C&cnov

INSIDE

November 2013 CONTRACTORS MAIZE DAIRY RURAL DRIVER CAMPERVANS KIWIFRUIT EQUINE FORESTRY

10-12 13-17 19-27 28-29 31-33 40-43 46 52

Issue No. 159

Bay of Plenty & Waikato Farm, Orchard & Rural Lifestyle news

Ph 07 578 0030

Psa-V three years on He’s smiling now but three years ago Braden Hungerford was, like most in the industry, a very worried kiwifruit grower.

Read of his orchard’s remarkable comeback from the impacts of the vine disease Psa-V on pages 4-5 and in our special kiwifruit feature (pages 40 - 43), which reveal stories of other industry players who reflect on what’s happened and what’s ahead for kiwifruit. Photo by Elaine Fisher.

Inside November’s issue Page

85HP

DEUTZ QUALITY 100, 112 OR 130HP

Agrofarm 85HP 410GS ROPS/CABIN

Agrotron 100 , 112 KORSeries 130HP • Powershift trans • World’s most economical Deutz Engine economical Deutz Engine • Powershift trans 24 x 8 40 Kph ECO

• 40Kph power shuttle • Factory cabin/A/c fully spec’d cabin/A/c fully spec’d • 40Kph power shuttle powershift shuttle • 4 wheel disc braking braking ROPS FROM

40-50Kph options

• 24x24 Trans, 4 speed • 24x24 Trans, 4 speed powershift ECO

+4) options (6 cyl Trima +4)

+GST

FINANCE DEAL!

powershift ECO

• Profiline versions available available • Profiline versions available

+GST

+GST

+GST

CABIN FROM CABIN FROM

& 24 Valve engine options • World leading ZF trans 40-50Kph options • World leading ZF trans

24 x 8 40 Kph ECO • ALO Trima +3 loader • ALO Trima +3 loader options (6 cyl Trima +4)

powershift • 4 wheel disc braking

ROPS FROM

Agrotron M HP Series 132-192

• Deutz 12 Valve Agrotron M Series & 24 Valve engine options • Deutz 12 Valve

• World’s most economical Deutz Engine Agrotron K Series

• Factory cabin/A/c fully spec’d Agrofarm 410GS ROPS/CABIN

INCLUDES

INCLUDES

0

28 TRIMA 280 TRIMADER LOADER

LOA

• 4 speed PTO • 4 speed PTO

130hp 6 cyl FROM 130hp 6 cyl FROM

44 cyl cylFROM FROM

$$

$

+GST

+GST

132-192HP

$

+GST

INCLUDES

TRIMA

LOADER

+GST

INCLUDES

TRIMA

LOADER

FROM FROM ONLY ONLY

INCLUDESINCLUDES

+GST +GST

+4 IMA +4 TRIMA TR LOADER LOADER

All offers while stocks last and subject to change without notice. All pricing + GST. 1.95% 12mths* • 2.95% 24mths* 3.95% 36mths* • 4.95% 48mths* Seasonal or yearly payment options available* *Based on 40% Deposit. Normal Lending Criteria & Conditions Apply

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 2

Three years ago An unfortunate anniversary worth marking This month marks an anniversary no one is likely to celebrate, but it’s nonetheless an important one.

It’s three years, on November 5, since the vine disease Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae V, more commonly known as Psa-V, was first identified on a kiwifruit orchard near Te Puke.

Growers had been well aware of how the bacteria had devastated orchards in Italy – and news it was in New Zealand, in the heart of the prime kiwifruit growing region, spread shock and fear through the industry and wider communities so reliant on kiwifruit returns for their survival.

In hindsight, (which we all know is a wonderful thing), it was perhaps naive to think this disease, or something similar, would not arrive one day. New Zealand may be an island but our borders are, in fact, pretty wide open to anything, which may hitch a ride on boats and planes and get past even the most vigilant of border controls.

But, despite dire predictions of doom and devastation cast in those early months, the New Zealand kiwifruit industry hasn’t died. In fact, three years on, there’s a quietly growing optimism in its future, despite the incredibly hard hits growers, post-harvest operators and contractors have taken.

The industry is emerging, as it has from other crises, in a leaner, more efficient and better-prepared way for any future biosecurity incursions.

It hasn’t been easy; and there is a way to go before the industry can claim to be out of recovery mode and back into growth mode. No cure has been found for Psa-V and nor is one likely. The best hope is growers can learn to manage it; and that Hayward Green and the new gold G3 will continue to show tolerance to the disease. In future, new and even more tolerant varieties may be found, but for now these two carry the hopes and fortunes of the industry.

This month we talk to grower Braden Hungerford, one of the first to cut out his Hort16A gold vines in 2011, who is now so confident in the future he’s planting more bare land in kiwifruit. See pages 4-5.

While the vines were suffering from the bacterial infection, growers were battling not only the disease in their orchards, but also the financial and emotional impacts on their lives. It was Ian Greaves who took a leading role in grower welfare. See his story on page 6.

The winner of the October Coast & Country book prize ‘When the Dust Settles’, by Rob Cook with Carl Curtain, published by ABC Books, is Miles Dickey of Waiuku.

The winner of the Kings Seeds ‘Veggies for beginners’ seed selection competition in the October Coast & Country is Shannon Hutching-Bell, an 11-year-old keen gardener from Ohope.

WE’VE GOT EVERYTHING YOU MIGHT NEED FOR AN AMAZING SUMMER. (SUNSHINE NOT INCLUDED) 6 x 8ft GREENHOUSE

699

$

CHICKEN COOP

279

$

was $899

was $349

GARDEN SHED

399

$

was $499 Y’S TERIRCK P

• Top window • Steel base and pegs • 4mm Twinwall polycarbonate

• 198 x 75 x 103cm • Great urban option • High quality fir timber

12 x 8ft GREENHOUSE

LARGE CHICKEN COOP

1199

$

399

$

was $679

was $1499

• Two top windows • Steel base and pegs • 4mm Twinwall polycarbonate

• 290 x 95 x 139cm • Up to 7 hens • High quality Fir timber

All goods have a minimum 12 month warranty and 30 day right of return.

Call us 0800 800 880 www.tradetested.co.nz

All prices include GST. Offers apply 1 November - 30 November 2013 or while stocks last.

• 2.6 x 1.75 x 1.9m • Colours available • Hot dipped galvanised steel

3 PIECE GARDEN COMBO

289

$

was $499

• Line Trimmer + Hedge Trimmer + Blower • 18V Lithium Ion Battery

tradetested T R A D E P R I C E S D E L I V E R E D NAT I O N W I D E

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 3

Dairy model for council Councils could learn from co-operative model, says Garry Webber.

The process which led to the formation of Fonterra and resulted in significant savings for dairy farmers is a template which Local Government would do well to consider, says Garry Webber, Kaimai Ward councillor of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

The driver behind the move to form the dairy co-operative was the promise of efficiencies which would return an additional $450 million per annum to dairy farmers.

Garry believes amalgamation between the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty District councils could bring savings for ratepayers too.

“Currently, we have seven Bay of Plenty Regional councillors, 22 Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga City councillors, two mayors and 20 community board members, serving a combined population of 160,000,” says Garry.

“There needs to be an independent report into whether or not amalgamation between Tauranga City and the Western Bay would bring efficiencies and savings for ratepayers.”

Garry believes, with local body elections over, now is an excellent time to debate the issue of amalgamation. He is in a unique position to make the comparison between restructuring in the dairy industry and local government – he has experience in both.

Alpine

He was CEO of Alpine Dairy Products Ltd, one of four dairy companies, which, in the late 1980s, met to chart a new course forward for the dairy industry.

(The other companies were Northland Co-op Dairy Co, Tui Milk Products and Bay Milk). That move, in fact, marked the beginning of the end of his career in the New Zealand dairy industry.

“There was no way I was going to get the job of CEO of Fonterra, so I went to Japan to work in the dairy industry there.” However, Garry has no regrets that he and other CEOs and board chairmen were instrumental in the re-formed dairy industry

MS1442

structure because he says it needed to happen for the benefit of farmers.

Garry has been a Western Bay of Plenty District councillor for three years, who was recently re-elected for a second term; and he believes strongly that ratepayers could be receiving better value for money than they currently do.

The two councils have been working closer together in recent years – and there are natural synergies, especially in roading, water and waste water services.

However, Garry accepts the concept isn’t popular and there are concerns about some ratepayers having to take on the debt of others.

Independent

Only an independent report, which has access to all relevant financial information for each council for both operating and capital costs during the next 30 to 50 years, will be able to find out if those concerns are justified and where any risks may lie, says Garry.

However, even if such a report shows benefits for ratepayers, Garry says personalities and politics will play a role in attempting to stymie change, just as they did with Fonterra. (See Coast & Country July 2013 – page 25).

Some councillors will be concerned about their jobs, as will council staff. But Garry says, while combining the two councils would see fewer councillors and less staff, people who are good at what they do will find other employment and opportunities either in New Zealand or offshore – as was seen in the dairy industry.

The three-year term of councils also needs to be investigated, because it clouds thinking and discourages elected representatives from having the courage to make tough decisions, based on long-term benefits. Instead, they focus on short term gains which will see them re-elected, says Garry.

He is a fan of the SmartGrowth plan, which aims to be “a cohesive sub-regional plan for managing the growth of the greater Western Bay during the next 50 years”; and he believes it should be part of a template for planning the future prosperity and affordability of the wider region.

By Elaine Fisher

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 4

Biosecurity appointments Kiwifruit Vine Health chairman Peter Ombler has been appointed to the Biosecurity Ministerial Advisory Committee.

He joins four other new members Rob Phillips (chief executive, Environment Southland); Professor Philip Hulme (professor of Plant Biosecurity, Lincoln University); Catherine Taylor (consultant with specialty experience in the aviation and maritime sectors); and Dr Jacqueline Beggs (associate professor of Biological Sciences, University

of Auckland). The five appointees join four reappointments to the committee: Graeme Marshall, Terry Donaldson, David Douglas and Dr Caroline Saunders. Graeme has been appointed as chair for a three-year term.

The committee plays an important role in providing the Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy with independent advice on the performance of New Zealand’s biosecurity system as a whole; and on specific biosecurity issues where necessary.

The Minister says the new appointees bring a range of skills, experience and networks, “and create a wealth of expertise on the committee”.

Confidence restored

In late 2010, Braden Hungerford wasn’t sleeping well. When he did, his dreams were filled with images of kiwifruit vines infected with the disease Psa-V and worries about his future – and that of five other families, who relied on the orchard he managed for their incomes.

Three years on, Braden’s a different man. So confident is he in the bright future of the kiwifruit industry, he’s planning to plant even more vines on the former family dairy farm near Te Puke

– and he’s looking forward to harvesting next autumn’s green and gold crops.

In 2010, just a month after the virulent bacterial disease Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae V was identified in an orchard not far from his own, Braden made the tough decision to cut out 12 ha of kiwifruit in an effort to stop the spread of the disease.

“I don’t want to sound like a martyr, but at that stage there was hope we could eradicate it and someone had to make the first move.”

Subsequently, it became apparent Psa could not be eradicated; and the focus turned to how to manage it. But on the Hungerford orchard, Hayward green, gold

Hort16A and the new variety G9 were gone. Although he believed it was the right thing to do, Braden worried constantly about the chance of the orchard recovering and its ability to support those who relied on it for an income.

Accelerator

“Cutting out vines in summer is not the best time as it slows regrowth, while cutting out in winter stimulates growth. I’d never do it at that time of year again,” admits Braden.

“There’s no point in looking back and regretting what’s happened, but I am sorry I took my foot off the accelerator for a time and didn’t push ahead with more re-grafting.”

ROTORUA 52 VAUGHAN ROAD 07 345 5490

CONDITIONS: Prices listed exclude GST and are valid as of 10 Sept 2013 and expire 29 Nov 2013. Offer valid on new orders only while supplies last. Finance available through John Deere Financial Ltd to approved applicants only. Fees and charges are payable . Subject to change without prior notice. Images are sample only and accessories may not be available on NZ models.

Page 5

COAST & COUNTRY

Braden is giving it his all, despite Psa-V The lucrative gold variety Hort16A is especially vulnerable to Psa; and in the last three years virtually all the vines in the Te Puke area have been removed, which is dramatically reducing inoculum levels – subsequently decreasing the risk of spreading the disease further.

It is widely accepted no orchard in Te Puke is free of the disease, but with careful and consistent management, including industry recommended best practice spray programmes, Braden says it is more than possible to grow productive crops.

Last season, the remaining Hayward Green vines on the orchard produced a record crop, despite Psa, and bud break this spring is looking promising. The prospects are also good for the new green G14.

“There’s some evidence of leaf spotting and Psa can affect bud rot, but the G14 vines don’t appear to die like they do in Hort16A – so we’re hopeful of a good crop,” says Braden.

SunGold

A former Hort16A block was grafted to the new gold G3, also known as SunGold, in July 2012. The orchard employs five full-time staff plus Braden; and their care and attention to detail shows in the canopy tied down from the young vines.

“It’s far less stressful having your own staff than using contractors, because you know the work will be done when it’s required,” says Braden. “And look at this, someone has taken the time to train this cane back to fill in the canopy and maximise fruit yield. The attention to detail in this block equates to many more trays of production,” says Braden, who is proud of how his staff have responded to the challenges and uncertainties caused by Psa. “We are much better growers now than we were. We’ve put systems in place and begin each week with a staff meeting.”

That’s held in the old cowshed where a large whiteboard records tasks to be carried out and by who ,as well as what’s been done in previous weeks.

It’s not been easy getting to the point where he

Solid Food for Soils

DoloZest CalciZest 0800 843 809 07 362 7288

or go to

www.esi.org.nz Eco-Logic Soil Improvement

Above: Braden Hungerford (centre) with two of the team who helped graft the new variety G3 on the orchard Richard Sharpe from the UK (left) and Jessa from Canada. Left: Aneta Bajer from the Czech Republic seals a new G3 budwood graft with tape to keep out infection and help it grow. can be conowned by a company called MJF Ltd. fident of the While Braden hopes the worst is over future; and for Te Puke and Edgecumbe growers, when he looks in terms of the initial impacts of Psa-V, back at the last he says other regions are yet to experithree years, ence that.

Braden shakes “I just hope they learn from the mishis head at takes and successes we’ve been through, what’s hapbecause it would be crazy not to.” pened.

Psa has been a terrible scourge on the “If someone industry, but like many who have been had told me back in early 2010 that through the highs and lows of the last in months I would be cutting out half three years, Braden believes it is emergthe orchard, and during the next three ing stronger and even more efficient. years have five different jobs and end “Orchardists who are not fully comup growing two new varieties of kiwimitted to growing kiwifruit will leave fruit, I wouldn’t have believed them.” the industry, and those who remain will be the best growers.”

Five jobs “Psa has meant more work, but I Those five jobs have included roles don’t know of any other crop which with Kiwifruit Vine Health, helping gives the returns kiwifruit does. At $5 other growers cope with the stresses a tray, with a production of 10,000 of Psa on their orchards, and several trays a hectare, Hayward green is still a roles with EastPack where he is now fantastic crop and the gold varieties are manager orchard productivity, as well even better. Why wouldn’t you give it as managing the Hungerford orchard your all?”

By Elaine Fisher

ONE ONLY

LT19538R Husqvarna Endurance Series™ 11.1kW @ 3300rpm.

38” Cutting deck.

U-Cut™ steering

RRP $3,599

PR17AWD RIDER Kawasaki Fit Series V-Twin 10.9kW @ 2900rpm 112cm Deck RRP $16,299 1 ONLY SPECIAL $13,850

RZ4221

R16C RIDER

RZ4622T

Husqvarna Endurance Series™ V-Twin 12.3kW @ 3350rpm - 42” Deck

Briggs & Stratton 9.8kW @ 2900rpm 94cm Deck

Husqvarna Endurance Series™ V-Twin 12.9kW @ 3350rpm 46” Deck

RRP incl GST. Refers to model RZ4221

RRP $7,499

RRP $6,799

Zero Turns from only $5,999*

Purchase a Husqvarna LTH19530 Lawn Tractor by the 31st December 2013, and receive $200 Cash Back* from Husqvarna! *For terms and conditions see www.husqvarnacashback.co.nz

CTH2138R Husqvarna Endurance Series.

12.2kW @ 3300rpm 42” Cutting deck.

U-Cut Steering - auto Diff Lock.

$5,999

CTH2642TRE

LTH2142DR

YTH2242TDRF

Husqvarna Endurance Series

Husqvarna Endurance Series™

Husqvarna Endurance Series™ 11.1kW @ 3300rpm 30” Cutting Deck

Husqvarna Endurance Series V-Twin 15.3kW @ 3300rpm - 42” Cutting deck.

U-Cut Steering - 320L Collection capacity.

12.2kW @ 3300rpm -

V-Twin12.8kW @ 3300rpm -

42” Deck

42” Deck

RRP $3,899

$6,999

$4,899

$6,499

LTH193530

Ask us about our 5 Year Domestic* Warranty!

Buy genuine Husqvarna engine oil with your Husqvarna product purchase and receive a 5 Year Domestic Warranty. *Offer available until 31st December 2013. See in-store for full terms and conditions.

Brands you can trust Service you can rely on FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE • TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY • ASK IN-STORE FOR DETAILS

1 Gallagher Drive, Hamilton Ph 07 9579150 15 Glasgow St, Tauranga Ph 07 5782263 www.actionequipment.co.nz

Page 6

COAST & COUNTRY

Empathy vital to helping growers get through Ian Greaves, who says he doesn’t handle stress well, nonetheless took a leading role in helping kiwifruit growers cope with the extremely stressful emotional impacts of the vine disease Psa-V.

COMPUTER PROBLEMS?

Three years on from the incursion of the disease, what Ian and others in the Kiwifruit Vine Health and New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc team managed to do to help growers is now considered a template for other industries facing similar crises.

However, Ian says the response to a threat, such as Psa-V or others, which impact on livelihoods can’t be written up as an academic paper or like an accounting model to apply across the board.

“It’s about people, not paper work – about having the right people, who are well recognised and respected, who have empathy for others, almost always due to their own life experiences, to take a lead.”

Sir John Kirwan, a famous former All Black, who fronts a nationwide campaign aimed to help people suffering from depression is a classic example of the kind of leader required, says Ian. “And the kiwifruit industry has a whole bunch of people, who understand exactly what it’s like, or have been there themselves – who are able to empathise with others.” Ian, who has interests in dairying and kiwifruit, was among those to step up early in the piece. Before he did, Ian made sure his own family and financial future were as secure as possible. “We were fortunate that we could do that. Many growers didn’t have those options, but once I knew we were reasonably okay, then I could concentrate on helping others.”

Wellbeing

It was John Burke, then general manager of Kiwifruit Vine Health, who asked Ian to take care of grower welfare in early 2011. “John said KVH was concentrating on the vines, and the NZKGI [focussed on] the financial situation of growers; but someone needed to keep an eye on grower wellbeing.”

One of the first things Ian did was to seek out all the information he could on individuals and organisations which could help, putting together a small pamphlet with lists of names and contact numbers, which was given out personally to growers attending Psa meetings.

“I spoke to the Rural Support Trust, but it can’t swing into action until an adverse event was declared – that didn’t happen for two years and we couldn’t wait that long.”

However, Derek Spratt, Sandy Scarrow, John Allen, and others from the trust offered support, attended and

spoke at meetings and shared data on helping agencies.

A meeting was called in Te Puke of local church leaders, police, ambulance staff and doctors, enlisting their support.

Angry

The next phase of the programme was triggered by a series of angry phone calls. “All at once at KVH we got several really angry calls from growers and realised this was part of the grief cycle. Anger usually follows the feeling of shock and denial, then pain and guilt.”

Ian enlisted clinical psychologist Leanne Dunne, of Tauranga Psychological Services, who along with Terry Wynyard from Civil Defence, talked to a meeting of representatives of kiwifruit and community organisations to help them understand the nature of the crisis, how it would unfold for those most affected, how to help when someone appeared desperate, and how those involved in helping should also look after themselves.

A series of pastoral seminars were organised by KVH and NZKGI, led by Leanne and Aubrey Quinn of the Turning Point Trust of Tauranga. From this time on, NZKGI took over the grower wellbeing role from KVH; and through industry donations and grower funds, financed the support operations. In December 2012, the Government declared an adverse event and many of the operations have been funded since from Government Adverse Event funds.

Most seminars were initially in Te Puke; and while some attracted as few as four, others (like one organised

by Rural Women NZ), saw 125 people attend. “That really broke the ice,” says Ian. “This biggest thing the meetings did was let people know they were not alone, what they were feeling was not unusual, it was okay to talk about how they felt, and there was help available. It also enabled family, friends and neighbours to recognise the signs that someone needed help.

Risk

“There was concern that talking about suicide might increase the risk of people harming themselves, but the research does not support that. Talking about how to do it is obviously not a good idea, but asking someone if they were so depressed they thought of killing themselves can actually decrease the risk.”

Ian says while younger people in the industry – those part of Generation X and Generation Y – are happier to talk about their feelings, older people find it harder so the meetings and pamphlets were useful in breaking down those barriers.

“One of the things Leanne suggested was to think about the worst that could happen, take yourself right to the edge of that; and then nothing else which happened would seem as bad. That makes you look at the situation differently.

“Peter Ombler and John Burke were also great advocates of making a plan and doing something constructive. Taking time for yourself, going for a run or cycle every day, getting away from the orchard are other important ways of coping.”

Young grower Braden Hungerford, one of the first to cut out his vines, assisted KVH in the operational role. “He was a breath of fresh air. I don’t know how he managed to remain so positive, but he used all the tools available – and he did.”

Determined

Ian Greaves took a lead in ensuring grower welfare when Psa first broke out

Ian admits he didn’t share the confidence of Peter Ombler, John Burke and others that the kiwifruit industry would survive,

Page 7

COAST & COUNTRY

Marcel turns scrap steel into thought-provoking art In the hands of Katikati artist Marcel Zwezerijnen, two rusty old plough discs have become the wings of a swooping New Zealand falcon.

The transformation won Marcel first prize in the 2013 New Zealand Mural Contest and Arts Festival sculpture competition. Now, the falcon, which took Marcel 75 hours to create, will become part of Katikati’s Bird Walk alongside the Uretara Stream.

“The plough discs were ideal for the wings, because they were already pretty much the right shape,” says Marcel, who turned to Wingspan Bird of Prey Centre in Rotorua for inspiration and accuracy in designing and crafting the falcon.

“Wingspan was very helpful. They supplied me with a number of photographs of falcon, taken from different angles, and I had these pinned up around my workshop to help create the sculpture.”

Marcel used other pieces of scrap metal and old machinery to fashion the bird, employing skills he learned as a fitter and turner and from blacksmithing work. The body is made from 4 mm plate steel, heated in a gas-powered forge and then worked into shape. The finished bird is in

flight, talons extended, as if to capture its prey. It is not his only piece on public display. In 2012, Marcel was commissioned to create Taupo’s much photographed Giant Bike, the biggest piece he has worked on so far.

Marcel, who calls his business Forged Art, enjoys turning what others may consider useless scrap metal into things of beauty. While his falcon is very life-like (if not larger than life), and as anatomically accurate as he could achieve, other pieces are more abstract. Born in Taupo to Dutch parents Bill and Cathy, Marcel has, during visits to family in Europe, been inspired by art in galleries, museums and public spaces.

“I’m inspired by the Art Nouveau period and artists like Salvador Dali, August Endell and Hector Guimard,” says Marcel.

While it’s the style of those artists and that period which influences technique and form, everyday life from a comment someone may make to the lyrics of a song often spark the idea for a sculpture.

Marcel likes to provoke thought and conversation through his work – and that’s never more so than in a piece called ‘Broken Earth’, which is a sculpture of Planet Earth, torn apart and weeping lava from its core.

“Broken Earth reflects on the damage we have inflicted on the earth. The failing stitching represents our feeble attempt to repair the damage done.”

Finding ways to make steel bend, or mold it to suit his designs, is often challenging – and Marcel admits to using unconventional means at times.

“On one occasion, I cut a steel pipe in half lengthways, and then flattened it by driving over it with my

truck.” Other times, the scrap metal he works with presents its own inspiration, like the pitted piece of steel which looked so much like the surface of a rough ocean Marcel used it as the base for an albatross in flight.

“In my days working in the engineering industry, I couldn’t resist going for a good scrounge through the scrap steel dump nearly every day. I always found

something with interesting shapes and textures. There’s something about rusty steel that just grabs my attention.”

Marcel is keen to buy (or accept donations of ) old farm machinery, scrap steel and copper, to turn into artworks. He can be contacted on 021 1138 507, or by emailing: marcel@forgedart.co.nz For more information, visit his website: www.forgedart.co.nz By Elaine Fisher

Marcel Zwezerijnen used old plough discs to fashion the wings for his award-winning falcon sculpture.

100 % support - no hesitation but he was determined that growers would.

