Coast & Country October

WINNER BEST ASSOCIATE NEWSPAPER 2015

RURAL FIRE PAGE 10

A&P SHOWS PAGE 18-19

WINNER BEST ASSOCIATE NEWSPAPER 2015

HENS PAGE 17

DAIRY PAGE 24-29

WINNER BEST ASSOCIATE NEWSPAPER 2015

EFFLUENT PAGE 30-31

AVOCADOS PAGE 41- 43

HORTICULTURE PAGE 44-47

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October 2015 Issue No.182

Bay of Plenty & Waikato Farm, Orchard & Rural Lifestyle

Window on alpaca

Alpaca graze on the front lawn of Jackee Peters’ Horsham Downs home but the animals are more than just hobby. The Peters family are serious alpaca breeders, aiming to continually improve the fleece quality of their black Huacaya alpaca. Read their story on pages 4-5. Photo by Elaine Fisher.

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COAST & COUNTRY

Page 2

Weighty decision for SFF farmer Silver Fern Farms’ shareholders have a weighty decision to make this month – whether to accept Shanghai Maling’s $261million offer, or reject it and hope salvation for the co-op’s financial woes will materialise from somewhere else.

Silver Fern’s board, and its chairman Rob Hewett, obviously believe it’s the best deal possible and will be attempting to get 50 per cent of shareholders to agree.

Under the proposed deal Shanghai Maling will invest into a company of which it will own 50 per cent with the other half owned by the existing Silver Fern Farms Co-operative.

Shanghai Maling’s integrated supply chain model, says SFF, will give it and its farmers access to “the fastest growing red meat market in the world”.

Shanghai Maling is part of the Bright Food Group which also has a major shareholding in the New Zealand dairy company Synlait. It is a listed subsidiary of Bright Food (Group) Co and involved in the manufacturing and distribution

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of chilled and fresh meat, valueadded beef, candy and bottled honey. It has direct control of 800 supermarket and retail stores, including 56 specialist meat retail stores in Shanghai.

Bright Food is the largest China-based food manufacturing company, owned by the Shanghai Government.

Federated Farmers President Dr William Rolleston is encouraging SFF shareholders to carefully consider the offer.

“Key questions include what value has been placed on Silver Fern Farms' significant body of intellectual property and whether a strong emphasis on the Chinese market will prove restrictive if that market weakens?”

Others are warning the deal could have serious consequences for the other big industry player Alliance, which may struggle to compete with the new SFF when it comes to procuring stock.

There’s also nervousness about

reliance on China. Shanghai Maling is a big business and its first focus will always be on its own interests – possibly, long term, at a cost to New Zealand sheep and beef farmers.

Striving to produce the best Angus beef possible are Jono Reed and Sarah Collin of The Grampians in North Canterbury – read their story on pages 21-22.

Fonterra is lifting its forecast to $5 or $5.10 and has announced a profit of $506 million, up 183 per cent. That’s got to inject renewed confidence into the rural economy.

The improved forecast will be welcomed by Stefan Reichmuth of Hinuera who has just installed a new effluent pond – see page 31.

Horticulture is an industry bursting with confidence and Katikati College is setting up an academy to educate students about its opportunities – see page 6.

By Elaine Fisher

Winner of a family entry to the Tauranga Arts Festival attraction Exxopolis, valued at $45 is Nancy Willems of Waimana. The winner of the book ‘Sugar Free’ from Exisle Publishing is Robyn Findlay of Taupo. Kelly Tangaroa of Pukekawa is winner of ‘Peas in a Pod’ by Tania McCartney & Rina Snerling published by EK Books.

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Page 3

Strong opposition to trout farming proposal In fact, Fish & Game is warning any attempt to change current legislation to make trout farming legal will be strongly opposed.

“There are many sound reasons to support the ongoing ban on commercial trout farming. We hope common sense prevails and that everyone can avoid a lengthy and bitter legal battle,” says Fish & Game Eastern Region Manager Andy Garrick.

The idea of commercial trout farming is among initiates the Bay of Connections Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Growth Study says has the potential to promote future economic growth for the region.

Graeme Coates, chair of the Regional Aquaculture Organisation, says a Waikato University study identified the economic opportunities of commercial trout farming, but as trout farming is currently prohibited in New Zealand, it cannot proceed without government changing the legislation.

“In many ways the situation and arguments against trout farming are similar to those in the days before salmon farming and deer farming became legal in New Zealand. None of the concerns raised by objectors back then eventuated.”

Not consulted

sea cage farming, a point which is largely missed by opponents to the industry. I might also add the two activities (trout angling and trout farming) are not mutually exclusive so the economic benefit could double rather than see a continued decline in angling revenue,” says Graeme.

A recent report from the Department of Conservation which manages the Lake Taupo trout fishery, shows licence applications are decreasing, he says.

Andy says an investigation of the economic value of the Taupo fishery indicated that it injected $29m into the economy in 2012. “Why would you want to jeopardise this revenue by allowing commercial trout farming?”

Andy says a legitimate commercial market for trout will inevitably result in a black market.

“A black market for trout is likely to lead to an increase in both poaching and habitat damage. An increase in poaching would require much greater law enforcement efforts which are currently funded entirely from Fish & Game licence holder income as Fish & Game receives no revenue or support from

By Elaine Fisher

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“Why the hell would you want to jeopardise that to squeeze out just a few more dollars from intensive trout farming?”

Legendary international fishermen and author the late Zane Grey fished for trout in New Zealand’s rivers, as have royalty and other ‘rich and famous’ people, but the fishery is also open to anyone who buys a licence.

“The biggest risk from intensive trout farming is disease which could infect the wild population, as has happened overseas. New Zealand has the best wild trout fishery on the planet which attracts

best breeding stock possible to release throughout the country’s lakes. If anyone can claim a property right to New Zealand’s trout fishery it would be the anglers of this country, and they have made it very clear on numerous occasions that they do not want commercial trout farming. More than 100,000 anglers who fish for trout in New Zealand annually are passionate about their sport.”

Currently the concept of commercial trout farming is just that – a concept, but it is contained in the report to government which will be launched by Ministers this month.

The implementation phase of the plan begins in early 2016.

Poaching “unlikely”

Fish & Game is unhappy it was not consulted during the planning stages of the study.

“Given its statutory role, Fish & Game is staggered to find itself in the position of not having been contacted, or invited to participate, in the development of the Bay of Connections Regional Growth Strategy or the more recent action planning process for the aquaculture sector,” says Andy.

Graeme acknowledges that Fish & Game was not individually invited to any of the open forum meetings to discuss aquaculture possibilities, but says the organisation was always welcome to attend.

“The options for trout farming are wide including

New Zealand has a ‘right royal trout fishery’ with an international reputation, which brings in millions of dollars of revenue each year, says professional fishing guide Miles Rushmer.

local, regional or central government.”

Graeme, however, doubts poaching would be a big issue saying supermarkets would not deal with anyone selling illegal fish.

New Zealand’s wild trout fishery is internationally acclaimed, says Andy. “It was established and has been nurtured for more than a century, not by local or central government, but through the voluntary efforts and financial support of anglers, and various organisations representing their interests.

“Fish & Game hatcheries have spent more than 50 years producing the

international anglers who are not your mid to low range travellers. They spend a lot of money while they are here.”

Miles says New Zealanders are sick of intensive farming, including dairying, and he believes the opposition to trout farming will be intense.

Commercial trout farming could seriously impact New Zealand’s fishing and tourism industries, says keen trout fisher Bruce Alexander.

“Trout fishing is a valuable industry when you consider the costs of guides, hotels, transport and more. Commercial trout fishing would detract from what is a huge sport nationally and internationally.

“We should instead do more to protect what is a precious resource – wild trout,” he says.

Keith Waddell, who fishes mainly in the South Island, says while trout farming would give people who don’t fish, the chance to eat trout he is concerned about issues of disease and possibly poaching, should trout be farmed commercially.

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Farming trout commercially could add significantly to the Bay of Plenty’s economic growth, but the concept is abhorrent to many fishers and to Fish & Game.

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 4

Alpaca in the garden at Horsham Downs There are alpaca on the front lawn of the Peters homestead at Horsham Downs and one, with a mouthful of hay, is gazing in through the French doors.

Jackee Peters has a low fence around the camellia and rose garden to stop

the alpaca nibbling the foliage, but she’s more than happy to let them graze right outside the windows.

The only thing preventing them from venturing into the unprotected gardens on the other side of the house is a cane settee across a pathway, easily moved aside by humans but left untouched by the docile alpaca.

The “alpaca lawn” at the Peters home at Horsham Downs.

“They don’t try to get passed the settee, even though they easily could and don’t touch the washing on the line where they graze,” says Jackee.

There’s a number of reasons for having the animals so close. “Our homestay visitors just love sitting at the dining table or in the lounge and seeing the alpaca looking in through the windows.”

Keeping the mothers and cria (babies) so close means Jackee, Jeff and their daughter Ashlee can closely observe them for any signs they may be unwell – but most of all, they just enjoy looking at the animals which first entranced them in 2006.

“Being around alpaca is therapeutic. You might be having a bad day, but walk outside and spend a few minutes with the alpaca and your troubles seem to go away,” says Jackee.

The family, Jeff, Jackee, Nicholas, Daniel and Ashlee first moved to their 10-acre block at Horsham Downs in 1994. “We had been living on a half-acre of land at Horotiu but with three children under five, we needed more room and I wanted to have farm animals too.”

Tim Finn

Initially they kept sheep, beef cattle and hens but then nine years ago Ashlee fell in love with Tim Finn – not the musician, but a handsome “macho” male alpaca of the same name.

“We saw him at a show and bought him and then another alpaca called Biscuit to keep him company,” says Jackee, who admits to not being that keen on

Ashlee Pe with a ters alpaca n cria. the idea of keeping alpaca.

It wasn’t long before Tim Finn and Biscuit changed her mind. “We were intrigued by their beautiful fleece and gentle natures, and decided to start with the two pet whethers to learn more about alpacas.”

Today Ashlee, Jackee and Jeff have their own stud called Ataahua Alpaca Stud with 37 alpaca, including 12 cria born this year. They chose the name because ‘ataahua’ means beautiful in Maori.

Ataahua Alpaca Stud is a member of the New Zealand Alpaca Association, and Jackee and Ashlee are both active fleece stewards at local A&P shows.

Jackee Peters turns the fleece of her Ataahua alpaca into knitted garments for babies and adults.

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The alpaca are shorn once a year Cosio Industries Ltd are official Firestoneand Building Products Australasian distributors “Alpaca don’t have too many health Ashlee is learning the art of removing problems and you can usually tell the fleece. It is processed by the Mesa when one is unwell as it will often stay Natural Fibre Mill in Hastings which apart from the others. Alpaca can live specialises in fine, exotic fleeces includfor 20 to 25 years, and females will ing alpaca and is able to process from a produce a single cria every year from few kilos through to larger lots. age two.”

Jackee knits the fibre from her alpaca Ataahua Stud doesn’t pregnancy into a range of garments from baby test – the females give a very clear wear to adults, all with the soft, warm indication of when they are and durable features the fleece is pregnant. renowned for.

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The alpaca have also given rise to the family’s homestay and farm visit business which has seen them host guests from New Zealand and around the world.

“When we built our new home we didn’t consider homestays but such was the interest in the alpaca that it seemed a natural progression. They are such gentle animals that it is possible to give people a real closeup and personal experience with them, from feeding, to leading to petting – something you can’t do with many other farmforanimals.” nd forget recovering up to 5 years The alpaca industry in New Zealand is growh EVAing for longer life steadily and while most farmers have relatively small herds, there aredripping some farms running up to 500 tive to prevent condensation on plants. of 50 metres or cut to length to suit your house. alpaca.

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COAST & COUNTRY

Growing student interest in horticultural industry Katikati College is set to become a trail blazer through an academy linking students and teachers with the horticulture industry to encourage more young people to take up careers in the industry.

College principal Neil Harray, who grew up in Katikati, says the growth and diversity of the horticultural industry in the district impressed him when

he returned to lead his old school in 2010.

“When I was growing up there were still a lot of dairy farms in the district, but horticulture is definitely the dominate industry now.”

Neil says the industry offers important career options for pupils from those with a more practical interest to students who want to obtain university degrees.

So in 2014 he called a meeting of industry and community leaders to discuss the idea of the academy and the response was enthusiastic with offers of “in-kind” support from local businesses.

Priority One, through its Instep programme, introduced Neil to New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc and early this year the Ministry of Education also became involved.

Since then the college, NZKGI and the Ministry have been working together to develop learning resources in the context of horticulture utilising existing NCEA Achievement Standards. This means that while students are learning maths, science, English, business studies, and social sciences they are also applying their knowledge to a local industry.

