertise with new monitoring technologies and environmental data, the project aims to give councils a more accurate picture of ecosystem condition and change,” she says. “The tools developed will help identify areas at risk, prioritise management actions and improve long-term environmental stewardship, helping ensure these ecological treasures are preserved for future generations.” The Bioeconomy Science Institute is partnering with regional councils and other environmental stakeholders to ensure the tools developed are practical, cost-effective and suited to real-world management needs. -Scion Research
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Page 10
Award winnin ng Matatā A Bay of Plenty farming couple whose cattle breeding operation has produced an extraordinary 22 sets of twins from just 180 cows have been recognised for balancing topperforming livestock with exceptional environmental stewardship.
Tony Lumsden and Chrissy Weeks were the Bay of Plenty winners of the Beef + Lamb NZ Livestock Farm award at the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Trust awards. Photo / Catherine Fry
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Chrissy Weeeks and Tony Lumsden were the Bay of Plenty winners of th he Beef + Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award at the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards. Their beef ooperation was described as a great demonstration of how simplicitty and stewardship can benefit both livestock and the landscapee, balancing high-performance animal husbandry with deep envvironmental respect. With Chrisssy as farm manager, the couple have run the business sincee 2004 for owners Jay Weeks, Chrissy’s mother, and her stepffather, Donald Johnstone. Ratahi Holdings operates across two properties: a 44ha effective block on Matakana Islaand, owned since 1987, and a 544ha property (270ha effecttive) in the hill country above Matatā, which has been the family farm since 1993.
Beeff farming B f
“The Matatā property is mainly steep rolling country and, when you have a 250-cow beef breeding herd with larger cows, it dictates which land can be used by different mobs at various times of the year,” says Chrissy. When the farm was purchased, the remaining Hereford stud herd became the foundation cows for the Weeks herd. Chrissy has since introduced Charolais, South Devon and Angus genetics, cross-breeding animals that fatten efficiently and grow quickly. “We have July calving and the calves stay with their mothers until the end of March. Weaning weights are usually above 200kg, with some well over 300kg by then.” The farm has a significant tick problem, with young calves particularly susceptible to theileriosis, a tick-borne cattle disease that causes anaemia and can sometimes be fatal. “Calves are treated with Bayticol every six weeks from two weeks of age until weaning. Cows are also treated before going into winter grazing in late March and again when they come back out.” “We used to buy in 50 heifers each season and we think the ticks were introduced by a line that wasn’t quarantined. Now we operate a closed system and breed all replacement stock on-farm. We also grow all our own supplements, so we have total control over quality and biosecurity.”
Breeding instinct
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“The only time we bring in stock now is every three to four years when we buy bulls to diversify our bloodlines. We buy Herefords from Peter Davies at Charwell Stud and South Devons from Mark Eagle at Kaimoa South Devons.” Previously, Chrissy studied catalogues looking for bulls that appealed to her. Tony says she now judges a bull on its appearance first before reading the figures in the catalogue, paying particular attention to IMF (intramuscular fat) figures, which can attract an additional premium in the offspring.
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Page 11
farmers nurture land and d livestock With their own calves, Chrissy makes early decisions about which 10 to 12 bulls will be retained for use as twoyear-olds and which replacement heifers she wants to keep for breeding. The remaining bulls are ringed as steers and, along with the remaining heifers, are fattened for processing. “All non-breeding cattle are fattened for a one-way trip to the works at around two years of age, and it’s important to us that they have a good life in the meantime.” Chrissy’s approach to animal husbandry stood out to the judges for its empathy and attention to detail. The judges noted that her high level of care has delivered tangible results, including a remarkable farm record of 22 sets of twins from just 180 cows. “There is no pattern to it and we have no idea why we get so many twins. Some cows have twins every year or every other
demonstrating a commitment that extends well beyond standard compliance requirements. Land management is dictated by topography and climate. In winter, younger stock are rotationally grazed on a 21-day round, while cows spend eight weeks off-farm on n saved feed in Ratahi’s bush blocks. Sensitive, steep areas are grazed only once a year to minimise soil Beef + Lamb NZ Livestock Farm Award damage, while stock movements winners Chrissy Weeks and Tony Lumsden with are carefully planned according to Charles Taituha, left. Photo / NZ Farm Environment Trust rainfall and ground conditions. not only by beef production, production but also by Detention bunds have been constructed ructed the long-term health of the land under to slow water flow and reduce erosion. Catherine Fry their care. Chrissy and Tony were praised for their open-minded approach, embracing innovative farming practices while also welcoming regular visits from hunters and trampers. At Ratahi Holdings, success is measured
year, while others are completely random. “I’ve experimented with keeping bulls that were born as twins, but their offspring haven’t produced twins.” One downside of twins is that the mother often rejects one calf. Chrissy milks two dairy cows using a portable milking plant and, alongside feeding their own calves, the cows can raise another five to six abandoned calves between them. Mating starts on October 1, with cows mated for nine weeks, resulting in a 95% in-calf rate, while heifers are mated for six weeks and achieve an 85% in-calf rate.
Environmental stewardship
The farm operates its own nursery, where the team cultivates native plants, often rescued as seedlings from vulnerable areas off th he propertyy. Chriissy personallly manages pest control across 200 hectares,
Tony Lumsden and Chrissy Weeks run their family’s 270ha effective Matatā beef farm. Photo / Catherine Fry
NEW ZEALAND’S NEWEST CHRISTMAS DESTINATION
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Page 12
COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Countdown on to Young Farmer district finals The biggest event on the Young Farmers Club calendar is looming.
Federated Farmers chair Keith Holmes. Abbey says the hosts and convenors of each district final set the 10 modules involved in the daytime challenges.
District finals of the prestigious Young Farmer of the Year competition will Topical tests be held next month across Alongside interviews, the Waikato-Bay of Plenty these have previously Young Farmers region. included tests on riparian Morrinsville-Ngarua planting, driving and YFC is hosting a district loading mini tractors and final on November 7, with Piarere doing likewise on Waikato/Bay of Plenty Young motorbikes, while making Farmers Club Chair Abbey pancakes without a recipe November 28. was thrown into the mix Thompson. Photo / Steve Edwards Ten clubs are involved last year. across the region, The regional final involves written stretching from Hauraki to King Country. examinations, including managing a This includes Te Puke YFC flying the farmlet and its associated fencing and flag for the Bay of Plenty, while Waikato water requirements, as well as two is represented by Hauraki, North practical agri-sports challenges. Waikato, Morrinsville-Ngarua, Piarere, Last year these included sausage tying, Hamilton, Te Kawa West, South Waikato smoothie making and tying down hay and Reporoa, with King Country YFC on bales, along with building a beehive and the southern boundary. Waikato-Bay of Plenty YFC chair Abbey irrigating planter boxes. Abbey says judges consider both the Thompson says 30 spots are available at time taken and the quality of the result. each district final, with four competitors She has competed in the Young Farmer from each progressing to the regional of the Year district contest twice before final, hosted by Te Kawa West YFC in Te and is back again this year representing Awamutu on April 10. her Piarere club. One competitor will then advance to Having joined Young Farmers in 2018, the grand final of the Young Farmer of Abbey took on the Waikato-Bay of Plenty the Year competition, to be held over regional chair role earlier this year after three days, from July 1-3, at venues serving as vice-chair in 2025. around Christchurch. She chaired Piarere YFC for two years Past winners of the Young Farmer of after previously holding the positions of the Year title representing Waikato-Bay vice-chair and treasurer. of Plenty include current Waikato MP Growing up on her parents’ dairy farm Tim van de Molen and former Waikato
Te Aroha sheep and beef farmer Cam Clayton was the winner of the 2026 Waikato Bay of Plenty FMG Young Farmer of the Year regional final.