“My goal was the get the growers through and largely I think we managed that. Since the outbreak a few individual growers may have left the industry, but largely we are still all here.

“Overall, I don’t think we are needed anywhere to the same extent now.

Other regions yet to be impacted by the disease are better placed to cope because of what’s been learned about how to manage the disease on-orchard and to look after themselves from the Te Puke experience.

“What I have been especially thrilled about is that whoever and whenever I asked for help – to use a meeting room

0% finance

for information, or for someone to visit a particular grower – no questions asked I received 100 per cent support. If I was a new boy in the industry I’m not sure that would have happened to the same extent.”

The last three years have been tough and Ian wouldn’t want to go through them again. “But it’s been a real privilege and honour to be part of this, to have so many people right across the industry, help when asked, without hesitation.”

Now Ian has time to return attention to his family and his own business interests, all of which have taken a back seat since early 2011. NZKGI and the networks Ian has established are now looking after grower wellbeing.

Purchase now and pay now, in 6 months and in 12 months with 0% Finance*.

N O E RID

DISCO 3050 • •

NOW AVAILABLE AT CAPITAL TRACTORS

• • • •

3m working width Heavy Duty P Series Professional cutterbar Top drive - no blockages Safety link module - cutterbar protection Quick Change knives Swath boards included *Normal lending criteria applies. 1/3 deposit required.

Tailored finance programs available. Offer ends 30/11/13.

S-SERIES

CROSSJET M-SERIES OPEN SATURDAYS 9-12.30pm

Barkes Corner Tauranga Ph 07 543 0021

CHC131010

BAY OF PLENTY 292 Te Ngae Road, Rotorua Contact: Vaughn Carson 027 223 3365 Glenn Davidson 027 223 3363

Page 8

COAST & COUNTRY

Avocado orchards may be dedicated to specific markets in future Avocado orchardists and pack houses may be growing and packing fruit for specific markets in the future, says AVOCO director Alistair Young.

“As the avocado industry matures, it could be that we ask growers to produce fruit of a particular profile to suit the needs of individual markets, and [we]

may have pack houses which also specialise in packing fruit for specific markets,” says Alistair.

That rationalisation within the industry is closer to becoming a reality, thanks to the formation earlier this year of AVOCO, which unites the export marketing efforts of former rivals Southern Produce and Primor Produce. The new entity represents about 70 per cent of New Zealand avocado growers, works

with seven post-harvest facilities in the Bay of Plenty and Northland, and is forecasting its sales to top $50 million in all markets this season.

“This level of control and co-operation adds value.

We are no longer battling each other in the markets – and I simply love the new environment and the opportunity it offers,” says Alistair.

AVOCO’s opening prices in the Australian market this season were very good. “In fact, the opening prices were those we would normally aspire to later in the season. Lack of a local crop is one factor. But consumers have got used to paying $2 to $4 an avocado, so there’s less price resistance.”

Despite the predicted future increases in Australian crop volumes, Alistair believes that market will remain very important to the New Zealand avocado industry.

“Australia will be an opportunity every year, not every second year. Japan and Asia are also important, as will be the USA in future.”

AVOCO sales into countries other than Australia are being marketed under the AVANZA brand, which represents a collaborative agreement between AVOCO and exporter Just Avocados Ltd. Southern Produce director Carwyn Williams says Australian fruit being shut out of Thailand, over a regulatory issue, has opened up an unexpected but welcome opportunity for New Zealand this season.

“We have been working closely with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, who gave us introductions to a number of Thai-based importers and retailers. I interviewed most of them recently in Hong Kong at the Asia Fruit Logistic. As a result, we now have weekly airfreight shipments going to seven new customers in Thailand.”

Thailand is an immature market in terms of avocado consumption.

“I will be visiting our seven customers in early November, and will be accompanied and assisted by the NZTE office in Bangkok. I’m expecting a lot of ‘back to basics’ in terms of product handling, both at importer distribution level as well as at retail. It’s an

exciting phase in any new market development.”

It is predicted the market will take somewhere between 20,000-30,000 trays.

Primor Produce export manager Ted Thomas has been focusing on exports to Japan; and says the volume target for this season is 150,000 trays.

A significant step in the marketing of New Zealand fruit has been AVANZA’s decision to work with Fresh Systems in Japan. “This works for us on a number of levels. It brings together a long term plan that AVANZA have been working on with our business partners Mission Produce Ltd, a Californian-based Avocado Marketing Company. Recognising New Zealand as a supplier during a particular window, September through January, AVANZA joins with Mission to become part of a 12-month sourcing strategy that allows FS to offer their customers the highest quality fruit available.

“We are very satisfied and energised by the progress we are seeing. FS will market around 90 per cent of the volume AVANZA exports to Japan, with the balance handled by a smaller importer in Kawasaki who deals primarily with niche customers, such as Oisix Japan, an online retailer, as well as small regional supermarket chains.”

Fresh Systems is working with selected retailers to introduce them to ripe New Zealand avocados. The company has also developed a special ‘premium branding’ concept known as the Ippin brand. “Originally developed as a special brand for the highest quality bananas ripened and marketed by FS, the Ippin brand has been extended to encompass a growing range of top quality produce, including our New Zealand avocados. Characteristics of a product selected to carry the Ippin brand include a range of things, such as the requirement to ripen the product and representing an appealing regional speciality [for example, the seasonality of New Zealand supply].”

By Elaine Fisher

COAST & COUNTRY

IPM programme reduces flystrike Flystrike is the most important ectoparasitic disease of sheep in New Zealand, causing severe pain and suffering, as well as significant economic losses.

The Animal Welfare (Sheep and Beef Cattle) Code of Welfare 2010, as developed by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, includes minimum standards for the management of flystrike on sheep, which all farmers should be aware of.

These standards include all reasonable steps that must be taken to prevent, or identify and manage, the risk of flystrike in sheep – and states affected sheep

must receive appropriate treatment at the earliest opportunity.

The main flystrike challenge in the region generally starts from November and goes to March, or longer depending on environmental conditions.

Lucilia cuprina (Australian Green Fly) has become very prevalent during the last few seasons, while the other main strike fly is Lucilia sericata (Green blowfly).

The key to maintaining productivity, and minimising animal welfare implications, is prevention – so it is important to have an effective Integrated Pest Management programme to minimise the risk of flystrike.

Factors, such as faecal and urine stains, fleece rot, footrot and wounds,

predispose to attraction of flies.

So any IPM programme should include animal husbandry interventions, such as strategic shearing, crutching and dagging, drenching, footrot and Dermatophilus treatments, which will certainly reduce the attractiveness of sheep to our main strike flies.

In addition the strategic application of chemicals (known as dips), such as diflubenzuron and cyromazine, is critical for flystrike prevention. Just as important is the application method, to ensure a good coverage of the ‘dip wash’ to skin level over the areas of the sheep most prone to strike, for example, shoulder and back, rump and pizzle (rams).

Most effective dips will ensure flystrike prevention for up to 12 weeks.

If in doubt, get expert advice on the appropriate dip chemicals to use, along with the correct application method and timing.

Page 9 Avozilla the world’s largest avocado

‘Avozilla’ is the name of an avocado that grows up to five times’ the size of regular varieties of the fruit, and is now for sale in British supermarkets.

Only four South African trees produce the supersize fruit, which weighs an average of 453 grams and about 2.5 cm long and is selling for about $NZ5.75 or three British pound.

New Zealand is set to go into overdrive New Zealand is set to fly during the next 18 months. Brace yourself – as all the indicators are there.

Here is my thinking around why...

1. Auckland and Christchurch house prices have led the way, as they have in past recoveries.

2. The Reserve Bank is smartly adjusting Loan to Value Ratio (deposit percentage) on housing rather than pushing up interest rates, which would take the growth out of the economy.

3. Interest rates will rise, but they will be held down as long as possible. In fact, I think they just keep threatening a rise to keep us in check.

4. Fonterra’s increase in payout will see an additional $4 billion hit the economy.

But wait, there is more...

5. With a multiplier of six (that is a calculation to show how the money goes round and round), this

Fonterra payout injection balloons out to a $24 billion boost.

6. Sheep, beef, kiwifruit and avocados are also looking strong.

7. Banks are back competing and actively looking for business, taking on more risk and doing deals.

8. We have the Government’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Bill English with his hand firmly on the country’s chequebook with standout results. He and we (New Zealand) are recognised worldwide as one of the fastest economies to recover from the recession.

9. We have good growth in the economy.

10. On a worldwide scale, we are politically very stable.

11. We have vast reserves and resources of minerals, particularly petroleum products. Did I hear

somewhere that we could be the next Saudi Arabia of this world?

12. Our main export income is based on a renewable resource – grass. Don’t laugh, it is true. Every year, we grow grass and convert it to food and products to sell – only to do the same next year.

So, there you have it. Look out, because our economy is going to move up a gear.

And yes, farm prices will increase; and yes, inflation is arriving faster than we realise.

Watch out for cost increases; and try and hold the profit in your business and avoid consumption spending. Enjoy the ride and ensure you make good logical decisions.

These are the opinions of Don Fraser of Fraser Farm Finance.

Any decisions made should not be based on this article alone and appropriate professional assistance should be sought. Don Fraser is the principal of Fraser Farm Finance, and a consultant to the farming industry.

Contact him on 0800 777 675 or 021 777 675.

A UNIQUE COMBINATION IGR FLY AND LICE DIP CONCENTRATE

To order, call 0800 100 123.

HiFLO PUMPS HiFLO PUMPS & IRRIGATION LTD

GRUNDFOS ®

HiFLO PUMPS HiFLO PUMPS & IRRIGATION LTD

Page 10

CONTRACTORS

Quest to find best pastures now on The hunt is on for the best dairy pasture in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty with entry to the Pasture Renewal Persistence Competition, run by the DairyNZ-led Pasture Renewal Leadership Group, now open.

Competition organiser and DairyNZ farm systems specialist Chris Glassey says last summer’s drought was a serious challenge for pastures, as was the drought in 2008.

“Farmers were keen to look after their pastures during the 2013 drought; and indications are that this lead to improved recovery and establishment of new pastures compared with 2008.

“And we’re keen to discover what farmers did to manage their pasture and pasture renewal so well this year,” says Chris.

Farmers can enter in two categories; best Waikato/ BOP first year pasture sown this year, and best Waikato/BOP pasture sown more than three years ago. Up for grabs are two seed and herbicide

packages to the value of $1000 each. The Pasture Renewal Leadership Group is a DairyNZ-led industry group, which includes researchers, the seed industry, farmers and agricultural contractors; and is formed to develop better tools, resources and advice for farmers.

Judging will involve a short interview about the soil fertility and the paddock’s history prior to and since re-sowing. Management practices such as grazing management, endophyte selection, weed control, and nitrogen usage will be discussed.

“We will also be looking for any other information that will help build a picture of the best management practice required for persistence of renewed pastures in this environment,” says Chris.

Entries are open to November 25, with judging held during December. Winners’ field days will be held February 10-14, 2014.

For more information on the competition, or to receive an entry form, call the DairyNZ Farmer Information Service on 0800 4 DAIRYNZ (0800 4 324 7969), or register online at: www.dairynz.co.nz/pasturerenewalcompetition

Council makes progress on major projects The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has made good progress in preparing for remediation of the Kopeopeo Canal in Whakatane, managing technical investigations and consultation for the Kaituna River re-diversion at Maketu, on the wetland creation project, and repairs to major river schemes from previous flood damage, says chief executive MaryAnne Macleod.

In its annual report, the regional council says it has also made progress on its major projects – Tauranga Harbour, Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme, river scheme sustainability project and undertaking the first round of its new regional infrastructure fund.

For Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes,

short-term measures enhanced water quality while other longterm solutions, such as land use and land management changes, were developed further. Because policy for rules and incentives is being developed, no agreement has yet been signed to reduce nitrogen loss to Lake Rotorua’s catchment, so the lake’s nutrient reduction target had not been met, says Mary-Anne.

However, Lake Rotoiti had met its water quality target for the first time, and both Rotorua and Rotoehu were very close to their targets.

Protection of lake, harbour and stream margins in the targeted catchments of Tauranga Harbour and Ohiwa Harbour and Rotorua lakes progresses; and stock exclusion fencing work increased in the Kaituna and Whakatane river catchments. Tauranga Harbour’s Coastal Margins project got underway to protect and enhance biodiversity as well as address sedimentation issues.

The River Scheme Sustainability

Project had begun in response to concerns that the schemes were becoming unaffordable for some ratepayers, says MaryAnne. Recent work focused on scoping four work streams, with initial projects being targeted this December.

The Regional Infrastructure Programme is a council priority.

Seven projects were direct funded, with the Hamurana/Awahou sewerage scheme, and sealing of two kilometres of Oropi Rd near Tauranga, receiving funding.

Funding for the remaining five projects has been carried forward to future years.

Mary-Anne says the council’s efficiency and effectiveness programme aims to achieve savings, with an increased target of $500,000 being set for the current financial year.

The full annual report and a summary are available on the regional council’s website: www.boprc.govt.nz or you can order a hard copy by calling 0800 884 880.

CONTRACTORS

Pasture growth tool online Beef + Lamb New Zealand has a new online tool to predict, two weeks in advance, how the grass will grow on individual farms.

Farmers can also sign up for a free email pasture growth rates forecast for their region. Developed specifically for New Zealand sheep and beef farmers, the tools will help farmers make better feeding decisions, sooner.

The Pasture Growth Forecaster

is a model that calculates pasture growth from the environmental conditions experienced at a site or region.

Environmental conditions, including climate-rainfall, soil temperature, solar radiation and potential evapotranspiration are used to calculate the amount of water in the soil and the potential for pasture growth rate.

The tool’s soil water-holding capacity and soil fertility data is used to calculate how much water is available for plant growth and

the productivity of the site.

The forecasts are calibrated to growth rate data measured from whole farms rather than sites.

Whole-farm growth rates take into account the effect of low producing areas, such as swamps, sidlings, scrub, tracks, and fence lines. They are therefore lower than those measured, for example, in pasture cages, but are more realistic for farm feed budgeting.

To find out more visit, the Beef + Lamb New Zealand website: www.beeflambnz.com

It’s hay and silage-making time Last summer’s drought reinforced the importance of having good quality supplementary feed on hand for livestock – and now is the ideal time to be making hay and silage, says Ian Grant of Grant Contractors.

Ian and his brother Richard are able to offer a comprehensive service to clients from Te Puke and Katikati, and have the equipment to produce and transport round bales, medium-size square bales and conventional bales. They can also wrap bales and as well as making hay or silage for farmers, and buy standing grass to harvest and sell.

As the season is getting busier, Ian says it is impor-

tant farmers give Grant Contractors as much notice as possible so their harvest can be slotted into the schedule.

“It also helps if neighbours work in together to get us to go to the same area and do several properties at once. That way it is economical for us to do smaller lifestyle blocks as well.”

Harvesting, baling and wrapping grass at the optimum time ensures good quality feed for autumn and winter; and because of its range of balers, Grant Contractors is able to produce hay in bale sizes which can be handled by either tractors, or by hand.

“Lifestyle block owners, and especially those with horses, really appreciate having the smaller conventional bales.”

Grant Contractors has been offering an efficient, reliable service to its rural clients for 21 years.

New name, same level of service

Maurice Jackson of MAK Contracting Ltd has a transporter to move machinery quickly.

Maurice Jackson of Morrinsville may have changed the name of his business, but he certainly hasn’t changed the level and diversity of service he offers farmers.

The new name for what was MT Contracting is now MAK Contracting Ltd. “That stands for me, Maurice, and my two sons Ash and Karl, who I hope one day may want to take over the business,” says Maurice, who began the contracting business fourand-a-half years ago.

“I was working for a dairy company and could see that many farmers were commenting they wished they could get a more competitive rate.”

Maurice’s aim is to give good service at a fair price.

“I want to do a good job for farmers – no matter how big or small their property is.”

He’s got the machinery and equipment – and the truck to transport it across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.

“I have a transporter, which means I can load up the tractor and equipment and be on-site almost as quick as anyone in a ute.”

MAK Contracting has just invested in an air seeder attachment for the power harrow, which means Maurice can cultivate and plant all crops except maize.

MAK Contracting also has a spray unit, which attaches to the tractor for larger jobs. “I have one client near Arapuni with a 460 ha farm and I do all the spray work for him. I’ve have also fitted out

a motorbike with a spray unit, so I can do lifestyle blocks too.”

Rural fencing is another service Maurice offers, having a post rammer that fits onto his tractor.

Page 11

Page 12

CONTRACTORS

Ben provides service and results Ensuring farmers gain the most from their cropping and re-grassing programme is the driver behind Ben Muir Contracting.

Soils

Zest

09 to

nz

ment

“This is where the one pass system comes into play. The good news for farmers is the one pass cultivation and seeding unit is not only environmentally sustainable, but it has proven to produce superior crop yields,” says Ben Muir.

Ben takes a big picture view of the whole programme and follows right through the season from spray-out through first crop and onto either re-cropping or re-grassing.

Crops planted include turnips, plantain, chicory, swedes kale, rape, Lucerne and re-grassing.

He supports his practices with extensive trial work, which he carries out on his own farm and others around the district. These results provide information for recommendations to his clients to determine what combinations work best with different crops and the wide varying scenarios he works in.

One of the key features of the one pass unit is its ability to reduce top soil loss in comparison with conventional cultivation and tillage methods.

The one pass system rips, cultivates, seeds and rolls in about four seconds, which retains essential seed-bed moisture, ensuring the crop has the best possible start.

Ben Muir of Ben Muir Contracting offers a one pass system for farmers.

The unit also has a slug bait applicator fitted.

Ben works closely with his spray contractor to provide the support, which he sees as an essential component to successful cropping.

“Working closely with your spray contractor is often undervalued,” says Ben, who seeks the support of experienced contractor Neil Drury, who is also involved with plan-

ning and monitoring of crops. The service doesn’t stop there though. “We make the effort to visit crops and manage any spray programme which is required.”

The fundamental difference Ben sees between him and other contractors is – for Ben – it’s not “all about the machinery” but about the service and results he can achieve for his clients. Give Ben a call, he’s happy to talk cropping.

New accreditation for chemical application Rural Contractors New Zealand, the primary national organisation members apply agrichemicals in a public place for hire and reward, has introduced an alternative chemical applicator accreditation programme to meet the needs of its members and the industry.

The organisation says application of agrichemicals

HAY - SILAGE & STRAW SUPPLIES

NEW SEASONS SPRING BALAGE AVAILABLE NOW GRASS BALAGE, LUCERNE BALAGE, SORGHUM BALAGE, BULK MAIZE SILAGE CONTRACTS AVAILABLE Delivered direct off the paddock to your farm at reduced prices

B.O.P, WAIKATO, HAWKES BAY, MANAWATU SECURE YOUR SUPPLEMENT FOR THE COMING SEASON HAY & BALAGE, PEA VINE HAY, LUCERNE HAY, RED CLOVER SORGHUM & CEREAL BALAGE, THRASHED RYE GRASS BARLEY STRAW, WHEAT STRAW, PEA STRAW, OAT STRAW

NEW THIS SEASON: CERTIFIED ORGANIC HAY FREE RECYCLING OF BALE WRAP AVAILABLE TO ALL OUR CLIENTS

PRODUCERS AND SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY HAY PRODUCTS

JASON HILL 0274 585 295 Email: hay_man@xtra.co.nz

has to be carried out in a competent and professional manner to ensure enhancement of a crop and safety of the operator, the environment and the public.

There will be two levels of agrichemical applicator accreditation available through Rural Contractors New Zealand: • Basic Chemical Applicator • Registered Chemical Applicator Rural Contractors New Zealand will be promoting to central and local government, as well as industry asso-

ciations, the following policy: “Any person applying agrichemicals in a public place or on private property for hire and reward, shall either be: The holder of a Registered Chemical Applicator accreditation or, The holder of a Basic Chemical Applicator (or equivalent), accreditation, operating under the immediate and direct supervision of the holder of a Registered Chemical Applicator accreditation. For more information go to: www.ruralcontractors.org.nz

MAIZE

Page 13

Climate change impacts – the good news and the bad In moderate climate change scenarios, forage yields in the Waikato have potential to increase, unless there are more damaging extreme weather events and higher pest and disease pressures, according to a study

by Plant and Food.

Change in crop varieties and sowing dates can minimise negative impacts of warmer temperatures on yield. However, farmers must continue to improve their farm management practices (irrigation, fertiliser and pest management) to exploit increased yield potentials.

Under severe climate change scenarios, longterm investment in infrastructure (for example, irrigation), and research (for example, crop varieties with new traits), will be necessary to ensure resilience.

The study modelled the potential impact of

climate change on a Waikato cropping farm for the period from 2030 to 2049, using NIWA climate change scenarios for “low” and “high” carbon emissions during a 20-year period.

The study found the expected average monthly temperature increases ranged from 0.9 degrees Celsius (low carbon emissions) to 1.2 degrees Celsius (high carbon emissions).

Average rainfall changed from -1.4 per cent in summer (low) to +20 per cent also in summer (high). The intensity and frequency of rainfall is unknown.

The impacts of climate change for the period 2030-2049 are forecast to result in maize silage yields declining on average by 10 per cent, with a range of -23 to 0 per cent. Warmer temperatures shortened the crop cycle, reducing the opportunity for light interception and photosynthesis. Meanwhile, C4 crops, like maize, do not benefit from the higher atmospheric CO2 levels.

Winter planted green-feed cereal yields

increased by 12 to 33 per cent, depending on the climate scenario. These increases were attributable to longer growth periods from the opportunity of earlier planting after the summer maize crop was harvested.

Changes in potato yields ranged from -20 to 16 per cent, with an average decline of three per cent. The yield decrease was due to shortened cycle lengths caused by warmer temperatures, particularly under dry land conditions.

There will be opportunities to adapt to climate change, including to diversify crop rotations, the study says. For example, in dairy supply systems: • Maize can be sown earlier, and longer maturity hybrids could be used.

• Sowing dates will change; winter forage crops can be sown earlier.

• Adapt storage and processing infrastructure for potato crops.

• Consider use of irrigation to reduce interannual yield variability.

Under more severe climate change, selection

and breeding of varieties adapted to warmer and drier climates; regional investment improving and expanding irrigation infrastructure and increasing the farming business’s financial resilience by reducing debt and diversifying activities will be important.

What is unknown is: • The way the amount and distribution of rainfall happens will change in the future.

• The impact of elevated CO2 levels on photosyn thesis under field conditions.

• The impact of climate change on the yield damage caused by insects, weeds and pathogens.

• The size of yield losses caused by extreme events such as floods, storms and heat waves.

In the modelling exercise: Low is the B1 emissions scenario, and High is the A2 emissions scenario from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (www.ipcc.ch), downscaled by the Regional NIWA1 climate model.

The report is published on the Foundation for Arable Research website: www.far.org.nz

Keep pasture weeds in check

Eastern Bay Sprayers’ 4WD hand-gunning trucks target all weed species.

Eastern Bay Sprayers’ boom trucks are being kept busy following behind maize planters to apply all-important preemergence sprays.

“With the nice warm weather and a little rain over the last couple of months, we had some good pasture growth. But in late October we were hoping for a little more rain for the farmers who have crops in the ground and to also keep the pasture growth going,” says Paul McDowell of Eastern Bay Sprayers.

“Over the next few months would be a good time to get those pasture weeds in check and keep an eye on the weeds in your crops. We can advise on these jobs and supply the chemical also,” says Paul.

“We have been successful in crop, weed and pest, management previously and have had great feedback from farmers. Sometimes, the chemicals can seem a little expensive but the productivity of

a well-managed crop, by far out-weighs the expense.

“Our specialised hand-gunning trucks are really starting to wind up now as the blackberry is starting to sprout some leaves and is ready to be dealt with. We can target any weed species including gorse, thistles, ragwort, pampus grass and the like.”

The 4WD hand-gunning trucks are kitted out with two remote-controlled, retractable hose reels per vehicle that can reach up to 200 metres.

“The staff assigned to this work are happy to ‘stay away’ for work out of the area to make it more cost effective for the farmer.”

Eastern Bay Sprayers take pride in having experienced, enthusiastic and efficient staff, who are qualified for the job – and the technical support from years of experience in the industry is backed with Paul, owner-operator of Eastern Bay Sprayers, who is a Registered Chemical Applicator.

Come and meet the team and check out our new innovative product

and check out our new innovative products

Come and meet the team and check out our new innovative products

7573457AA

d meet the team and check out our new innovative products

MAIZE

Page 14

Now is the time to plan for summer feeds JORDAAN Sue Wylie, checking the BMR Rocket crop on her Central Hawke’s Bay property. suited to intensive management, while Octane’s longer growing season provides for greater flexibility.

Both these Sorghum-Sudan hybrids have excellent vigor and regrowth rates, with well-balanced energy and protein levels. Each of these hybrids has the BMR-6 gene, which provides for enhanced digestibility, palatability and increased ME levels. Both forages suit dairy and cattle.