Major players

“We are very grateful to Humes for allowing us this opportunity. It is a Katikati real-life expeCollege st udents Reid Kon rience which in g s (16) and Nathan R enhances o both serio binson (15) are what hapusly consi careers in de pens in the horticult ring ure. classroom and provides meaning for what students are learning,” he says.

Kate Longman of NZKGI says the model being developed with

Neil says kiwifruit and avocado production are the town's “major players”, but the academy, which he hopes to be formally established next year, will also cater for other aspects of the industry including apiary studies, commercial nursery and flowers.

Among the local businesses supporting the concept is Hume Pack-N-Cool which has hosted Year 11 and Year 7 and 8 students at its Katikati facility, giving them an over view of the packing industry, including the level of technology involved.

“This is a great example of how we would like to see our students interacting and engaging with the horticultural community.

give students an interrelated programme of learning.

“NZKGI has also utilised our relationship with the Ministry of Primary Industries to inform MPI about Katikati College’s intentions and has contributed to Katikati Primary School being selected to be part of their ‘Primary Industries Partnership with Schools’ (known as PIPS) Pilot,” says Kate.

“It is vital students get exposure to the industries that surround them and understand the science and business behind them. If students can apply the concepts they learn in secondary school to horticulture they will be able to apply them to any industry.

Relevant learning

“In life we don’t use English, maths, science etc in isolated boxes.

All of these subjects interrelate and contextualised learning enables students to make these connections by their application to something relevant that they are exposed to outside of the classroom. That is, prominent sectors in their communities that they can be proud of.”

Kate says the opportunities for students in horticulture is a one of the best kept secrets and hands-on dents gain e school’s u st “you’d have to be nuts to not e eg ll o Katikati C growing plants in th consider it as a career”. f o . se ce de hou a experien sh d The NZ horticulture industry n a s garden is recognised globally for safely growing some of the most nutritious, highest quality food in the world.

Katikati College has not been done “To be part of something that before and it’s potential in establishing promotes a healthy lifestyle and is strong relationships between schools what New Zealand is really good at, is and industry in a cost effective way is rewarding. exciting.

“The exciting bits behind the word ‘horticulture’ are often lost. For examIndustry mentors ple, imagine breeding the world’s best “Through this experience NZKGI will fruit and vegetables that net billions of have a better understanding as to how it dollars in sales annually; inventing the may support the development of acadlatest logistics software that saves milemies at other secondary schools.” lions annually through its efficiencies.

The academy support group has “Or managing an orchard that has linked five teachers from Katikati just received the best production results College to industry mentors from in the country; being funded by your business such as Zespri, Plant & Food industry to undertake training so that Research, Compac Sorting Equipment, you may have the skills to be one its Seeka, Kiwifruit Vine Health and NZ future leaders; overseeing the build of Avocado. a high-tech glasshouse that costs more There have been two full-day meetings than $1m per hectare so that you can so far and resources for the attainment produce a perfect crop all year round. of NCEA Achievement Standards in “Or ordering and co-ordinating the five main stream subjects have been arrival of 60 charter ships and the developed. The teachers have also initidelivery of their cargo to 53 countries ated another session in their own time around the world. Ultimately horticulto understand how they may be able to ture is an exciting, diverse industry that link their subjects and assessments to is growing rapidly,” says Kate.

By Elaine Fisher

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 7

Green butter part of nut and seed range Nuts contain within them the potential to become a tree, which may live for centuries.

So humans can enjoy the concentrated vital energy and nutrition nuts contain, Tauranga’s Hayden Booker is harnessing their goodness in a range of tasty butters.

To preserve that goodness, the almond, Brazil and cashew nuts he uses are processed by stone-grinding, before being bottled ready for sale under the Vigour and Vitality label.

“We make our nut butters using the ‘old world’ approach of stone-grinding, which applies even, powerful pressure with smooth granite wheels. Six hours of grinding results in the preservation of both flavour and nutrients that you just can’t get with the heavy duty metal blades that your typical nut butter companies use,” says Hayden.

At no point is the butter heated to above 47 degrees and so remains raw, not cooked.

In a further move to unlock all the goodness nuts and seeds contain, some are soaked in water and allowed to

sprout before being dried and ground and Hayden says sprouting is one of the most fascinating natural phenomena.

“It enlivens the enzymes that are dormant within, letting the nut or seed ‘awaken’. Sprouting neutralises enzyme inhibitors present in the nut, allowing quicker and more complete digestion and assimilation of nutrients.”

Hayden’s business is also in the process of “sprouting” as it grows from very small beginnings with online sales to now supplying a number of retailers and at least one supermarket.

Old town

After graduating from Massey University in Palmerston North, Hayden moved to Chicago, Illinois where he found work as a health coach in a popular juice bar/holistic health clinic in Chicago’s Old Town community. The next step in Hayden’s holistic health journey took place on the other side of Chicago at a raw and vegan kitchen.

It was there that he tried some of the freshest, tastiest, and healthiest snacks available and learned to use unconventional ingredients to make superior alternatives to everyday foods. These included cashew cheese, nut butters, zucchini pasta, and kombucha teas.

When he returned to New Zealand Hayden brought with him a desire to begin his own business.

“The inspiration for Vigour and Vitality came from the desire to bring the healthiest and most delicious products to New Zealand. I believe that processed foods and refined sugars have ruled the supermarkets for too long and have made it my goal to reintroduce Kiwis to whole and wild foods, striving to bring the highest quality products from our Kiwi kitchen to yours.”

Vigour and Vitality’s logo features a warrior, an image created to be in keeping with the company’s catch phrase – “fuel your inner warrior”.

By Elaine Fisher

Katikati kitchen

“Many people say the logo looks like a Native American Indian, but really he is representing a universal warrior, but not of any particular race.”

When he first arrived back in New Zealand Hayden rented a rural cottage near Katikati.

“The owners of the property allowed me to set up a kitchen in a container on site and this is where it all got started, but plans are to move the operation to Tauranga,” says Hayden.

The container, lined to food safety standards and equipped with hot water and electricity, houses the stainless steel stone grinders which produce the nut and seed butters, and it’s where the jars are filled and labelled ready for distribution to customers.

“We don’t make peanut butter, mainly because of the number of people who are allergic to peanuts. By not processing them we can be sure there is no risk of even minute traces of peanuts in any of the products.”

As well as nuts, Vigour and Vitality makes butters from sunflower, pumpkin and sesame seeds and from coconut.

Most of the butters have a delicate colour, with the exception of the pumpkin seed butters, which are a bright green. Different butters appeal to different taste preferences and uses.

Like traditional peanut butter, they can be used as spreads, but can also be used to make sauces for vegetable and pasta dishes or added to sweet dishes such as almond butter in apple pie.

Karaka nuts

“I would love to eventually make butters from the New Zealand native karaka tree nuts should they ever be grown as a commercial crop. Maori used to grow the trees and as a cultivated food source they were second only to kumara in importance.

“However, unless treated properly, which includes a long period of soaking, they can be toxic.”

The seeds and nuts in Vigour and Vitality’s products

Vigour and Vitality nut butters made from pumpkin seeds are not only nutritious but bright green too.

are largely imported but Hayden is keen to source New Zealand products, if he can get them in large enough volumes.

Hayden Booker makes nut butters using an ‘old world’ approach, which he says help fuels the inner warrior.

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COAST & COUNTRY

Page 8

Meet the Wilson sisters at Equidays The famous Wilson sisters will all be at Equidays again this year, but only Amanda and Vicki will be competing.

Kelly will be capturing the action, and teaching others how to take great equestrian photos in a

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photography workshop, a first for the event.

Over the three days, the bestselling author, awardwinning photographer and TV personality will share her extensive photographic experience with participants, focusing on technical skills, creative passion and the power of social media.

The best photo produced by her ‘students’ will win an artistic exhibition space at Equidays 2016.

Vicki and Amanda will be competing in the show jumping ring and all three sisters are excited to be ambassadors for the fifth Equidays, as well as clinicians and competitors.

They will have a full team of horses on site, including their champion show jumpers and Kaimanawas, and are also looking forward to talking about their recent work with wild mustangs in the USA. At Equidays 2015 they will also release their highly anticipated documentary ‘Wind Eaters’ and second book ‘Stallion Challenges’, and will be autographing copies too.

The Wilson sister Showtym Horses business is situated on a property just north of Auckland and their work with horses has appeared in the top rated television shows ‘Keeping up with the Kaimanawas’ and ‘Country Calendar’, as well as the bestselling book ‘For the Love of Horses’.

Equidays is a national equine event, held at Mystery

Amanda, Vicki and Kelly Wilson are Equidays ambassadors for 2015.

Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, and Sir Mark Todd is its patron.

This year’s event runs from October 16 to 18 and tickets are on sale now.

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Centre are owned and operated by the NZ National Fieldays Society, a nonprofit organisation founded for the advancement of agriculture in New Zealand.

Modern twist to traditional art form Cosmetic Medicine

Te Kura Whare, the Tuhoe headquarters at Taneatua, while a work of art in itself, features a number of artworks inside as well.

Among them is a panel created by well-known artist Maraea Timutimu

This kowhaiwhai panel by Maraea Timutimu uses computer keyboard tiles in a traditional format.

using very modern materials in a traditional format.

Maraea says the foundation of her kowhaiwhai panel stems from two whakatauki (proverbs): “Ko au te kakano o te taunuke o te hue, o te tangata o Tuhoe,” - “I am the seed of the pod from the gourd, that is the man Tuhoe” and “Iti te kupu, nui te korero” - “With few words, there is much meaning.”

The kowhaiwhai panel uses computer keyboard tiles to lay kupu (words), whakatauki (proverbs), places and people into what is traditionally a two-dimensional artform.

The information about the artwork says: “If you look carefully enough you will uncover these words, but still appreciate the stylized kowhaiwhai pattern. The hue or gourd, depicted in a number of shapes and forms are to show the importance and purpose of the hue in its life cycle.

“At every stage of the lifespan of the hue, there is function, purpose and an appreciation, such as the life of Tuhoe.

“The perspex and copper pou are a literal and modern interpretation of the whakatauki and the growth, purpose and function of the hue.”

COAST & COUNTRY

Search on for ‘greenest’ pasture

The hunt is on for great dairy pastures in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty with entries now open for the Pasture Renewal Persistence Competition run by the DairyNZ-led Pasture Improvement Leadership Group.

Competition organiser and DairyNZ developer Sally Peel says pasture renewal is one of the first steps to achieving high performing pastures. Improving poor yielding paddocks through good renewal practices can achieve substantial increase in pasture tonnage.

The competition has been running for five years with winners from all across the two regions.

Robert Garshaw of Waiuku won the 2014 best first year pasture. “Decisions such as cultivar and endophyte choice do matter. It’s really important to figure out what works well out of your farm and make the most of the establishment period,” says Robert.

James Booker from Morrinsville won the 2014 best three plus (3+) year pasture for his knowledge of the process, his grazing management and his use of the forage value index in his current decision making.

Consecutive summer droughts have been a serious challenge for pasture persistence; despite this pastures have generally recovered well. “We’re keen to discover what farmers did to manage their pasture and pasture renewal so well during the past three years of

dry summers,” says Sally.

"We will also be looking for any other information that will help build a picture of the management practices required for persistence of renewed pastures in this environment.”

Farmers can enter in two categories - Waikato/ Bay of Plenty first year pasture sown this year and Waikato/Bay of Plenty pasture sown more than three years ago (before May 2012). Up for grabs are two pasture renewal prize packages. The prizes are provided by Agriseeds and Agricom.

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.

Entries are open until October 24 with judging held during November. Winners’ field days will be held early December 2015.

The Pasture Renewal Persistence Competition is an initiative of the Pasture Improvement Leadership Group. This is a DairyNZ-led industry group, including researchers, the seed industry, farmers and agricultural contractors, formed to develop better tools, resources and advice for farmers.

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/ pasture-comp.

Processed wood products offer potential The Bay of Plenty has the potential to compete internationally in processed wood product markets, according to the Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study.

Significant recent processing capability investment by operators within the region, combined with strong projected growth in demand, particularly from Asia, India, Japan and Korea, will help provide a competitive edge.

The report says growth will largely depend on improving supply chain efficiencies to markets, with opportunities identified in most segments of

the value chain.

Achieving scale will require industry in the region to work collaboratively, in order to identify export market opportunities, develop suitable products, production systems, applied technology and research and development.

It will also depend on working closely with iwi, in order to activate the significant Maori economy, in particular facilitating the productive use of Maori land assets, and involvement in downstream processing and markets.

The Central North Island, which includes the Bay of Plenty, is New Zealand’s centre for forestry and related processing.

The combination of the region’s natural resources, emerging

technologies, established support infrastructure (including clusters of highly developed mechanical engineering), support services, research capabilities, and the increasing relevance of Maori as land and forest owners, present a unique set of opportunities to stimulate the industry’s future growth.