near Matamata, Abbey has worked as a sustainable dairy advisor for Farm Source for the past three years and has been with the business for five years in total. She became involved with Young Farmers while studying at Massey University, where she completed a Bachelor of Science, majoring in animal science and agricultural science. Returning to the family farm after university, Abbey worked both in the office and on a sheep-milking farm near Matamata, and later operated the weighbridge for an agricultural contractor before joining Farm Source.
Regular activities
Alongside the annual Young Farmer of the Year competition, she says clubs are involved in regular activities including fundraising through covering silage stacks and picking up hay, attending A&P shows and quiz nights, and organising social events such as indoor bowling, hot-pool trips and barbecues.
Always popular is the interclub raft race held in late January or early February, with members constructing their own vessels. There is also the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Top Dog Trophy, where any club in the region can challenge the trophy holder in an event of its choice. The Young Farmer of the Year competition will again feature primary and secondary school sections, with district winners progressing to regional finals before the grand final in Christchurch. The Junior Young Farmer of the Year competition sees high school students compete in pairs to tackle various modules focused on the food and fibre sector. Primary school children team up in groups of three to compete for the AgriKids NZ Champion title. The nationwide Young Farmers organisation now also includes a TeenAg membership for secondary school students and an NZYF Alumni Network for former members over the age of 31. Steve Edwards
Waikato-Bay of Plenty Young Farmers Clubs
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North Waikato – Sheree Fitzpatrick First Thursday – Rangiriri Tavern, Te Kauwhata northwaikato@youngfarmers.co.nz Hamilton – Alex Diprose First Wednesday – Cock and Bull, Hamilton hamilton@youngfarmers.co.nz Hauraki – Joe Bradly-Arthur Second Wednesday – Ngatea Hotel & Pub, Ngatea hauraki@youngfarmers.co.nz Morrinsville-Ngarua – Thomas Pepper First Monday – Top Pub, Morrinsville ngarua@youngfarmers.co.nz Piarere – Edward Roskam First Monday – Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel & Pub, Okoroire piarere@youngfarmers.co.nz
Te Puke – Shanice Young Last Tuesday – Te Puke RSA, Te Puke tepuke@youngfarmers.co.nz South Waikato – Kate Julian First Tuesday – Tokoroa Club, Tokoroa southwaikato@youngfarmers.co.nz Reporoa – Georgia Bullock First Wednesday – Woolshed Tavern, Reporoa reporoa@youngfarmers.co.nz Te Kawa West – Jenna Korston Second Wednesday – Fahrenheit, Te Awamutu tekawawest@youngfarmers.co.nz King Country – Vinnie Kerins First Thursday – Rusty Nail, Taumarunui kingcountry@youngfarmers.co.nz
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FERTILISER
Page 14
Global fertiliser pressures set to linger as farmers urged to plan ahead
New Zealand farmers heading into s p r i n g a re b e i n g u r g e d t o p l a n e a r l y and stay flexible as global fertiliser markets remain under pressure from geopolitical instability, supply constraints and rising freight costs. According to the latest spring market outlook from agricultural co-operative Ravensdown, phosphate fertiliser prices are expected to remain elevated, nitrogen prices could strengthen as global demand grows, and ongoing international uncertainty continues to create volatility across fertiliser markets.
Complex market
Ravensdown chief operating offi fficcer Mike Whitty says there is no single factor driving the market, but rather a combination of global events that continue to ripple through to New Zealand farms. “As we head into spring, global fertiliser markets remain complex,” Whitty says. “Geopolitical disruption, constrained supply routes and high input costs continue to influence what we pay for product and freight.” The outlook highlights the critical role of sulphur in phosphate fertiliser production and points to ongoing supply
challenges in the Middle East as a majjor contributor to higgh prices. Ongoing instability in the region, combined with shipping disruption through the Red Sea, has reduced the number of available sulphur supply sources while also increasing transport distances and costs. Although demand for sulphur has softened as prices have climbed, Ravensdown says values have not fallen and instead appear to have stabilised at historically high levels. The result is continued pressure on phosphate fertilisers such as DAP, MAP, TSP and superphosphate, all of which rely on sulphur during manufacture. Ravensdown notes Ravensdown chief operating that producing officer Mike Whitty. one tonne of DAP requires about 400kg of sulphur, compared with approximately 110kg for a tonne of superphosphate.
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Whitty says the co-operative continues to diversify its supply sources to maintain reliability and quality. The organisation is sourcing phosphate rock from Australia, Togo and Morocco as part of a strategy designed to strengthen supply continuity during uncertain global conditions. Nitrogen markets present a different challenge. China has returned to exporting urea, helping ease international prices, but Ravensdown warns those exports remain tightly controlled and could be restricted at short notice if domestic demand increases. At the same time, global nitrogen demand is expected to strengthen as Northern Hemisphere agriculture moves into autumn while New Zealand’s spring demand ramps up. India is also continuing to influence the market through large-scale urea purchasing tenders that can rapidly tighten global supply and affect pricing internationally. To reduce risk, Ravensdown has expanded its sourcing network, securing additional urea supplies from Brunei and the United States while continuing to explore opportunities in Saudi Arabia. However, challenges remain around product availability and marine insurance costs. The co-operative also notes that additional Chinese customs inspection requirements on products such as ammonium sulphate are expected to further constrain export volumes and add uncertainty to the marketplace. By comparison, potash markets are considered relatively stable. Global supply is regarded as adequate and prices are largely tracking sideways, providing some certainty in at least one segment of the fertiliser market. Freight remains another significant contributor to cost pressures. Vessel availability is limited in some regions, shipping routes have lengthened and global freight rates have increased alongside fuel costs. While the strengthening New Zealand dollar has provided some support, Ravensdown says it has not been enough to fully offset rising commodity and shipping expenses.