Sprint, which is a Sudan-Sudan hybrid, is ready for grazing or cutting within about 50 days, with rapid regrowth allowing for some farmers to get up to five grazings from it.

It is extremely palatable, with fine stems; and is ideally suited to shorter seasons, or where it can be well managed. Sprint is suitable for sheep, cattle and dairy stocks.

“Because Rocket and Sprint are so fast-growing, they provide farmers with a number of management options,” says Barry. “Firstly –they let growers get an extra rotation out of their grass pasture.

“On top of that, there is also the option of grazing or cutting for hay, baylage or silage. “They also provide our growers with greater flexibility than they would have with summer brassicas.”

With the promise of another long hot summer just around the corner, now is the time to start making those important decisions on feed supplements for the New Year period. Last year, Sue Wylie, of Central Hawke’s Bay, planted Pacific Seeds BMR Rocket with really impressive results. “We planted BMR Rocket in mid-November, and were able to put our bulls on it 56 days later.

“Despite the really bad drought, the stock averaged weight gains of 2 kg per day while they were on it; and we were able to get them off to the works one month earlier than the previous year,” says Sue. “On average, they were also 20 kilograms heavier than the previous year.”

Pacific Seeds range of summer forages provide growers with diverse and high-yielding quality feed options, developed especially for environments prone to extreme summer conditions. “With our range of maturities, plant types and agronomic traits, we have a summer forage solution to suit growers’ specific needs,” says Pacific Seeds territory manager Barry Smallridge. Pacific Seeds forage options include BMR Rocket, BMR Octane and Sprint.

Rocket, which flowers earlier than Octane, is better

MAIZE GROWERS Get your season off to a great start with quality Pacific Seeds maize hybrids.

50

$

CASH BACK

Bred to consistently deliver high yielding performance for your specific growing needs with a massive $50 cash back in every bag!

Barry Smallridge

Al Park

Scott Shaw

• Northland • Waikato • Bay of Plenty • Poverty Bay • South Island

• Southern Waikato • Hawkes Bay • Southern North Island

New Zealand Product Development Specialist

027 494 7706

027 287 8776

027 563 6700

FULL CASH BACK TERMS & CONDITIONS

ONLINE @ www.pacificseeds.co.nz

0800 PACMAIZE (0800 722 624)

PSACC

PER BAG

Page 15

MAIZE

Every nutrient, major or minor, must be in balance Manganese – the element of life – accelerates seed germination and early maturity of crops and is important for nitrogen metabolism.

When Mn becomes more available at low pH – toxicity can be a problem. High iron or phosphorus can tie up manganese. When K and Na base saturation together exceed 10 per cent, then manganese uptake is blocked.

Found in the mitochondria, it is key component of energy metabolism and may be linked to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – and is critical in cartilage formation and neurotransmitter synthesis (Alzheimer’s is believed to be linked to a decline in production of acetyl choline – a key neurotransmitter).

Ruminant levels range from 75-200 ppm of the ration. Nuts, whole grains and black tea are rich in manganese. Deficiencies may lead to infertility in animals and humans.

Manganese is required for growth, bone formation and it is also an enzyme activator.

Symptoms of manganese deficiency include decreased signs of oestrus and poor conception. A deficiency may manifest as ‘knuckled under’ legs in new born calves, or an excess of bull calves. Take-all disease in wheat is Mn deficiency.

Sources of manganese include trace mineralised salt licks, and commercial supplements.

Apply manganese sulphate to the soil to maintain a minimum of 75ppm, building to an optimum of 125-250ppm. However, do not allow Mn to exceed iron levels, maintaining at least a 5ppm gap between the two.

Molybdenum

Molybdenum plays an important role in detoxification, preventing nitrosamine formation. (Nitrosamines are compounds

of the chemical structure R1N (-R2)-N=O, most of which are carcinogenic). Lamb, lentils, squash, green beans and carrots may be rich in molybdenum.

Mo is part of the enzyme xanthine oxidase.

Symptoms of deficiency include weight loss, emaciation and diarrhoea. Molybdenum is included in some stock food supplements. The plant processes involving conversion of ammonium nitrogen into protein take place in the roots. This always involves energy, so the roots signal the above-ground plant to increase photosynthesis; and thereby boost glucose delivery. This is one of the reasons for the greening effect, associated with application of ammonium fertilisers.

Nitrates awaiting conversion in the roots move into the leaf where they are converted to amines, amino acids and protein. This energy-draining process requires an enzyme called the nitrate reductase enzyme. This enzyme is dependent upon sulfur and, most importantly, Mo. If you have ignored molybdenum, the nitrates remain unconverted in the leaf, the insects receive a calling card; and consumers get to eat food filled with toxic nitrates.

Low level Mo toxicity can seriously affect fertility. The soil needs only 1 ppm Mo, although generally we find up to 8 ppm and have not yet found a case of Mo deficiency.

Selenium is a key component in glutathione peroxidase, (anti-oxidant activity).

It is involved in thyroid hormone conversion and binds heavy metals. Selenium is part of enzymes associated with immune support.

It should be combined with vitamin E for maximum performance.

Deficiency symptoms include weepy eyes, white muscle disease, retained placenta, zig zag pattern droppings, low tail carriage; and therefore dirty rear-end.

This mineral can limit sub-clinical mastitis.

Sources include oil meals, Lucerne, oats, vet and commercial supplements, which may contain 1.0-3.0 ppm

Iodine

Iodine is concentrated in the thyroid (synthesises thyroxine) and ovaries. It is involved in energy metabolism, vitamin A metabolism, body temperature, growth and immune function. Seafood, kelp, eggs and free range hens are rich in iodine. Ruminant ration ranges from 0.5-2.0 ppm. Symptoms of deficiency include big neck in calves and enlargement of the thyroid gland. Brassicas, like kale and swede, can be goitrogenic (inhibit iodine uptake to the thyroid). About 15 to 20 mg of iodine per cow per day may be required to compensate (or 2mg of iodine per kg of dry matter). Chloride and fluoride are halogens which can inhibit iodine.

Kelp is the best natural source of iodine.

Summary

Weepy eyes are a symptom of selenium deficiency.

Finnish potato research reported a 30 per cent increase in mean tuber weight with Se supplementation. This was linked to enhanced photo oxidative stress tolerance. Chinese researchers report an increase in rice yields.

European research showed leaf levels as low as 10 ppm of selenium served to reduce aphid populations by 50 per cent. Selenium is found in seafood, brazil nuts, brewer’s yeast, butter, garlic, kelp and molasses.

Diseases, pests and insect problems can easily be avoided by having a balanced soil. You cannot treat each nutrient in isolation; it is not that simple. Every nutrient, (including those listed here), major or minor must be in balance.

To achieve that, adding minute quantities may keep symptoms away, but not remove the potential cause of a particular problem. It takes about 2 kg of a particular element to raise soil levels by 1 ppm. Soil-applied nutrients, delivered through forage, supply the correct bio-available forms to the animals that eat them. Supplemental feeding, in many cases, is merely treating symptoms, not addressing the causes. For example, feeding animals manganese may not prevent brucellosis, but applying it to the soil can. Once the soil is adequately supplied with all relevant minerals, they take a long time to deplete.

Page 16

MAIZE

Page 17

MAIZE

Rainfall, soil moisture low – another drought possible?

There’s been less rainfall during the last two months than at this time last year. And that’s a concern because when soil moisture reserves are down, things can deteriorate very quickly – just as they did in last summer’s drought.

But it’s hard to sell feed to farmers when they have good grass growth and plenty of silage stored.

We can’t grow a whole lot of maize on spec, hoping farmers will buy it, because it is a very expensive crop to grow and the risks of growing it without forward orders are high.

This season we are growing the usual volumes of feed until we get a better idea of what the weather is likely to Some people seem to think do. We can draw on extra supplies if that there’s no way we will necessary, and we still had some get two droughts in a silage and threshed rye grass row, but it can happen. straw left from last year.

We are still in the However, farmers same neutral weather shouldn’t fly by the seat of phase at as last year’s their pants, as far as feed is drought. concerned. When they get It might seem okay into trouble they go looking now, but in summer for extra – but sometimes the soil can dry out very it’s too late – and you don’t quickly; and there will want to be under-feeding be challenges, as we have cows especially in a potenbeen averaging 20 mm of tially high payout year. rain a month for the last Warmer temperatures two months, which is behind the same affect rye grass growth rates and it doesn’t take much extra heat in the two months last year. As well, our wet paddocks are dryer than this time soil for that to happen. I know a lot of last year; some drains have little or no farmers were shocked at how quickly it went off last year, with the heat and water in them and some farm blocks wind burn, and the prediction is for are dryer at this time than they have warmer than normal temperatures this been in the past. summer.

Farmers know when soil moisture If some farmers hadn’t left everything reserves are down, things can until the last minute last summer, there change rapidly.

What’s going on underground?

Checking maize crops, above and below ground, allows problems to be diagnosed and rectified immediately or for the following season, according to the Foundation for Arable Research.

A recent FAR newsletter includes some data from a Purdue University study in which 15.7 kg dry matter, or 54,250 plants/ha were planted (low by New Zealand standards). Three weeks later, at roughly the four-leaf stage, dry weight had only increased to 32.5 kg/ ha. However, at that point there were 87 km of roots/ha, located primarily in the top 30 cm of soil. During this time, total nutrient uptake was 300

gram of N, 55 gram of P, and 350 gramof K. The message is, says FAR, that while growers are scouting and looking at the above-the-ground parts of their crop, it is also important to look at the roots, to help ascertain what yield-limiting processes may be occurring there.

Things to look for: Are the roots healthy and white? Is the coleoptile, (the 30 mm stalk between the seminal roots and the above nodal roots and growing point) healthy, white and straight? Are the roots growing outwards and downwards unimpeded by a compacted layer? For more information, contact Diana Mathers by emailing: mathersd@far.org.nz Or by emailing Mike Parker at: parkerm@far.org.nz

wouldn’t have been the need to bring anywhere near as much feed from the South Island as we had to.

I hope farmers have learned the lessons last season taught. That drought was clearly signaled, but some left it so late to buy in feed, they were forced to buy straw as a replacement – but straw lacks the nutritional value of maize silage.

Because some farmers wouldn’t

commit to maize silage, growers, ourselves included, contracted surplus maize silage crops to grain which meant no maize was available for silage when it was really needed.

It can be a rocky road if you don’t plan properly, because the quality of the feed you get won’t always be as good in times of tight supply.

We can supply maize silage, grass silage in bulk and bales, lucerne silage, sweet corn silage, rye grass silage, rye and clover silage bales; and also meadow hay, pea vine hay, rye grass straw, oat straw, wheat straw and barley straw.

We grow on leased land in several areas, and have contract growers in Otaki, Canterbury and Hawke’s Bay.

Page 18

EFFLUENT

Smartphones helping call the shots for effluent spreading Smartphones keep getting smarter, even playing a role in effluent management on farms, now that DairyNZ has released a new app called the Dairy Effluent Spreading Calculator.

This app provides dairy farmers and effluent spreading contractors with guidance around nutrient application rates based on the depth and type of effluent they apply.

The easy-to-use app ensures effluent nutrients can be applied with greater precision.

“It is important to ensure that

the area of effluent application is appropriate for the amounts of nutrient being applied, which is where the app comes in,” says DairyNZ sustainability team leader Theresa Wilson.

There are two calculators in the app; the quick calculator, which is for spray irrigation systems such as travelling irrigators and sprinklers; and an advanced calculator, which is for slurry tankers and muck spreaders.

“The quick calculator allows you to choose the type of effluent you are spreading [each type has different standardised nutrient values and solids content]. Or if you have had your effluent tested,

it allows you to enter those values.

It gives the option to calculate spreading based on either nitrogen loading or application depth,” says Theresa.

“The advanced calculator performs similar functions to the quick calculator, but has more input fields to account for the additional variables for slurry tankers and muck spreaders.

“As well as nutrient loading, this calculator also determines the area required for spreading and the number of loads that are required.”

The app, DairyNZ’s first, is available for both Android and iPhone.

DairyNZ

Winning pond builders pay attention to detail Pondco is an international award-winning company with years of experience and a team of installers who are trained by Firestone to install its pond lining systems.

“We are the 2013 IAGI award winners for our effluent pond design. Pondco ponds feature gas and water drainage, geotextile underlay, Firestone EPDM Geomembrane and secondary seam protection/ reinforcing. We can help project manage your job to ensure a stress-free finish,” says managing director Hamish Forbes, who is qualified in pond design and pond construction and also has many years of earthmoving experience.

Pondco can assist in all farm effluent compliance issues, turning waste into green grass and increased milk production.

Pondco Centroid FDE Holding Ponds are complaint with Firestone Building Products standards and the IPENZ code of practice note 21, version 3. The company will design a pond which addresses water and gas drainage, leak detection and compatibility with the proposed irrigation system, says Hamish.

“Foremost, we choose the materials used in construction with longevity of the pond in mind, customised to each application.”

Hamish says Pondco provides a full pond report, which includes water, gas, panel plans, test reports and a 20-year material warranty.

“We also offer a safety escape system and a pond monitoring service for peace of mind. Pondco effluent ponds are in most central North Island regions, and can be viewed by arrangement. Pondco is here to work with you to achieve the best result for your farm.”

Page 19

DAIRY DEVELOPMENT - GRAY

Wintering pad solution to pugging problems The wintering pad is in two parts and has a bird-proof roof.

One of the characteristics of the fertile Hauraki Plains is the heavy marine clay soil, which retain moisture and during wet winters sees cows pug up paddocks and cause serious damage to pastures.

Neil and Glenda Gray of Turua decided the best answer to this problem was to build a wintering pad to accommodate up to 600 cows during wet winter months.

“I see this firstly as a wintering pad, and secondly for feeding out supplements. Ironically, we completed the construction on July 20 and we had such a mild winter that we haven’t had to use it this year, so its sitting there still looking new,” says Neil.

The wintering pad has a roof and can also be used during summer to give cows some shade and feed supplements, should there be a drought.

Neil Gray has been dairy farming for more than 30 years. His family has owned parts of the farm for more than 100 years, and he is the fourth

generation in ownership.

About 100 years back it was covered in kahikatea trees and flax bushes, which supported several sawmills in the area.

Today, the farm has a milking platform of 223 hectares, which includes 40 ha of lease land; and there are two leased support blocks of 27 ha close by.

This year, the Grays wintered 660 cows and ended up milking 650.

Calving has finished, and according to Neil “was one of the better ones weather-wise – the best winter I have experienced in 30 years”.

ably expensive to maintain at $15,000 to $20,000 a year,” says Kylie, who with Neil and Glenda, started looking at alternatives in 2011.

Their research led them to Aztech Farm Buildings, which specialise in large building structures. Having

a heavy marine clay soil type created certain issues, which had to be overcome. “Our initial discussions with Aztech, and Warren and Pete Davenport, were good. They both work in collaboration with each other; and WD Davenport has the expertise

Easy access

Michael and Kylie Cox are the farm’s contract milkers and South African Ryno Oberhozer is employed as a dairy assistant. The cows are milked in a 44-aside herringbone dairy and the wintering pad is located at the bottom of the yard, allowing easy access to and from the shed.

“We run the cows in two separate herds; and we did have three sawdust/ postpeel feeding platforms around the farm. But we found these were reason-

Rura l E n gi n eeri n g Ltd

If you can mIlk, feed or store It.

we can HOUSe IT

Goat and cow housing, feed pads & farm buildings. ®

phone 0800 298 324

aztechbuildings.co.nz

Page 20

DAIRY DEVELOPMENT - GRAY

Options for summer and winter cow management

Farm owners Neil and Glenda Gray, Warren Davenport, Pete Davenport and Paul Fisher, with contract milkers Kylie and Michael Cox. in dairy sheds and stand-off areas while Aztech has the expertise in farm buildings. They listened to our requirements and had the flexibility to come up with a design that we envisioned,” says Neil.

Warren Davenport was foreman for this job, managing and working alongside his staff and sub-contractors. WD Davenport set up the site through establishing sand and concrete heights, boxing, reinforcing and mesh. They also took care of finishing touches, such as building the sump, nibs, head bale post and blockfill.

The wintering platform comprises of two separate structures with a laneway down the centre for a tractor to feed out supplements. The cow area was made an extra four metres wide to allow for greater cow comfort. Each cow has 5m2 in area, which allows for 600 cows to be housed at one time. There is also extra concreted space outside for any overflow. “It’s a bit

Solid Panel Housing

of trial and error, as we haven’t used the wintering pad yet. But I guess the cows will sort themselves out,” says Neil.

Aesthetics

The wintering pad is constructed of solid timber poles with steel beams and an iron roof. It is bird-proof, so there is no mess from nesting birds. It is light and airy and has very good aesthetics. There are two troughs at either end, and provision has been made to allow back washing using waste water from the dairy shed.

“We have such a large rainfall here that we intend to install water tanks to catch the rain water from the roof,” says Neil.

A large construction starts with a solid foundation, and Kerepehi Transport, based at Kerepehi on the Hauraki Plains, had the task of providing this.

“We carted the clay fill from the drain banks around the

A ligh

t and air winte y Aztech-d ring p e ad. signed

farm. When the drains are cleaned, the clay is piled alongside and this was a good way of utilising it,” says Paul Fisher, transport manager for Kerepehi Transport.

“We used a bulldozer and digger to move and compact the clay. We also had to make sure it had a one per cent slope for effluent drainage. It took about three days to do this job.”

Kerepehi Transport trucks are often seen on the Hauraki Plains roads as they cart metal, fertiliser and stock food to farmers around the area. They can form farm raceways, metal drives, get sites ready for houses, and advise on and construct effluent ponds. “Every farmer’s requirements are different and we do our best to accommodate them,” says Paul.

Neil Gray can attest to this. “I had Paul on speed dial, and when required he was always here within half an hour. I call that service.”

Scotty Manderson of Scotty’s Bobcat Services, just

DAIRY DEVELOPMENT - GRAY

Page 21

Reducing stress on people, pasture and animals pads,” says Brad Johnson, manager of Rural Engineering.

Rex and Jennifer Podmore are the owners of Brownmore Construction, based at Waihi. They employ seven full-time staff, including Rex, who says anything to do with concrete – they can do it.

Pan finish

“We placed all the concrete, more than 500m3, which equaled about 100m3 per pour.

The weather was good, so we managed to complete the job in three days.

We then applied a ‘pan finish’, which is a non-slip finish for the cows,” says Rex, who has worked with WD Davenport on several constructions – and Paul Fisher, transport both parties agree “it’s a good relationmanager for Kerepehi Transport, stands on a pile of heavy Preparation begins for the wintering pad site. marine clay.

Finishing off concrete for the effluent pond.

The large effluent pond.

had to cross the road to get the job, with his business based at Turua on the Hauraki Plains. Scotty’s job was “to go in and tidy up where the big boys can’t get to”.

“It is a bit more involved than that as it is precision work, operating to exact measurements and getting the site ‘spot on’ using a laser level for the concrete laying. “They just give me the measurements and I take it from there.”

He has a bobcat and small truck and he can clean out calf sheds, dig post holes, tidy up races, driveways and prepare lawns for dwellings. “I can do just about everything except dig a drain,” says Scotty.

Truck loads

In total, there was 520m3 of concrete carted to the site for the project, which took 100 truckloads.

Bowers Brothers has a head office

ship”. Brownmore Construction is not just limited to rural buildings. They can do residential and commercial work and can pour concrete in all weathers.

They cover the Waikiato and Bay of Plenty.

Neil and Glenda Gray have nothing but praise for the way the contractors involved all worked in together, listened to their requirements, and produced the type of wintering pad they know will serve them well in the future.

“It means we have options during the winter, we can stand the cows on the wintering pad and reduce pugging; and so retain the pasture,” says Neil.

“It provides Michael, Kylie and Ryno better working conditions in the wet weather and reduces stress on people, pasture and animals.” By Helen Wilson

in Morrinsville and purchased Paeroa Concrete in 2007. The company has four trucks based at Paeroa and these were used to cart the concrete to the Gray’s wintering pad.

Bowers Brothers also has plants in Putaruru and Matamata, and cover from Waihi to Raglan and down to Mangakino. As well as rural work, they do residential and commercial work.

Other products they supply are water and feed troughs, pre-cast bunker walls, concrete blocks, paving slabs and retaining walls. “Anything to do with concrete we can supply it,” says Steve Bowers, who is a director of Bowers Brothers.

The pipe-work and gates in the wintering pad were all made and installed

by Rural Engineering, based at Waihou near Morrinsville. “Most of our work is rural-based and we specialise in pipe work for dairy sheds and wintering

PK / SILAGE BUNKERS

DESIGN – SUPPLY – BUILD

Page 22

DAIRY DEVELOPMENT - MACPHAIL

From dairying to maize and back again Sixteen years ago a microscopic organism led caninum I decided get rid of the cows and to something else,” says David. to a dramatic change in farming practices on tryFences and water troughs were removed, David and Kath MacPhail’s Tirau farm. the old dairy de-commissioned and Called Neospora caninum, the protozoa caused onethird of the dairy herd to abort – and a disheartened David sold the cows and ploughed the paddocks for maize.

Now the farm has come full circle. The maize has gone, the cows are back and there’s a new dairy parlour too.

“We were milking 240 cows here but when around a third of them slipped because of protozoan Neospora

maize planted. The crop was rotated with pasture to graze sheep through the winter.

“We had good maize crops but over time saw the fertility decreasing and decided, as this is some of the best dairy land around, we should go back to milking,” says Kath.

The new herd has been tested and found clear of the protozoa and David hasn’t been completely out of touch with dairying. He’d been involved in dairy conversions in the South Island.

When the neighbouring farm on Lewis Rd at Tirau became available, David and Kath went into partnership with Mark and Jenny Coppard to buy the property, as it opened the opportunity to milk up to 400 cows.

Currently, 280 are being milked on the original farm. The conversion of the family farm to dairy began last year, as soon as the last of the maize crop was harvested. A construction site for the new dairy, on the opposite side of the tanker turnaround, was prepared and the farm re-fenced into 2 ha to 2.5 ha paddocks.

The decision, over which style of dairy to build, was easy. “The herringbone is about

Hayden, David and Kath MacPhail are pleased with the simplicity and efficiency of the new dairy. half the price of a rotary,” says David.

Although David and Kath decided to return to dairying – they didn’t plan to return to hands-on milking. So David made a phone call to his son Hayden in Berlin, asking if he was ready to come home.

Waikato Dairy Builders constructed the dairy Hayden came home to milk in; and Jim Harris says it is a simple, practical parlour, which took about three weeks to build and is based on a tried and true design.

“It’s the design we’ve been using for years and know works well;

however, we aren’t hard and fast on design, working with clients to build what suits their needs. Everything in the MacPhail dairy is pretty standard. This dairy has lots of natural light and is quite spacious as we put in feeders to make one side wider so you can get easy access to cows when doing AI. “The pipework is also our standard design because once again we know it works. One of the biggest changes in recent years has been the move from 660 to 700 centres which makes herringbones flow well.”

A feature of Waikato Dairy Builders’ sheds, which have become increasingly popular, is the ‘kids’ room’ where children can play safely while parents are milking, says Jim. “This room where kids can be safe and warm, with a covered porch outside has become just about standard in our dairies now because it works so well.”

All construction materials are low maintenance and Jim says should any part of the building be damaged, replacement is relatively easy.

Old stables and outbuildings from pioneer days add a rustic charm to the attractive landscape of the MacPhail property.

DAIRY DEVELOPMENT - MACPHAIL

Page 23

Simplicity of design and efficiency of operation

Proven Designs, Proven Profits

Waikato Dairy Builders are specialists in the design and construction of herringbone dairy sheds.

A Waikato Dairy Builders shed is designed to maximise milking efficiency and provide better profitability.

“Effluent from the dairy runs through a wedge sand trap to remove gravel before being gravity-fed to the tank.

The stirrer will probably run for an hour before pumping. We estimate it will take 20 hours to pump the tank empty. The aim is to empty it as fast as possible when there is a nice clear window to apply effluent at the right application rate. When conditions mean it can’t be applied, then the farm has the storage required.”

In the hollow, dug below the dairy, stands the brand new 1.257 million litre Tanks & Silos glass-fused-to-steel tank which took six days to install.

Brett Clow of Tanks & Silos says the 23.91 metre diameter tank will provide up to 90 days’ effluent storage for the

MacPhail farm. It is constructed on a concrete pad, from panels 2.83 metres by 1.4 metres, which weigh about 140 kg each. These panels are bolted together and sealed to become watertight and the finish is hard wearing, colour-fast, low maintenance and easy to clean.

“These tanks have the best properties of both materials – the strength and flexibility of steel combined with the corrosion resistance of glass on both interior and exterior surfaces, which provides a unique liner-free system,” says Brett.