Potential revenue growth from the forestry/wood sector is estimated at $6 billion annually, which equates to 10 per cent of the government’s economic growth agenda target. The significant majority of this increase will be from exports, as the domestic market is limited by scale and application.

Current log exports lend themselves to engineered products.

Page 9

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 10

Adhering to 4x4 rule aids fire fighting The term 4x4 is most commonly associated with four-wheel drive vehicles, but it’s also very applicable to fighting fires, particularly in rural locations.

lifestyle blocks and orchards where driveways may be narrower and have over-hanging trees.”

Remove obstructions

As summer approaches and the risk of fire increases, property owners are encouraged to check their driveways and remove anything which would obstruct a fire engine and tanker reaching their home or land.

Because of the distances involved, responding to a fire in a rural location takes longer than in urban areas but Shane says there are other important steps property owners can also take to assist fire fighters getting to the blaze as quickly as possible.

“The rural RAPID numbering system for identifying properties is very important.

If an emergency arises, when calling 111, quote the property RAPID number as well as any property name.

To get to a fire, appliances need clear access up the driveway corridor of at least 4m wide and 4m high, says Shane Baker, Senior Fire Fighter with the BOP Coast Fire Area, which manages the rural fire service in the Western Bay of Plenty.

“We can’t help you if we can’t get our fire appliances and water tanker to you because the driveway is too narrow or has over-hanging trees,” says Shane.

Visible numbers A swimming pool is an ideal The standard fire “The RAPID numbers should be alternative water source for fire appliance is a big visible from both directions and be fighters – provided there is easy access vehicle and in the located clear of long grass and other through a gate for portable pumps.

Western Bay region vegetation that could obscure the the rural fire service numbers over time. Obviously the now has large water tankers which are longer so numbers give us the exact distance of the proprequire a greater turning space through gateerty from the start of the road. However it is ways. always great to be met at the gate by someone to “Access isn’t usually a problem on dairy farms show us the best access and give us an update on because they have tracks and turning circles for the fire and any other important information.” milk tankers, but it can be a different story on This can include information about hazard-

Overhanging trees, such as this palm, can make it difficult for a fire appliance to reach a fire.

Access ways should be least 4m wide and 4m high.

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ous chemicals or substances on the property which could catch fire and cause safety issues for fire fighters and the public.

“Buildings containing hazardous substances should have a sign fixed to the outside. The owners should have a data sheet, stored away from the building, with a list of what chemicals are stored, so that fire crews can contact their communications centre for advice on how best to handle the fire.

Using water on some chemicals can cause explosions so we need to know exactly what we are dealing with.”

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If the property has an alternative water supply available, such as a pond or stream, these access ways should meet the 4x4 criteria.

“It is also a good idea to signpost access if it is not obvious. If the property has a pool, make sure a gate is available for us to carry a portable pump through to draught water from the pool.”

From October 1 to April 30 2016 is the restricted fire season which means a fire permit is required for all open air fires, with the exception of gas-powered barbecues. Permits are free and can be obtained from the Western Bay of Plenty District Council (phone 0800 926 732) for rural residents or the Tauranga City Council (07 577 7000) for urban residents.

For more information go to www.nrfa.org.nz

By Elaine Fisher

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 11

BECAUSE YOUR STORAGE NEEDS BECAUSE YOUR CAN BE MET BECAUSE YOUR STORAGE NEEDS BECAUSE YOUR Regardless of size or design, we’ll STORAGE CAN BENEEDS MET STORAGE NEEDS CAN CAN BE BE MET MET be pleased to come in and help.

Regardless of size or design, we’ll be pleased to come in and help.

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Cover C Co ve v yo offfur ufflu enw ee etdd -toer plu pa ted to o That’s come in. separate and s se sepa ep pa ara rrwhere ay tte e rrainwater aiin a nw at a e ra nd n That’s where we come in. separate and s se sepa pa p re ra atte effffflu rrainwater ai nw at toer elu nd n reduce effluent volume. rre eed edu du uac ce e la lu uien en nwta v vo lrua me m ed. reduce effluent volume. rre ed edu du uc ce ee ffffflu luen lu ent vo v olu lum me e.

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Page 12

Whales part of Kaikoura’s sustainable future I have seen the sperm whales at Kaikoura and have the photos to prove it – thanks only to the quick thinking of Aroha Tahau and her boat hook.

On a cold and calm August afternoon, along with about 40 other tourists aboard one of two Whale Watch Kaikoura vessels, I managed to drop my small camera over the rail of the upper deck. Instead of disappearing into the abyss, it landed hazardously close to the edge of the roof of the deck below.

To the rescue came sea-crew member Aroha, who secured the thin strap with a boat hook, enabling the camera to be gently brought within reach – whew!

This happened within minutes of Graham asking if people lost phones, cameras and iPods over the side, to which Aroha replied, “Oh yes, it happens…”

I blame him for jinxing my camera, but then he did help get it back, so I guess all is forgiven.

The whale watching trip was memorable for much more than a narrow escape from the mighty depths for the camera. During our time on the water we encountered

three male sperm whales, Tiaki, Arangi and Tutumairekurai (Tutu for short).

Kaikoura canyon

It’s obvious the Whale Watch crew know the whales and their movements well because it didn’t take long to find the first male Tiaki as he lay on the surface, resting before diving to feed in the Kaikoura canyon.

Situated just 500m off the coast, the U-shaped canyon is 60km long, up to 1200m deep and provides a rich hunting ground for the whales, which feed on squid, kingfish, octopus, fish, and even small

Diving deep – a sperm whale heads into the Kaikoura canyon seeking a meal, which could include giant squid, kingfish or octopus.

bottom-living sharks.

A sperm whale at rest looks very much like a large floating log, until it exhales a plume of spray. What’s visible is part of the head and a stumpy-looking dorsal fin, accounting for only a portion of its massive body. The rest of the torso and tail remain out of sight until the whale prepares to dive.

Slowly, and with apparent ease, the head disappears and the tail flicks up-right, slipping beneath the surface with hardly a ripple. It will be 45 minutes before the whale re-appears.

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Whale Watch Kaikoura has 95 per cent success rate when it comes to enabling tourists to see whales – but should they not appear, 80 per cent of the price of the fare is refunded.

Giant sperm whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents, but other marine life encounters include New Zealand fur seals, pods of dusky dolphins and the endangered wandering albatross.

Up to 100,000 tourists a year go out to sea with Whale Watch Kaikoura.

Depending on the season you may also see migrating humpback whales, pilot whales, blue whales, southern right whales and orca. Kaikoura also attracts the largest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand, including 13 species of albatross, 14 varieties of petrels and seven types of shearwater.

Whale Watch Kaikoura, which each year takes about 100,000 visitors out to sea, is a local community trust which belongs to the Maori people of Kaikoura and operates in partnership with the affiliated tribe, Ngai Tahu.

Founded in 1987, Whale Watch has been a key factor in turning around Kaikoura’s declining economy. Operating as a charitable entity, it has an annual turnover of $10 million, of which a significant portion goes back into the community to be used for education, employment and protecting the environment.

Whale Watch Kaikoura also takes young students on free whale watching trips and runs education programmes in schools to teach children what they can do to protect the marine environment.

Now a leading tourist destination, Kaikoura offers a diverse range of marine activities which have, in turn, stimulated investment in new accommodation, restaurants, cafes and galleries filled with the work of local artists.

Whales sustained Kaikoura in the 1940s. They are again key to the town’s economy, but unlike 175 years ago, the value is now in live, not dead, whales and its future is sustainable, ethical and brings pleasure to tens of thousands of visitors. By Elaine Fisher

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 13

Boundary adjustments provide you with options Recently I’ve fielded several calls from people faced with challenging times as a result of the lower dairy pay-out.

Obviously everyone wants to hold on to their land at all cost as, after all, it will produce their income in the longer term. But some have no choice and may need to sell some land.

So what can you do? It may be too late for some if you don’t own multiple titles already, however many district plans do still have scope for subdividing properties, particularly if they are of a reasonable size. Most councils allow the adjustment of boundaries between adjoining titles.

So, if you have acted early and created or purchased additional titles along the way, you should have options. The aim of the game will generally be to sell as little land as possible – most value lies in the house site.

This means selling a lifestyle block with enough land for a garden and a few animals, without including too much productive land in the deal. If your

existing titles are large, we can often gain approval to shrink one in size and transfer the bulk of the land into the other title.

When up-sizing the farm by purchasing the property next door you should always try to obtain a separate title. Often people sell off the additional house to claw back some capital, but if you don't, this additional title can be used somewhere else on the property to create a lifestyle block or be retained just in case your situation changes.

Family home

vide prior to next season, now is the time to act. 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 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 moved to tighten their subdivision rules. However, if there is a chance of creating a new

title under the local council's rules, we always advise that you do that. That way you will have more options in the future for rearranging boundaries or selling part of your land.

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

Some people use these additional titles to create a retirement lot around their house when they eventually sell their farm or better still create a title separate from the farm business right away to protect the family home.

If your current goal is to rearrange your boundaries or subdi-

Winter illness takes a toll on seniors Many senior citizens are struggling to maintain their independence after suffering respiratory illness and chest infections, following a particularly difficult winter that has pushed health services to the limit in many regions of the country.

“Across the board, health providers have seen a noticeable surge in the number of people needing extra care and attention after a nasty cold or flu has reduced their ability to cope with normal, everyday activities,” says Miranda Smith, owner of New Zealand’s largest private in-home care agency says.

“We have seen a huge increase in demand for short-term care. While we do get calls from a client reaching out for help for themselves, mostly it is concerned family members calling to put care in place to help out a loved one until they are back on their feet.”

Where an older person has been left weakened after an illness, it is important to ensure that they have the right care and support available to enable them to recuperate and regain their health.

“Often, all that is needed, is a few weeks of having someone help out with things such as showering, general household tasks, ensuring nutritious meals are available and providing encouragement and moral support,” Miranda says.

If you or a loved one are struggling with independence, a visit or call to your GP is a good starting point as they can make a referral to the appropriate service or organisation.

One of those services is the needs assessment service co-ordination, which assess a person’s health needs and where appropriate organise the right support be put in place by homecare providers who are contracted by the DHB to provide funded home support.

Care can also be provided by private agencies, such as Miranda Smith Homecare.

Miranda advises that when considering the right homecare provider it is important to ensure their staff are fully vetted and trained and that they are accredited to the New Zealand home health association.

You can access this information from your local Age Concern office, The Where to From Here aged care directory, and the Waikato DHB will be able to provide a list of reputable homecare providers.

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COUNTRY LIVING

Page 14

Touring Britain in Minis – just brilliant Sometimes it’s what you least expect to find down a country lane that makes touring Britain so special, says Colin McCabe of the Brits Job Tour.

Colin, organiser of the Brits at the Beach (Whangamata October 8 to 11) and radio station owner, together with Pete Stretch, TV and documentary producer and photographer, took the first Brits Job Tour to the UK in May. “Twenty two intrepid travellers zooming around in modern Minis seeing everything that’s great about Britain. It was an absolute blast,” says Colin.

“It’s a brilliant way to tour and see the UK, and gives you the very best of both worlds; the assurance that each day, something special has been

arranged for the whole group, and, you also have the freedom to venture off on your own; do your own thing.”

Roger and Maureen Kennerley from Whangamata were guests on the tour.

“We couldn’t believe how much we saw,” says Roger. “We’d never been to Britain, so we wanted to see as much as we possibly could. I really enjoyed punting on the River Cam in Cambridge, we were surrounded by amazing history, and the guides they arranged were excellent.

“Col and Pete’s routes took us through some spectacular countryside and it kept us off the motorways, unless we wanted to get somewhere really quickly. The roads were brilliant, so even getting lost a couple of times was part of the fun, and you never knew what’s round the next corner.”

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Making safe practices automatic Health and Safety in the farming workplace is often misunderstood, with a focus on increasing signs, wearing personal safety equipment, avoiding fines, foregoing the concept of personal responsibility and more recently, the relative industry risk between pastoral farming and worm farming says Dave Woolerton GM of FarmOSH Ltd. “Despite these things being talked about, the most important part of a health and safety programme is developing a safe working culture, where safe practices are automatic and not seen as an unnecessary burden much the same as putting on your car seatbelt.

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Maureen really loved the group activities such as Stonehenge and Yorkminster; “and of course my favourite, The Eden Project... magical! It was great to know that I could take a day out for myself and just loll around a local village.”

It’s a unique combination of group activities and the freedom to do and see exactly what you want that makes the Brits Job Tour so special.

“We get about in one of the world’s greatest little cars.

The Mini One is the perfect choice for two people and luggage. They’re economical, zippy and easy to drive and park, and we can offer an optional upgrade to a soft top convertible, or the all-new five door model,” says Colin.

Each car is supplied with a SatNav-ready Android phone for the duration of the trip. These have been preprogrammed with the entire route, and are connected to a major network; you can text and communicate with other tour group members.