FERTILISER “The question should not simply be, ‘Should I use nitrogen?’ It should be, ‘Where and when would additional growth give me the most useful options?“ Mike White, Ravensdown chief science officer
Seasonal outlook
Alongside its market outlook, Ravensdown is also encouraging farmers to look ahead as climate forecasts point to the development of El Niño conditions later in the season. NIWA’s September to November seasonal climate outlook indicates El Niño conditions are expected to peak in late spring and early summer, increasing the likelihood of drier-than-normal conditions across eastern and northern regions of the country while potentially bringing more rainfall to western and southern areas. Ravensdown chief science officer Mike White says farmers and growers should be thinking now about how they can maintain flexibility if conditions become more challenging. For livestock farmers, that may involve identifying options for stock movements, protecting breeding stock condition and maintaining flexibility around feed supply. Growers may need to review crop choices, nutrient timing, irrigation priorities and harvest planning while opportunities to make changes still exist. White says strategic nitrogen use should form part of those discussions.
“Weather is always a matter of probability rather than certainty, but the evidence suggests farmers and growers should be thinking now about their latespring and summer options,” he says. He notes that rising soil temperatures and adequate soil moisture can create favourable conditions for nitrogen applications, helping drive additional pasture growth or support crop development. However, he cautions that nitrogen is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its effectiveness depends on factors such as soil fertility, moisture availability, stocking rates, crop requirements and the farmer’s ability to make use of any extra growth generated. “The question should not simply be, ‘Should I use nitrogen?’ It should be, ‘Where and when would additional growth give me the most useful options?’” White says. For many farmers, the message is clear. While international uncertainty remains beyond their control, careful planning, timely nutrient decisions and maintaining flexibility within farm systems could prove valuable as another unpredictable spring unfolds.
Breeding for the next crop could slash fertiliser costs
A new approach to crop breeding that focuses on how one crop benefits the next could help farmers lift productivity and reduce fertiliser use, according to Australian researchers.
Ravensdown chief science offi fficcer Mike Whi hite.
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Page 15
Scientists at the Universityy of Queensland say plant breeders have traditionally focused on max aximising x yield from a single crop, but new research suggests there is significant untapped genetic potential in selecting varieties for the legacy they leave behind. Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation researcher Dr Millicent Smith says every crop altered soil nutrients, water availability, structure and microbial communities, influencing the performance of subsequent crops. “We already know that every crop leaves a legacy,” Millicent says. “Rotating crops has delivered agronomic benefits for centuries, yet the genetics underpinning those benefits have remained largely invisible to plant breeding.” Rather than viewing crop rotation purely as a farm management practice, Millicent’s team has begun treating it as a genetic question. “What we are saying is that the variety chosen matters too and could be something breeders select for,” she says. The theory was tested in a largescale trial involving more than 300
genetically diverse mungbean lines grown at a southern Queensland research station. Researchers then planted the same wheat variety across all plots to measure the impact of the previous crop. The results were striking. Some mungbean varieties increased the following wheat crop’s yield by as much as 45 per cent, while others reduced production by half. Overall, wheat yields varied by up to one tonne per hectare depending on the mungbean variety grown beforehand. Plant breeder Professor Lee Hickey said researchers had identified specific regions of the mungbean genome linked to the performance of the subsequent wheat crop. “What’s striking is that some of those regions work against each other,” Hickey said. “The genetics that make one crop high-yielding can be the same genetics that leave less soil resources behind for the next crop.” Computer modelling showed selecting equally for mungbean yield and following wheat performance could deliver gains in both crops while reducing input requirements. Researchers say the concept could eventually be applied to other rotations, including canola-wheat and chickpea-barley systems, opening the door to breeding crops for whole-farm productivity rather than single-season yield.
FERTILISER
Page 16
Better crops using N Smart coated urea It’s spring, and cropping time is upon us. But it isn’t always straightforward to get crops sown and growing.
If it’s pouring down and paddocks are wet, as they sometimes can be in spring, applied nutrients such as urea are at risk of leaching. If it’s dry, which can also be the case, nitrogen can volatilise before newly germinated seedlings are able to make use of it. That’s wasted nutrient and wasted money. Wastage can also occur through machinery damage to new seedlings when post-germination or side dressings are applied. However, this wastage need not occur if a polymer-coated urea (PCU) is used in the cropping fertiliser.
Nutrients that stay put
We’ve already described the advantages of using PCU when nitrogen is required. It’s perfect for building a winter feed wedge and boosting summer pasture quality. But it’s also ideal for providing the nitrogen needed for heavy-feeding crops such as maize and brassicas, thanks to the protective coating around the urea granules that enables the nutrients to stay put. When it’s wet, nitrifying bacteria transform urea into plant-friendly nitrate very quickly. The problem is that the rate of nitrification is usually faster than plant
growth rates. As a result, newly germinated maize or brassica seedlings cannot use all of the nutrients that have been applied. Therefore, there is a high probability that the nutrients will be leached away and wasted. With PCU, the protective coating reduces wastage even when conditions are very wet. This is because the nutrient is released gradually through the semi-permeable coating in a controlled pattern that is much more in line with the needs of growing seedlings. Notably, PCU is used in extremely wet environments around the world, such as wet-field rice-growing regions, to reduce nutrient loss and increase yields.
Nutrients that improve yields
In the academic journal Molecules, a recent review of controlled-release fertilisers (CRFs) such as PCU states that: “The current evidence shows that CRFs can improve yield, crop quality, nutrient recovery, and nitrogen-use efficiency…” (Siudak et al., 2026: 22). This is very encouraging in the search for tools to increase production while reducing environmental harm. Avoiding nutrient wastage while increasing yields is an important ethos for us at Fertco, and one reason we have been using PCU very successfully in our Fertco 2-Step Maize Programme and Fertco Smart Brassica Base. But there’s another reason why PCU is
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granule until they are gradually released in a steady but predictable pattern based on soil temperature.
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Machinery damage avoided
Typically, maize requires three applications: a base dressing applied before planting, a second dressing applied at sowing time, and a third dressing applied when the young maize seedlings are at the four-leaf stage. Brassica crops are usually given two applications: a base dressing prior to planting and a side dressing just before the young plants reach canopy closure. However, when PCU is included in the cropping programme, there is no need for a post-germination side dressing. The nutrients can be applied in the base dressing and remain within the PCU
Apart from reducing fertiliser spreading costs, being able to forgo the side dressing removes the risk of machinery damage to newly germinated plants, whether from tyre damage or knifing if the side dressing is incorporated into the soil. Also avoided are the hassles associated with spreader availability, which can be especially problematic when conditions are very wet. Establishing a crop requires a significant investment. Including PCU in our Fertco cropping mixes is proving to be an effective way of helping customers reduce wastage of both time and money.