David and Kath have plans to plant flaxes around the tank, helping it blend in to the already attractive environment of their farm.

By Elaine Fisher

BCL Feed Systems

Ltd

BUSTERCOVER HERRINGBONE IN-SHED FEEDING BCL Feed Systems

SILO’S 2T-45T

BUSTERCOVER

Ltd

Milk ‘n’ Water Services Matamata installed the milking system for the 36-aside dairy and has proBuster Cover vided second to none service and training which offers installed this 16 real value to the business operation of the dairy. Milk tonne, American‘n’ Water Services director Shaun Jellie says the milkmade VALCO Meal ing system is simple and efficient. “Milfos swing arms Silo for the in-shed leave a nice clear pit and are probably the one thing feed system. which has caused the biggest revolution in herringbone sheds in the last few years. They can also be fitted to existing dairies to free up the whole pit.”

The installation also has a variable speed Intel-Vac vacuum pump for stable is now produced in Hamvacuum, swing downilton and David’s shed was jetter line for ease of the fourth shed to have these placing the cups in the new BCL dispensers,” says Talya jetters, and Intel-Jet 2 Raumati of Buster Cover. which creates turbulence in “Our experienced installation the wash cycle to make sure team said the install went very well. the plant stays well-cleaned.

Milk ‘n’ Water Services director Shaun The shed is very spacious and well The compact pumps are Jellie with the milking system in the thought out, which made it ideal installed in a pump shed close MacPhail 36-aside dairy. for installing an in-shed meal feeder to the pit entrance. “The system.” variable speed drive vacuum Reid and Harrison has installed one of its latest pump is now a standard fixture because of it efficiency multipurpose pumps to run both the effluent and fresh and energy saving features.” Having the water tanks water systems on the MacPhail Farm. adjacent to the pumps help make installation straight Reid and Harrison co-director Seaton Dalley says the forward, says Shaun. new PTO-driven, two-stage pump is the equivalent of As a last minute add-on to his new dairy set-up, a 50 to 60 hp electric pump. It will suck effluent from David decided to install a quality Buster Cover Ltd the bottom of the 1.257 million litre tank to be spread in-shed meal feeder. Buster Cover Ltd, a family owned on pasture. and operated business is situated in Te Poi, near to “If David should get an allocation to take water from David’s site, and has been installing in-shed meal feeders for the last 10 years – and has developed its systems the Waihou River, that same portable pump, attached to a three-point linkage on the tractor, will be able to dramatically during that time. run a water irrigation system too.”

The in-shed equipment installed on the MacPhail Seaton says the new pump is more efficient than a farm included a 16 tonne, American-made VALCO standard Yardmaster pump and can handle solids too.

Meal Silo, continuous stainless steel trough and one Reid and Harrison has also supplied the 10 hp electric dispenser-per-cow system. stirrer inside the tank.

“We have developed our own meal dispenser which

SILO’S 2T-45T

HERRINGBONE IN-SHED FEEDING

ROTARY IN-SHED FEEDING

AUTOMATIC MOLASSES & IN-LINE MINERAL DISPENSING

ROTARY IN-SHED FEEDING

AUTOMATIC MOLASSES & IN-LINE MINERAL DISPENSING

Your feeding equipment specialists

• We have built hundreds of high producing sheds • Completed to your requirements and budget • Innovation, workmanship and experience Ph Jim 07-850 5971 Mob. 0274 936 693 Ph Chris 07-849 3630 Mob. 0274 936 692 0800 P.O. Box 10 188, Te Rapa, Hamilton

07 888 2982

WAIKATO DAIRY BUILDERS

www.dairybuilders.co.nz

226974 2 C OW S H E D

Your feeding equipment specialists www.bustercoverfeedsystems.co.nz

07 888 2982

www.bustercoverfeedsystems.co.nz

DAIRY

Page 24

Time for water-protection legislation?

Given the importance of water to New Zealand, it is time to consider having separate but complementary planning and environmental protection legislation, says Water NZ’s president.

“This approach may sound familiar to those [aged] over 50 years, who worked under previous acts – and those who live in jurisdictions outside New Zealand where protection of the water environment is not bargained away on a case by case basis against other self-interest,” says Steve Couper, while speaking at his organisation’s

annual conference in October.

The Government has signalled some of its intentions around reform, and a Resource Management Act Reform Bill will be introduced into Parliament later this year, says Steve, who believes this will establish a national objectives framework for water quality and quantity.

This will allow for collaborative processes as an option to be used by communities in their planning for water; and provide for iwi

DAIRY TECH

involvement in management of the resource, says Steve. Plus, an environmental reporting regime has also been signalled.

“But is this what we need?

Will further tinkering improve an act that we know is not delivering on water quality?

“Or should we be looking for a regulatory regime that provides an environmental bottom line with critical outcomes that are clearly defined; rather than the continuous re-litigation and trade-

Dairy women key decision makers

DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND AUTOMATION SYSTEMS

The growth of the Dairy Women’s Network continues with another 900 women joining the organisation between June 2012 and May 2013 – increasing its total membership to 4000.

DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION & AUTOMATION ....making your job easier!

A well designed, well constructed milking facility is crucial for a profitable dairy farm business. Dairy Tech is a company providing dairy design solutions and construction integrity that withstands the increasing demands of dairy farm management.

Farm manager Kim Milne is among the women making a difference in the dairy industry.

• ROTARY • HERRINGBONE • FERTILISER BINS • COVERED FEED PADS • FARM BRIDGES • PRECAST SILO STANDS • PRECAST EFFLUENT SUMPS • TOP DOG • ELECTRIC GLANDS • ROTARY WATER GLANDS • BUTTERFLY GATES • MAINTENANCE / REPAIR

www.dairytech.co.nz

c1304kwDairyTech

Contact us today to find out how we can help you improve your efficiency and milking processes.

DAIRY TECH LIMITED 178 Maihiihi Road, RD2 Otorohanga 3972 P: 07 873 0819 F: 07 873 0839 E: info@dairytech.co.nz

offs that we have now for each and every consent where social, cultural and economic considerations, and other interests all have weighting alongside our environment?”

Steve says surely other important aspects should be considered at a strategic level, “so that, as a society, we can decide what is important to us and then set a well-defined environmental regulatory framework that is consistent across New Zealand”.

At its annual general meeting, Dairy Women’s Network Trust Board chair Michelle Wilson says, alongside its membership growth, the year had been an exceptionally busy one. Highlights included being a key partner in developing the Strategy for Sustainable Dairy Farming; securing an $180,000 grant from the Sustainable Farming Fund to develop Project Pathfinder, the country’s first leadership programme for dairying women; and welcoming Ballance Agri-Nutrients as

a major sponsorship partner.

Like all businesses, there have also been challenges.

“Our first chief executive resigned earlier this year; and we’ve been operating at more than full steam without a full team for the last six months while we’ve been developing our business strategy. I am very pleased to say we aim to be announcing our new chief executive in November,” says Michelle.

Other highlights includes an increase in the number of regional group meetings from 112 to 122; announcing the second Dairy Woman of the Year, which was won

by Justine Kidd and sponsored by Fonterra Milk Supply; launching a series of workshops to help agribusiness professionals and farmers recognise, relate and respond to the signs of mental illness; and securing funding from DairyNZ to appoint two new roles to the network’s operational team to support its 30 regional groups throughout the country.

Changes to the network’s board, in the last year, includes the retirement of trustees Neal Shaw and Sue Lindsay, and the addition of Barbara Kuriger and Hilary Webber.

Michelle Wilson was also reelected as board chair for another year.

Michelle says the Dairy Women’s Network represents thousands of women, who are key decision makers and industry and community leaders in their own right.

“As such, our organisation is an influential voice in the dairy industry.”

Calcium, phosphorus foundation minerals Shares up for co-op We all know how important phosphorus and calcium are for plants to grow.

leaching and holding nutrients in the soil. EF Humus Builder is a liquid product that rapidly increases humus levels in any soil type by increasing leaf area, photosynthesis, root exudation and root turnover.

Humus Builder attracts

They are classified as ‘foundational minerals’ in the four bases of mineralised soil diamond from Jon Franks from International Ag Labs.

Calcium is important for cell strength, fruit size, taste and a stable yield year on year. You need adequate calcium in your soil before foliar fertilisers are effective. Calcium is important for growth energy.

Phosphorus is important for the cells structure and energy cycle (ATP, ADP and AMP cycle), and is required in the roots to transport other minerals into the plant.

A shortage of phosphorus means a breakdown of the transmission of energy in plants; and therefore prevents plant growth.

A corn plant fully fed by Environmental Fertilisers – Phosphorus is an important fruiting note how the kernels are full to the top of the cobb. energy.

Environmental Fertilisers Soil Force contains biologically enhanced calcium and phosphorus.

The composting process involved in producing this enhanced fertiliser also increases beneficial soil bacteria, and fungi important for improved plant health. EF Soil Force is a BioGro-certified input for organics. Find out how much EF Soil Force your soil actually requires with a Reams Soil Test.

While most soil tests show the total amount of nutrients present in the soil, a Reams Soil Test determines what minerals in the soil are available for the plant to use. The weaker reagents used in the lab mimic the way plant roots get minerals from the soil.

BioServices is the only laboratory in New Zealand to offer a Reams Soil Test, for more information, ring 0800 867 6737 or look under ‘soil testing’ at: www. ef.net.nz With summer fast approaching, now is the time to build humus in your soil. Soil humus has been severely depleted in New Zealand soils through the application of nitrogen fertilisers.

Humus is important for moisture retention, reducing

moisture from the atmosphere via electromagnetic attraction, even during drought conditions.

The most important point of the Four Bases of Mineralised Soil diamond is energy. It takes energy to grow a crop. In the Reams Soil Test, the energy rating per gram of soil (ERGS) is the measure of how much energy the soil has (soil conductivity is another term for this). For an organic system, nothing beats fish at supplying energy.

It takes energy to digest limestone and other rock dusts.

That is the beauty of EF Soil Force, the biology contained in it, from the composting process, have already started to breakdown the minerals so they are available for the plant to take up and get to the next base on the diamond.

Ballance Agri-Nutrients’ share increase of 60 cents to $8.10 is the third revaluation in six years, supported by the co-operative’s strong balance sheet and financial performance. Based on an average shareholding of 3000 shares to cover 100 MT of fertiliser purchases, the increase represents an $1800 increase in a typical shareholders’ equity in the company.

It caps off a year in which Ballance delivered a record rebate and dividend of $65 per tonne and a record trading result of $92.6 million, despite last summer’s drought drying up fertiliser demand and impacting sales volumes. The rebate, averaging $60.83 per tonne, and a fully imputed dividend of 10 cents per share, saw the co-operative’s 18,300 shareholders receive a $65 million distribution in August.

Outgoing chairman David Graham says the record performance and rebate, coupled with the higher share value, means “he went out on a high note”. He is succeeded by the co-operative’s Ward A director David Peacocke.

Ballance chief executive Larry Bilodeau says the cooperative’s ability to deliver a record result in a tough year came down to a range of factors; smart buying, close attention to costs and efficiency and the return to full production of its Kapuni urea plant.

In director elections, Dean Nikora was returned unopposed in Ward B, while Oliver Saxton was reelected for Ward A.

Fonterra appointment Pascal De Petrini has been appointed managing director of Fonterra’s Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa business unit.

The APMEA business unit comprises of all Fonterra’s consumer operations across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Pascal takes over from Johan Priem, who has been APMEA acting managing director since May. Johan Priem will continue to lead the Asia, Middle East and Africa regions until the New Year.

Parasite threat with ticks

A parasite carried by ticks, which has been named Theileria, is going to be a challenge for all dairy and beef cattle farmers, warns a New Zealand Veterinary Association board member. Dr Richard Wild says the new strain, Theileria orientalis ikeda, will be a challenge for farmers as few cattle have any immunity to it.

“It has crept south of Northland, mostly due to stock movement, a mild winter and earlier-than-usual tick activity this spring.” Because it is carried by cattle ticks, Richard believes it is likely to be found in areas where ticks are prevalent. “This threat is another example of where the veterinary profession can play an important role with farmers to manage risks.”

Biological Fertilisers

Solid and Liquid Fertilisers Liquid BioChar/Humus Builder /Cal-Phos Increase soil humus and biological activity – from $15/ha Soil Force Biological Phosphate Fertiliser Re-Charge/Nano-Cal/Multi-Cal Calcium-Carbon Fertilisers Stock Primer – Mineralised Carbon Drench Build immunity, suppress pathogens; e.g. Rotovirus & E.Coli for as little as 4¢ per cow per day Humates/Humic Acid/Fulvic Acid Increased water retention & nutrient release.

New Biological Controls for Cricket, Cicada, Argentine Stem Weevil, Clover Flea – all added into solid and liquid fertiliser programmes.

oils

est

Page 25

DAIRY

1 Railway St, Paeroa, PO Box 204, Paeroa 3640, New Zealand Telephone: 0800 867 6737, Fax: 07 867 6068, Email: info@ef.net.nz

www.ef.net.nz

Biological PSA management options. Reams Soil Testing, Home Garden Fertiliser.

DAIRY

Page 26

Federated Farmers president a finalist communicator Federated Farmers’ national president Bruce Wills has been selected as a finalist for Public Relations Institute of New Zealand’s Communicator of the Year.

The award recognises skills in a leader who promotes open and honest communications within their organisation.

“It is great that Bruce has been

selected as a finalist.

“Bruce has remained a balanced and clear communicator on issues relating to agriculture,” says Federated Farmers chief executive Conor English.

“It goes to show just how highly regarded he is when you look at the other finalists, such as Sir John Kirwan, Blues coach and ambassador for depression.org.nz; Otorohanga Mayor Dale Wil-

liams; and Tony Kokshoorn, Grey District Mayor, who are all leaders in their own right.

“Bruce has tirelessly advocated on behalf of New Zealand farmers, and his communication has enhanced a better understanding of farming and its value.

It’s great to have this recognised,” says Conor.

The PRINZ Communicator of the Year award winner is announced Friday, November 8.

PRE-CAST CONCRETE & STEEL CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS

0% finance

Dairy weaner sales in full swing Dairy weaner sales are going well with plenty of good pasture growth, but sadly it’s the same story every season. There are pens of top calves, but as always far too many calves can only be described as ‘very ordinary sorts’ and certainly disappointing for buyers.

You have to ponder why there can be any poor calves at sales, with all the information available on calf rearing.

There are even calves that have not been dehorned properly, passing on later veterinary costs to the buyer, and the $50 meat works penalty for horns when slaughtered.

It’s simple. These poor calves have missed out on enough colostrum at birth, followed by inadequate whole milk and quality milk replacers. The rush to get calves onto once-a-day feeding to save labour, and subsequently to encourage early rumen development to reduce feed costs, fills sale pens every year with skinny pot-bellied calves on pin legs, and showing the gingery brown hair of copper deficiency.

Buyers of these poor calves must mistakenly believe in the theory of ‘compensatory growth’ – which research decades ago, at Ruakura, showed was an expensive myth. Stunted calves will eventually catch up with well-fed mates, but it takes extra time, extra feed, and extra cost to get them there.

However, when you work out value for money – per head or per kilogram live weight – poor calves are not a good buy. And, there may even be deaths after purchase because their early immune development has been severely compromised. Calves are not small cows – they are very delicate animals with complex immune systems, which need to be stimulated but not overwhelmed.

Dairy farmers, and commercial calf rearers, who have been using the Wormade Nutritional Supplement Plan during recent years report calf rearing has never been so free of hassle; and their calves have never looked so good or grown so well.

Dairy farmers rearing their own replacement calves on the OMS programme report their stock has rapidly reached mating target weights; and have subsequently calves free of mastitis, milked well and cycled early.

Beef rearers, who have bought dairy weaners reared on an OMS programme, comment on their calves’ top growth rates on pasture without the need for meal to keep them going. They also comment no drenching is needed for worms right up to slaughter, saving the cost and the physical work of oral drenching when pour-ons are not an option due to Cooperia worm resistance.

The OMS programme helps build and reinforce a calf ’s natural (genetic) immunity, and reduces the need for costly anthelmintics, multivaccines and antibiotics, when they are not needed.

(Source Wormade)

IMAGINE...

HAVING YOUR HERD AND FARM DAIRY ANTIBIOTIC FREE, USING AN EFFECTIVE BIOLOGICAL OPTION!

Purchase now and pay now, in 6 months and in 12 months with 0% Finance*.

DISCO 250 2.45m working width Top drive - no blockages • Low profile cutterbar • Adjustable ground pressure • Long life, easy service lift out bearing module • •

Alrea dy be en succe ssful on hundr ed farms s of o seven ver years

*Normal lending criteria applies. 1/3 deposit required.

Tailored finance programs available. Offer ends 30/11/13.

CHC131010

BAY OF PLENTY 292 Te Ngae Road, Rotorua Contact: Vaughn Carson 027 223 3365 Glenn Davidson 027 223 3363

Don’t just imagine - make it happen!

Start today on the OMS programme No withholding period!

Call our team on free phone number:

0800 836 836

email: wormade@xtra.co.nz

DAIRY

Page 27

More than 1000 schools in milk scheme Children at more than 1000 schools throughout New Zealand are now enjoying the taste of dairy every school day, thanks to Fonterra’s Milk for Schools scheme.

From Southland to Northland, the programme has been introduced in 11 regions and Fonterra’s chief executive officer Theo Spierings says during the last five months there has been significant community support for the national rollout.

“Milk is one of the most nutritious foods there is – and we want to do what we can to make sure Kiwi kids grow up drinking it every day.

“By the end of the rollout we will be delivering

Entering awards offer many benefits, believes last year’s Bay of Plenty Dairy Industry Award winners Richard and Amy Fowler of Te Puke.

Introduction to dairy awards at special event Entry is now open for the 2014 Bay of Plenty Dairy Industry Awards – and a special event to introduce potential entrants to the competition is being held at Paengaroa on Thursday, November 14.

Bay of Plenty regional conveners Richard and Amy Fowler, of Te Puke, say the event which begins 7pm at Paengaroa’s Comvita is a valuable first step to entering the competition.

“We are encouraging as many people as possible to attend.”

“Entries for the awards opened for all regions on November 1 and close on December 20. The Bay of Plenty awards dinner will be held on March 19 at the Awakeri Event centre,” says Amy. Amy and Richard won the 2012 Bay of Plenty Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year and Farm Manager of the Year titles.

Richard is encouraging farmers to seriously consider entering the award because taking part offers many benefits.

“Having objective judges come and look at your business, and provide feedback on where you could improve, is something very few industries offer – and is an opportunity people should take advantage of,” says Richard.

“I think the competition is great for really testing your future goals against your current direction – it’s great to be climbing the ladder – but only if your ladder is leaning against the right wall for you and you need to prove to the judges you know why it is you are doing what you are doing.”

The awards have three categories.

The first is the 2014 Bay of Plenty Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year competition, which caters for percentage sharemilkers, equity farmers and contract milkers, who have equity in the farm and lessees.

The 2014 Bay of Plenty Farm Manager of the Year competition caters for dairy farm managers and contract milkers.

The 2014 Bay of Plenty Dairy Trainee of the Year is open to anyone who is aged 18-30 years as at December 31, 2013; is currently employed on a dairy farm in a full-time capacity; has not been employed for more than five years on a dairy farm from the age of 18 (either continuously or in total as at December 31, 2013); and is a New Zealand citizen or New Zealand resident as at December 31, 2013.

For more information, contact Richard and Amy Fowler BOP Regional Conveners on 07 533 2201 or 027 2432 678. Or go to: www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz

TOGETHER, WE’RE BUILDING NEW ZEALAND

milk to more than 1300 schools. That’s a result we are really proud of; and this success is thanks to the support our farmers, schools, and communities have given the programme this year.”

More than 130 schools in Auckland, from all deciles, have now signed up for Fonterra Milk for Schools; and as the largest region in the national rollout, it is expected all will be part of the programme by the end of Term One next year.

Fonterra ambassador, and All Black, Richie McCaw says Fonterra’s long-term investment in the health of New Zealand’s children “will benefit Kiwi kids in years to come”.

Page 28

RURAL DRIVER

Ben goes from greatest threat to biggest asset Top Bay of Plenty motocross riders Ben Townley and Cody Cooper are putting aside their long-standing rivalry to join forces in a new Waikato-based team when the racing season starts on November 2.

Mount Maunganui-based Cody – who took out the national MX1 championship last season – announced he’s ending his longstanding association with Suzuki after finishing fourth overall in the Australian MX series in September.

After a frustrating time competing in the Kiwi

Mount Maunganui motocross legend Cody Cooper (pictured) is excited about defending his national title with the help of former rival Ben Townley.

Photo by Geoff Osborne www.BikesportNZ.com

team at September’s Motocross of Nations event in Germany – where bike mechanical problems contributed a poor result – Cody says he is looking forward to competing in his first event in Te Kuiti. The team finished a disappointing 20th place, down from the 15th place achieved in 2012.

“I am really looking ahead to the new season. I have already had a couple of rides on the new Honda CRF450 and I loved it.”

Cody, 30, says he is feeling reinvigorated and excited about the help he will get from Ben, who is team manager.

Cody has been a major force in the riding scene for years, after getting a taste for dirt riding at age four and claiming his first junior motocross title in 1994.

“The help I’ll get from a man of Ben Townley’s experience will be awesome,” says Cody.

Tauranga-based Ben – a former world, US and national motocross champion – surprised everyone earlier this year announcing his retirement

2WD Manual

$36,990 +ORC

RRP $46,195

2WD Auto

$38,990 +ORC

RRP $48,195

after being plagued by injury troubles.

The previous season he had dominated the motocross scene, winning the national series.

Ben says he is looking forward to bringing his international experience to the team as manager, and will be working closely with team sponsor and Waikato Honda Shop owner Phil Empson, who runs dealerships in Te Awamutu, Cambridge and Putaruru.

Cody says with Ben going from being one of his greatest threats to one of his greatest assets, along with the team’s support, he is confident of successfully defending his title when the 2014 nationals kick off in February.

The Honda Shop team, with a MX2 class running mate yet to be announced, will contest the national championships along with major stand-alone events, such as the Waikato Motocross Championships at Te Kuiti, Whakatane’s Summercross after Christmas, and the big annual New Zealand Motocross Grand Prix at Woodville in late January.

4WD Manual

$45,990 +ORC

RRP $57,995

4WD Auto

$47,990 +ORC

RRP $59,595

Page 29

RURAL DRIVER

Country mile flier On the farm, or in the workshop, there comes a time when everyone gets the urge to park up a practical utility for a zippier model.

but smartly tucked away until needed. The media system, for instance, slides out of the dashboard at the touch of a button.

Passing is also deceptively easy, as the gearbox quickly responds smoothly to a tricky situation, with a dab on the accelerator.

Whether as your second off-farm vehicle, While we are not talking about V8 power for touring or as a well-earned treat for a here, it’s more than enough to get out of a good payout, what better than the Audi tight spot. The A3’s ride and stability are TFSI Sports S. also a delight A confirmed sports with minimal hatch disciple and road noise.

Audi fan, reviewWhile the ing this A3 sports entry level Specifications: model was like a ‘sport’ packs Audi A3 1.4TFSI Sport S Tronic child being given the reasonable pep, Engine: 1395cc, four cylinder, 16 valve keys to a chocolate if you are lookFSI fuel injected turbocharged engine factory. ing for more puts out 90 Kw (122hp).

Blair at Farmer get-up-and-go Torque: 200Nm from 1400-4000 Auto Village in out of your rpm.

Tauranga gave me Audi you are Transmission: Seven-speed S Tronic, a rundown, before spoilt for choice with paddle shift option.

Acceleration: Reaches 100 km/h from deciding to head (from the 2.0 standing start in 9.3 seconds. over the hill to TDI offerFuel economy: five litres per 100 km.

Hamilton to test her. ing 110 kW Safety: Antilock Brakes System (ABS), I have always said through to the Electronic Brake Pressure System the secret to assessS3-A3’s top-end (EBPS) apply braking force to disc ing a small hatch sport –with its brakes on all four wheels. Active head restraints, front and side airbags. is spending time in astonishing 221 Price: Starts at $48,400. one – so it was in kW).

Dealer/contacts: Farmer Auto Village, touring mode that I I have always Hewletts Rd, Mount Maunganui. headed out of town. found a big Phone: 07 578 6017.

The Kaimai Ranges challenge with were dispatched with hatches to be ease, the seven-speed the unfolding automatic system oneself after quietly going about a drive. The its business with an astonishing lack of litmus test, on the suitability of the car to a noise, hesitation or lag. I didn’t even know broad market, was going to be getting out what gear I was in until I checked. of the A3 in a vertical position in HamilThe interior layout is simplistic yet unobton. trusive. It has all you require and expect, Surprise, surprise, my ancient limbs

arranged themselves in a reasonable order, and I could actually stand upright. Usually, after a journey in a small car it would take five minutes to rearrange my posture.