The Brits Job Tour 2 is scheduled to fly out on May 4, 2016. To find out more go to www.thebritsjob.com

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“If you develop this type of culture, you will find that as well as operating a safer workplace, there is an added benefit that you won’t have to focus on compliance and avoiding fines because you will be automatically doing the right thing.”

The goal of providing a safe working environment, using safe working practices that reduce the risk of major accidents for anybody in the workplace whether they be owners, managers, families, contractors or visitors is a worthwhile thing to aspire to.

“It is understandable that sometimes we lose sight of this underlying goal, and simply see more bureaucracy, more compliance, more red tape and more paperwork without seeing the benefits.”

The key to a good health and safety programme is a “Farm Safe Plan” which is a document that pulls together all of the components of the programme and can be a useful resource for staff training.

“At FarmOSH we understand farming and are happy to help fine tune your existing systems, or create a total programme that is simple to understand and convenient to use, right up to talking to your staff and making everyone clear about where their obligations lie. We will also offer regular follow up to make sure the system is working as it should and that you are aware of any changes as they occur.

“We see farmers who think they have their health and safetyrequirements sorted by having a sign at the front gate and sometimes wearing a helmet although in many cases farmers do not have a comprehensive farm safe plan or appropriate systems in place to reduce risk or cover their obligations on farm.

“It is important for your business that if a major accident (or worse) was to occur on the farm, you are able to meet with Worksafe inspectors and be confident that you have the answers to these justifiable questions,” says Dave.

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 15

Page 16

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Pros and cons of ride-ons for orchard mowing The concept of mowing an orchard with a zero-turning radius ride on mower is now well established with many growers and contractors enjoying the benefits of this system.

The mowing deck on a zero turn ride-on mower is positioned forward in clear view which makes orchard mowing faster and easier.

However, for people new to the industry or those still using a tractor and mower, it is worth highlighting some of the advantages and disadvantages of using a ride-on mower in the orchard.

Advantages

• Faster ground speed.

Ride-on mowers are a specialist machine designed to mow grass as fast and easily as possible.

Grasshopper commercial ride-on mowers have a top speed of at least 16km/hr.

• More manoeuvrable. A lever operated ride-on mower steers with the rear wheels. This independent drive allows the machine to make the tightest turn around any obstacle without any backing up. This drive system is called zero turn or ZTR (zero turning radius).

• Lighter weight. A commercial grade ride-on mower is much lighter than a tractor reducing root compression

All Grasshopper mowers have a padded seat with fold up mowing deck. arm rests that is • Improved operator comfort. Ride-on mowers often like an armchair. have a more comfortable seat than an orchard tractor. All Grasshopper mowers have a padded seat with arm rests that is like an armchair. The lower and the ground is not as easily seat height of a ride-on mower is also attractive damaged especially in wet conditions. when mowing under kiwi vines. The iso-mounting The heaviest Grasshopper mower is of the engine, operating area and independent deck around 700kg, while a tractor and mounting ensure a much more comfortable ride mower will easily be double that. when you are on a Grasshopper mower.

• Better deck position. The mowing • Petrol or diesel engine options. You have the choice deck on a zero turn ride-on mower is of which fuel type suits your application. positioned forward in clear view. This • Minimise contractor use. Avoid the cost of a consaves the operator the discomfort of tractor by mowing the orchard yourself when you constantly looking behind required want. when using a tractor/mower set up.

With Grasshopper mowers you can Disadvantages have a mid-mount or front-mount • New machine purchase. To get a ride-on mower suitable for heavy orchard mowing a new machine probably needs to be purchased. The ride-on mower you are using for the home lawn probably doesn’t have the wide cut, powerful engine or heavy build required to mow a large area quickly. However, you may will be able to mow some of the home lawn with a large orchard mower.

• A ride-on mower cannot mulch heavy prunings.

They are designed to cut grass efficiently rather than mulching. If you need to mulch heavy prunings, then a tractor with a mulching implement or a contractor will still be required at those times.

• New machine to learn. A zero turn mower doesn’t drive like a tractor. All driving, turning and braking is controlled by two levers. As with anything unfamiliar this can take time to get used to. However, within a couple of hours most people have the hang of it and this can also be fun.

If would like to see how easy mowing your orchard will be with a ride-on mower, call Andrew at ZTR Mowers on 07 543 2700 to arrange for an obligation free demonstration on your property with a heavy duty Grasshopper commercial zero turn mower.

For more information see www.zeroturnmowers.co.nz.

By Andrew Peacocke of ZTR Mowers

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 17

Feeder saves money, increases egg production There is a good reason that Grandpa’s feeders come up tops for feeding hens.

“Grandpa’s have been around

long enough to look at all of the issues with feeding chooks, and through many years of listening to customer feedback and trialling they have come up with a feeder

A Grandpa’s feeder ensure hens have exclusive access to food, even when owners are away.

that ticks all of the boxes,” says Alla Kirkham.

With lifestyle farmers often commuting between the city and their blocks the issue arises of “who’s going to feed the girls?”

“Grandpa’s feeders have the most trusted and reliable feeder on the market. You can go away and rest assured that your chooks are safely being fed, while keeping out sparrows and rodents.”

More and more people are purchasing a Grandpa’s feeder for family, friends or neighbours, especially those who are responsible for feeding the chooks when they’re away. In this case it benefits both the giver and the receiver.

“The Grandpa’s team recently received some feedback from a customer who said that her food bill was reduced by two thirds and the feeder paid for itself in three months by what she had saved. Admittedly this is an extreme case – she must have had a lot of well-fed sparrows.”

Generally speaking a Grandpa’s feeder can save anywhere between 15 and 50 per cent on your food bill due to there being absolutely no waste. The food stays clean and dry, and with

the grill in the food trough, the chooks can’t flick or scratch any food out.

“The chooks are happier when they have food on demand which in turn increases egg production so it is a win-win situation.”

Pets put food on the table too Brown Hy-Line chickens make wonderful pets and the bonus is they lay eggs in return for their keep, says Maria Stolwyk of the Eureka Poultry Farm.

Nic and Maria raise hens from day-old chicks, selling them as pullets (around 10 to 18 weeks old) to people keen to have hens and enjoy fresh eggs each day.

“You can have any colour hen you want so long as it's brown,” says Nic, who is happy to give advice and guidance to anyone considering keeping hens for the first time.

The couple, who have been farming for 28 years on their registered poultry farm, say hens are social creatures and people should have at least two, so they will be content together.

Renowned for their reliable laying ability, the Hy-Line chickens are ideal for backyard coops, farms and freerange situations.

Their docile nature make them excellent pets for children young and old. The hens are early layers, producing good-sized eggs if well cared for.

“Good quality feed is also essential for great production,” says Maria.

Before taking them home, Nic and Maria say, provision must be made for their housing. This should be set up on well-drained land that will not flood.

The chicken house will need a lockable door or a pop-hole, which is essential to keep out any predators. Good ventilation is very important to provide fresh air, but draughts must be prevented.

Nesting boxes should be filled with either wood shavings (un-treated) or straw-or hay. The floor of the chicken house should drain freely and be kept clean and dry, and there must always be dry areas for roosting. Cover the floor with wood-shavings for ease of cleaning, and for the birds to scratch and forage in.

“When cleaned out this makes great manure for your garden.

“Giving your hens access to grass and vegie scraps, including spinach and pumpkin, are a bonus, but beware of rhubarb leaves and green potatoes as these are poisonous to them.

“Plenty of fresh water and easy access is a must, especially in the summer months, and also a shaded area,” says Nic. Eureka Poultry Farm is easy to find on Hooper Road, Eureka, which is between Hamilton and Morrinsville on State Highway 26. Bookings are welcome to make sure you get your chooks.

   

EMILIO’S TIMBERS EST1981

Page 18

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Animals, magic - all the fun of the fair The popular Waihi Agricultural & Pastoral Association holds its 77th show on November 14 and 15 at the Waihi A&P showgrounds, with all the fun of the fair, as well as farm animals on show.

This show has all the traditional dairy cattle, youth section, pedigree dairy goats, calf club, pet lambs and kid goats, horse and pony events, flat and around the ring jumping as well as Arabian horses, says secretary Marilyn Parker.

“This year we have added one new horse section for Standardbreds. It’s never too late to enter these A&P competitions as we take entries on the day with no late entry fee.

“We are also Horse of Year qualifier for hacks, park hacks, saddle hunters, hunters, ponies and lead rein.”

There will be a wide range of stalls, side shows and plenty of different sorts of food available as well as coffee, tea, water and soft drinks.

Alpacas were on show again last year and Marilyn says they will be back this year as they created a lot of interest when the owners

took them out of their enclosure and walked them out amongst the crowd.

A balloonist and magician will be walking the grounds giving away different shaped balloons, a draw card with the children.

The lucky gate draw has a travel voucher of $250, as well as second and third cash prizes, for the adults and the children have cash prizes as well.

“You must be on the grounds at the time of the draw to win the prizes.”

Sunday November 15, the day for the show jumping and show hunter events, is well supported.

“Horse competitions are non-grading for show jumping and training for show hunters, which appeals to many. This year we have added a point’s competition for the show hunters in conjunction with Katikati A&P Show.

“It’s for competitors to collect points for attending Waihi and Katikati A&P Show.

Points will be totaled and the winner will receive a trophy plus $50. It’s a fun day, an opportunity for less experienced horses and inexperienced riders to have a go at something new.

“The competitors are more than welcome to compete on the Saturday and stay overnight at no charge, then compete again on Sunday making it a great weekend without all the cost of travelling,” says Marilyn.

Gate charges are adults $5; children $2; under five years free; car $2 and family pass $12.

Schedules are available from the secretary Marilyn Parker, 5 Kimberley Road, Waihi 3610.

Phone 07 863 8243 or send an email Marilyn@ktd.co.nz You can also find the schedule on the RAS website ras.org.nz under the Waihi A&P Show.

The Waihi A&P Show will be held at the A&P grounds just out of town on SH2 on the left-hand side heading towards Paeroa.

Horses, dogs, alpaca, goats and more at Cambridge Equestrian events, alpacas, performing dogs, cattle and dairy goats are among the attractions at the 112th Cambridge A&P Show on November 28 where, remarkably, admission is free.

stands and children's rides.

The equestrian sections will feature ridden show hacks, show ponies, hunter jumping, showjumping, Welsh pony, miniatures, led horses and ponies, Clydesdales and side saddle. In all there will be approximately 20 different horse sections.

The Ron Cooper Memorial Trophy will be awarded to the best in show from all the supreme champion winners in the led equestrian sections. The cattle secThe organising committee says the event is tion will see all the main dairy breeds, Ayrshire, Jersey, one of the largest one-day shows in the North Holstein Friesian, and beef competing in both breed Island and has a proud history of celebratand all breeds. ing rural life and bringing town and country The popular calf club section for school children together. will also be held.

Returning this year is Chelsea Marriner and Back this year is an alpaca display where the her Ultimate Canines. Santa is also scheduled to public can interact with the alpacas. visit and back this year after an absence are the Cambridge Show is held at the Cambridge vintage tractors.

Raceway on Taylor Street which is just off There will be farm animals including cows and State Highway 1B. calves, horses and ponies, from miniature Chelsea Marriner and her Ultimate It's not too late to register as a participant, to the large Clydesdales, goats, donkeys and Canines will be performing at the alpacas. Add to this trade displays, food Cambridge A&P Show on November 28. either as a competitor or as a trade exhibit.

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 19

Cash prize for best ‘muscle’ team on day Boyd Park, the home of Te Aroha A&P Show will open its gates for the 119th time on Saturday November 21, 2015 bringing together the tradition of a rural show combined with 21 century entertainment.

livestock competitions.

The Te Aroha show is renowned for its wide ranging horticultural section with competitions for children and adults covering baking, flowers, vegetables and everything in between, schedules are available now.

“We are proud to be one of only five A & P Ravensdown Fertiliser is again supporting the event shows in New Zealand with a home industries and with $800 in cash up for grabs, says Tracey Sobie of children’s section,” says Colleen Walsh of the Home the organising committee.

Industries Committee.

“No you don’t have to muscle a truck this year, but “We cover all ages from you will have to work up a sweat moving bags of pre-school to college, Ravensdown product in a team time trial. special needs, senior To enter, register your team with the citizens and people secretary on show day.” in care with a wide Unique to New Zealand range of categories country events is the Grand in each section including National Sheeplechase fl oral, craft, preserves, The Waikato Rabbit contested by racing stars Club will be exhibiting baking, produce, knitting Roast Ram, Dagg and rabbits at the Te Aroha and sewing, roses and much Lamborghini to name just a more.”

A&P Show. few. Meet these stars of sheep Gates open to the public at 9am on Saturday racing and get some inside tips on who is the fastest November 21 and admission cost $5 for adults and lamb in town. children over 12yrs. Children 12yrs and under $2.