EFFLUENT & IRRIGATION
Page 17
How dairy farms can protect waterways and use nutrients of water across a paddock. A 500m pivot, for example, can irrigate about 79ha in one rotation. Another commonly used method is the linear move sprinkler system, and both are widely used by area in New Zealand, covering hundreds of thousands of hectares, primarily on large pastoral and dairy farms. From the simple water race to the computer-controlled centre pivot, New Zealand’s irrigation story reflects the the Rangitātā Diversion Race. Work began ingenuity of farmers and engineers in making productive use of some of the in 1937 on the 67km scheme, which country’s driest farmland. It has been diverted water from the Rangitātā River across Mid-Canterbury towards the Rakaia particularly important in transforming the Canterbury Plains, Central Otago, River. It was New Zealand’s first major and areas of the East Coast into river-diversion irrigation scheme and highly productive agricultural regions. transformed farming in the Ashburton district, allowing greater agricultural Effluent production and diversification. Farm effluent management in NZ After the World War II, irrigation has improved considerably over the expanded throughout Canterbury, years. There is now greater emphasis on Central Otago and other dry-farming protecting waterways and making use of regions. Government-built races, canals, the nutrients in animal waste. dams and later piped systems supplied On dairy farms, effluent is produced water to increasingly productive farms. mainly in the milking shed, yards, feed The establishment of the Winchmore pads and other areas where animals are Irrigation Research Station in 1946 also concentrated. It can contain urine, faeces, helped farmers understand how best to wash-down water, milk residues, and use irrigation water and improve pasture other organic material. This effluent is production. collected and directed into storage ponds, As knowledge of irrigation expanded, the next major development was the shift tanks, or other approved containment from flood irrigation and border-dyke systems to sprinklers. Instead of allowing water to flow across paddocks, sprinklers could distribute it more evenly and use water more efficiently. Technology continued to improve, with computerised controls allowing farmers to regulate when and how much water was applied. Today, one of the most recognisable forms of irrigation is the centre-pivot system. A long arm rotates around a midway point, applying water in a large circular pattern. Modern pivots can be computer-controlled and adjusted to apply different amounts
Over the years, irrigation has often drawn some pretty harsh criticism. In the 1930s, it was suggested that the irrigated area would no longer be able to grow wheat; it would be impossible to carry cattle; brown top and gorse would invade the pasture; new and unexpected diseases would be rampant; the hill country farmer would be deprived of an outlet for surplus ewes and lambs; grass grub, porina and other pests would destroy pastures and crops; soil fertility would be depleted, and foot rot and internal parasites would make it impossible to raise sheep, writes Kem Ormond.
Irrigation has played a significant role in New Zealand farming, particularly in Canterbury and Central Otago, two of the country’s driest agricultural regions. The transformation from simple water races to sophisticated computercontrolled applications has been a game-changer for farmers and growers. Gold mining played a key role in irrigation’s development. In Central Otago during the gold-mining era of the 1860s and 1880s, miners constructed water races to carry water for gold sluicing. As mining declined, some races and water rights were adapted for pastoral farming. Farmers diverted water from streams and rivers to flood paddocks, providing much-needed moisture during the dry summer months. Canterbury was another early centre of irrigation. Farmers began diverting water from rivers and streams in the mid-19th century, mainly to provide stock water. By the late 19th century, local authorities were constructing networks of races across the Canterburyy Plains. In the Ashburton district, early water races were developed from the 1870s and 1880s.
systems. Having storage is particularly important during wet weather, when paddocks are too saturated to safely absorb additional nutrients. Once conditions are suitable, effluent can be applied to pasture or crops using irrigation systems or effluent tankers. The nutrients it contains can provide valuable fertiliser and reduce the need for some manufactured fertilisers. Kem Ormond
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DAIRY
Page 18
Alternative technologies should be considered A recent report indicated that the availability of sulphuric acid may become increasingly tight. That matters to New Zealand farmers because, when the resource is constrained, prices rise, and the single superphosphate manufactured here depends on a steady and uninterrupted supply of acid. Typically, the superphosphate produced here contains equal amounts of acid and phosphate rock, with an analysis of 9% phosphate and 11% sulphur. It worked for this country because our soils were responsive to both phosphorus and sulphur. Phosphorus is necessary for crop yield and energy formation, while sulphur is a component of protein and therefore an essential input. From a pastoral perspective, sulphur can be supplied in the immediately plant-available sulphate form, or in the elemental form, which breaks down in the soil to provide sulphate.
Surface-working earthworms are a visible sign of improving soil biology, helping support the fungi and bacteria that drive long-term pasture performance.
Rethinking phosphorus
The phosphorus situation is somewhat more nuanced. Soils naturally contain around 500kg P/ha in the top 15cm, with many soils now containing twice that amount as a result of above-maintenance inputs over several decades. Research by Dr Tim Jenkins while at Lincoln University showed that true maintenance on a well-managed sheep and beef property is between 4 and 8kg P/ha annually, while dairy requires 12–16kg P/ha. The models used by consultants and salespeople indicate that inputs of four to five times that amount are required. While prices are low, that works, but with costs likely to rise in the next two years, serious consideration should be given to reducing inputs and utilising some of the stored resource. The research undertaken by MAF found the difference in pasture growth provided by RPR (Reactive Phosphate Rock)
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and superphosphate to be negligible, particularly after the initial three years. RPR has the advantage of a higher analysis, so less tonnage is required. The rock contains much the same quantity of calcium as lime, with each tonne having the liming effect of half a tonne of lime. Although the solubility of phosphate rock currently sold here indicates that it is not genuine soft rock, over time it can provide maintenance requirements.
Building soil biology
The liming effect promotes beneficial soil biology, the most obvious example being surface-working earthworms. Where earthworms proliferate, so too do other useful fungi and bacteria. Functional Fertiliser makes two products, one based on high-quality limestone and another utilising the unique magnesium fertiliser Golden Bay dolomite. Both products contain soft carbons
inoculated with a wide range of beneficial soil microbes, including mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi occur naturally; however, the strains in the product are new and improved. They are particularly beneficial because they extend the root zone of plants by up to nine times and can access both phosphorus and moisture from smaller spaces than root hairs can penetrate. Work by DSIR in Australia indicates that mycorrhizal fungi function best in situations where soluble phosphorus is not applied. There are multiple highperforming properties in New Zealand that have exclusively used phosphate rock as the provider of P and are in the top echelon of both animal and total farm performance. It’s fascinating that it may be an external force that provides the impetus necessary for more farmers to consider a change that delivers genuine long-term benefits with no downsides.