It’s a gigantic tick for the A3 as a genuine comfortable tourer.

Leaving the ‘Tron’ in the rear vision mirror I headed for the back roads around Walton and Matamata to put the ‘sports’ part of the badges through its paces. The last time I travelled these roads, I was putting a Fiat Abarth, and later a Golf GTI, through their paces on test drives. In those days, the hills were alive with the sound of sheep not hobbits.

Before I commenced my spirited journey through the rolling hills, I took some time sorting out the electronic gear system, as I am a fairly ‘old school’ sort of guy. A gear stick is for me not a flappy paddle thing on the steering wheel, so I set the car in sports mode.

The A3 was superb. Point it into a corner and out you come the other end under acceleration with the chassis as flat as the Canterbury Plains. The hobbits were possibly in a state of shock, hearing an Audi under power (a joyous sound) with the driver singing and laughing as he drove by.

Honestly, I have not had this much fun in a vehicle since the days I drove the forementioned marques through these same hills. Stunning.

Changing gear was quick and precise, the rear discs and a system called ‘brake force recuperation’, making sure plenty of stopping power was available on demand.

The seats held me tight in position, as I was going from a left-hand corner straight into a right-hander, no body roll (car or human).

It was with absolute regret that time was

never to allow me to head to Wellington and basically keep driving this superb car. Through Matamata, then over the Kaimais – but not without one last flick of the gearing system into sports mode for a blast up the hill. Simply brilliant.

My big question is how can Audi get this sort of performance from a 1.4 litre vehicle? It’s obscene.

The A3 ticks all the boxes I’m looking for in a vehicle – fun, affordability, performance, safety, economy, comfortability – it even offers surprisingly generous luggage capacity.

If you are looking for a vehicle that offers all the above for a small family, or a fun sports hatch, you will be hard pressed to find a better made or driveable

By Tony Breeds car. Would I own one? Absolutely.

Audi intensified

The new Audi A3 Sportback.

Bigger, faster, lighter, stronger, better.

Bay Prestige 116 Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui Ph 07 578 6017 www.bayprestige.co.nz

Page 30

RETIREMENT

House of Treasures supports village

Among Tasman Village’s happy residents are Nel van Leeuwerden, Catherine Rutten and Wilhelmina Noort.

Discount price sections at Morrinsville village For a limited time, sections at Tasman Village in Morrinsville are available at a discount of up to $40,000.

The lifestyle village nestled in the heart of the Waikato also has a gorgeous, spacious, brand new twobedroom showhome for sale.

The village is surprisingly spacious, with plenty of room between units and lots of open ground.

There is always plenty to do – providing companionship and activities for those who want it and the option of privacy and solitude for those who don’t.

Residents in the village enjoy a comfy, modern home and are able to maintain their own independence

while feeling safe in the knowledge that others are close by.

One couple’s story sums it up: “We came to Tasman Village when we were in our early seventies, and knew that one day we faced the possibility of losing one of us. We looked for a place to spend our final years together – we found it here.

“This is a tranquil village with happy, friendly people. We have a comfy, modern home that is easy to maintain, with help nearby should we need it. We have the security of others nearby, yet the privacy of our own place to retire to. Life continues with vitality and contentment for us here in this ‘happy place’ – come and join us.”

For enquiries or viewings, please phone 07 889 1933 or visit the website: www.tasmanvillage.co.nz

The Aparangi House of Treasures shop, which recently opened in Te Kauwhata, marks a return to a very special tradition for Aparangi Village and the local community, says Jackie Long of the Te Kauwhata Retirement Trust Board.

Located in the former Credit Union building, and staffed by volunteers, the shop sells quality secondhand goods with proceeds helping to fund new developments at Aparangi Village.

“In 1974, a thriving arts and craft shop, staffed by volunteers and selling high quality New Zealand handcrafts, opened in Rangiriri initially. And after moving to the Great South Rd, Te Kauwhata, it operated for the next 22 years gifting $1.2 million in grants to the village,” says Jackie.

“However, competition from cheap, imported handcrafts, and the increasing age of volunteers staffing the shop, saw it close. It is wonderful that we have opened another store, even if its stock is a little different from the original.”

Delsie Vickers officially opened the new Aparangi House of Treasures shop in Te Kauwhata.

Although it hasn’t been open for long, Jackie says the new store is a hit with locals, including village residents (many of who are among the volunteer staff ), and the travelling public.

Fittingly, it was officially opened by Delsie Vickers, who was manager of the original shop and instrumental in its considerable success.

Jackie says an example of the type of projects the shop will assist with is the upgrade of the Simmons Hall, a facility in the retirement village used by the wider community. Work has begun to replace floor coverings, doorways, toilets and upgrade the kitchen.

Aparangi Village is a unique lifestyle retirement village in the rural township of Te Kauwhata, North Waikato, 80 kilometres south of Auckland and 48 kilometres north of Hamilton.

Located on a picturesque 14.5 hectare location, Aparangi provides residents with an outstanding opportunity for a healthy, active lifestyle; and provides a wide range of accommodation and residential care options with something to suit everyone.

As a registered charitable trust, under the auspices of the Te Kauwhata Retirement Trust Board, it has been an asset to the community since its inception in 1972.

The Te Kauwhata Bowling Club is sited adjacent to the village; and both a fitness centre and swimming pool are only short distances away, as well as the renowned Waikere Golf Club.

As a resident becomes more dependent, it is possible for them to move into the residential care unit, which is the heart of Aparangi, says Jackie. “It is a group of 45 rooms with a choice of style and comfort.” Residents on the whole stay ‘in their own home’, as they may progress through the care stages of rest home, and hospital levels of care.

Retirement policy reviews A package of policy recommendations designed to make New Zealand’s system of retirement income socially, economically and politically sustainable for decades to come, has been released by the Commission for Financial Literacy and Retirement Income.

Retirement Commissioner Diane Maxwell says the 2013 Review of Retirement Income Policies reflects the impact an ageing population will have on our current retirement income system. The review document is on the website: www.cflri.org.nz/retirement-income/policy-reviews.

CAMPERVANS & CARAVANS

Page 31

Cafe experience much more than lattes When I was asked to review the Ultima Cafe, I thought I was heading to an upmarket coffee shop, destined for sipping lattes all day – but this cafe experience proved to be way more fun.

The Ultima Cafe is a new compact fifth-wheeler, built in the USA exclusively for Australia and New Zealand with all electrical fittings and wiring fully compliant.

Having just sold my motorhome, I was keen to see if this American-style of camping would inspire me back into the market.

On The Way RV owner Mal Brady hooked the 6.95 metre cafe on to a Ford Ranger XLT, from Ultimate Motor Group, and let me have a drive.

Mal’s driving tip was to select the Ranger’s sports mode; and as I hit the gas pedal, the 3.2L turbo diesel effortlessly got us underway.

Towing was a breeze, the two-wheel, single axle, fifth wheeler (figure that one out), was hardly noticeable – and the overall towing length is about 2.5 metres less than a seven metre caravan combo.

The overall impression of the build and accommodation is luxury; the cabin extends out by one metre, two awnings unfold, and a 24 inch TV pops up all at the push of a button. Now that’s definitely

a bit of me. The fully carpeted bedroom features a queen size bed, and separate toilet and shower with LED lighting and bedside lockers. Comfort appears to be the hallmark of the Cafe, with a plush two-seater couch in the kitchen/lounge area folding into a double bed, making accommodation for four. Two adults and two children, despite being much noisier, would be a better mix. With 120 litre grey water and black water tanks, plus 140

DON’T

SETTLE FOR ANYTHING

LESS

umg.co.nz

litres of fresh water on-board, your visits to the dump station will be less frequent than with most motorhomes.

Overall, this little piece of paradise would certainly get me back into the camping scene. Its ease of towing, the convenience of having a separate vehicle, along with space and quality, make it a winner.

By Ross Brown

Page 32

CAMPERVANS & CARAVANS

New designs for popular motorhome Coastal Motorhomes & Caravans in Whakatane is showing continued growth and development with its unique custom-built brand ‘The Coastal’ motorhome, which it has been designing and building for 12 years – and the brand has come a long way in that time.

This year two new design layouts have been built, the most recent is built on a Mercedes Benz chassis with an east west island bed; and an ensuite across the rear, a side kitchen, and an east west-facing dinette. This is currently on display at the dealership in Whakatane.

The most recent build, which is currently in production, has a north/south island bed.

Along with the ‘Coastal Motorhome’, this dealership is also an agent for ‘Elddis’, which is one of the leading design and manufacturers in the UK. Elddis offers a fully-bonded frame that is not only lightweight, but also strong with a 10-year water ingress warranty.

Elddis has a diverse model range with several different sizes and layouts to choose from.

At Coastal Motorhomes & Caravans, you will not only find a great selection of new recreational vehicles

(Rvs), but also used caravans and motorhomes, plus on-site is a three bay workshop where anything from solar panels, to diesel heaters can be fitted, plus self-containment fitment and certification, insurance repairs undertaken and servicing of your RV. Accompanying the workshop is a fully stocked parts and accessories shop, which now has an online store.

Visit: www.coastalmotorhomes. co.nz Coastal Motorhomes & Caravans also has a New Zealand Motor Caravan Association registered ‘POP’ (park over property) on-site.

Mike and Gayle Farrell of Coastal Motorhomes & Caravans in Whakatane offer a comprehensive range of motorhomes.

Freedom is a home on wheels The appeal of motor caravanning or “movanning” is it provides not only a means of transport but accommodation too – and the philosophy behind this form of travel is freedom.

Movanners are able to stop off when their interest is piqued by local attractions, without the hassle of advance booking and rigid scheduling. For many, this is the ultimate recreational lifestyle – to explore the ‘real’ New Zealand, at their leisure, enjoying everything each stay has to offer.

Unlike other methods of touring, motor caravans afford privacy, the opportunity to take pets; and the chance to visit friends and family without the requisite of ‘home invasion’. They allow room to travel with friends or family with sizeable recreational equipment, while still in comfort. Motor caravans also give the less mobile, older, or disabled individuals, the ability to spend time in camping areas otherwise inaccessible to them.

The domestic motor caravanning market comprises

mostly of private motor home ownership. In addition to private owners, it is reported three per cent of domestic tourists camping at holiday parks, hire either a campervan or caravan for the duration of their stay.

Records show New Zealand Motor Caravan Association Inc members collectively spent $108 million while traveling across New Zealand. The rental industry is well established with an estimated 3500 campervans and motor homes available for hire from more than 60 rental companies. The rental industry is worth more than $500 million towards New Zealand’s economy.

The NZMCA is working alongside the industry to certify rental vehicles to the NZ standard for Self Containment.

District councils that recognise and support motor caravan recreation and tourism can increase their local economy by 50 per cent during peak periods.

(Source: New Zealand Motor Caravan Association Inc).For more information about NZMCA, visit: www.nzmca.org.nz

CAMPERVANS & CARAVANS

Page 33

Rallying call for major camper event The 2014 Hamilton Camper Care Motorhome and Caravan show’s new partnership with Mystery Creek Events Centre will see one of Hamilton’s largest exhibition events relocate to the well-known venue this coming February.

As the show increases in size each year, the move to Mystery Creek will provide visitors with better facilities, including one large hall to accommodate all indoor exhibitors, making it easy to experience everything the show has to offer, says event organiser Michele Connell.

The team at Mystery Creek Events Centre will also be getting in behind the show, offering free facilities for those wishing to stay on-site at the Top 10 Rally, one of the biggest rallies in the country.

Top 10 will host the new improved rally, introducing two new ticketed evening events. Friday offers an outdoor Jazz night in the picturesque heritage village at Mystery Creek, and on Saturday a chance for rally goers to kick up their heels at a lively barn dance.

The new, improved show will also see Masterchef winner Chelsea

Winter on-board as part of the ‘Inspiration in the Kitchen’ series.

Chelsea will be showing visitors how to make the most of eating on the road, or cooking in a confined space.

“We’re excited at the move to Mystery Creek, which will give show visitors the opportunity to experience a full weekend of activity, with evening entertainment on both Friday and Saturday nights, as well a showcase of the best and latest in motorhomes and caravans on display,” says Michele. “There will also be a range of other items

One-stop shop for caravan and camping Baylifestyles RV Shop is a friendly and locally-owned business that has been around for more than 30 years.

It’s easy to find, being located by Bunning’s carpark off the main Hewletts Rd area in Mount Maunganui.

The company’s reputation for service is summed up in the many customer testimonials Baylifestyles RV Shop receives, including this from Steve, who writes: “Wow what an awesome, welcoming team of people.

So friendly that I will recommend to everyone I know.

Was a very good deal too”.

Baylifestyles RV Shop is a unique business. It’s your one-stop shop for everything you need for your motorhome, caravan, RV and campervans. It has a large workshop for all repairs, refurbishments and installations; and a spacious shop with parts and accessories for all caravan and camping needs. Outside there is a wide range of motorhomes, RVs, campervans and caravans for sale to suit everyone’s needs and budgets – and Baylifestyles even sell on behalf.

If you ever fancied travelling around New Zealand, take one of the rental vehicles; stop wherever takes

your fancy, travel at your pace and take the stress out of booking accommodation. If you can’t find what you need or require, Baylifestyles RV Shop staff will do their best to get it for you. For more information, visit the user-friendly website: www.rvshop.co.nz

Among the friendly team at Baylifestyles RV Shop are, from left, sales manager Des Jones and owners Paul and Redecca Grigson.

on show, including the latest in outdoor and adventure accessories, as well as plenty of chances to win some great prizes along the way.”

The North Island Camper Care NZ Motorhome and Caravan Show will be held at Mystery Creek, Hamilton, from Friday, February 28, to Sunday, March

2, 2014. Check out all the details at the new website: www.nzmotorhomeshow. co.nz “Don’t forget to keep up with all the latest news by visiting our blog, or sign up to our visitor newsletter and go in the draw to win free tickets to the show,” says Michele.

Page 34

EARTHWORKS

Coal mine granted A Fonterra subsidiary has been granted consent for an open cast coal mine at Mangatangi, 2.5 kilometres east of Mangatawhiri, in north Waikato.

KEVIN WADE

FARM DRAINAGE & EARTHWORKS

Phone 0274 968337 or 07 884 6784

A joint Waikato District Council and Waikato Regional Council hearings committee approved the issuing of consents to Glencoal Energy Limited, subject to conditions designed to address a range of environmental and health concerns.

The committee heard from a number of submitters concerned about the potential impacts of the proposed Mangatangi Opencast Mine on the local community and the environment.

However, the commissioners say in their decision the adverse effects of the mine on the environment would be minor, given the conditions imposed.

The commissioners also say the application is consistent with relevant planning documents and it would promote the sustainable management purpose of the Resource Management Act. The committee is made up of chair David Hill (appointed by both councils), Dr Jim Cooke (appointed by the regional council) and Maxine MoanaTuwhangai (appointed by the Waikato River Authority).

Glencoal’s planned mine operation would be cover more than a total of 76 hectares and involve eight years of coal extraction, the commissioners’ decision says.

Issues raised by submitters on the proposal included potential for respiratory problems in local people due to

dust; risks related to noise and traffic; and adverse effects on waterways downstream of the mine.

The commissioners found while health risks raised were a genuine concern, they were over-stated, and conditions can be put in place to mitigate dust effects.

Furthermore, reasonable noise limits would not be exceeded and it is unnecessary to restrict the direction of coal haulage traffic, the commissioners say.

They were also satisfied the mine would not have significant adverse effects on the Waikato River.

After the mining is finished, most of the land used for the mine will be returned to pastoral farming, while a 13 hectare lake will also be formed, the decision says.

The land use consent granted by Waikato District Council relates to “mineral extraction and processing, associated with the development, operation and closure of an open cast coal mine, and associated ancillary activities”.

The regional council consents relate to a wide range of activities including earthworks, vegetation clearance, establishment of bores, water discharges, and surface and groundwater use.

The commissioners did note in their decision they were not able to have regard to any arguments about the effects on climate change of using coal.

This position was confirmed last month by the Supreme Court, when it found “it is not open to territorial authorities and regional councils to regulate activities by reference to the effect on climate change of discharges of greenhouse gases, which result indirectly from such activities”.

Three earthworks winners The Waikato Regional Council has given awards to three earthworks projects it has judged to have achieved outstanding results in erosion and sediment controls on-site.

The awards are: • Best Practice Award: Village Lifestyles, Pokeno – Dines Group.

• Innovative Practice Award: Atiamuri SH1 bridge replacement – HEB Construction.

• Best Practice Finalist: Pylon upgrades – Transpower.

Council is considering adding another category to this award for next year, to include small earthworks sites such as permitted activity development sites and small construction sites.

Standards for small sites The Hamilton City Council and Waikato Regional Council have launched a joint initiative to look at small construction sites, and the requirements to ensure erosion and sediment controls are installed, and in place, prior to earthworks commencing onsite.

It is likely the installation of these controls will become a requirement of the works contractors undertake on-site, prior to the building works commencing.

The councils are asking contractors to ensure that, even on permitted activity earthworks sites, the required standards of erosion and sediment controls are the same as on any consented site.

The requirements are contained in the erosion and sediment control guidelines, for soil disturbing activities, on WRC’s website: www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/ ESCguidelines

Page 35

EARTHWORKS

Reducing dust on industrial sites Owners of industrial sites at Ngapuna in Rotorua have found innovative ways to help their local community – and at the same time reduce dust problems.

of all sites, to ensure they complied with BOPRC requirements.

“These plans were provided to site managers last year; and now the project has moved into the next stage, which includes enforcement action as a last resort,” says Sherryn.

Rotorua District Council’s maintenance unit Castlecorp converted large areas of unsealed land on its site into market gardens, with the food grown donated to Rotorua’s Salvation Army. Timber exporters Tachikawa donated untreated offcuts of dry wood to Rotorua families in need, through Rotorua North’s Rotary Club, and TD Haulage delivered the wood.

(Since this initiative, Tachikawa Forest Products NZ has gone into liquidation).

In other moves to reduce dust from the Ngapuna industrial Castlecorp converted large areas of unsealed land into market area, at the southern end of Lake gardens to reduce dust and produce food.

Rotorua, the farm machinery firm “We visited more than 30 sites in May this year, Claas Harvest sealed and covered all unsealed areas; and were pleasantly surprised to see how much work and Rossco Engine Reconditioners paid for the back had been undertaken since the previous round of site area of their leased site to be tar-sealed.

Ngapuna has a number of industries which generate visits last year. Where necessary, the vast majority of sites had taken measures to avoid or mitigate emisa great deal of dust that was becoming a problem sions of dust. for neighbours, especially in late spring and summer Sherryn says the industries were very keen to engage when earth is dry and south-westerly winds prevail, with the regional council and improve their dust says Bay of Plenty Regional Council pollution premanagement. “The positive reception, when visiting vention officer Sherryn Owen. the sites, was both appreciated and made our job so Because of the dust problem, council introduced a three-stage education enforcement aimed at reducing much easier.

“Most sites had taken measures to avoid or mitigate “fugitive” dust, which exceeded the national standemissions of dust. Site managers were positive about ards for particulates. hearing specific details about what other sites in NgaIn the first stage of the Ngapuna Dust Reduction puna had been up to. We dealt with everybody fairly, Operational Plan, the regional council worked with and that was fundamental to the projects’ success.”

Ngapuna site managers to develop dust management Sherryn says she is “cautiously optimistic” all sites plans tailored to each site. The aim of the project was to develop management plans, check progress of dust will comply with dust requirements and standards reduction actions and update the priority ranking by 2016.

Beams & Timber Direct Ltd (BTD)

Thomson Concrete A division of H2o products and services ltd

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

Drainage Site work Farm races Tree work Spreading metal Bulk cartage Transit work Contouring Dairy conversion Forestry Environmental control work

Cattle Troughs • Sheep Troughs • Pig Troughs • Cattle Stops • Septic Tanks • Colvert Pipes • Well Liners • Feed Troughs • Foot Baths • Stone Traps • Water Tanks • PVC Pipe • Alkathene LD&MD • Effluent Pipe • Hansen & Anka Fittings Novaflow • Fish Bait • Pool Chemicals

MON-FRI 7am – 5pm • SAT 9am – 12pm (summer only)

a: Main North Road, Otorohanga p: 0800 876 844 or 07 873 8775 e: tcpaws@xtra.co.nz w:www.thomsonconcrete.co.nz

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Page 36

MODEL: 4609-4WD ROPS C/W FRONT END LOADER 90hp 4wd ROPS 12X12 Sync shuttle trans. Crowd action front end loader self level with joystick control. Great farm tractor good horsepower with easy to use shuttle shift trans.

Sell Price Only $59,950

MODEL: 2615-2WD ROPS 50hp 2wd ROPS 4x2 constant mesh trans, independent PTO control, oil brakes. Good simple basic tractor great for the small block, horticulture or a second farm tractor.

Can have front end loader fitted.

Sell Price Only $23,750

MODEL: 5430-4WD CAB C/W FRONT END LOADER 92Hp 4wd Cabin 16fx16r - 4 speed power shift with power shuttle. Crowd action front end loader fitted with joystick control This is a great all rounder great for farm work, loader or the bigger jobs on the farm.

Sell Price Only $84,900

MODEL: MF7619EF-D6 185hp 4wd Cabin (210 with boost) 24f & 24r 6 speed powershift with clutchless power shuttle. This is serious horsepower for serious work. Fitted with 540/65R30 front & 650/65R42 Rear tyres. This is only $690 per Hp check it out.

Sell Price From $145,000

MODEL: DM1382-KC 3M CUT 2 point hitch 3 meter cutting width mower conditioner (Tyne) with side mounted bogie wheel economical heavy duty for wide mowing, sturdy main beam suspends the cutterbar and provides good ground contour following. fold back for transport.

Sell Price Only $27,900

MODEL: DM1383-KC 3M CUT Centre tow 3 meter cutting width mower conditioner (Tyne) with swivel hitch swing either way excellent ground contour following through parallelogram cutter bar mount design.

Sell Price Only $29,950

MODEL: TD1635 5.2M TED WIDTH 3point linkage tedder 5.2m working width 4 rotors. Ocillating headstock, low mounting point and integrated pendulum provide great stability. Easy adjust spread angle.

Retail

$14,706

Sell Price Only $13,000

MODEL: RK3875 5.8M-6.5M WORKING WIDTH Twin rotor rake 5.8 to 6.5 meter working width steering rear axle sealed gearbox independent rotor suspension.

Sell Price Only $29,950

Model: DM1309

2.8m Cut

Farmer series disc mower 3 point linkage 2.8m cutting width 7 disc. Each disc has shear pin protection, easily replaced, tough basic mower

Sell Price Only $13,950 prices do not include Gst, deals subject to availability

Page 37

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

The Piako Tractors service team is: (from left) Alan Blackwood, Peter Kempthorne, Brendan Manning, James Brown, Ricky Sturn and service manager Dave Lamb. Missing from the photograph is Dean Wilson.

New, hi-tech tractors for farmers and contractors are sold and serviced by Piako Motors in Morrinsville.

Investing in the future of farming The growth and development of Piako Tractors and Piako Mitsubishi, with the construction of the state-of-the-art sales and service facilities in Morrinsville, is testament to the company’s faith in the future of farming and Morrinsville itself, says Brian Matchett, marketing and development manager for Piako Group.

In just 18 years the company has evolved from a Mitsubishi dealership to one of the largest automotive and agricultural machinery businesses in the country, with Piako Tractors branches in Morrinsville, Paeroa and Rotorua covering the Bay of Plenty and Central Plateau areas; and Piako Mitsubishi dealerships in Morrinsville, Matamata, Te Aroha, and from December 1, in Rotorua.

The company has a strong focus on retaining skilled staff and training staff, especially when it comes to parts support and the servicing and maintenance of agricultural machinery.

Brian says it’s no longer enough for service staff to be skilled mechanics – they have to be IT experts too now that so much of the operation of tractors and harvesters is controlled by computer.

Piako Group trains apprentice mechanics and encourages their on-going professional and personal growth through not only courses but international exchanges with sister AGCO companies in Europe. “We send some of our staff over there, and in return others come to work for us. It’s a great programme and the companies, as well as the individuals, benefit,” says Brian.

As well as repairing and maintaining machines and motor vehicles in the two large, purpose-built Morrinsville workshops, plus the large fully-equipped Rotorua workshop, the mechanics also work on-farm and all are kept up-to-date with new developments through regular training in New Zealand, Australia and overseas.

Fully trained technicians handle air conditioning repairs and services in the workshop and on-farm.

Brian carried out before having the new facilities designed for the Morrinsville site.

Darrell and Brian looked at building designs in New Zealand and overseas; and they came up with a new building concept that incorporated an efficient car service centre and an agricultural workshop, with room to accommodate the largest of agricultural contracting machines.