“Rabbits are also making their debut. Not your There’s still time to register interest in a trade average rabbit but a selection of breeds from the stall or site promoting your business. Enquires Waikato Rabbit Club.” to secretary Ann Browne 07 8844139 email As always Boyd Park provides an outstanding tearohaaph@gmail.com surface for the equestrian, cattle and children’s

To enter or receive a schedule for the home industry’s section contract Clarissa Hart 07 887 3655 markandclarissa@xtra. co.nz or Colleen Walsh on 07 884 9964 or pick up a copy at Te Aroha i-Site or Framing Quilt & Craft Te Aroha.

Meeting to form a Probus Club at Waihi Beach Moves are underway to form a Probus club at Waihi Beach, with an inaugural meeting to be held on Wednesday October 7.

“There is strong interest from the community for such a club, particularly as the Waihi Probus membership is full and there is a waiting list,” says Don Fraser, of Waihi Beach, who is working with other beach people to establish their own club.

Probus is a nationwide group of senior people who meet monthly in the morning.

“Probus is about meeting and sharing experiences with other people. There is a whole new group of people who have chosen to make the Beach and Athenree their home with a lot of knowledge and experiences to share and communication is everything. This will be a club by the people for the people.”

Other groups can be established under the Probus umbrella. For example, coffee mornings or groups for gardening, easy listening, craft, tours, chess, writing, a men’s group and camera group just to mention a few ideas, says Don. The Inaugural Meeting of the Beach Probus Club of Waihi Beach will be on October 7 at 10am at the Waihi Beach RSA. All are welcome. Call Don Fraser 07 863 4890 or 021 777 675 for further information.

SAVE $170 exp. 15.10.15

Page 20

SPRING FERTILISER

Spoiling soil health to get production is dumb The argument that, if coming environmental standards are too tough, production from farms will necessarily decline, factories will close, people will lose jobs and the country at large will suffer, requires careful consideration and a broad-minded approach.

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Embodied in that argument is the acknowledgement that, under current production models, with the focus on intensive dairying, the environment is deteriorating. At least the realisation is there. Few would argue that damage, particularly the effect on water quality, can continue indefinitely.

It must stop at some point.

And it’s not just water quality that is suffering. Everything is interconnected and water quality is just one indicator. Careful monitoring shows other components, such as soil and biodiversity, are increasingly struggling to cope.

A key issue to note is that damage steadily escalates over time. The first little bit has a negligible impact but, if practises don’t change, the rate of deterioration gathers ever increasing momentum.

Pasture production in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty has steadily declined over the last 30 years, not because of climatic changes, but due to a steady deterioration in the soil quality.

Farmers blame pests for much of the decline in clover and total pasture production. However they are only the symptoms of steadily deteriorating soil health.

Value on soil

There’s excellent work currently being undertaken by AgResearch scientists that puts a value on soil, with a key indicator of its health being pore space. Pore space is important, because soil is a living, breathing organism that relies on air being able to freely enter, and gases including a small amount of carbon dioxide, to leave.

This, in turn, is utilised by plants for steadily increasing growth.

Reducing the ability of soils to carry out this function, through ongoing compaction, also causes a steady decline in the quality of the pastures grown, along with the standard of the meat and milk leaving the property.

But there are farmers bucking the trend by changing their management systems. They have steadily increasing pasture production and the reason is that their properties are sequestering carbon and building humus.

It is under permanent grazed pasture that carbon is most rapidly sequestered. Intensive pastoral farming using these different systems ultimately provides the answer to many of our environmental issues, as it removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as well as storing and filtering water.

Exceeds average

Production from these properties comfortably exceeds district average, with a more even spread of growth throughout the year. Regular monitoring indicates that these properties grow, on average, 18+ tonnes of dry matter per hectare annually, with growth as high as 22 tonnes from some sites.

Per animal production is also exceptional, with cows producing close to their live weight in milk-soilds each year. This enables carrying fewer animals per hectare, which then means lower costs, fewer metabolic disorders, better mating performance, and a reduction in the requirement for worm drenches.

Nitrate nitrogen losses to groundwater are also markedly reduced. With improved friability plants are able to send roots further into the soil, intercepting nutrient before it reaches ground water.

Humus itself is not well understood. It’s organic matter with a biological component, and regarded by some as, weight for weight, more valuable than gold.

There is no question that human survival is dependent on its existence.

Intensive pastoral farming using different management systems has the ability to store increasing quantities of carbon, produce water suitable for human consumption, and provide food of unsurpassed quality.

The argument that production must come at the expense of the environment is invalid. Everyone wins with a clean environment. For more information call Peter on 0800 843 809.

SHEEP & BEEF

Page 21

Grass-fed Wagyu beef offers farmers a finishing option The unique eating qualities of Firstlight Wagyu mean beef farmers finishing Wagyu-dairy cross animals are enjoying returns above already strong beef prices.

Firstlight Wagyu supply chain manager Peter Keeling says the company’s efforts to build stock numbers to meet growing market demand is being achieved with more dairy farmers taking the opportunity to mate Friesian and crossbred dairy cows with Wagyu genetics.

This is in addition to strong demand for matings over Angus cows and heifers, and has proven highly successful over the past two seasons.

“Dairy farmers have appreciated our contract offer for next season of up to $150 for four day old Wagyu-cross bred heifer and bull calves. This mating season we have experienced record demand for both Wagyu semen, and bulls.”

Marbling effect

Results from Wagyu-dairy cross animals being processed this spring are also encouraging. The marbling effect that gives Wagyu beef its unique look, taste and eating qualities occurs strongly in the Wagyu-dairy cross cattle, recording high marbling scores of six or higher.

“These top end performing cattle are gaining additional premiums, ending up on plates in fine dining restaurants and high quality steak houses around

the world,” says Peter.

The boost in numbers from dairy farmers mating some of their herd to Wagyu genetics has created some exciting opportunities for dry stock farmers wishing to be part of the Firstlight Wagyu success story. Weaned Wagyu cross dairy calves will be available to purchase this season at 95kg.

“We have just had a line of 22 month steers processed at 304kgCW, and heifers at 260kgCW. Over the last couple of years the average growth rates have gone up, and animal age at processing has come down.”

easier to manage.”

This year James aims to have 75 per cent of the Wagyu dairycross animals processed by Christmas time as two-year-olds.

Manawatu farmer Scott Linklater puts Wagyu genetics across his Angus and Angus-Jersey cross herd, and also buys in Wagyu dairycross weaner

...tender and tasty every time...

calves to finish. With better feeding and higher quality young stock, Scott has cut 12 months off his finishing programme from what he achieved three years ago.

Overseas markets

He now processes animals at 18-22 months, with excellent premium marbling levels. His stock averaged just below marble score 6.0 this year and achieved a $6.50/kg return this August.

Like James, he looks forward to an additional pool payment at season’s end of about 70c/kg.

Firstlight director Gerard Hickey says supplier optimism

A IN &

is supported by the positive feedback Firstlight Wagyu is getting from overseas markets. These include eight new retail store outlets in California, and high end marbled steaks now sold in Dubai and cities in China. Fresh and frozen Wagyu burgers launched in the United Kingdom and USA have also proven highly successful.

“The typical Firstlight Wagyu consumer is one who wants the best beef in the world, grown by the best NZ farmers and culminating in a dining experience that delivers something unique that is tender and tasty every time.”

SEED DRESSI

ID G E CRSEEDS

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Myth wrong

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QUA LITY PASTURE SEED

Hawke’s Bay farmer James Greer says his experience with Wagyu dairy-cross animals has proved any myth of them being slow finishers as wrong.

“Since we purchased our Wagyu cross dairy weaner calves we have shown you can get them up to the same weights as Friesian bulls but they are considerably

Secure long term returns for high quality beef

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Contact us today to discuss options to purchase Wagyu x Dairy weaners this spring.

0800 4 WAGYU (0800 492 498) info@firstlightfoods.co.nz www.firstlightfoods.co.nz

SHEEP & BEEF

Page 22

‘Seed’ breeding key to Angus stud success On a high country property near Culverden in North Canterbury, Jono Reed and partner Sarah Collin, are breeding Angus cattle that can handle hard country.

The Grampians is a 3,500 hectare farm which ranges from irrigated flats to improved hill country and native high country with The Pahau River gorge as a boundary.

The homestead sits at 330 metres above seal level and the high country runs to 1700 metres.

A narrow block of land, running north, The Grampians is bordered on either side by two other large farms and shares a back boundary with Lochiel Station.

The climate is difficult, cold in winter with snow on the tops and can get dry in the summer, although it does receive more nor-west rain than properties further east.

With an annual rainfall of 1000 to 1200 mls, the growing seasons can be short. This, coupled with steep country means the Grampians Angus are built tough.

Jono has been passionate about cattle from a young age and from early on, worked with Neil and Rose Sanderson who had Fossil Creek Angus. He would help them at shows and they in turn helped him to set up the Grampians stud in 2003.

Embryo transplants

The farm had traditionally run a hardy white face Hereford Angus cross and Jono's aim was to breed a straight Angus that would equal the toughness of the cross bred cows.

“The Angus Hereford cross were hard to beat and set the benchmark,” says Jono.

With this benchmark in mind, Jono set about breeding “SEED” Angus - Sound, Efficient, Easy “doing” and Docile.

When he started with the Sandersons, he became

involved with embryo transplants and found there was already a lot of the genetics he was looking for at The Grampians.

Over the years the stud grew bigger and now has 180 stud cows calving, while the commercial herd has about the same.

Embryo transplants are an important part of the operation with the top end cows flushed. This year 40 cows that have had embryo transplants will calve.

A mix of bulls also run with the cows and for next year’s calves, fresh and frozen semen will be used to AI a number of cows as well as embryo transplants along with natural mating.

Select bulls

Jono uses both South and North Island genetics and this year’s calves are by a selection of bulls.

Sires for 2015 include Red Oak Meaty, from the Orrs in the Weka Pass, Te Mania 484 from Te Mania, both from North Canterbury and Oregon Bear from Oregon Angus in the Wairarapa along with home bred bulls.

Sires that have influenced The Grampians Angus include Stem Fitzpatrick, a bull that was used until the grand old age of 11 and Kaharau Clarion, from Gisborne.

One of the traits Jono looks for is fertility, so a simple two cycle breeding programme is used. Cows that don't get in calf by the second cycle are culled.

Angus cattle grazing on the steep country of The Grampians.

Raised on a diet of hard work.

We’ve worked hard to build rugged and reliable forage wagons and bale feeders. Their strong steel construction makes them tough & hard wearing. On top of that, they’re designed to be low maintenance and easy to use. Before long your livestock will be as big & strong as our engineering.

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SHEEP & BEEF

Page 23

EBVs influence decisions Estimated Breeding Values are used as a tool to help select cattle that fit requirements, he looks for “most traits in moderation.” The EBVs can also be as a warning mechanism as much as what is good in a bloodline, says Jono.

When selecting calves, a primary cull is done at weaning. Anything that shows a lack of good temperament or is structurally unsatisfactory is marked not to keep. About 40 per cent of bull calves go through to sale.

Second cull

Jono and Sarah put 100 heifers in calf and those that are empty or late are culled. In winter there is a second cull which is done on body weight.

Those that are too light are culled. This is all part of the selection for animals that will hold their own during winter.

Because of the drought this year, Jono has bought in some palm kernel which has helped the first calvers through a winter where there has been little autumn growth due to the dry.

Bulls that are going to sale are used as yearlings where possible. “It is good preparation for them as two year olds. The buyers are getting a working animal that is ready for any condition.”

An annual on-farm bull sale is held in June and while numbers on offer have been around the 30 mark, Jono wants this to increase to 50, which he

Jono Reed, Sarah Collin and Hank – passionate about Angus cattle.

says will provide more data for buyers. This year, 30 bulls sold for an average of $6,585 with the top making $11,000.

While most bulls are bought by South Island farmers, one went to Turihaua Angus in Gisborne fetching the second highest price of $10,500.

The passion for breeding a purpose built animal that will cope with harsh conditions is an ongoing one that will keep Jono and Sarah busy for many years to come.

By Amanda Bowes

Angus cows ready for calving at The Grampians high country property near Culverden.

Quality Sheep Drench • Secure the health of your lambs

Drench resistance an individual farm issue Last month I discussed the basics of worms in lambs, and the need for drenching. With many worms surviving many of the drench chemicals (drench resistance), it is critical that we understand the different types available. There are five different ‘broad-spectrum’ drench types for sheep:

1) Levamisole; mainly used in combination with BZ’s and/or mectins.

2) Benzimidazoles (White or BZ); mainly used in combination with levamisole and/or mectins.

3) ML (Mectin); moxidectin (especially for Barber’s Pole) and abamectin are useful, either on their own or in combination with other types.