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DAIRY
Page 19
Confidence returns as spring boosts farming Spring is well and truly here, although a couple of late frosts in September have been a good reminder that spring weather can still keep us guessing. We have been trying to get as much maize in the ground as possible this month to meet the strong demand for early maize, particularly with the prospect of a dry summer ahead. But there is always a bit of a gamble when planting summer crops too early, and those frosts certainly make you think twice. It seems the good news in farming just keeps coming. Fonterra has announced a final milk price of $9.69/kgMS for last season, along with a strong financial result and a total dividend of $0.73 per share. It has also lifted its forecast milk price for the coming season With strong farmgate returns and grass growth kicking into gear, confidence is building across the rural sector. from $9.25 to $9.50/kgMS. While there is still plenty Even so, these are still good ultimately, they have to make the numbers possibility of a drier summer is certainly that can change before the returns. The important thing work. But I do wonder what the long-term something farmers should be thinking season is over, it is a far more effect will be on our rural communities about. A good spring can make everyone is that many farmers have positive picture than we have feel confident, but it does not take long finally had a chance to rebuild when productive farms disappear. seen for some time. Having spent five years working in for things to change once the rain stops. some financial breathing Beef prices are continuing commodity trading in London, I also That is why now is the time to think space. Hopefully, rather than to hover around the $10/kg remember watching carbon prices collapse about supplementary feed rather than spending it all immediately, CW mark, while lamb has not once, but twice. The European carbon waiting until everyone is looking for it. some of that money can reached as high as $12.20/ market saw prices fall to virtually nothing, If you think you might need maize go towards strengthening kg CW. With the grass finally which makes me a little cautious about silage or lucerne this summer, give us a taking off, we are also seeing strong prices businesses and making the next tough placing too much faith in carbon credits call and get it sorted while there is still season a little easier to manage. And there for store cattle at local sale yards. as a long-term investment. plenty available. is certainly plenty that could test us. Because, as farming keeps reminding Returning confidence Forward thinking us, it is usually much easier to prepare Changing times To me, the rural sector feels as strong for a problem than to try to fix it once Then there is the weather. El Niño has Last month, I mentioned the changing as it has for many years. You can feel it arrives. been talked about for months, and the face of farming, with more dairy farms in confidence returning, and that confidence is starting to show in land prices too, with the Bay of Plenty moving into kiwifruit some very large sums being paid for dairy production and arable farms in the South Island moving into dairying. Another farms in Canterbury. change that is becoming increasingly Of course, we should not get carried noticeable is the amount of productive away. The exceptional beef and lamb farmland being planted in forestry, returns of last season are not expected to particularly for carbon credits. continue at quite the same level. Beef + Around 3300 square kilometres of sheep Lamb New Zealand is forecasting lamb and beef farmland has reportedly been prices to ease by around 8% and beef by 4.5%, while farm expenses are expected to converted to forestry since 2017. I can rise by around 4.2%. understand why farmers make that decision;
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Page 20
Picking peas and p pulling carrots Turn the calendar over to September and suddenly the garden seems to come alive.
There is plenty to do and the rewards are beginning to appear. I am picking glorious peas from the garden and they are delicious.
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Freshly picked peas are one of spring’s real pleasures, with a sweetness and flavour hard to beat. Of course, not all are making it to the kitchen. Some are being enjoyed straight from the garden, while others will be saved for dinner, with a handful destined for tonight’s stir-fry. One vegetable we mustn’t forget is the humble carrot. I am pulling some up most nights and adding them to dinner. After onions and tomatoes, carrots rank among the most versatile vegetables. Whether incorporated into salads, casseroles, cakes or simply glazed with brown sugar, their adaptability makes them an invaluable addition to any kitchen. With careful planning, successive plantings can provide a near yearround supply. Carrots should always be sown directly from seed, as they do not transplant well. When sowing in rows, maintain 40-50cm between rows and
plant seeds no deeper than 6mm. Planting too deeply will hinder germination. Prepare the soil thoroughly to prevent forking, which occurs when roots encounter obstructions. Avoid high nitrogen levels, as these promote excessive foliage at the expense of root development. A fine tilth, the physical condition of soil prepared for planting, is essential, given the small size of carrot seeds. After about four weeks, when true leaves appear, thinning is necessary to ensure uniform root development, a tedious but worthwhile task. As plants mature, gently cover exposed crowns with soil to prevent greening. Carrots are ready for harvest when their shoulders emerge from the soil and reach the desired size. Popular varieties include Manchester, Majestic and Nantes, though heirloom and rainbow mixes offer alternatives.
Rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, carrots also provide antioxidants and dietary fibre, making them nutritious and flavourful. Their natural sweetness enhances casseroles, fritters and countless other dishes. Honestly, carrots are a must for the vegetable garden.
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Page 21
Wallabies eradicated bu ut catfish surge in BOP Wallabies have been eradicated in one forest and a lake restored – but catfish, crabs and some pest plants are spreading in the Bay of Plenty, a new report shows.
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council says it is “winning” the battle against invasive species despite the mixed results. The council’s pest control report for 2025/26 was released last month. It found 92% of pest management programmes are on track and no new pests have become established.
Successes
A major success was the elimination of wallabies from Endean Forest, near Rotorua. Wallabies were introduced from Australia more than a century ago and spread unchecked. More than one million are now thought to live in the wild in New Zealand. An aerial 1080 operation was carried out on Endean Forest in August 2025. A year later, surveillance cameras no longer detected wallabies in the forest or surrounding area. The operation aimed to stop the pest from spreading west into the Mamaku Plateau. Across the Bay of Plenty, 2295 wallabies were culled during the year, including 33 in areas targeted for complete eradication. Lake Ōkāreka was another success. The lake’s health score rose from 36% in 2013 to 70% by 2025.
More than a decade of weed control has resulted in hornwort, one of New Zealand’s worst aquatic weeds, being undetected since 2015. Two other invasive weeds, egeria and elodea, are also no longer detected, while lagarosiphon remains at low levels. Council biosecurity manager Hamish Lass says the wallaby “elimination” is significant because it prevented population spread into the Waikato. “It also supports the effectiveness of aerial 1080 as a tool to eliminate wallaby.” Hamish says Ōkāreka is now “very close” to being free of invasive aquatic weeds. “The lake’s strong ecological recovery shows what can be achieved through longterm investment, strong partnerships, regular surveillance and rapid response.”