Workshops

In 2011, the new 1074m2 agri-vehicle service workshop and 731m2 car service workshops, and spare part centre, opened along with the extended and re-vamped sales, service and administration building on a one hectare site in Thames St. The agri-workshop has a five-tonne overhead crane and room for the team, of eight service staff, to park their “mobile workshops” – fully-equipped vans – alongside the machines they are working on.

There is a well-equipped tool room and spare parts department; and the well-lit, spacious workshop has improved not only working conditions for staff, but efficiency too.

The story of the growth of the company began in 1995, when Darrell joined Piako Motors as manager of Mitsubishi Morrinsville and Te Aroha,

and the Mobile service station in Morrinsville. Later the same year, together with wife Catherine, he purchased 50 per cent of business.

In 1996 the couple purchased an existing tractor and machinery business operating in Anderson St, Morrinsville, and by 1997 were outright owners of Piako Motors and Mobil.

In the following years, sites in Thames St and adjacent Charleston St were purchased. And in 2002, Piako Tractors Rotorua on Te Ngae Rd, Rotorua, was opened in a 50/50 joint venture with Ian Pilcher. Piako Tractors, Paeroa, opened in 2008.

Overall

Piako Tractors is dedicated to the farming community and provides a full range of tractors and machinery from the stable of the world’s largest and best manufacturers.

Piako Group has a large group of dedicated staff that are a vital part of the operation, as Darrell says: “you can’t run a business in the intense world of farming and contracting support without loyal dedicated staff – more than 25 per cent of our staff have been with the company for more than 10 years”.

“Our support is second to none, and we provide 24/7 backup to all of our customers from small farmers to the largest contractors.”

orchard tractors

small tractors & mowers

Mandatory

Piako Tractors sets its own high standards when deciding which manufacturers and distributors products to represent. The mandatory requirements are quality-built products, product reliability, parts support, service support, product performance, and manufacturer’s local support in New Zealand.

The growth and profitability of the dairy industry, plus the drive for greater efficiencies and reduced environmental impacts, has created demand among farmers and contractors for the latest equipment – and Brian says some of it is not cheap.

“A tractor can cost up to $250,000 and then there are the implements to attach to it. But modern tractors are so sophisticated and fuel-efficient they are worthy of the investment. Thanks to GPS guidance, fertiliser can be accurately applied at the exact amount and exactly where required, crops can be sown in perfectly straight rows, and harvested much more quickly. The end result is better quality pasture and supplementary feeds for milking cows.”

The reliability of equipment, tractors and harvesters in particular, is vital to farmers and contractors – and meeting those needs was among the drive behind extensive research which owner Darrell Russell and

ag tractors

Page 38

COAST & COUNTRY

Cost and effects of Psa-V significant, but uneven Growers, their families, kiwifruit industry workers and the community have paid the price for the Psa-V incursion.

Much of the suffering has not been visible to the public. The effects have also been uneven.

Some orchards had to be cut out, and others have only been partially cut out. Some workers lost their jobs and others didn’t.

To meet the Psa challenge, the kiwifruit industry developed four main initiatives for Psa control and management: 1. Biosecurity controls to contain and limit the spread of Psa as much as is possible.

Initially, these controls were voluntary until the implementation of the National Psa-V Pest Management Plan (NPMP) in May 2013.

2. Psa research and development followed by grower extension/technical transfer passing on what has been discovered. This programme has seen new and effective sprays being developed that are making a difference.

3. Developing a pathway back to prosperity, based on finding Psa resistant/tolerant root stocks and varieties, and the removal of Hort16A – the gold variety that is very susceptible to Psa. 4. Grower and industry support and welfare to support those in need, to keep skills in the Bay of Plenty, and to enable us to have viable industry and community while kiwifruit recovers.

Early on in the crisis, a division of labour was put in place between Kiwifruit Vine Health and New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc. NZKGI took on industry wellbeing and funded the support activities from donations and from growers’ funds. Since the declaration of an adverse event, by the Government in December

2012, this funding has mostly been provided by the Government. This initiative was led very ably by Ian Greaves; and resulted in a series of networks being established around the industry to support growers, their families and those employed by the industry. Those networks remain in place today and are actively supporting growers, their families and the wider industry.

At the end of 2011, support seminars were run throughout the Bay of Plenty providing advice and information on tax issues, financial decision making, the financial advocates’ panel, an update on the work with banks, what support is on offer from Work and Income; and how to detect and manage stress.

These meetings were open to everyone in the community. In Katikati, for example, about 100 people attended the seminar.

Approximately half of the attendees were people who do not grow kiwifruit. In addition, drop-in clinics and courses teaching techniques to deal with stress have been run. Community organisations and the local churches have provided incredible support.

These support networks are being strengthened, and courses/drop-in operations are being expanded, to provide a range of options to hopefully meet all needs.

NZKGI also appointed a kiwifruit employment coordinator. The aim for this position was to retain skilled kiwifruit industry workers in the region. The role, which is funded by the Ministry of Social Development, focuses on meeting the skill and labour needs of employers in the kiwifruit industry by matching them to those who have lost their jobs as a result of Psa. The key emphasis is on providing quality employment opportunities to improve sustainable employment outcomes for people; and supporting skill retention in the kiwifruit industry.

NZKGI also set up a financial advocate service. This was designed to help where growers are having “difficult” conversations with their banks, due to valuation decreases or income effects of cutting out Psaaffected vines.

The actual cost to the kiwifruit industry of Psa-V is the combination of all the individual orchardist’s loss of production and additional costs, including pack-house costs, redundancies, the cost of providing grower and industry well-being support, the cost of setting up and running an organisation committed to controlling Psa-V (Kiwifruit Vine Health); and the dramatic reduction in capital values. The personal cost is much more than dollars and cents.

It affects whole families and everyone involved in the kiwifruit industry.

Cutting out gold Hort16A, and replacing it with the more Psa-tolerant Gold3, was estimated by the Ministry for Primary Industries to cost $25,100 per hectare. This is based on industry feedback. When the cost of the Zespri licence to grow Gold3 is included, this totals $33,100. My calculation is more than 2000 hectares have been converted to Gold3 at a total cost of about $60 million.

Gold3 will not start producing a crop for two to three years; and each hectare is likely to have less than a full canopy due to Psa. Based on this year’s figures across the industry (before on orchard expenses, debt repayment and drawings), a staggering $182 million of income is not coming back to kiwifruit orchardists each year until they can grow a crop.

A study conducted by Lincoln University estimates the kiwifruit industry in the Bay of Plenty region will lose between 360 to 470 full-time equivalent jobs each year between 2012 and 2016. When this loss of jobs in the kiwifruit industry is combined with the loss of income coming into the region, it equates to a very significant and catastrophic economic crisis – not only for the kiwifruit industry, but also for the region itself. Before Psa attacked our vines, the kiwifruit industry generated $2 billion in flow-on revenues in the Bay of Plenty Region and accounted for about 20 per cent of the region’s Gross Domestic Product each year.

These costs are significant and have seen a decline across the Bay of Plenty in economic and personal wellbeing. As the industry recovers, economic prosperity will progressively return. However, the financial and personal wellbeing costs from the Psa incursion will never be recovered. # Mike Chapman is chief executive of NZ Kiwifruit Growers Inc.

HORTICULTURE

Page 39

New registration bonus for blueberry industry The full cost of registering a new agrichemical to control pest moth leafroller would be beyond the resources of the blueberry industry – which is why the assistance of the Sustainable Farming Fund is so important, says the chairperson of Blueberries NZ. The insecticide Prodigy, by Dow AgroSciences, is the first of many registered products to be released as part of a government-led Sustainable Farming Fund project – and chief executive Dan Peach says it’s an important step for blueberry growers.

“Blueberries generally require only a small amount of inputs in relation to other crops. Many of our growers are organic, or choose not to use sprays. But if sprays are required, we now have a registered chemical specific to the target pest, rather than the broad-spectrum chemicals which were used in the past.

“It is pleasing to see government working alongside industry [through the SFF] for the good of all.”

Dan says the blueberry industry contributes some funding to the project and has made in-kind contributions, including being part of the trials to establish maximum residue levels.

The Minor Crops project team, coordinated by Horticulture NZ, announced the registration of Prodigy under the SFF project called ‘Registration of sustainable agrichemicals for minor crops’.

“The project brings together 12 grower product groups from across horticulture, agrichemical companies and MPI, who together have invested more $1

million to help streamline registration of agrichemicals for minor crops,” says Ministry for Primary Industries’ director of Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Debbie Morris.

“The majority of crops produced in New Zealand are considered minor by chemical companies; and due to low levels of chemical sales, they do not justify the cost of specific registration trials,” says Debbie.

The Minor Crops Group is led by Nikki Johnson, of Market Access Solutionz in Wellington, and coordinated under the umbrella of HortNZ. Nikki says the project began in July 2011; and although it took some time to have the first product registered, the next two in the project, including products for citrus and leafy vegetables, should be much quicker.

“We are looking at products that are already registered for other crops but not for minor crops. We are hoping to work on brand new products currently registered for major crops but not for minor crops.”

Nikki says there is a new product from DuPont registered for use on potatoes to combat the potato/ tomato psyllid, which the group wants to register for other crops but needs to build up data to support the application for registration.

Minor crops, which will benefit from other products currently under evaluation or close to registration, include leafy vegetables, blueberries, passionfruit, avocados, tamarillos, feijoas and squash.

Nikki says data protection is of concern for agrichemical companies.

“Prodigy for blueberries has recently completed its data protection period, so we are encouraging growers to support the company who supported them in gaining registration.”

By Elaine Fisher

Bugs can’t handle big clover An article on the development of clover by AgResearch, published in November 2003, starts with following: “If there is one thing New Zealand couldn’t do without, it would have to be white clover”.

“While it doesn’t seem like an obvious one for the top 20 list of ‘essential survival items’, white clover-based pastures underpin most of New Zealand’s milk, meat and wool production in a quiet unassuming way.

“While clover contributes around $3 billion annually to the New Zealand economy and each one per cent improvement in yield has been estimated to be worth more than $20 million.

“White clover is integrated into pastures to improve nutritive value and animal intake rates, as well as provide low-cost nitrogen for pasture growth. It has also been a key in the development of New Zealand’s low cost livestock farming systems.

“Without white clover, livestock production in New Zealand would depend solely on fertiliser nitrogen. This has obvious environmental consequences,” the article says.

Ten years on, the question has to be asked: Why have the Tall clover appears fertiliser policies, pushed by the too much of a two major fertiliser companies challenge for bugs. and endorsed by the major advisory groups, been based on the dependence on fertiliser nitrogen when it is well known that clovers suffer as a result?

One reason, forwarded so far, is clover flea and weevil have done such damage that the clover S o in l i dpasture F o o d f ois r Soils incapable of fixing sufficient nitrogen for high performance farming.

Eco-Logic Soil Improvement has an increasing number of properties nationwide that use DoloZest/CalciZest total nutrient programmes and produce, based on Overseer, permanent pastures growing up to 19.3 tonne of dry matter annually.

A recent farmwalk on one of these properties was to examine the damage on some of the D osmall l o Z e clover st

CalciZest

plants in the sward. Under a magnifying glass, eggs laid by insects could be seen. However, the long strongstemmed large leaf clover, some as tall us our Red Bands, was unaffected.

After an hour or so spent walking the property, the farmer summed up the situation with the following statement: “The bugs can’t handle the big stuff ”. And, on the evidence of what we were seeing, he was correct.

Bugs and disease perform the function of ensuring weak plants do not breed, making sure the plants that do breed are capable of withstanding the pressure of high performance pastoral farming.

An article published within the last 12 months recommended farmers in the Canterbury region to apply nitrogen fertiliser, as the clover flea and weevil had followed dairy farming to the district. It is highly unlikely that fleas and weevils know, or care, what animals are grazing the pastures they currently share. Their ability to flourish is due to an increase in the amount of clover weakened by current mainstream farming practises, of which the regular application of fertiliser nitrogen plays a central role.

It doesn’t have to be the case. And the change to a CalciZest-based clover-friendly nutrient programme, which grows more total pasture with a more even spread of pasture throughout the year, can be made seamlessly with a noticeable improvement in quality and animal performance within a month after implementation.

The most recent independent report, done for the 2011-2012 season, showed the property monitored grew 30 per cent more pasture and produced 38 per cent more milk solids than district average. The cows on the property also ate 15.3 kgDM to produce a kilogram of milk solids compared to 19.5 kgDM for the district average, with an increase in profit of 38 per cent.

For more information, contact Peter on 0800 843 809.

Global experts in food safety and qual AsureQuality has been operating in the NZ food and agricultural sectors for over 100 years. We are a leading provider of independent auditing, testing and certification services along the supply chain.

Talk to us today about our integrated certification and testing services including: › NZGAP and GLOBALG.A.P › British Retail Consortium (BRC) › Tesco Nurture Scheme › Woolworths Quality Assurance › Coles Supplier Management Programme › carboNZero › AsureQuality Organic Standard (IFOAM accredited) › Residue Testing

KIWIFRUIT

Page 40

Psa-V molds stronger, more resilient industry The New Zealand kiwifruit industry is beginning to emerge from the impacts of the vine disease Psa-V stronger, more resilient and with a promising future, says Kiwifruit Vine Health’s CEO.

FARM STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Kitset PKE Bin + NEW Sliding Roof Add-on With current tough weather conditions, we know how important it is to reduce wasted PKE and ensure feed storage is secure, weatherproof and long-lasting.

Interbloc PKE Bin DIY kitsets available or have our experts install for you.

3

0800 468 375

www.interbloc.co.nz

WWW.INTERBLOC.CO.NZ 0800 468 375

We’ve got you Covered...

Join the team that cares for your fruit & adds value to your total package.

New Variety knowledge and experience Psa monitoring, cutouts and support Orchard Leasing & Management Technical expertise & Grower Services support AND Consistently Higher than Industry Average OGRs

For Better Returns & Advice Call (07) 552 0916

“We are not out of the woods yet and for some, Psa has spelled the end of their time as growers but in the last three years the industry has made amazing progress,” says KVH chief executive officer Barry O’Neil.

“I don’t believe any other New Zealand primary industry group, with the exception of Fonterra, could have handled the bio-security incursion and progressed through it as well as the kiwifruit industry has; and that’s largely due to the industry’s integrated nature,” says Barry, who is a biosecurity operational specialist.

Before taking up the position with KVH, he was in senior management and leadership roles as a consultant, and with MAF Biosecurity NZ (now part of the Ministry for Primary Industries), in New Zealand and overseas. Barry led MAF’s emergency response efforts into incursions, including the initial MAF response work to Psa and has been involved in other New Zealand incursions, including the hoax foot and mouth outbreak on Waiheke Island in 2005 and the illegal introduction of the rabbit calicivirus in 1997.

He’s also a kiwifruit grower with a new variety orchard near Katikati, which has been infected with Psa.

Faith

Barry’s faith in the kiwifruit industry’s future is based on a number of factors, including what he has observed happens when an industry is affected by a bio-security incursion.

“Initially, everyone really struggles with the impacts of the event, but over time ends up stronger; and especially in the case of bio-security, [we’re] better prepared to cope with future incursions, because there will be others.”

The innovation of growers, post-harvest companies, scientists and companies providing products and services to the industry has also impressed Barry, who says the level of co-operation across the entire industry and the sharing of knowledge and personnel have been remarkable.

So has the planting, in just three years, of 4000 ha of the new, more Psa-tolerant gold variety G3, most of which has been in response to the disease.

“We are very fortunate that G3 was ready for commercial release and is more tolerant of the disease.”

Production lift

Barry says some green growers in Te Puke, with orchards infected with Psa, have actually lifted their production. “It’s quite an amazing result; and I think what has happened is that by having to pay closer attention to their orchards, because of Psa, these grow-

Barry O’Neil, Kiwifruit Vine Health chief executive officer is growing the new gold variety G3 on his orchard. ers have actually improved their management practices which has resulted in increased production.”

Psa infection levels are much lower this spring than last, which may be due to the long, hot summer and mild winter – conditions not favoured by the disease.

But Barry says it also appears removing so much of the highly susceptible gold Hort16A variety has significantly reduced inoculum levels, especially in the Te Puke area.

Initially, the industry had hoped Psa could be eradicated. But Barry says, from the start, MAF’s technical advisors said it is highly unlikely it could be achieved for a number of reasons, including bacterial diseases being extremely difficult to contain.

“We also didn’t have the rapid testing, which became available later, to confirm Psa. So it took at least a week to culture the bacteria, by which time it would have spread further.”

The industry initially didn’t have the legal powers to require growers to protect and manage disease in their vines, which is now possible under the National Psa-V Pest Management Plan.

Once it was realised eradication wasn’t possible, attention turned to research and development into how to manage the disease, breeding of more tolerant varieties; and how to continue to grow kiwifruit successfully. In all these, New Zealand has led the world,

By Elaine Fisher says Barry.

Page 41

KIWIFRUIT

Crop predictions favourable but vigilance still required been hard hit by the impacts of the disease and reduced crop volumes.

Merger works

“At EastPack, we take a medium to long-term approach to strategic decision making. EastPack recently merged with Satara and rationalised operations to utilise our most efficient sites. One of the most pleasing aspects of the merger was our ability to retain a high proportion of personnel, which has led to a very smooth transition.”

Tony says one of the best things EastPack can offer growers is consistently strong returns thanks to its Tony Hawken, chief executive officer of EastPack says good decision making will help speed up recovery from Psa.

Although it is very early in the season, kiwifruit crop volumes are looking promising – and if growers remain vigilant and have a sound crop protection programme they will have the best opportunity for success, says Tony Hawken, chief executive officer of EastPack.

That promise is another plus for an industry hard hit by the vine disease Psa-V, says Tony, who believes there is a growing sense of confidence within the industry.

“A lot of industry stakeholders are in a better headspace than they were this time last year, but it is too early to say

My Name is Neil Woodward.

Our Ato combin three no accurac

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

We also applica

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

we are out of the woods completely,” says Tony.

“It’s important we all stay focussed on making good decisions going forward to speed up the recovery pathway.”

We hold complia

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

Communication key

As part of that process, EastPack has a strong focus on developing its technical capability and the way it communicates with growers, says Tony.

“For example, EastPack offers Structured Orchard Visits to give growers the opportunity to plan the critical upcoming activities on the orchard, especially relating to Psa. Growers tell us this gives them real confidence in their ability to maximise production in a Psa environment.”

The postharvest industry has also

grower-owned structure, which returns all profits to growers in the form of packing rebates and grower dividends. “Over the last 24 months, our grower base has grown by 115 new kpins [orchards]; and this gives us confidence that we have something very powerful to offer growers, and that is genuine opportunity.

“Psa has been extremely challenging for kiwifruit industry stakeholders, especially growers. We are very fortunate to have largely unified industry, which is prepared to pool resources to give growers the best tools to help speed up the recovery pathway,” says Tony.

My Name is Neil Woodward.

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

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

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

We look your cro

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

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

We hold all certificates needed to meet Globalgap compliance.

P E-m

We look at all challenges to help ensure we protect your crop with excellence.

GROWER OWNED Your company, your profit Freephone: 0800 TOP OGR 8 6 7

6 4 7

www.eastpack.co.nz wav20858CC

To join us

KIWIFRUIT

Page 42

Tough times ahead but future is brighter The kiwifruit industry has another two to three years before it can claim recovery from the vine disease Psa-V but it’s nonetheless on the cusp of turning a corner into positive territory, believes Zespri’s CEO. “We still have some tough years ahead to recover financially and in terms of crop volumes,” says Lain Jager.

“Psa could still be severe in future seasons but in two to three years I think we will look back at the industry response to the disease and see it as a case study for how to recover from a serious bacterial infection.”

Optimistic though he is, Lain says the last three years have been brutal – and for many individual growers the suffering is far from over.

They have lost income from vines, which were cut out and re-grafted and many saw equity in their orchards diminish, says Lain.

“However, as an industry the recovery Lain Jager Zespri CEO says it is vital the new gold signs are there. The new gold G3 is looking fruit achieves the best possible taste standards. ‘pretty good’ and there has been a recovery of capital values of orchards. We haven’t seen any fire sales lately, which means the life savings of most growers have not been lost.”

This year two million trays of G3 were exported.

Next year that’s expected to increase to 10 million; and in the next five years, to 50 million trays.

Growth

Agrizest

Biozest

®

®

PCT/NZ 2005/000303 PCT/NZ 2013/000038 National Patents Pending

PCT/NZ 2005/000303 PCT/NZ 2013/000038 National Patents Pending

zesty vines, healthy returns ATTENTION KIWIFRUIT GROWERS

“By then the industry will have gone from recovery mode to a growth mode – and from a personal point of view, I’d much rather be part of an industry which is growing, than one forced to retrench.”

While growers struggle to recover from their financial losses and re-build production, the postharvest sector has also been hard hit, says Lain, citing fierce competition for a reduced crop volume and challenges of keeping key staff and infrastructure in place, ready for the growth to come.

“Psa could have caused the industry to blow apart, but instead it pulled together and acted collectively to confront the issue.”

In many ways the crisis Psa sparked was worse than that of 1992, when worldwide over-production of kiwifruit caused prices to plummet.

However, the industry can look back and be grateful for the structures put in place as a result of that financial crisis because they have served it well in the current one, Lain says.

“The industry was able to react collectively and the Industry Advisory Council, New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc, Zespri, and the New Zealand Government, was able to put together the $50 million funding package in just one month which was an astounding effort.”

Zespri is a marketing company and its role during the Psa crisis was to facilitate the initial response, which was then picked up by the wider industry, including the post-harvest sector and led also to the formation of the new body; Kiwifruit Vine Health.

Shock

Lain says his initial reaction to news Psa was in New Zealand was one of shock.

“We didn’t know what it meant for growing kiwifruit in New Zealand. We had little understanding of its impact on green and gold.

“It really rammed home the risk the industry faced through too much reliance on a single cultivar, Hort16A, and the debt levels for many.

“It forced the industry to pull the levers and cut out Hort16A and replace it with G3. Growers have grafted 4000 ha to G3, which was a bet on the future because the best we could say is that it appears more tolerant of Psa than Hort16A and so far that appears to be true.”

What has also been learned is what are the best spray programmes and products, including low levels of copper, to manage Psa; and that while Hayward females appear to come through infection, the male vines can be hard hit.

“Today, for many growers, managing Psa is business as usual. But what it has exposed is that those who are good horticulturalists will, almost by definition, be in a strong position, while those who are not so technically focused may struggle,” says Lain.

Resilience

Lain says he is continually impressed at the resilience and determination of New Zealand’s 3000 kiwifruit growers, 60 per cent of who now grow a Zespri-patented plant variety kiwifruit. “The industry now grows a multi-variety crop, which gives a more balanced portfolio, which will eventually be evenly divided between green and gold.”

As so often happens in a crisis, the response to Psa revealed strengths within individuals, many of whom Lain describes as heroes. They include Peter Ombler, then president of New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc; Ian Greaves of Kiwifruit Vine Health, who with grower Braden Hungerford took the lead in caring for grower well-being; Zespri’s David Tanner and Shane Max; and the individual growers, who took on co-ordinator roles in growing districts throughout the country, assisting orchardists with their response to Psa. Post-harvest operators also took grower welfare seriously, including removing plant material from orchards when growers were so overwhelmed they couldn’t cope.

The kiwifruit industry has always been strongly networked, but Lain says Psa has brought that aspect to the fore, in terms of grower welfare, research and development, and the sharing of technical and management information.

“It’s been horrible but I do take some satisfaction from being part of the collective effort, which has seen the industry chart its way through rough water to what promises to be a bright future.”

No-one is taking focus away from Psa, but now the sense of crisis has passed, there’s more attention to the future, including how to maximise returns from the new gold G3, says Lain. “We have to ensure G3 achieves the best possible taste standards, which means high levels of dry matter, and there has been no push back from growers to those standards, which is very pleasing.”

Zespri is positioning itself to manage the predicted growth in export volumes “and to ensure G3 is the best gold kiwifruit in the market”. By Elaine Fisher

YOU CAN'T AFFORD TO IGNORE AGRIZEST

driving crop performance

THIS SEASON USE AGRIZEST PROVEN ELICITOR THAT IMPROVES KIWIFRUIT VINE HEALTH AND INCREASES OGR

Wuxal K40

Wuxal Ascofol

Wuxal K40 is a highly concentrated potassium foliar fertiliser for the supplementary nutrition of plants in order to improve certain specific quality characteristics of fruit, such as fruit size, sugar content, aroma and fruit surface colour.

Wuxal Ascofol is a highly concentrated natural seaweed suspension extracted from the brown algae, Ascophyllum Nodosum.

Available from Agriplus, Allfert, Farmlands, Horticentre, Tasman Crop Protection

Ltd.

15 The Glade, (south) Pukekohe, AUCKLAND 2120, NEW ZEALAND Telephone 64 9 238 3893, Fax 64 9 929 3158

www.agrizest.com

®

Enhances fruit cells

• Extremely high potassium content improves inner and outer quality of crops with high K-requirements.

• Suitable for sandy and K-fixating soils and during dry spells.