4) Monepantel (Zolvix); new chemical.

5) Derquantel; available in combination with abamectin .

There are also narrow-spectrum chemicals that are sold in combination with the above, the most common being praziquantel for tapeworm control in lambs.

The incidence of drench resistance is increased when worms survive a drench and, because it is a genetic trait, these sur-

vivors pass the genes onto the next generation.

To slow the spread of resistance, there are two main prongs of attack: 1) Don’t let any worms survive the drench; only use products that are 100 per cent effective (and don’t under-dose them); FEC testing used in a DrenchCheck will tell you if the drench you used 7-10 days ago was fully effective (so you know for future if it works on your farm).

2) If they do survive, dilute the impact of those genes being passed on; this is where the concept of refugia is critical (a subject on its own).

Quarantine drenching (eg a triple combination containing abamectin) is also important so you don’t bring in resistant worm.

Remember drench resistance is an individual farm issue – all farms will have different worm populations.

For routine drenching, bestpractice recommendations state that combination products should be used (eg Levamisole + BZ), because the chances of a worm surviving two

different chemicals is significantly lower than one of them. However there is still a place for using a single-active product (eg straight mectin) where it is known to be 100 per cent effective.

• Fight drench resistance

Call your Agri Manager or the Customer Centre on 0800 100 123 ravensdown.co.nz

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DAIRY

Page 24

Precision farming paying back Water is a valuable resource but for the Mitchell and Webster Group it is quite literally liquid gold. The group’s farming enterprise consists of 1400 hectares of land in the North Otago area.

SIX YEARS ON AND BRIAN IS STILL SEEING GREEN The Growsmart® Precision VRI system installed on Brian and Jo Bosch’s dairy farm in the South Wairarapa has been saving them precious water and dollars since it was first installed in 2008.

The couple use the intelligent system to avoid watering the tracks, ponds and drains underneath their Zimmatic™ centre-pivot. The water saved by avoiding these areas is diverted to other areas of the farm, increasing their irrigated land area by approximately 10%.

And after over six years of using the technology he’s pretty happy about the low maintenance requirements of the system hardware, “It’s just worked!”

The Bosch’s are not alone in the great results achieved using variable rate irrigation. Trials show savings of up to 27% on dairy and cropping farms are realistically achievable. Why? Because Precision VRI controls every individual sprinkler allowing you to irrigate where it is needed.

Find out how you could achieve great results like Brian and Jo by talking to your Zimmatic by Lindsay dealer today or by visiting growsmartprecisionvri.co.nz

© 2013 LINDSAY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ZIMMATIC IS A TRADEMARKS OF THE LINDSAY CORPORATION.

Fast facts:

McCarthy Cropping

• 85 hectares of irrigated wh eat • Precision agriculture techno and sunflowers logy capital return from selling exc resulted in ess irrigation shares of $77,000.

• Annually an additional $23 ,000 is saved due to reduced water costs plus profit gained from increased production • Initial precision agricultur e technology investment cost $55,100 • Initial ROI of 140%, based on sale of excess irrigation shares returns from alone.

Their McCarthy centre-pivot is 500m long, irrigating rolling clay rich soils and is one of four which the group has invested in Growsmart Precision VRI technology.

They have been able to reduce their water usage 23.5 per cent from 34 litres per second to 26 litres per second. Savings have been the result of avoiding irrigation application over seven hectares of springs and ditches as well as varying application rates based on soil texture groups.

With high costs for irrigation shares as well as additional water usage charges, reduced flow requirements meant the group no longer needed $77,000 worth of irrigation shares.

They estimate that through the use of Growsmart Precision VRI there has been an average increase in production of five per cent. This is due to irrigation application being able to be determined by soil types, reducing the variability in plant available water and increasing productive area by avoiding application to an area of unproductive springs and ditches.

The result of avoiding this 7ha area allowed it to dry out and be partially Peter Mitchell with one of the pivots on the Mitchell and bought back into production with only Webster Group North Otago farm.

2.5ha avoided in the second year of using Growsmart Precision variable rate and a value of $400/T. irrigation.

Growsmart Precision VRI is compatible with most The profit from increased production varies centre pivot and lateral irrigators, the technology according to the crop being grown, however as can be installed on new systems or as a retro-fit to an estimate based on an average wheat crop an existing systems. For more information contact annual return of $16,500 is realistic. This amount is your local Zimmatic irrigation dealer or visit assuming an increased yield from 10 T/ha to 10.5 T/ha www.growsmartprecisionvri.co.nz

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Page 25

Early vaccination for leptospirosis control Leptospirosis remains a serious threat to the health and livelihood of farmers. While control of lepto in New Zealand dairy cattle has improved markedly thanks to widespread vaccination, evidence remains that there is still room for improvement.

Every year almost 100 cases of leptospirosis are reported in humans, and it is estimated that the numbers of unreported or undiagnosed cases are even higher. Farmers or farm workers have a four to seven per cent chance of contracting leptospirosis, which is a risk 25 to 50 times higher than the average person in New Zealand.

Traditional vaccination programmes in calves have delayed vaccination until around six months of age. This has been due to a

belief that calves are not at great risk of infection before six months of age and also because of doubts about how effective the original lepto vaccines were when given to very young calves.

We now know that calves are at risk of lepto infection well before six months of age. And if they do become infected they can become chronic shedders of leptospirosis in their urine for months or years, presenting a health risk to you any time they are handled.

Once infected, vaccination is too late to be of any use and will not cure their infection.

Therefore calves need to be vaccinated early before they have a chance to become infected. Fortunately there are This figure shows a summary of the original NZ vaccines which are effective in research showing that vaccinating earlier than six young calves such as Ultravac months of age subsequently reduces the risk of urine 7-in-1 which can be used as shedding in a herd. early as four weeks of age. Early

Need to diversify land use and incomes The dramatic downturn in the dairy pay-out, and the drive to reduce nitrogen discharges to waterways, has highlighted the needs for diversification in land use in the region, according to the Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study report.

There is a need to diversify income risks for farmers who are highly exposed to a single commodity sector (dairying) and subject to new provisions to reduce nitrogen discharges into waterways – particularly in the Rotorua area.

Agribusiness is a significant economic driver in the wider Bay of Plenty, underpinned by the region’s climate and natural resource base. In 2014 combined exports for dairy, meat and horticulture were $2 billion.

However, potential investment opportunities include dairy goats, sheep milking, manuka plantations for honey and oil, free stall dairy barns and biological farming for fresh milk.

These and the other eight areas of economic potential were discussed when 120 regional leaders and stakeholders attended the validation forum in August at Taneatua.

Focus areas

The draft actions for each of the nine focus areas were presented at the forum and attendees were also asked for their feedback on the parties identified for the implementation for each

action, and who else may need to be involved.

The action plans, which include barriers to success, potential resources required and who needs to be involved, were developed by sector leaders and relevant stakeholders. The focus areas were identified from feedback provided by the region at the five workshops held in June this year.

The action plan is expected to be launched in the region by ministers sometime in October.

The next phase – implementation – will start at the beginning of 2016.

Manuka honey

also support from existing entities such as the Manuka Research Partnership PGP-funded research programme, aimed at developing necessary cultivars, husbandry and support tools to enable commercialisation of manuka plantations as a viable land use, including on marginal land.

The next phase is to establish how these opportunities can be accelerated at scale. There are also several opportunities for new skills training across all initiatives and sub-regions, the report says.

The plan says there is potential for long-term cooperative structures amongst regional landowners across all opportunities, particularly for Maori land trusts, given the lower nitrogen impact, job creation opportunities, suitability for certain land classes and the potential for vertical integration and ownership.

Of particular interest for this action plan is a focus on manuka. There is an insatiable demand across the world for high UMF-grade manuka honey in cuisine, medical and healthcare products. Exports of NZ manuka honey have grown from $100 million in 2010 to $187 million in 2014 and continue to grow at a compounding rate of around 30 per cent per year.

The report says there is great potential to expand manuka honey produced in the Bay of Plenty, particularly for Maori industry involvement. There is

PK / SILAGE BUNKERS

DESIGN – SUPPLY – BUILD

calf vaccination with two injections four to six weeks apart, then yearly boosters, is the best way to protect you, your family and your valuable employees from this debilitating disease.

A convenient time to do early calf lepto vaccinations is at the same time as 5-in-1 clostridial vaccination. This is possible with Ultravac 7-in-1, a vaccine that provides protection against leptospirosis and clostridial disease in one shot.

Therefore in keeping with current risk management best practice, leptospirosis early vaccination course for calves from two to three months of age in the spring followed by a third shot in the autumn is recommended.

For further information about early calf lepto vaccination and lepto control, call your local vet clinic.

Page 26

DAIRY

Benefits of ‘cocktail’ crops to humus building for Soils

lciZest

3 809 or go to

org.nz

mprovement

Tillage must be modified, because there is compelling research demonstrating the humus-building effect of no-till or minimum-till agriculture, says Graeme Sait of Nutritech Solutions Australia in an article published

by Acres USA.

occurs over time in completely untouched soils.

It makes sense that a combination of leaching and utilisation will see key minerals slowly move beyond the root zone. If we stir things up from time to time, this negative stratification effect can be countered.

Green manure and cover crops must become indispensable carbon-building tools for all of us.

This is an integral component of a “nutrition farming” approach, where we are always striving to feed the soil while converting plant material into humus.

The full version is on our website www.kiwifertiliser.co.nz and in this extract we look at Graeme’s views on the research quantifying humus-building dynamics from the Rodale Institute which is the results of its 25 years’ of in-depth research.

Every time we work the soil we disturb cellulosedigesting fungi and oxidise existing humus.

Sunflowers with other I favour minimum-till diverse pasture species over no-till, as there can assist in humus is evidence of minbuilding. eral stratification that

Rural myth

There is a rural myth among some growers that, in dryland situations, these crops will steal moisture from the subsequent cash crop. This is not research-

based. All of the evidence suggests that the increased moisture retention associated with this regular injection of organic matter more than compensates for the moisture removed in the production of the cover crops. There is compelling new US research that “cocktail” cover crops may be particularly beneficial. It has been found Persian clover that certain combinations of and a variety plants, typically involving cereof other herbs als, grasses, brassicas, legumes produce 23,000 and chenopods, can trigger the to 30,000 kg/ha. release of phenolic compounds from these plant roots, which have been shown to stimulate rapid humus building.

The brilliant American consultant, Jerry Brunetti, who sadly passed away in 2014, has included a particularly successful cocktail cover crop recipe in his parting gift, a wonderful new book entitled "The Farm as an Ecosystem".

Microbial biodiversity

Cocktail cover crops sponsor microbial biodiversity because each species tends to favour and feed specific groups of root organisms. The more diverse the plant species, the more varied the soil life – and nature thrives on biodiversity.

The brassicas in the mix can also discourage pathogens like nematodes and some diseases with their biochemical root exudates. Cocktail cover crops are also profoundly drought protective, in that the great mass of roots involved exudes a gel-like mucilage that can absorb ten thousand times its own dry weight in water.

The trillions of bacteria around the roots also release a gel-like substance that provides them protection from predators but also serves to retain water. Brunetti cites a cocktail mix that has proven tremendously successful for North Dakota farmer, Gabe Brown, who has, in turn, been inspired by the innovative work of Brazilian agronomist, Dr Ademir Caligari.

This mix includes at least a dozen of the following species: pearl millet, sorghum sundan grass, proso millet, buckwheat, sunn hemp, oilseed radish, turnips, pasha, ryegrass, canola, phacelea, cowpeas, soy beans, sugar beets, red clover, sweet clover, kale, rape, lentils, mung beans and subterranean clover.

This mix includes the desired mix of legumes, grasses, cereals, brassicas and chenopods. It also involves cool season grasses and broad-leaved plants combined with warm season grasses and broad-leaved plants.

DAIRY

Taking the financial pain out of building feed bins

Page 27

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“It’s been well reported the tough times hitting the dairy sector due to the low pay out.

Compounding this is the predicted weather patterns which we’re told won’t make life easier for farmers. This means farmers are facing extra feed costs to maintain cow condition.”

So farmers are understandably cutting costs where possible.

Quality feed and fertiliser storage is one way to deliver real cost savings.

It has been estimated that incorrect storage of feed can

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“We’re offering to share the load with farmers, because tough times shouldn’t mean

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Page 28

Creating good pastures lowers production costs Robin Boom

CPAg MBSPC

Independent Agronomy & Soil Fertility Consultant

We know plants require 16 elements to grow and that animals need 17, yet some farmers and growers only think that NPK + S is all they need to worry about.

Over the past 26 years of advising farmers on soil fertility issues there are no two farms exactly the same, and although certain soil types may have specific elements which need to be the main focus, each property will have had a unique fertiliser history which affects the chemistry of that soil from which plants extract nutrients.