Bullheaded surge
However, one of the more significant concerns in the report was the surge in brown bullhead catfish in Lake Rotorua and Lake Rotoiti. A total of 19,589 catfish were caught during the year, compared with 5477 the previous year, despite fewer nets being deployed. The report says catch rates have increased substantially and notes most fish caught are juveniles, indicating strong ongoing breeding. Hamish says the council is “concerned” the population appears to be increasing despite “ongoing control efforts”. “While control operations removed nearly 20,000 catfish during the year, the data suggests the population
Catfi tfish fi numbers have risen in Rotorua’s lakes. Photo / NZME
remains resilient and may be growing.” Meanwhile, the Asian paddle crab population in Tauranga Harbour is now so high that “containment is no longer realistically achievable”. Hamish says the focus has shifted to monitoring, targeted removals, community engagement and understanding the long-term impacts of the species on the harbour ecosystem. Several widespread pest plant programmes are also struggling against infestations. Woolly nightshade remains the region’s largest plant pest programme, with infestations spread across 1723 properties. Recorded pest cover increased by almost 29,000sq m during the year, reaching more than 335,000sq m. Wild kiwifruit also expanded, with infestations increasing by more than 28,000sq m to almost 359,000sq m across 1074 properties. “The wide-scale distribution of these
species, the fact they are spread by birds, coupled with fast growth rates, makes them very challenging to manage,” Hamish says. He says the current budget and staff numbers are “not considered adequate” to make significant progress in managing these species.
Other increases
Additional increases were recorded for yellow flag iris, Darwin’s barberry and apple of Sodom. The council attributed some of the growth to improved surveillance uncovering unknown infestations. Overall, the council completed 4403 property inspections during 2025/26, received 1094 public inquiries and found no new exclusion pests. Mathew Nash, Local Democracy Reporter
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
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Page 22
Marking 45 years of tree removal Experience counts at Bay of Plenty-based Bax Contractors. The Te Puna company, which specialises in tree removal and earthworks, was founded by Ben Bax 45 years ago. Former employees Clayton Looker and Marcus Paprzik took over the business last year. Marcus initially linked up with Ben Bax at the age of 16, completing a 10-year stint. He then worked at a treechipping company in Katikati for nine to 10 years before Bax Contractors came up for sale, and he bought into the business with another partner. Marcus and Clayton had previously worked together at Bax Contractors.
Safetree certified
A Bax Contractors’ tree-grab in action. Photo / Supplied
Bax Contractors covers the rural, residential, commercial and industrial sectors across the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions. This includes Hamilton, Morrinsville, Matamata, Tauranga, Te Puke, Whakatāne, Rotorua, Katikati, Waihi and Cambridge. With a staff of three, plus the two owners, the company is Safetree certified. Recent jobs have included tree felling as part of a roading project from Waihi to Ōmokoroa and tree removal at the Matamata Country Club.
Work has even taken Bax Contractors to Napier for land clearance related to the expansion of a blueberry farm at Flaxmere. The company is now based across the road from where Ben Bax started in Te Puna. The earthworks side of the business includes land clearing and orchard removal. The equipment and machinery Bax Contractors has on hand for earthworks includes diggers, loaders, a log transporter, a transporter and various attachments. For tree felling, they have all the equipment required for any job. “We can handle the smallest to the largest trees on your farm, orchard or lifestyle block,” says Marcus. Projects have included tree removal on Mount Maunganui using a Black Hawk helicopter. He says spring normally sees them carrying out land-clearing work. They also buy woodlots and undertake logging, stump removal and some commercial forestry harvesting for conversion into usable land. Bax Contractors has also been involved in a number of avocado orchard-to-kiwifruit conversions, removing the trees and completing the required earthworks. Marcus grew up in the Bay of Plenty, attending Mount Maunganui Primary School, Te Puke Intermediate and attending
school in Welcome Bay. He then completed an AgITO course in dairy farming. “I was planning to be a farmer, but always wanted to hop on a digger.” Clayton grew up on a family farm in Manawatū and has been living in the Bay of Plenty for 20 years.
‘A good name’
Over time, he acquired his own grader, water cart and dump truck. Clayton initially worked for a small earthworks company in Papamoa, involved in land clearing, subdivisions and roading. He then linked up with Bax Contractors for a few years, where he met Marcus. For the next 10 years, Clayton worked in the forestry sector across the North Island, including heli-logging. Both he and Marcus are NZQAcertified in tree felling and machine operation. Clayton is also a qualified A-grade heavy diesel mechanic. He later ended up at the same chipping company as Marcus and also had a stint overseas. With their background and experience, plus strict health and safety protocols, Marcus and Clayton say they have built a “good name” in the industry and across the region. For more information, see Bax Contractors’ advert on this page. Steve Edwards
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AVOCADOS
Healthy soils starts between the rows
Page 23
Avocado industry’s positive outlook New Zealand’s avocado industry is heading into the 2026-27 season with cautious optimism, despite the lingering effects of severe winter frosts across key growing regions. NZ Avocado chief executive Brad Siebert says favourable export conditions, particularly renewed demand from Australia and established market programmes across Asia and North America, are providing strong opportunities for growers. New Zealand also retains valuable advantages, including access to a wide range of export destinations, close proximity to major markets and a trusted international reputation for quality produce. However, Brad says those advantages must be converted into sustainable returns through improved orchard productivity, fruit quality and supply-chain performance. The industry’s positive outlook has been
tempered by significant frost events during August, which damaged fruit, foliage and developing flowers in some orchards. While the full impact is still being assessed, the latest crop estimate shows a slight decline in industry volumes compared with earlier forecasts. Brad says it is too early to accurately quantify f the frost’s overall effect, with some damage likely to emerge as harvest progresses. Beyond this season, the industry continues to invest in research and extension programmes, including work on pest and disease management, adaptive spray technologies, AI-assisted decision-making tools and new crop protection products. “Our focus remains on creating value for growers,” Brad says, “through effective industry systems, research, market development and risk management.”
Regeneratiive striips hellp improve soiil structure, recyclle nutriients, support beneficial fungi and microbes, and provide food and habitat for pollinators and pest-controlling insects. Photo / NZME
Healthy avocado roots need soil that can breathe, drain, and hold water. Plants such as chicory send their roots deep into the ground, helping break up compacted areas and improve water movement. As plants grow and then die, they also add organic matter, helping improve soil structure and its ability to hold water and resist erosion. Then there are the nutrients. Legumes, such as clover, can capture nitrogen from the atmosphere and add it naturally to the soil. Deeprooted plants can also bring nutrients from further down in the soil, making them available again. Rather than nutrients simply washing away, regenerative strips can improve soil health, recycle nutrients, and give the wider orchard ecosystem a helping hand. Underneath all of this is a surprisingly busy world of fungi, microbes and other soil organisms. Avocados have strong relationships with beneficial fungi such
as mycorrhizae, and a diverse planting mix creates a great environment for these underground helpers to thrive. But the benefits aren’t just below ground. Regenerative strips can become a ‘buffet’ for beneficial insects. Plants such as buckwheat and coriander provide nectar and pollen for bees, while also attracting insects such as ladybirds – keeping pest populations in check. The trick is diversity. Different plants do different jobs, so a good seed mix is vital. It’s less about finding one wonder plant and more about creating a montage. And that’s really the beauty of regenerative strips. They’re building a healthier, more diverse orchard system that can become more resilient, more biologically active and less reliant on inputs over time. So next time you see a strip of plants growing between the rows, don’t just think ‘flowers and ugh, weeds!’ Think soil builders, yes! Nutrient recyclers, yes! Insect hotels, yes! And an underground ecosystem – all working together.