Horticentre Tauranga 135a Maleme Street, Tauranga Phone: 07 541 0808 Gavin McMillin: 027 457 9672 Daniel Green: 027 279 8287 Cody Bent: 027 654 5993

®

Promotes early cell division

Wuxal Ascofol has a stimulating effect upon plants under physiological stress in their early growth. It stimulates early cell division in fruit crops and thereby improves fruit size. The high micronutrient content promotes fruit set and improves skin finish.

Page 43

KIWIFRUIT

Managing Psa is now a way of life When Peter Ombler wrote an article stressing how vital it was that New Zealand keep the kiwifruit vine disease Psa-V out of the country, he had no idea it was already here.

Peter Ombler chairman of Kiwifruit Vine Health –Psa has not destroyed the industry.

“I had been to Europe and was well aware of how serious it was there when I wrote the article for the ‘Kiwifruit Journal’. My initial reaction when we learned it was in Te Puke was shock,” says Peter.

That was November 2011 and Peter was president of New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc, a role which instantly plunged him into the wider industry and government response to the incursion.

“I know many growers went through shock, anger and other emotions of grief associated with the impacts of the disease on their orchards and livelihoods. Even when I found Psa on our orchard I was so involved in trying to help protect growers, and find a way ahead, I didn’t experience those intense feelings – I just didn’t have time.”

Peter was, however, acutely aware of how devastated many growers and others in the industry were; and he took a lead in ensuring grower welfare was a priority. “I kept advising people to make a plan so they could feel in control.”

He took the lead in the many industry and grower meetings, and worked closely with those involved in research and development initiatives to find ways to manage Psa. That leadership was recognised early this year with a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, presented to Peter by the Governor General.

Stepping down as NZKGI president last year, Peter is now chairman of Kiwifruit Vine Health and has just been appointed to the Biosecurity Ministerial Advisory Committee.

Peter says he’s now more confident about the ability of both green Hayward and the new gold G3 to tolerate Psa. “The industry is slowly recovering, but we are by no means out of the woods. However, I said last year that if Hayward is to be grown in a good location using industry best practice, it is possible to produce commercial crops in a Psa environment.

“I now think the same can be said of G3. However, we still have a long way to go down the recovery pathway.

For many growers, managing Psa has become a way of life. In future, some years the infection will be worse than others but it has not destroyed the industry.”

While it is hard to see many up-sides to the impacts of Psa, one is the industry has rapidly transitioned to a new gold variety. It is primarily replacing Hort16A in the Bay of Plenty, which has proved so vulnerable to the bacterial disease. “The plant protection rights on Hort16A are due to expire in 2018, and now we have large plantings of a new variety with a much longer plant protection right.”

Peter says the New Zealand kiwifruit industry truly showed its unity and strengths in the way growers and industry players came together to help each other.

“That’s what helped us come through what has been an extremely difficult time.”

“I’m a free spirit, full of life and sweet as.”

Luna’s superior performance gives fruit the opportunity to be what they are meant to be.

Meet Luna Privilege whose performance and flexibility of use goes beyond the achievements of today’s fungicides, delivering guaranteed yields and fruit quality.

• • • •

Exceptional performance against sclerotinia Can be applied pre-flowering providing unsurpassed flexibility Nil detectable residues at harvest when used as directed Bee friendly

We could go on and on about the advantages of Luna, but you need to see for yourself.

Insist on Luna Privilege from Bayer.

Download the new Crop Solutions App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store

Luna Privilege is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No P8787 and is approved pursuant to the HNSO Act 1996, No HSR 100746. Luna® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. ©Bayer CropScience 2013.

BAC 1097 Luna 2013 Press Ad 200x265_ƒ.indd 1

BAC1097

www.doyourfruitafavour.co.nz

9/25/13 2:37 PM

EDUCATION

Page 44

Hands-on training catalyst to inspire and prepare future farmers Hayley Parker was a city girl living in Auckland, with dreams of farming and – one day – working on a sheep muster on horseback.

about the Future Farming training programme.

“When I left school, I didn’t want to be stuck in a classroom all day – I wanted to do the practical work.”

Hayley enrolled with Agriculture New Zealand and spent the year working four out of five days on Aratiatia Station in Taupo, a Landcorp farm. The programme, designed by AgNZ and Landcorp, introduces students to dry stock farm skills; and is ideal for school leavers, and for those looking for a career in agriculture.

This one-year course gives people a solid grounding in farming and prepares them for a career in agriculture. Students from a diverse range of backgrounds and ages

When she told her parents she wanted to do the Future Farming training programme through Agriculture New Zealand, they were a bit taken aback.

“I had no farming background. It was one of those dreams you have when you’re a kid, but it never seemed possible.

“But I got more interested in it and found out what sort of courses there were out there.” Hayley completed a Gateway programme in Year 13 – and then found out

are trained in a wide range of on-farm skills. Up to 14 students are selected each year; and they will spend one day a week in class and four days a week on-farm, engaged in practical, hands-on learning.

Students gain skills such as how to use equipment safely, feed budgeting, pasture analysis and stock health.

Now 22, Hayley is working on Landcorp’s Goudies Station – a sheep, beef and deer genetics farm, which borders the Kaingaroa forest on Goudies Rd, accessed from Reporoa. Agriculture New Zealand’s qualified tutors provide theory and practical tuition, while Landcorp’s

staff provide on-going supervision and guidance as students develop their farming skills. “You get thrown in the deep end,” says Hayley.

Programme Coordinator Mark Goss says the Future Farmer programme is a catalyst to step up, take on a challenge and get into learning. At the end of the year, the students who meet Landcorp’s criteria are given the opportunity to apply for farm trainee positions with Landcorp. Given Landcorp’s scale and geographical spread, the opportunities for successful graduates of the Future Farmer programme are endless.

Classroom extends beyond four walls

Outdoor education at Matahui Road School aims to expand students’ horizons.

In 1988, Mennie Scapens and Chris Hobart established Matahui Road School in a rural setting on the southern side of Katikati.

The two founders recognised the significance of creative play, investigation and exploration through inquiry – and set about building a curriculum to support this approach. They acknowledged every child is unique; and subsequently embraced Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences model as a means by which their students could understand how they best learned.

An integral element, serving to support this philosophical stance, is a commitment to provide opportunities within the playground setting for the students to engage in play that provides scope for imagination, innovation, creativity,

collaboration and connection to the outdoors. Today, the philosophy is still significant, perhaps more so than ever.

Students at Matahui Road School demonstrate the “grit” or resilience with which ‘hardy Kiwi kids’ have traditionally been associated. Their classroom extends well beyond the four walls where they focus on important elements of learning. Their connection to the environment manifests itself in the games both girls and boys create when hut building, climbing trees, sawing, nailing and crafting wooden projects they design. For them, time spent learning inside the school building merges seamlessly with what happens outside.

Twenty-five years on, the Matahui Road School mission and philosophy is as strong as ever.

MAKE YOUR MARK ON THE LAND - COURSES STARTING SOON! Introductory

Our full-time one year Introductory Rural Skills programme specialises in training 16 - 19 year olds who are interested in agriculture. This course offers great opportunities to gain industry skills, knowledge, experience, and nationally recognised qualifications. We provide a mix of classroom and outdoor tutorials, as well as on-farm training with a workplace trainer. Make your mark and successfully progress in a career in agriculture now! *Free training (eligibility criteria applies).

Developed by Agriculture New Zealand and Landcorp, this full-time one year programme will fast track your agriculture career pathway to farm management. From shearing technique to genetics Kiwi’s lead the way in farming.

As a Future Farmer you will be trained by the best to become the best – on Aratiatia Station, a fully commercial 2800ha farm in Taupo. You will graduate with the skills and knowledge to ‘make your mark’ in New Zealand’s real growth industry – agriculture! *Course fee applies.

This new full-time, 23 week programme is designed to help you get started in the dairy industry. Go Dairying is a positive step towards your career in dairy farming; you will gain a comprehensive skill set in milk harvesting which combined with the right attitude, will see you ‘make your mark’ as a highly sought after employee – plus there are many opportunities within the dairy industry. *Course fee applies.

CALL NOW… Applications for our 2014 Courses close soon!

CODE: A.2014-IRSFFGD3

0800 475 455 www.agnz.co.nz

If you want quality training you want Agriculture New Zealand! * Minimum numbers for course to commence.

CHICKENS

Page 45

An ‘eggsellent’ Kiwi solution When Sandra Pedersen left her chooks for a long weekend break, she did not expect to return to broken eggs and hens with a taste for egg-eating.

While preparing for her long weekend, Sandra filled a hopper to ensure her chooks would be wellfed and asked a friend to collect the eggs every Ezynest ensures eggs are protected from hens and pests.

second day. But on returning home, Sandra’s brood had developed a taste for their own eggs with two days’ worth laying broken under their feet.

“I thought there would already be something on the market to solve this problem,” Sandra says.

But there wasn’t, and Sandra, who is not the sort of person to accept second best, needed a solution to her problem.

“I bought some nest trays and adapted them, trialling and re-designing them during a 12-month period until I had a working solution.”

Sandra has been a lifestyle block owner for 17 years, latterly on 6.5 ha (16 acres) in central Hawke’s Bay. She has a National Certificate

Eighty-three poultry breeds described in latest book Birds of every feather colour, size, shape, breed, attributes, and defects are minutely detailed in the latest edition of the book ‘NZ Poultry Standards’, due out in late November.

The 310-page, fully-illustrated book has been researched and complied by Waitara-based Ian Selby, of Poultrynz, and up-dates two earlier editions he has also produced.

“Up to 100 people have contributed information and ideas to the latest edition, which includes 60 pages of coloured photographs and comes in two A4 formats.

The first is a hardback reference book and the second version is in a binder, which will be particularly useful for poultry judges as it is easier to lay open the pages when judging birds,” says Ian, who is also a poultry judge.

Poultry enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the new book as it not only up-dates any changes to standards, but also features a number of new breed and colour descriptions. “The New Zealand standards closely follow that of Australia, Britain and America; and we have included the best photographs we could find, which give a clear and accurate representation of each breed.

“This edition also has a history section, which hasn’t been included before, but I believe it is vital that the next generation of poultry enthusiasts has an understanding of what has gone before and how poultry breeding has evolved.”

New Zealand’s first poultry standard was published in 1920 and detailed about seven breeds and one breed of duck.

The 2013 edition has 83 breeds, including for the first time the guinea fowl.

Orders for up to 200 copies from 20 clubs through-

out the country have already been received, even though the books don’t arrive in the country until late November. “The book should also be available in libraries, as it is an important reference book,” says Ian. He believes keeping poultry is becoming increasingly popular. “The junior section at most New Zealand shows is growing, by up to 300 per cent; and by taking part in the shows young people have the chance to see the diversity of breeds available and hopefully become breeders themselves.”

Only about 500 of the thousands of New Zealanders, who Ian estimates keep poultry, show them. “Before the There are 60 pages of coloured photos credit crunch, keeping poultry, among of most of the birds, in the ‘NZ Poultry all but the real enthusiasts, was almost Standards’ book. a thing of the past. But increasingly parents are buying hens as pets for their children, because they not only learn to take responsibility for a pet but also get something in return in the form of eggs.”

Ian, 65, is a confirmed poultry enthusiast and judge, who has a business specialising in selling poultry and pigeon books and prints, as well as poultry health products. He showed his first bird, a white leghorn bantam cockerel, at age 11 in the New Plymouth A&P Show – and won the award for best junior bantam. “That got me hooked.”

However, today he doesn’t own any hens.

“We used to have hens but in recent years, because I travel extensively for judging and selling my books and products, I don’t have the time to look after hens. I’m hoping to slow down and when I retire properly, I will keep hens again.”

in Animal Care and has worked as a contract tutor for Agriculture New Zealand, running courses to educate those with the same passion for the lifestyle block existence she has.

Last year, Sandra worked with a number of designers and engineers to adapt her ideas and fine tune them into a working solution – an easy-to-clean nesting box to allow backyard poultry keepers to “work, play or go away” for the weekend and come home to a full complement of eggs.

The New Zealand-made EZYNEST ensures all eggs are protected – from hens and from pests – and comes flat-packed or ready-assembled. For more information, and the full story, visit Sandra’s website: www.ezynest.co.nz or call 06 856 6059.

Page 46

EQUINE

Katie McVean wins two titles at Equidays

Hamilton rider Katie McVean proved to be the one to beat at Equidays in late October – winning not only the Hyundai Horse Derby but also the Honda Power Equipment Grand Prix at Mystery Creek.

Twenty-one horses and riders tackled the grand prix course, designed by Gerrit Beker, in front of a packed grandstand to watch Katie take first and fourth placings on two different horses. Katie also lent a horse to visiting Dutch rider Sjaak Van Der Lei, who placed fifth.

In Saturday’s Hyundai Horse Derby, riding Dunstan Zimorena Katie beat 37 other combinations to take home the $10,000 first prize.

Katie took time out from competing to hold clinics at Equidays with her father Jeff, who previously competed at three Olympic Games for Australia. They demonstrated some of their winning training exercises and gave visitors a rare

opportunity dynamic show for a behind jumping spectacular, the scenes look Saturday evening was at one of the a dressage extravacountry’s most ganza, featuring a successful show musical performance jumping riders.

by Anna Hawkins in “It was an ‘Cinderella – a Twist amazing weekin Time’, as Waiend, with top kato dressage riders Hyundai Motors New Zealand national class facilities performed their sales manager Tony Neems with Katie and courses. It own version of the McVean and Mystery Creek Events felt like any top favourite story with Centre’s general manager commercial European indoor beautiful dressage Nick Dromgool at the prizegiving for the horses, song, dance show; and we are very lucky to Hyundai Horse Derby at Equidays. and lots of laughter. have a show like Equidays spokesperson this in New Zealand. [I] Can’t wait for Sarah Riches says “The new layout created next year,” says Katie. an easy flow around the event, which benefitMore than 12,000 visitors, plus riders ted visitors and exhibitors. With many new and exhibitors from throughout New clinicians, improved night shows and the hard Zealand, attended Equidays from Octowork of staff, volunteers and contractors, we ber 18-20 –with Dutch dressage rider created an amazing positive atmosphere which and London 2012 Olympic silver medal- everyone seemed to love. We have received list Adelinde Cornelissen being among so much positive feedback from exhibitors, the most popular clinics. clinicians, competitors and visitors we know While Friday’s night display was the that, while only in its third year, the event is now heading in the right direction and will continue to grow over the years to come.”

Showjumping Waikato president Kerry Willetts gave high praise to the event, in particular the excellent facilities developed for the

competitions. “We are absolutely stoked with the support from the sponsors Hyundai and Honda. The whole thing was fantastic and can only grow from here.”

“Huge thanks go out to all Equidays’ sponsors, clinicians, participants and volunteers; without their support we would not be able to offer such an amazing event. We particularly recognise the impressive support from Hyundai for their sponsorship of the inaugural Hyundai Horse Derby at Equidays 2013. This high calibre competition attracted top riders and huge excitement amongst spectators; and we look forward to growing the derby event in the future.”

Equidays Results

Hyundai Horse Derby: Katie McVean and Dunstan Zimorena 1, Logan Massie and Kiwi Ludo 2, Katie McVean and Dunstan Kiwi Iron Mark 3, Sally Steiner and On the Point Slick Chick 4, Donna Smith and Balmoral Sensation 5, Mathew Gilmour and Starlight Lavada 6.

Honda Pony Derby: Timothy Richards and Mangakaraa Carbon Copy 1, Leshelle Small and Kala Bella 2, Jay Phillips and Guess Once More 3, Hannah Wood and Mr Boombastic 4, Maddy Bult and Wilful 5, Laura Lush and Galaxy Samurai 6.

Honda Power Equipment Horse Grand Prix: Katie McVean and Dunstan Zimorena G 1, Jono Smith and SP Vision 2, Glen Beal and Solano 3, Katie McVean and Dunstan Delilah 4, Sjaak van der Lei (NED) Dunstan Kiwi Iron Mark 5, Mathew Gilmour v Cuba D’Esquelmes Z 6.

Pony Six Bar: Laura Lush and Galaxy Samurai 1. Hannah Fraser and Tony the Pony, Ally Carson and Galaxy Knight Out 2nd equal, Maddy Bult and Wilful 4, Brooke Pullan and Terracotta Rose 5, Hannah Bodle and Mister Brumby; Lucy Bull and Bollinger, Tait Wilson and Wilson Simply Ben 6th equal.

Saddlery outfits horses and riders A business which began in a small shop in Whakatane has grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive saddlery premises in New Zealand.

Hoofcamp Saddlery, Whakatane-based and locally owned, marks its fifth birthday this month and co-owner Kathryn Dick says there is plenty to celebrate.

“Since starting up five years ago in a little shop, which we quickly out-grew, and with the business expanding, we moved into our current larger premises in Commerce St. We are now a household name throughout New Zealand and further afield with sales to Australia.”

With the growth has come an increase in the range of stock and also workshop machines.

“We now sell a large range of horse feed, including Dunstan, Cambridge Grains, Fibre Fresh, and Prydes feeds.”

Brands sold include Equistar, Flair, Pessoa,

Trainer, Tekna, Cavallino, Wild with Flair from Arion, Bates, Wintec, Saddlecraft, Saxon, and Kincade from Weatherbeeta. Top notch gear includes Stubben, Veredus and Eventor, with Horze and B-Vertigo brand gear and clothing in-store.

Hoof Camp also provides supplements from Nutritec, Domhealth, VetPro and Ethical Agents “We import a line of Western saddles, bridles, breastplates, cruppers and bareback pads.”

Hoofcamp Saddlery repairs horse covers, launders and re-proofs them; fixes tents, trampoline mats, zips in oilskin vest or leather jackets, and many other things requiring a heavy industrial machine. Hoofcamp is also a drop-off for shoe repairs, handbags and any other items Hoofcamp saddle bags requiring a cobbler.

“We do saddle repairs, reare a popular accessory packing, re-lining, all leather for keen riders. strapping and other stitching.

We custom-make belts, pouches, dog collars, knife sheaths and any other leather items.

Now we’re producing Hoofcamp-made large canvas saddle bags, pack saddle bags and farrier chaps.

“If we haven’t got a product or your size, we will promptly order it in for you. If you are out of town we accept credit card and can courier you purchase to you quickly. We pride ourselves in our service and also can do same-day repairs on most items,” says Kathryn.

“Come in to our store during the month of November and celebrate our fifth birthday specials, and win a free gift or discount with every purchase.”

For more information, check out: www.hoofcamp. co.nz or see the Hoofcamp facebook page.

Garden to ramble in When you visit Mary-Anne Calver’s place you quickly get caught up in her oozing passion for her countrystyle garden, which quaintly breathes in its surrounding farmland and animals.

“I just love how certain parts frame the farmland and the animals, bringing it into the garden,” says Mary-Anne, as she takes in the view of her trees enclosing a lush green grass backdrop. “It’s just me.”

Marry-Anne and husband Rod bought their 35 acre Lindemann Rd property 21 years ago and had an idea “to plant the house out”.

Marry-Anne began by planting trees against the roadside to block out vehicle noise and re-configuring the driveway to wind up to the house.

“Then it [the garden] got bigger, and bigger and bigger,” says Rod. “I’ve planted trees every year – and now I’ve had to take some out,” admits Mary-Anne. “This because you have to see the views [of north Tauranga harbour] as well as the trees.”

Today, the property has a bountiful orchard, including a banana tree, loads of roses, a drift of daf-

HOUSE & LANDSCAPE

fodils among silver birches “which are beautiful in spring”, and a quaint cherry tree shaping an intimate setting below their home’s deck, with perennials and other flowering varieties sprinkled throughout the wandering garden’s Marry-Anne and Rod Calver at their landscape.

Lindemann Rd property, featuring in Marry-Anne nearly says she wishes she Katikati Rotary’s Up The Garden Path planted her garden with ramble this month. more organisation, but then been worked by their owners for takes back her regret, saying: 20-odd years to grounds being “I planted things when I felt like grown by newcomers to the world it”. of green-fingers.

“And now you never know what’s “We have five new gardens to going to pop up next.” show people, we have two that Mary-Anne and Rod’s property we haven’t used for a number of is part of Katikati Rotary’s Up years and we have a few favourites The Garden Path garden ramble returning as well,” says Murray. fundraiser, showcasing 13 gardens “We run it as a fundraiser – and on November 9-10 from 9am-5pm all the money – 100 per cent – goes daily. to youth and community projects Katikati Rotarian Murray Stewin the Katikati area.” ard, who is organising the ramble, Tickets for Up The Garden Path says this year’s event offers an ramble cost $20 per person for the eclectic mix of 13 gardens, open weekend (November 9-10) from to the public, from Aongatete to 9am-5pm, and are available at Athenree.

Katikati Information Centre.

Gardens include those that have

Fete a day of girly indulgence, shopping and fun The 2013 Piako Fete will be the best ‘ladies day out’ this summer, says organiser Lynsey Champion.

To be held on Friday, November 15, at Daltons Plantation near Matamata, the fete will feature an eclectic mix of high quality stalls along with demonstrations, food and drink, a fashion show, and live music entertainment.

“Piako Fete is all about ladies having a great day out.

We’ve rounded up fashion, beauty, cuisine, gardening and shopping to showcase against Daltons Plantation’s backdrop of 10 acres of beautiful landscaped display gardens,” says Lynsey.

Among the demonstrators are top fashion stylist Megan Maher, from Repertoire, and Jill Mulvaney, from Alembics – an artisan company promoting the ancient skills of distilling essential oils in handcrafted copper stills. They will be joined by World Organics Skincare, The Nukes Ukulele Band, and dozens of stallholders offering exclusive shopping opportunities including plants, clothing, crafts and arts for sale.

“It’s an opportunity to have a girly indulgence day and get some Christmas shopping done,” says Lynsey.

The inaugural Piako Fete in 2012 attracted almost 1000 people and this year the line-up of entertainment and shopping is even stronger with several artisan food vendors.

In 2012, the Waiheke-based duo teamed up with

Daltons Plantation to host the inaugural Piako Fete in Matamata, the “almost epicentre” of the North Island.

Modelled on the supremely successful fetes in the South Island, which Lynsey has attended several times as a stallholder, their aim is for the Piako Fete to become a well-established annual event and earn the title of the ultimate ladies day out.

A donation from profits will be made to the Waikato Breast Cancer Trust, which will go towards more comfortable seating for patients receiving chemotherapy.

Advance tickets are $19, available from: www. eventfinder.co.nz Gate tickets cost $25. For more information, go to: www.piakofete.co.nz

Page 47

Need more options to protect your kiwifruit?

leading edge technology competitive pricing high quality formulations technical support reputable supplier to kiwifruit growers since 1995

NEW!

Copper Hydroxide 300 WDG ... class-leading technology

HORTCARE® HI-BREAK® APPROVE® 70WP HORTCARE® COMMEND® HORTCARE® BACTUR® HORTCARE® LIME SULPHUR HORTCARE® COPPER HYDROXIDE 300 HORTCARE® GLYPHOSATE 360 HORTCARE® KIWISHEEN CP HORTCARE® FIRSTRATE 450 HORTCARE® GLYPHOSATE 680 WSG BIO-POWER® SEAWEED EXTRACT POWDER HORTCARE® KIWI STAINOFF LF ORGANIBOR® CONTROLLED-RELEASE BORON FERTILISER FORCE™ PENETRANT CALL DIRECT 0800 220 002 or

SAM KIRK 021 460 661 • MIKE STEELE 021 460 363 • MARK YORTT 021 929 848

Grosafe

®

CHEMICALS LTD

PHONE 07 572 2662 – FAX 07 578 6241 CALL DIRECT 0800 220 002 – EMAIL: info@grosafe.co.nz – www.grosafe.co.nz

Page 48

COUNTRY LIVING

Rich appointed to ABAC

Original art featuring in spring exhibition A lovingly created original painting is a wonderful Christmas gift or addition to any home’s deco – and Tauranga Society of Artists Inc’s Spring Seasonal exhibition offers the ideal opportunity to purchase a very special piece of art.

Experienced and emerging artists in this exhibition offer a range of styles and themes and the public is able to enjoy their work from Saturday, November 2, to Sunday, November 3, at Tauranga

Contract Bridge Club on Ngatai Rd. Organisers are expecting up to 46 artists to display 137 pieces of artwork in oils, water colours, acrylic, pastel and mixed media.

Last year’s exhibition was very popular and attracted hundreds of people, who flocked to see the paintings – once again the society is encouraging the public to take advantage of viewing this year’s wonderful exhibition in a relaxed atmosphere with easy parking and access.

The location is central, near the Ngatai and Otumoetai roads roundabout, close to Cherrywood shops,

and offers plenty of parking around the building. Entry is via gold coin donation; and eftpos will be available with artworks’ prices wide-ranging.

The exhibition is open 9.30am-5pm Saturday (November 2) and 9.30am4pm Sunday (November 3).