Volcanic ash soils for instance tend to be very phosphate responsive, whereas on pumice soils potassium, sulphur, magnesium and also the trace elements boron, copper and cobalt are common deficiencies.

Peat soils initially need bulk lime and are also hungry for phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and trace elements. Some raw peat soils actually leach

out phosphorus and using less soluble forms of phosphate can work better when this is the case.

Sedimentary clay soils don’t need as much maintenance phosphorus as volcanic ash soils, but need more sulphur and lime.

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With a limited fertiliser budget it is important to get the most bangs for the buck, and to do this the weakest links in the chain need to be identified through soil and herbage testing.

Farmers however are often given conflicting advice between different fertiliser sales people and advisors and even the soil testing laboratories can give differing results depending on the analytical methods used and there are also different graphical interpretations between labs. No wonder farmers and growers are often confused.

I sometimes find that farmers who have lived and worked on their properties for many years, almost have a gut instinct as to what their soils need, and this is confirmed by soil/ herbage test data.

I write this just after being on a client’s farm north of Matamata where I have been advising for some 20 years.

When I first went there the pastures were open and under-performing compared to surrounding properties and he was struggling to feed his cows.

Over the years optimising all 16 essential elements has been the focus of his fertiliser programme, always trying to achieve the biological optimum

levels, and not being too high in certain elements but keeping the balance right.

Good balance

I made the comment to him that he now had as good pasture covers as anyone I had seen driving around the Waikato, and he agreed. He uses very little nitrogen and yet his pastures are now thick and vibrant, with a good balance of ryegrass and white clover, with the latter being the key to profitable livestock farming in my opinion.

He has had to do little re-grassing with mainly old pastures that have adapted to his environment and the specific pests and climatic challenges of his farm. His cost of production is around $3/kg MS, so even in a low pay-out year he will make money.

Improving soil chemistry through correct fertilising is one thing we can do to create vibrant pastures, which is the cheapest dry matter to feed livestock.

Wasting money on elements which are already at biological optimum levels or above is unprofitable, and can be harmful to the soil, the environment and to livestock grazing such pastures.

Formulating a balanced soil fertility programme determined from comprehensive 16 element soil and herbage test data, and getting these elements from the cheapest and best providers ensures healthy soils, healthy plants, healthy livestock and healthy profits.

Robin Boom CPAg, Member of the Institute of Professional Soil Scientists 021-2684615

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Scientists have sequenced one of New Zealand’s most important indigenous plants and are making the data available to tangata whenua and New Zealand’s research community.

Manuka (Leptosperumum scoparium) is a taonga, or treasured, plant for Maori and has special significance for the New Zealand people, particularly for the healing properties found in honey produced from its nectar.

The sequencing of the manuka genome, or genetic blueprint, will allow Maori to understand the provenance (whakapapa) of and protect varieties of manuka of particular significance to their region, as well as help scientists understand the origins and genetic diversity of manuka found in New Zealand.

The information can also be used to

support the future breeding of new varieties with key characteristics desired by honey and food ingredient producers.

“The genome sequence of plants can tell us their story in a very detailed way – from where the plant first originated to the slight differences seen from place to place across the country,” says Dr Bruce Campbell of Plant & Food Research.

“This information can be used in a variety of ways – to protect the species from potential pest and disease threats, as a tool to allow us to domesticate the plant through targeted breeding, or in understanding how different genetic profiles of the plant influence honey characteristics. The information held in the manuka genome sequence holds a range of cultural, conservation and commercial implications for New Zealand.”

DAIRY

Page 29

How about being extra kind to cows?

Hopefully by now you’ll be all done with calving, and I hear some farmers are taking a different tack with calves and raising them to sell as beefies when they’ve grown a bit, rather than putting them on the truck.

There has been an awful lot written in recent years about putting condition back on cows after calving.

We’ve had a very hard winter this year (my water pipes froze completely twice) and those comforting stacks and bales of silage got used up pretty fast when the grass just didn’t grow.

Sweet treat

Some areas had droughts, some had floods and some just got more and more mud and pugged paddocks. So spring feeding may well be difficult this time, and there’s not much extra feed around, even if the budget will stretch to it. PKE may help, but it still costs and still has to be imported. With our dollar dropping it may be more expensive than you thought.

But Cow and Calf Formula is still the same price as last year, and there’s a money back guarantee if it doesn’t work. So how about a sweet treat for your hard working herd?

by Sue Edmonds

And there is lots in the news also about using beef bulls with known characteristics to make those ‘extra’ calves even more valuable. Isn’t it amazing how thinking which is ‘out of the box’ becomes mainstream when monetary crises hit?

I just hope that these bulls aren’t too big, because a few years ago the fashion for using mighty crossbred bulls with big frames and hip bones, caused calving problems for heifers and small cows. So go for purebreds.

When you think about it we’re pretty tough on our stock, particularly cows.

We strive to get them all calving at once, then milk them madly, and three or four months later expect them to be ready to do it all again for another year.

New mum

So a few treats to make them feel ‘worth it’ would probably be nice. I know every time I was a new mum I turned to tonics, and vitamins and felt vulnerable to bugs floating around.

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If you don’t have a shed feeding system which will dump a dose onto one feed a day, then maybe there’s a Dosatron somewhere in your system.

At worst you can put some into the water trough sited where they come out of the shed, when thirst after milking ensures they drink from it. And with manuka honey in it, it does taste special if the trough water is clean.

If you’re feeling pressured by your bank manager, just focus on the reduced somatic cell counts, the minimisation of mastitis and the extra milk that will go into the vat, and I haven’t even mentioned vet bills.

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Page 30

EFFLUENT

International agri-journalists in NZ New Zealand’s primary industries will be showcased to the world this month when agricultural journalists attend the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists 2015 World Congress in Hamilton.

Congress co-ordinator Sue Miller says the value to the New Zealand economy of stories and programmes about New Zealand by the visiting media is “immeasurable”.

“We have registrations from the USA, Canada, Australia, Nepal, South Africa, Scandinavia, Japan, Vietnam, India, Uzbekistan and Russia.”

Many are journalists working for established media

organisation, including trade publications and television. Others are well-known freelance writers and a number work for large corporations.

The New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists & Communicators is the host of this year's World Congress, called ‘New Zealand Agribusiness – our life our story’, which runs from October 14 to 18.

New Zealand agricultural journalist and communicators are also able to attend the congress and both national and international registrations close on October 5.

The programme includes presentations, panel discussions and industry speakers, as well as visits to many farms, businesses and research facilities including those involved in dairying, the red meat industry, horticulture and viticulture, science and innovation, equestrian and a tea plantation.

The opening night dinner is on Wednesday October 14, with a range of activities planned during the day, includ-

ing tourism options.

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, there will be morning sessions at the congress venue focusing on a range of topics, including: ‘Our life, our story’; meeting market needs and securing the future.

Joining platinum event sponsor Dairy NZ are other valued sponsors Fonterra, KPMG, AGMARDT, Ministry for Primary Industries, NZX Agri, Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Zespri – and more are to be announced soon.

However Sue says there are still opportunities for other sponsors to get involved.

For more information about attending or sponsoring the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists 2015 World Congress go to www. congress2015. co.nz or contact Sue Miller, conference co-ordinator: 027 4510339 or kotuku.media@xtra.co.nz

By Elaine Fisher

New Zealand’s grass-based farming systems will be under the spotlight during the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists 2015 World Congress in Hamilton.

Rising phosphorus levels have a significant impact on NZ waterways & your fertiliser and effluent dispersal strategy. Annual soil analysis (pH, salinity, chloride, phosphorus etc.) is the key to devising effective salt reduction strategies.

Realise your irrigation targets by annually applying Gypsum across the entire farm to combat sodium and improve soil structure.

Talk to your farm advisor to learn more about the benefits of Gypsum.

EFFLUENT

Page 31

‘Old-fashioned’ grass based farming system Installing an effluent system is a significant capital investment for any dairy farmer and Stefan Reichmuth of Hinuera wanted to be sure the one he chose was value for money, would do the job it was designed for and would also future proof his farm.

“I did a lot of research into the different companies and tanks and ponds available, and finally came up with a short list of two, which were very comparable in price,” says Stefan.

“I chose to go with Presco Group because of the quality of their products and the extra service they provided and I’m delighted with the end result. I think the pond looks smart, doesn’t detract from the landscape and because it is concrete, I have peace of mind that it won’t leak.”

Stefan says thanks to the low dairy pay-out, he probably couldn’t have picked a worse year to build a new effluent system, but the Waikato Regional Council said his existing one had to be upgraded so there was little choice in the matter.

“I did tell council it would be upgraded in stages. At 630 cubic metres the pond has been designed to hold more effluent than my farm currently requires, but I have yet to install a pump on pontoons for irrigation so need to bring in a contractor to pump out the pond and spread the effluent on the pasture in the meantime.”

company, Schiller AG. Wendy is English, but Stefan grew up in New Zealand – his parents John and Elizabeth Agnes Reichmuth emigrated here in the late 1950s from Switzerland.

“Wendy and I had our first son Christopher in Switzerland but by the time we were expecting our second son Samuel we decided to return to New Zealand so our children could enjoy the kind of rural upbringing I had.”

The property, which had at one time been a deer farm, was run down and needed a lot of work but “the bones were good and the location is great”.

Stefan runs a self-sufficient, grass fed system, growing his own silage and hay, but not feeding other supplement. “I’m an ‘old fashioned’ farmer and this is a relatively low-cost but efficient system.”

Rural upbringing

Gravity feed

Stefan will use the existing pump, which irrigated effluent from a sump adjacent to the dairy yards.

“I just didn’t have enough holding capacity to meet council’s 460 cubic metres requirements. Having the new tank in place before calving was great because I haven’t had to worry about moving irrigators and the tank hasn’t needed emptying so far.”

Stefan and Wendy bought the 60ha dairy farm at Hinuera 14 years ago, not long after returning from Switzerland where Stefan had been working in quality control for a multi-national medical devices

Stefan Reichmuth is happy with his Presco Group pond.

The farm is virtually flat, and as Stefan wanted to gravity feed effluent to the new tank it had to be constructed in a slight depression 60m from the dairy shed yards.

He also employed a directional drilling company to install a new drainage line under the yard, taking effluent to the pond.

The appearance and design of the Presco ponds appealed to Stefan. “I’m not keen on normal ponds which have to have a fenced buffer area around them which has to be planted or maintained. With this tank

I can graze animals right up to the edge with no worries.

“Because this pond is 3m deep at its perimeter, it has a smaller footprint than some others which was another factor for me.”

Presco also supplied a precast sand trap which was installed a short distance from the pond, with a concrete apron so Stefan can easily clean it out with his tractor.

The approximately 32m diameter tank sits slightly above ground and has three hot wires around the top, plus gates to allow entry for inspection or servicing. Provision has been made for the future installation of the pontoon pump.

Presco designed and installed the new system to comply with Farm Dairy Effluent design standards and code of practice.

The pond is constructed of 20 panels of extra strong, (certified 40 MPa) concrete at 150mm thick which are steel reinforced to engineers’ design.

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EFFLUENT

Page 32

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Eff luent rich in biological activity is required The people who dictate the management and direction of our farming future are regional councils throughout New Zealand.

They set the compliance rules which guide us down certain paths. On the surface, these rules seem reasonable considering the task they have of reducing the pollution of our precious waterways and air.

But I am nervous. Nervous about of what lies ahead for farmers if we continue down the current path.

Dr Doug Edmeades expresses very real concerns about the tools being used by regional

councils to measure the leaching of nutrients into waterways, particularly nitrate. It is worth reading his recent article, ”The Trouble with Overseer” which has been in numerous publications.

Two points caught my attention. One: Overseer predicts the amount of leaching below the rooting depth of the pasture, and two: the four basic components of water quality are nitrate N, phosphorus, sediments and pathogens.

With these points in mind, what would happen to the outcome if we utilised management practices which increased the root zone? I have seen pasture with roots zones from 75 mm to 800mm. Deeper rooting pastures always accompany

vastly increased biological activity which not only counteracts pathogens but also absorbs a lot more phosphates, nitrates and sediment.

In the future, what we put on our soils will be controlled. This control will mostly be over fertilisers and effluent.

Effluent and leaching

Effluent ponds that are functioning well naturally – without the aid of machines – have far greater biological activity in them compared to heavily crusted ponds.

Research has shown that these healthy ponds contain vast amounts of aerobic bacteria which not only counteract pathogens, but also capture phosphorus and nitrate N in an organic form. This enables plants to uptake more nutrient from the soil which in turn reduces leaching.

These aerobic bacteria also produce enzymes which are instrumental in digesting the solids within the effluent.

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mmary: Effluent an is a biologic d deep roots and the fu al deep-rootin connection between ture: there g soils and healthy g ponds. Th at connecti ood liquid effluent on is the ae bacteria that ro effluent an are active in both. W bic d soils are ri ch with this hen biological ac good ti v it y, it wil on our futu re waterway l have a positive effect I believe w e should be s and air. That’s what going after.