Progrowers LTD Hamish McKain General Manager/Avocado Grower Services 027 220 2005 hamish.mckain@dms4kiwi.co.nz Willie Herder Avocado Grower Services 027 667 3849 willie.herder@dms4kiwi.co.nz Ivona Kopecka Avocado Grower Services 027 266 4901 ivona.kopecka@dms4kiwi.co.nz
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KIWIFRUIT
Page 24
Strong grower returns forecast Mount Maunganui-based kiwifruit marketer Zespri says fruit quality remains a key area of focus as the industry responds to increasing competition in export markets.
Chief executive Jason Te Brake says while sales remain strong, lower harvest pressures this season mean the industry is managing slightly elevated levels of softer fruit and remaining focused on quality management at the back end of the season. “Our priority is keeping our sales rates up and moving fruit steadily through to customers to avoid a build-up of aged inventory. “We’ve also increased checking onshore before fruit is shipped, while the industry has embraced targeted quality interventions and tighter inventory management to help protect customer confidence and grower value.”
Zespri Gold 3 kiwifr fruit r on the vine.
Jason says recent conversations with the kiwifruit industry have also focused on strengthening Zespri’s position in a changing China market. “We are confident in the future of our China market, but it is becoming more challenging. We are facing increased competition from locally grown G3, which is increasingly competing with more variable New Zealand G3 at the back end of our season. “The emergence of Chinese G3, supported by strong quality, brands and routes to market, is something we need to respond to strongly. Our focus is on having high-quality fruit on shelves all year round to protect and build our brand, retain shelf space, strengthen relationships with our partners and maintain our category leadership.”
Brand protection
Jason says the focus is on delivering a solution that protects Zespri’s premium brand and grower returns in
China, both now and into the future. “Our Our priority will always be maximising New Zealand grower returns and, as part of that, we need to give ourselves the ability to compete as strongly as possible, securing our retail, distribution and supply-chain relationships with the highest-quality fruit year-round. “That fruit quality is critical. We can only command a premium when our quality consistently justifies it, and the clear feedback from our customers is that, at the moment, it does not, particularly at the back end of the season where quality is variable and where fruit is competing directly with Chinese G3. “That means higher quality costs, slower sales and a risk to our brand premium over time if we don’t respond. “Any solution also needs to be practical and sustainable.” Zespri has been discussing two options with the industry. The first is to continue competing from New Zealand with a focus on improving late-season quality, investing in post-harvest innovation and developing long-storing varieties.
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Page 25
as quality remains main focus The second is a tightly controlled China Supply procurement model. “If we pursue China Supply, the model must create and protect value for New Zealand growers while giving Chinese partners a clear incentive to meet Zespri standards and support the brand long term,” says Jason. “There are risks and opportunities with both options, and we will keep working through thesee openly with growers over the coming months.” He says no decisions have been made and any future proposal p would proceed only with w grower support through a prooducer vote.
Strong returns
With Zespri enteringg the latter stages of the 2026 season, its latest forecast expects strong returns for growers from a record crop of 225 million trays. The August forecast shows average perhectare returns are expected to exceed last year’s record returns for all categories except Green and Organic Green. Jason says the
Progrowers LTD www.dms4kiwi.co.nz
forecast per-hectare returns reflect this season’s increased yields and the value secured across global markets despite a more challenging market environment. Mike Murphy, Head of Communications and Strategic Projects at New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorp Incorporated (NZKGI), sayys Mike Murphy, Head of the higher yiields Communications and resulted from m good Strategic Projects at pollination, an NZKGI. Photo / File increase in oorchard hectares an nd favourable weatheer conditions. H He also notes growers should prepare for the upcoming El Niño weather pattern, which is currently forecast to bring dry conditions interspersed with heavy rainfall. “Preparedness for both irrigation and drainage systems
will be front of mind.” Jason says forecast per-tray returns remain within the indicative ranges provided by Zespri in June. “Green and Organic per-tray returns reflect strong demand, lower Green volumes and the expectation of a shorter selling window this season. “SunGold forecast returns reflect a more challenging market environment, with increased competition from summer fruit, pricing pressure across parts of Asia and a larger-than-expected crop.”
Jason says that with more fruit to sell, the focus has been on actively managing the allocation of this year’s crop to help maximise grower returns. “Quality remains our major focus as we move through the second half of the sales season, with our teams managing this through careful market allocation and inventory management, and by working closely with suppliers and customers to maximise value for growers.” Steve Edwards
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Page 26
KIWIFRUIT
New pathway boosts minor crop pest control Government measures have been introduced to help growers of minor crops manage weed and pest control.
New Zealand Food Safety has established a process allowing individuals to request a maximum residue limit (MRL) for the off-label use of agrichemicals on a minor crop, based on existing Codex MRLs. The Codex Alimentarius Commission is an international food standards body established by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation and the World Health Organisation. It develops globally agreed standards to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in food trade.
“Until now, growers of minor crops such as strawberries or leafy greens have often had to rely on low default MRLs where no specific New Zealand limit has been set,” says Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard. “These growers now have a pathway to use internationally agreed, risk-based MRLs, helping them get better value from available herbicides and insecticides. “This is a practical solution that balances safety with flexibility and makes it easier for industry to do business. “Industry strongly supports this change, which will give growers more options and support export opportunities.” Most agricultural chemicals are registered for major crops, such as
Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Kate Scott. Photo / Supplied
kiwifruit or apples, and their labels set out how they can be used. Minor-crop growers who want to use the same products often need to do so offlabel, says Andrew. “Because default residue limits are low, they may have to use products early in the season or at less effective rates.”
NZFS assessment
New Zealand Food Safety will assess each request made through the new pathway. If a request meets the criteria, public consultation will follow. If no concerns are raised, a New Zealand MRL based on the Codex MRL will be approved and adopted. “This is about unlocking the potential of smaller-scale growers through sensible, practical rules that keep food safe and make it easier to get on with the job,” says Andrew. Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) chief executive Kate Scott says the practical change will give smaller-scale growers access to more effective cropprotection tools while maintaining strong food safety safeguards. “HortNZ has worked with the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines team at the Ministry for Primary Industries on this issue, and we are pleased the Government has put a workable pathway in place.” For strawberry growers, Kate says the pathway could provide another option for controlling botrytis (fruit rot). “They could seek the Codex limit for a highly efficacious fungicide, which may allow use closer to harvest with a practical withholding period. “We are partnering with the Strawberry Growers Association to pilot the approach using two crop-protection products.