The Tauranga Society of Artists is grateful for sponsorship from Pak n’ Save Tauranga and Sun Media, which are helping to stage the exhibition that heralds very high presentation standards and great art.

For further information Tauranga Society of Artists Inc, visit their website: www.taurangasocietyofartists.org.nz

Food industry leader Katherine Rich has been appointed to the APEC Business Advisory Council, a network of business representatives from each of the 21 APEC economies that meet to develop business perspectives on the issues being discussed among their economies.

Fonterra group director of communications Kerry Underhill says Katherine’s extensive experience, and understanding of the food industry and agri-business, will serve New Zealand well on this influential international forum.

“Katherine has always been generous in sharing her expansive knowledge and networks, and providing wise counsel, with members of the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council.

“NZ Inc will gain a valuable advocate through her participation in ABAC.”

Milking sheep stolen

A Wairarapa sheep-milk cheese maker has had nine milking ewes, mostly in lamb, stolen from his award-winning flock.

Miles King says the ewes, valued at about $500 each are East Friesian; and the white, ear-tagged sheep will be easily identifiable for their wool-free, long tails and friendly demeanour.

“Because they’re milking ewes, and have been handled a lot, they would have been very easy to shift – they’re like pets, really.”

Miles farms about 200 sheep for his Masterton-based Kingsmeade Cheese business, which won a gold medal at this year’s New Zealand Cheese Awards.

International polo at Kihikihi The Kihikihi Polo Club is to host another of its successful international day tournaments in February 2014.

These events have become a main feature of the Kihikihi Polo Club calendar and the inaugural tournament in was held 10 years ago in 1994 when Kihikihi played an English side. For a number of years Kihikihi challenged an overseas team but the New Zealand Polo Association stepped in and put up a New Zealand side in 2003.

The event has become the showcase of polo in New Zealand, attracting crowds of up to 3000 to watch the cream of New Zealand

players contesting an overseas team. The date for next year’s event is February 8.

The Kihikihi club, one of the oldest polo clubs in the Waikato, was formed in 1892. The Kay family has been involved since its inception and the fifth generation of Kay family play today.

The glory days of the Kihikihi Polo Club were during the 10 years from 1952, when it first won the Savile Cup, then went on to win seven times in the next decade and played in nine finals in

that time. It was 30 years before the club had any more success when the next generation won at Tangimoana in 1991. The players were in many open finals in that period but only had the one success, although they featured a number in the Handicap finals and Hamish Wilson Cup. Ponies are an integral part of the polo game and must have ability to be quick to stop, turn, and accelerate quickly when called for, and be able to win a ride off when demanded of it.

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 49

Spoke shave no mystery to knowledgeable readers Last month’s mystery item was instantly recognised by many Coast & Country readers as a spoke shave.

David Fish, of Waitoa, says the spoke shave was used for centuries to hand-make wooden wagon wheel spokes. “It has an adjustable blade, similar to that of a wood plane. Thin amounts of wood can be scraped off as you push the spoke shave away from yourself,” writes David.

E McCready emailed: “I used one of these in my woodworking class in 1962. It is a small hand plane to smooth and level off edges. I made some nice little items back then, at Apanui Primary School in Whakatane”.

Joyce Izod, of Otorohanga, remembers watching her father use a spoke shave when she was a child.

Nicolas Connolly also used a spoke shave at school in design

technology woodwork classes.

“I also have inherited my great grandfather’s one. He used to be a blacksmith and wheelwright, and brought it out from England in 1902.

The spoke shave is used to shave off excess wood, or chamfer corners of wood.”

John Osborne, of Te Aroha, says the spoke shave would also have had other uses, such as shaping chair legs. “I have one of these somewhere in my shed.”

Helen and Murray Brandon also correctly identified the device.

“This mystery item is a twohanded little detail plane, which you pull towards yourself and is used on narrow timber perhaps the edges of doors and windows. We have one, which we think is much

a visit for two to the Katikati Heritage Museum.

This month’s mystery item would have been found in a kitchen or drawing room. If you think you know what it is, and have a story to tell about memories of using it, you could be in to win a Katikati Heritage Museum visit for two.

Send your entry to: elaine@thesun. co.nz or post to: Mystery Item, Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than November 17. The winner will be announced in Coast & Country’s December issue. The museum, just south of Katikati, is open seven days a week 9.30am-4pm. To find out more, visit: www.katikatiheritagemuseum.co.nz or phone 07 549 0651.

older than the one in the photograph [no brand name on this one].

It was used by Murray’s grandfather, who in his younger years was a carpenter [around 1900]. Murray uses it occasionally still,” writes Helen.

Gordon Fletcher, of Pukekohe, provided a little more history of the device. “The original spoke shave was made out of wood; and about 1950 ‘Mr Stanley’ started making metal ones.”

David Fish, for his entry, has won

Plan ahead for farm boundary changes Now is the time to move quickly if you are considering a change to the farm boundaries before next season. During the years, the subdivision process has become more complex with the Resource Management Act and councils becoming much more risk averse.

It is not uncommon for the simplest boundary change to take six months to complete; and, if there are legal issues or delays in gaining approvals needed from other parties, there is potential for this to be even longer.

Boundary adjustments, where there are no new titles created, are becoming more common now as a means of subdividing, since many councils have tightened their subdivision rules. However, if there is a chance of creating a new title, under the local council's rules, we would always advise you to do that.

This way the purchaser has more options in the future for moving this title to another part of the farm, or selling the lot separately if his situation changes – and you get more money for it. Some people use these additional titles to create a retirement lot around their house when they eventually sell their farm.

We have seen significant changes to the subdivision rules during the last couple of years – and they are still on-going.

The main changes, still pending in our area, are in Waikato, Waipa and Hauraki. These areas are moving to limit lifestyle subdivision in the rural zones and also to make farming lot sizes much larger.

However, there are still opportunities, particularly when you own a title that hasn’t been subdivided in the last 10 to 15 years. Waikato and Matamata-Piako still allow one lifestyle block to be cut off an older rural title, but they have restrictions on the size of the parent title.

Most councils are now focussing on specific localities for rural-residential lots. But these are smaller lots with

only enough space to run a lawn mower, and it wouldn’t surprise me if farm animals are not allowed. Other rules still allow some ability to subdivide small agricultural or horticultural lots from rural properties in Matamata-Piako, Western Bay and Thames-Coromandel regions.

Another opportunity presenting itself, often as the only legitimate way to subdivide lifestyle blocks in the rural environment, is the Environmental Lot. These are created by protecting significant ecological features, such as stream banks, bush and wetland – either on the land you are subdividing or elsewhere in the district. Some councils allow a new title to be created around a surplus house, to facilitate its sale.

So, if you are contemplating any changes to your boundaries, or wanting to subdivide for flexibility in the future and to get the best value out of your land, now is the time to act – before it is too late.

Feel free to give me a call and discuss your situation.

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

EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 50

Improving mobility through good nutrition During the last 12 months I have been helping someone with limited mobility. She had a combination of sore and stiff muscles combined with painful knee joints.

Subsequent MRI and other diagnostics were inconclusive. The pain meant, she could barely walk and managing stairs was almost impossible.

In cases where there is no clear medical diagnosis I step back and use a process of elimination to find a starting place for nutritional therapy. The main source of her pain and stiffness seemed to be muscular; though again an MRI showed no structural muscle or joint damage. And she was not on statin cholesterol-lowering medication, which is probably the most common cause of muscle problems that I assist with.

My goal was to reduce inflammation throughout her body while adding nutrients to improve muscle energy; and therefore muscle function.

Our body repair systems, including our immune response and antioxidant systems, are all nutrient-dependent. We made an alteration to her diet and put her on a three-month intensive supplement programme.

I started her on therapeutic doses of my multi antioxidant, mineral and vitamin formula. We added high doses of the best CoQ10 available, starting with higher doses. We added solid Omega 3 Fish oil doses, a combined antiinflammatory and a specific anti-inflammatory joint formula at higher initial doses.

Within a few months she started to notice some progress. The improvements have continued to her being able to walk, bend down, bend her knees and use stairs with relative freedom.

Most of the pain has gone. She is delighted and is starting to get her old life back. Give me a call if you need more information.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional therapist and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. Contact John on 0800 423559 or email: john@johnarts. co.nz. Join his weekly newsletter at: www.johnarts.co.nz For product information visit: www.abundant.co.nz

Abundant Health

Deerstalkers steadfast on hunting ethics The New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association is 75 years old – and to celebrate this milestone, several of its members have collaborated in the book ‘A History of Hunting – The Deerstalkers Part 2’.

late Arthur Hamilton”.

Many association members have contributed to the book by writing chapters on aspects of hunting and NZDA history in which they have expertise. It includes women and young people in hunting, NZDA range officer courses; and game animals, such as whitetail, wapiti, tahr, chamois, red deer, fallow, sika and sambar, to wild pigs, sheep and goats.

It also details firearms legislation, shooting champions and conservation projects the association has been involved in.

Thanks to publishers Halcyon Press, Coast & Country has a copy of ‘A History of Hunting – The Deerstalkers Part 2’ to give away.

To be in to win, email your name and address, with Book Prize as the subject, to: elaine@

The book traces the association’s history from 1987 to 2012 and follows on from the earlier history written by Philip Holden.

National president Tim McCarthy says the association is in good shape, with membership increasing annually. “The issues we have faced in the last 25 years haven’t changed – we are still battling the aerial distribution of 1080, commercial helicopter harvesting of our valued game species, access to public land, the extermination policies of the Department of Conservation, and the rights of hunters to use firearms in pursuit of their sport.”

However, in his forward to the book, Tim is confident there are changes afoot and the association is working to improve hunting opportunities; and “to remain steadfast in promoting the ethics and values put in place by the co-founders of the association, the late Dr GB Orbell and the

thesun.co.nz or put these details on the back of an envelope and post to: Coast & Country Book Prize, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than November 17. The winner will be announced in Coast & Country’s December issue.

Increasing your company’s productivity One of the most rewarding ways to increase your organisation’s productivity is to increase your own happiness – and then the happiness of your employees.

Ground-breaking research shows us happy people are more creative, solve problems more effectively and efficiently, live longer, and enjoy higher levels of leadership influence.

Employment Law Services

One 300gm complimentary roll Redeem this voucher at your nearest pet food retailer Available from the chill ed pet food section TCC No.11871

To the retailer from Retailer Name

VALID TO: 1st January 2014

Store Name

Store Address Amount Claimed: One Complimentary 300gm Pf5 Roll

5 Premium Formulations For Cats

$

Signature Offer is limited to one voucher per customer. This voucher cannot be redeemed for cash and is non-assignable.

Butch Pet Foods Ltd & Co will reimburse you the amount stated plus handling and postage by posting to: The Coupon Company, PO Box 47319, Ponsonby, Auckland 1144.

Pf5 .co.nz

Happiness can be described as the feeling of positive emotions and the absence of inner conflict, and a peacefulness of mind.

Research shows us external conditions have less influence on our happiness than we think.

For example, let’s look at money. A number of studies have shown once your essential needs are met, additional income contributes minimally to raising your levels of happiness and satisfaction with life.

Our genetic disposition does have an impact on our level of happiness, but this can be changed by up to 40 per cent. Happiness is not a gift from others, but a responsibility we can all choose to pursue. There are a number of tangible things we can do to increase our base level of happiness. The trick is to find out what these things are; and then to adopt these practices as part of our daily lives to enable our lives to be more fulfilled and for our businesses to prosper. One of the most dynamic and powerful things you can do to increase your base level of happiness is to practice compassion and kindness to others.

This will not only make you feel better about yourself but will contribute to others. We know happiness is contagious. Practicing happiness has the power to not only change our businesses, but can change the way we can choose to live within society.

If you have any employment or HR queries that you would like assistance with, please email Wendy directly at: wendy@accordservices.co.nz This article is intended as a point of reference and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional advice.

Specialist advice should always be sought in relation to any particular circumstances and no liability will be accepted for any losses incurred by those relying solely on this article.

COUNTRY LIVING

Kaimai Cheese changes hands Waikato artisan cheese making company Kaimai is being wound up and its assets have been sold to a company that plans to produce and export UHT milk.

The new owner will also make small quantities of cheese and butter for the local market.

Kaimai executive chairman and co-founder Wyatt Creech says it had been “impossible” to make the venture work with milk prices so high and consumer spending still constrained after the economic downturn.

All creditors had been paid, and some level of return was expected for the company’s dozens of small shareholders, says Wyatt.

But the Kaimai Cheese name will continue, says its new owner

representative, shareholder, director and chief executive, Jiahui Miao.

The cafe and delicatessen at Waharoa, near Matamata, which employs more than 15 people including casuals, will continue to operate.

Most staff at the retail operation had been retained, along with the cheesemaker.

The new owner, Pureland Dairy, is applying to the Matamata-Piako District Council and the Waikato Regional Council for consents necessary to convert the plant to produce long-life milk for export.

The venture will also need food-safety compliance approval from the Ministry for Primary Industries.

Scholarship open

Applications for Farmers’ Mutual Group’s 2014 agriculture scholarships for promising students entering the first year of undergraduate agriculture degrees at Lincoln or Massey University are now open.

The scholarships contribute $4000 toward tuition fees for each year of a degree.

FMG’s agriculture scholarships have already given 17 students a head start towards their agriculture careers, with many of them going onto jobs such as dairy consultants and irrigation specialists. Applications for the 2014 scholarships are open to December 15. For more information, or to apply online, go to: www.fmg.co.nz.

FMG also provides scholarships for the Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre in the Wairarapa; and are proud sponsors of the prestigious Nuffield Agricultural Scholarships.

Waterless Dehydrating Odourless Toilet

e or elsewhere m o h r o f

• Total installation is above the floor • The villa toilet can be installed in both warm and cold locations • As little as 1 cent per hour to run • 5 year guarantee

Lewis Gray Limited Lewis Gray Limited

• Complies with AS/NZS 1546.2.2008

40G William Pickering Drive, PO Box 302060, North Harbour.

Ph (09) 415 3348 Fax (09) 415 3396 www.lewisgray.com Email: sales@lewisgray.com

If it given the green light, the new venture could be expected to provide up to 50 new jobs for the local community, says Jiahui.

Pureland Dairy’s parent company, Yoomoo Dairy Holdings, is based in Singapore and Canada.

It owns 99 per cent of Pureland, and Jiahui holds one per cent.

‘Spay the stray’ turns one It has been one year since we launched our campaign to address the growing stray cat problem; and our statistics show we have removed more than 400 stray cats from the Tauranga environment, completely contained 24 colonies, re-homed 208 cats and de-sexed 275 cats and kittens. People can help by donating through our website: www.arrc.org.nz or send cheques to 212 Fraser St, Tauranga. For a confidential discussion, about a bequest or endowment, people can contact our ARRC coordinator Sue Mackey on 07 579 9115.

The Ultimate Toilet

Page 51

FORESTRY

Page 52

Roading one of biggest costs of harvesting Roading is among the biggest expenses when it comes to harvesting a farm forest for the first time, says Wood Marketing Services Limited’s sales manager Darren Robinson.

Members of the Bay of Plenty Farm Forestry Association visited a harvest operation near Te Puke.

“Few investors have the funds to establish roads when they plant a forest, because they are likely to remain pretty much unused until the harvest in 20-plus years’ time,” says Darren, while speaking to Bay of Plenty Farm Forestry Association members, who visited a harvest operation near Te Puke in late October.

On the 116 hectare hill-country site the association members visited, between $150,000 and $180,000 has been spent so far on building roads to harvest trees aged 21 to 22 years old. The roads have to be of sufficient standard to cope with the large produc-

tion and therefore the volume of heavy trucks transporting logs to the Port of Tauranga.

However, despite the significant initial cost, the roading network will be an asset for the second round of harvest, now the land is being re-planted.

Currently, prices are good – and Darren says it is important to harvest when the market is favourable, rather than wait for trees to reach a specific age. “Generally, if the market dictates it’s an ideal time to harvest and the trees are of a size and age which is acceptable and economically viable, they are ready to harvest.”

Location and access can be financially beneficial when choosing a forestry site.

“This location is ideal because it’s so close to the Port of Tauranga, which is where 90 per cent of the timber harvested here will go, saving significantly on transport costs.”

All of the export timber is bound for

China, where it will be used mostly to make pallets and packaging, as well asplywood boxing for concrete formwork.”

Despite its end use, Darren says it is important forest owners manage their woodlots well, including pruning trees – citing it can make the product worth up to $30 extra per tonne.

A small percentage of the timber from the block will go to domestic markets for local market use.

The Bay of Plenty Farm Forestry Association holds regular field trips to visit forests featuring a range of species and ages, as well as nurseries. The next event is Friday, December 6, when members will visit the New Zealand dry land eucalyptus trail site in the TECT All Terrain Park at Pyes Pa. To find out more about the day, email Ben Banks at: benb@boprc.govt.nz For more information on farm forestry, go to the Farm Forestry Association national website: www.nzffa.org.nz

Advantage Kawerau Kawerau offers significant benefits in comparison to other wood processing centres, according to an analysis undertaken by the Crown Research Institute SCION to compare investment returns from wood processing based in the Eastern Bay of Plenty town with those from other parts of New Zealand.

ABLE TASMAN FORESTRY SERVICES LTD

These benefits are gained by locational, logistics and resource synergies; and are measured by improved financial performance of businesses, better regional/ national GDP impacts, employment resourcing opportunities, and more effective use of co-located resources, such as geothermal energy.

“The results of this study give us objective data to back up what we have known for a long time – that Kawerau has the potential to significantly increase its contribution to NZ Inc,” says Industrial Symbiosis Kawerau project manager Su Cammell. “We look forward to being a part of a development programme that will provide big gains for both Kawerau and the wider region.”

The analysis also showed locating wood processing in Kawerau has advantages on a return on capital employed basis across a range of wood processing technologies. The size of this advantage varied with the type of process.

It was estimated new wood processing operations (based on an exemplar cluster of sawn lumber, engineered wood products and biofuels on a scale that fitted within the anticipated wood supply), could provide more than 344 permanent direct jobs and a further 670 indirect jobs.

Kawerau Mayor Malcolm Campbell acknowledges increased employment would have a big impact on the social issues of the township. “We know jobs work.

Our residents want to see their children stay in the area, but at the same time have the opportunity to be engaged in productive work.”

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 53

Confused diagnosis trades & services FRE QUOTEE S! Keep your cows in milk over summer Plan your summer crops now • Pasture Sprayout

• •

Cultivation & Seeding

Card C908tbGorringe

the other one tested positive for HIV. We can’t tell which is which.”

“That’s dreadful! Can you do the test again?” questioned Mrs Sanders.

“Normally we can, but the insurance will only pay for these expensive tests once.”

“Well, what am I supposed to do now?”

“We recommend that you drop your husband off somewhere in the middle of town.

“If he finds his way home, don’t sleep with him.”

www.gorringebros.co.nz

The phone rings and the lady of the house answers: “Hello?”

“Mrs Sanders, please.”

“Speaking.”

“Mrs Sanders, this is Doctor Jones at Saint Agnes Laboratory. When your husband’s doctor sent his biopsy to the lab last week, a biopsy from another Mr Sanders arrived as well. We are now uncertain which one belongs to your husband.

“Frankly, either way the results are not too good.”

“What do you mean?” Mrs Sanders asks nervously.

“Well, one of the specimens tested positive for Alzheimer’s disease and a

Direct Drilling

We do the complete job.

Book early—Call us on 07 549 1075

dver adve tise here r adve tise here advertise r adve tise here advertise here rtise adve adve here advertise here r r adve tise here adve tise here advertise here rtise rtise here advertise a h d ere adve vertis adve here adv here r t e r adve tise here advertise here here ise here ad ertise here rtise a h vertis a d ere d vertis v adve here e a r e dver tise e r adve tise here advertise here tise h tise here here r adve tise here advertise here adve ere a rtise a h d a e r d v re d e adve ver here ver rtise r tise h tise here tise here adve tise here advertise here rtise here advertise here adve ere adve adveradve here r r rtise tise h tise here tise here here

trades & services

ere a

dver

Leave a gift to nature.

adve r tise h ere

Bequests can be made to “Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand Inc”.

For more information on how to make a bequest contact: Fundraising Manager Forest & Bird, PO Box 631, Wellington Freephone: 0800 200 064

www.forestandbird.org.nz

trades & services

e We servic of all makes pumps

fishing charters

Page 54

COAST & COUNTRY Tuesday 5 November

S

BER TR TIM E

NT ME AT

PEPP ER

The NZ Grassland Assn Annual conference.

Caters for farmers, agribusiness and scientists. It is a great opportunity to hear and discuss grassland science.

Conference begins 8am Tuesday 5 November and finishes 1pm Thursday 7 November. Pre-conference drinks and nibbles will be held on Monday 4 November from 5-7pm. Visit the NZ Grassland website (grassland.org.nz) for more information on the conference and the full conference programme. Be in early as online registration is open now.

Trinity Wharf Hotel Tauranga.

For more information, email NZGA executive officer Marie Casey at: eo@ grassland.org.nz, or phone 027 595 5352.

Friday 15 November

Piako Fete. Daltons Plantation, Matamata.

10am-4pm. Exquisite shopping, demos and entertainments. Tickets available from Eventfinda or at the gate $25.

Friday 15 November

76th Annual Beattie Home Rose & Flower Show.

cars wanted

9am - 3pm. Otorohanga Club, Main St. Roses, cut flowers, plant sales, floral design class & lunch available. Ph 027 342 4691 or email sheree102@xtra.co.nz

Friday 15-17 November Rotorua Festival of Gardens.

Visit 45 town and country gardens.

Adults $30, seniors $20. Proceeds go to BayTrust Rescue Helicopter.

Further details at www.rotouagardens.org.nz

Tuesday 19 November DWN – Maximise the Cash in your cashflow.

Memorial Park Sports Pavilion, Albert St, Opotiki Nov 19. Nov 20 at The Big Apple Café, 584 South Rd, Otorohanga

feature properties & auctions ADVANTAGE REALTY LTD MREINZ

10am – 2pm. Topics include: Achieve business & personal goals faster by recognizing the financial strength in your business. Better understand the business activities that contribute to cashflow.

Make more informed decisions about income & expenditure. Learn the secrets to what your bank manager looks for in a cashflow. Ph 07 974 4850 or email: info@dwn.co.nz

Wednesday 20 November Dairy Business of the Year Field Day Morrinsville.

At Bruce and Donald Arnold’s, 3639 SH27, Morrinsville SN Tatua 0144/2 10.30am – 1pm. Waikato regional winners Bruce and Donna will host a field day on their farm. The field day will focus on their environmental and labour management, and how they generate a sustainable business that performs year on year. The field day is free to attend and open to all farmers. A complimentary lunch will follow the event. Ph Alana Bunyard, Interlact 0800 735 588 or email: nzdboy@gmail.com

Saturday 23 November Te Aroha AP & H Show.

At Boyd Park, Te Aroha. Equestrian, cattle & children’s livestock competitions, North Island Jersey championship, Armwrestling competition featuring N Z & Australasian champion Maateiwarangi Heta-morris, Waikato’s Strongest Man events, Ravensdown Truck Pull teams of four $1,000 1st prize open to all. Gates open 9am. Enquiries tearohaaph@ gmail.com or Te Aroha Show on facebook.

To list your rural event please email: julie@thesun.co.nz with Rural Event in the subject heading.

www.harcourts.co.nz

Advantage Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Tauranga Central Office – 07 578 0879 Cherrywood Office – 07 576 8770 Bethlehem Office – 07 579 2206 Mount Central Office – 07 575 6384 Papamoa Office – 07 542 9012 Te Puke Office – 07 573 4754

COAST & COUNTRY

feature properties & auctions ADVANTAGE REALTY LTD MREINZ

Page 55

www.harcourts.co.nz

Advantage Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Tauranga Central Office – 07 578 0879 Cherrywood Office – 07 576 8770 Bethlehem Office – 07 579 2206 Mount Central Office – 07 575 6384 Papamoa Office – 07 542 9012 Te Puke Office – 07 573 4754

Page 56

COAST & COUNTRY Natalie Land, with her catch of the day on the farm during duck shooting season.

Cory Land, enjoying a day on the farm.

Sent by Sophie Land.

Sent by Sophie Land.

Jess Sinclair and her calf ‘Willow’, enjoying a welcome rest from the hard work getting ready for calf club day. Sent in by Nan Sinclair.

COAST & COUNTRY PRIZE PACK UP FOR GRABS! ley, of Galatea, One-year-old Ashlyn Sea the calves. her Sharleen feedSmeit helping her motparen h. ts Eric and Margaret Sent by grand

Zoe, 20 months, visiting the farm in her Red Bands and tutu. Sent in by Jenni Templeton.

Pictures and details can be emailed (high resolution jpgs) to: sarah@thesun.co.nz ‘Country Camera’ or posted to Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga.

Please include a name, address and phone number with every entry.