“This will provide valuable practical experience and help demonstrate how the pathway can work for other minor crops. “Access to a wider range of effective tools is increasingly important as growers respond to pest and disease pressures, changing conditions, and the need to produce more fresh food sustainably. “Ultimately, this change will improve smaller producers’ access to more effective crop-protection options, support domestic food production and supply, and help growers remain productive and resilient.”
MPI comment The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) says “minor crops” are crops grown on a small scale, meaning agrichemical companies generally do not find it worthwhile to develop and register cropprotection products specifically for them. Most agricultural chemicals registered under the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Act 1997 do not have label claims for minor crops. This means growers may need to use a registered agricultural chemical in a way that is not specifically stated on the product label, MPI says. “This off-label use is acceptable for most products, provided residues in food are properly managed. “However, to comply with the low default residue requirement for off-label use (0.1mg/kg), growers are often limited to using agrichemicals early in the season or at ineffective rates.” Minor-crop growers wanting to apply for a Codex MRL for off-label use will need to follow several steps and complete an application form. Applications are free. Steve Edwards
07 573 0085
FARM VEHICLES & MACHINERY
Page 27
Still on track k affter t eiigh ht decades Factory-installed Perkins P6 engine.
Aft fter t driving his first tractor at 4 years old, 80 years on, Roger Benton is still collecting and driving them. Photos / Catherine Fry
Around 80 years have passed since Roger Benton first sat on his father’s Fordson N as a 4-year-old and according to family stories, he decided to drive it through the gate his father had just opened. “I would have kept driving from then onwards, steering them when someone was feeding out, and building up to using them to work on the farm,” says Roger. Roger has lived on a farm all his life, first on family farms, then owning his own dairy farms from 1971 to the early 2000s. His current farm in Tauwhare is leased out and Roger keeps a few acres back for growing steers. He collects mainly Fordson and County pre-1985 machinery and has 24 tractors (including other brands), two bulldozers and three County crawlers. While he admits he isn’t great at the bodywork side of things, he is more of a mechanical engineer and thinks nothing of swapping engines in and out and looking after the mechanical side of his machines. After driving a Fordson E27N with a Perkins P6 engine as a teenager, Roger developed a liking for this classic engine. He has a 1949 Fordson E27N crawler, complete with a factory-installed Perkins P6 engine. “I bought it pre-Covid from a deceased estate in Levin, so I don’t know too much
about its history.” The crawler is a County CFT (County Full Track) built on a Fordson E27N skid unit. “It has a 4.73 litre Perkins P6 diesel engine with around 50 hp. It has three forward gears and one reverse. “There were two first and second gear ratios available and this one has the slow version.” The crawler would have carried out discing, ploughing and general cultivation in areas that were too wet for a tractor to work. A bulldozer blade attachment was available, and the crawler has a three-point linkage system. Roger has hitched it to a trailer plough and ploughed with it. “There’s a belt pulley on the side so with a belt fitted, the crawler could run as a stationary engine for threshing mills, cow sheds, water irrigation and similar tasks.” Roger says that his crawler would have been expensive in its day and, compared to what was available pre WWII, it was advanced technology, as wars create innovation through necessity. Roger is a member of the Waikato Vintage Machinery Club, where he is an active participant in their social outings. Catherine Fry
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Page 28
COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
All eyes on spring for sh heep and d beeff The weather in coming months will once again play a pivotal role in the sheep and beef sector.
Industry body Beef + Lamb New Zealand says livestock entered winter in good condition, though winter delivered a cold but well-managed period in late July and early August, with snow falling to low levels, particularly in the South Island. “Overall, if there is a mild spring, expectations are for an excellent lambing,” says chief economist Andrew Burtt. He says livestock prices for the farming year ending June 30 were excellent. “At the end of last season, wool prices were excellent in May and June, but earlyseason wool sales in July saw wool prices drop significantly. “This leaves concern about wool prices for the rest of this farming year, though overall season-average prices are likely to be above those of the previous farming season.” Andrew says the overall outlook for meat prices in overseas markets is for them to remain generally strong this season, although they are expected to ease back from the peaks reached last season. “This leaves a reasonably good outlook for prices back in New Zealand, though a firming exchange rate would trim returns in NZ dollar terms. A 5% appreciation of the NZ dollar for lamb would lower farm-gate lamb prices by around 6.5%. “Keep in mind that 90 to 95% of meat production is exported, with 30 to 40% of the value added from farm gate to export through the manufacturing and processing sector.”
For the current market, Andrew says August prices for prime stock have been strong. “Companies have signalled that prices will ease from their current levels, though indications are less clear as to whether this will be a gradual easing or a steeper decline.”
Lambing season
Numbers-wise, the lambing season is looking good, says Rotorua-Taupō Federated Farmers meat and wool chair Ruby Mulinder. “Ewe scanning has been positive in most regions,” she says. “Plenty of scanning results are greater than 170% (1000 ewes = 1700 lambs). “However, we are still seeing some farmers not scan for triplets, with all multiples recorded as twins, which does not reflect the true number of lambs on board. “Some don’t want to know about triplets because they can be hard to manage and capitalise on. “I see a real opportunity for the sheep sector in scanning for triplets.” Either way, Ruby says this information is powerful. “If farmers can’t feed them adequately or provide the additional support required, there is the option to sell these animals to better-equipped farmers. “Culling poorly conditioned or lightweight triplet-bearing ewes after scanning can minimise ewe and lamb wastage and help mitigate potential welfare issues during lambing. “If you are having a good season, then
Ruby Mulinder with husband Sean Nixon and children Conor, 5, and Flynn, 2. Photo / Maui Milk
you can explore ways to better capitalise on these triplet-bearing ewes. “But without this scanning information, you can’t pull these levers.” Ruby says a focus on setting ewes up to milk well is fundamental for early lamb weight gains. “With a possible dry summer on the horizon, we should be focused on growing lambs now, which means feeding the ewe well during peak lactation.
Early weaning
“If feed becomes tight, early weaning of lambs is also an option to ensure your best grass can go directly to the lambs, especially when ewes and lambs start competing for the same blade of grass.” Earth Sciences New Zealand and MetService meteorologist Jon Tunster says the El Niño weather pattern was declared in early July and has continued
to strengthen since then. “This means more westerly-quarter winds, from the northwest through to the southwest, than normal across the whole country. Jon says that while the Bay of Plenty and Wairarapa will most likely trend drier through spring and early summer regardless, it is less clear whether areas such as Waikato, King Country and Taranaki will trend wetter or drier. “Essentially, it will depend on the nature or flavour of the westerly flows that affect us. Some scenarios have high-pressure systems sitting closer to the North Island, which means fronts will be relatively weak by the time they reach these regions. “However, there are other scenarios in which the high pressure sits farther away and more vigorous fronts can maintain their strength as they move across the Steve Edwards North Island.”