Pond crust gone for 10th the cost?

True!

Certification for consultants gives confidence in advice A certification scheme designed to give farmers confidence in the quality and standard of the advice they receive from their dairy farm systems consultants has been launched.

Development of the scheme has involved a collaborative partnership between DairyNZ, leading dairy farm systems consultants and the New Zealand Institue of Primary Industry Management, who will continue to be involved in developing and testing the scheme’s assessment tools

and associated training to ensure the material is kept current and relevant to the profession.

NZIPIM chief executive Stephen Macaulay says that in the current environment, farmers need assurance in the advice they receive.

www.slurrybugs.co.nz

0800 4 SLURRYBUGS

Page 34

RURAL DRIVER

Safety features now ‘expected addition’ The Australasian New Car Assessment Programme has added two of New Zealand’s most popular vehicles to the 5 star safety rating line up with the Mazda 2 and CX-3 both joining the club.

Recently Nissan’s Navara dual cab, king cab and single cab utes all received good marks during the crash test to achieve 5 star safety status. They were joined by the Holden Astra GTC, CTC Sport and VXR and also Jeep’s Grand Cherokee.

Meanwhile a little further up the market food chain, ANCAP has announced the Audi TT sports car has earned a 4 star ANCAP safety rating.

While the TT performed generally well in occupant and pedestrian protection, insufficient safety assist technologies (referred to as SATs) and inadequate child occupant protection dragged the ultimate rating down.

AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks says it’s worth noting that while none of the tested vehicles include autonomous emergency braking as standard – where brakes are automatically applied if the driver fails to respond quickly to an immediate hazard ahead – she is surprised the safety technology is not present on the Audi TT. “As new SATs are developed they are usually included on vehicles at the top end of the market. Over time other manufacturers develop the technology for their own offerings. We’ve seen this with the introduction of air bags and electronic stability control for example.

“AEB will follow a similar process and

become an expected addition to the suite of SATs on all new vehicles.”

Save lives

Stella says technology such as AEB can save lives on our roads.

“I’m looking forward to the day when more mainstream manufacturers start to include the technology as standard to help protect their customers from serious injury or death by minimising or even preventing a crash.”

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has an AEB option on some variants.

Transport Agency Access and Use General Manager Celia Patrick says it is great news for Kiwi motorists that the range of

affordable top safety-rated cars is continuing to grow.

"Crash statistics prove that drivers and passengers in 5 star-rated vehicles are much less likely to be seriously injured in a crash than occupants of lower rated vehicles.

“With today's safety technology, 5 star ratings are increasingly become the norm and we urge people to buy the safest vehicle they can afford.”

Motoring clubs

ANCAP is supported by all Australian motoring clubs, the New Zealand Automobile Association, the Australian Government, the New Zealand Government, Australian state and territory governments, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

The full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings, other vehicle safety information and the specifications of the rated vehicles are available online at aa.co.nz or rightcar.govt.nz.

Helping clients achieve personal and business success Fitting clients’ farming businesses to meet their personal goals and objectives is proving a winning approach for a newly launched farm consultancy business.

Total Ag rural consultants opened for business late last year after its founders Rob Macnab and Aaron Baker recognised a gap in the farm advisory sector for consultants who could link finance and farm management, in a way that ensured success across all aspects of their clients’ business and personal lives.

The consultants have shared similar backgrounds in the banking and fertiliser

sectors, having both worked as rural managers for Rabobank, and as fertiliser consultants for Ballance Agrinutrients.

“We both came to be exposed to a wide variety of farm types across many different locations in New Zealand. We decided we wanted to take the client contact we had there to the next level, offering an independent consultancy service that combined the skills and experience we had accrued,” says Rob.

Achieve success

The consultants wanted to offer advice that helped farmers achieve success at every level and included the needs of all family members in it.

“There can be a tendency for consultants to draw on their particular area of expertise, whether farm management, or finance, and we prefer to put our clients at the centre of the business, recognising this is a relationship over time. It’s not a race to get the best out of all the resources they have at hand, including land, stock, staff, capital and time to arrive at an enjoyable and rewarding outcome.”

Since commencing, the consultancy has grown to take on three additional consultants, Heather Gilbert in Waikato at Te Pahu, Kathryne Easton in Northland and David Gray in the Hawke’s Bay.

Massey graduates

Heather and Kathryne are both Massey graduates, Heather with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agriculture and Kathryne with a Bachelor of Agriculture.

Kathryne also spent 12 years working for Ballance.

She also worked as a land management advisor for Northland Regional Council and Fonterra in nutrient management and runs her own beef block in Northland.

Heather has worked with Landcorp and has worked closely with young farmers kick starting their careers

Total Ag founders Aaron Baker (left) and Rob Macnab. through the SOEs Future Farmer programme.

Total Ag’s most recent appointment is David Gray.

While based in Hawke’s Bay, David is building a portfolio of dairying clients through the upper North Island who are seeking help managing farm budgets through a tough period in the industry.

His experience as a share milker and rural manager with Rabobank and Heartland mean he is well placed to help clients minimise their losses and adjust farm budgets to meet their obligations under a tight payout.

“It is a stressful time for many clients, and many know they need to make some changes but that’s hard to do under pressure. I am working to help them reassess reset goals that are achievable over the coming years.”

Rob Macnab says Total Ag is well positioned to help dry stock farmers make the most of the industry’s opportunities after some lean years, while also bringing experience and understanding to help dairy farmers dealing with a stressful period.

To learn more visit www.total-ag.com

RURAL DRIVER

Page 35

Legendary venison hunting book is caption prize A Postman Pat red van letterbox and a Fonterra sign were the subject of the August Country Funnies image for which Sue Steven of Tauranga suggested the caption “Should have gone to Spec Savers”.

Sue has won The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for her entry. Caption this month’s country funny to be in to win the book “Hawkes”.

Cowboys ridding choppers instead of horses and using semi-automatic weapons instead of six guns are the stuff of legends in the history of New Zealand’s early venison recovery industry.

Fact they say is often stranger than fiction but it’s a bit of both which author Andrew Grant weaves into his classic book ‘Hawkes’, republished by Halcyon Press.

Originally released in 1998, it’s a book of mystery and intrigue, written by one of the country’s leading thriller writer – using a non de plume. The story itself is disguised as a work of fiction to protect those

involved. The hero is Gray, an enigmatic young man trying to leave his past and the horrors of the Vietnam War behind him, but gets caught up in another kind of war – the battle over venison recovery in the South Island. Gray’s skills, learned as a member of SAS, are in demand as a shooter on helicopters but the competition for deer numbers is fierce and pilots and shooters take increasingly dangerous risks with sometimes fatal consequences.

Thanks to Halcyon Press, Coast & Country has a copy of ‘Hawkes’ to give away. To be in to win, a copy of ‘Hawkes’ email captions for the photo (above right), along with your name and address, with Country Funnies as the subject, to: elaine@thesun.co.nz Or put these details on the back of an envelope and post to: Country Funnies, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than October 20.

Be in to win a copy of Andrew Grant’s “Hawks” by captioning this month’s Country Funnies image.

N NIE

S

C

FU

Y

O U NT R

Aptly saving time, money for farmers

A new workforce management and productivity app that allows farmers to track their workers’ location in real time using GPS has won support from Fonterra.

Called “Job Done” the concept mentored by Icehouse and founded

by Manawatu farmer Nigel Taylor was among seven ideas pitched to a judging panel made up of Fonterra farmers and staff at GridAKL, in Auckland’s innovation precinct.

The concept won the challenge and Fonterra is pushing on with a business relationship with the digital innovation start-up

company’s app which helps with compliance and replaces the need for paperwork such as timesheets.

Seven teams representing Icehouse, Spark Ventures and BBDO spent a month developing prototypes at their own cost with a view to securing future services with the co-operative to help farmers save time and money.

Each company worked alongside a Fonterra co-operative farmer who gave practical and honest feedback to guide and shape the ideas and concepts and Fonterra farmer Olin Greenan says the winning app had

great promise.

“Having more instant information and data available for my farm will definitely help me run a more efficient operation.

“Some of the really important things such as compliance, environmental and employment regulations take a lot of time to track and manage. Time is very precious for farmers,” he says.

Judge and Fonterra group director co-operative affairs Miles Hurrell welcomes the opportunity to bring more innovation to the farm.

Send your funny caption suggestions for this image and be in to win our book prize.

Page 36

EARTHWORKS

Machinery, vehicles are farm biosecurity risks Machinery used on other farms and visitors’ vehicles are among the biosecurity threats farmers face.

Beef + Lamb NZ and Deer Industry NZ have produced a booklet called ‘Drystock Biosecurity Guidelines – Seven intervention points for on-farm biosecurity’, which includes a section on the risks posed by vehicles entering farms.

Contamination can be readily brought onto and spread around your farm by visitors, their vehicles or via equipment that has been used on other farms or at saleyards.

Recommended practices include: • Keep the farm, yards and storage areas clean, tidy and free of vermin.

• Limit the unnecessary movement of people, pets and vehicles onto and around the property, especially the areas where animals are kept.

• Minimise the number of entry points and restrict uncontrolled access to the rest of the farm.

• Define and, where appropriate, signpost ‘permitted access areas’ for farm visitors (eg veterinarians, livestock agents, feed and fencing contractors, shearers) and delivery and pick-up vehicles (eg stock trucks). Notify these operators prior to entry.

• Where direct contact with animals has occurred, clean and disinfect yourself, vehicles and equipment.

• Encourage the use of protective clothing and personal cleanliness when visitors move onto your property.

Remember, young children are at particularly high risk of contracting serious gastrointestinal illnesses from contact with stock and animal faeces on-farm.

• Provide facilities (eg hoses, disinfectant, brushes etc.) in ‘permitted access areas’ for farm contractors and visitors to clean boots and equipment on arrival and before departure.

•Consider including a farm visitor register that records who has visited, purpose of the visit and where on the farm they visited.

• Ensure appropriate signage is available to inform visitors of your biosecurity requirements and what you want them to do on arrival.

• Do not share injecting and dosing / drenching equipment with other farms.

• Only share vehicles and equipment with other properties if you all agree to clean and/or disinfect them before and after use.

A full version of the booklet is available on the website at beeflambnz.com

Images of local pride in ‘paradise’ That Eastern Bay residents are proud of their region is obvious from the stunning photos by many locals, which feature in the book ‘Paradise: Eastern Bay of Plenty’.

cooperative spirit’ that is so often found across the Eastern Bay,” says Nikki.

“The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a stunning mix of endless beaches, sparkling rivers, lush native bush and lots of sunshine. Naturally it is a popular holiday destination for both New Zealanders and overseas It’s the first book to showcase tourists. Locals are also proud of the region since the 1950s and their region and are keen to show it is a collaborative effort by local to visitors.” author/illustrator Nikki Slade Andrea says when she was working Robinson, and artist Andrea in retail, she was often asked for Cooper, with the support of such a book.

Mann Print and Design.

“And there just hasn’t been one Locals had the opportunity available for as long as I can rememto be part of the production Coast & Country ber. Nikki and I got talking, and through a photo competihas two copies decided we were just going to make it tion run during the summer of ‘Paradise: happen, no matter what.” of 2014/15 which provided And that is just what they did, Eastern Bay of many of the images. through endless long hours to fit Plenty’ to give Local sponsors who helped around work and family. away. with funding include the “But we’ve done it, and it’s been so Whakatane District Council and OPAC as project worth the effort to see the end result and the looks partners, and gold sponsors Eastbay Dental, the on people’s faces when they look through the book,” Ohope Beach Community Board, Whakatane New says Nikki.

World and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

It’s been a change of direction for both authors.

“In a way, the entire project epitomises the ‘can-do, Andrea is more often found sculpting and painting – one of her recent works was a life-sized cow as part of the Morrinsville ‘Herd of Cows’ art installation.

She also had a four-week artist residency in Beijing, China, earlier this year.

Nikki is usually writing and illustrating for children, or illustrating commercially. Her latest title is ‘Muddle & Mo’ released earlier this year, and more titles are on their way over the coming 12 months.

‘Paradise: Eastern Bay of Plenty’ is now sale and is available at all good bookshops and a number of other retailers around the Eastern Bay of Plenty. It is also available from Mann Print and Design.

Thanks to Nikki and Andrea, Coast & Country has two copies of ‘Paradise: Eastern Bay of Plenty’ to give away.

To be in to win, email your name and address, with Paradise Eastern Bay as the subject, to: elaine@ thesun.co.nz Or put these details on the back of an envelope and post to: ‘Paradise: Eastern Bay of Plenty’ Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than October 27.

AUTUMN IS COMING FAST AND SO IS YOUR GRASS!

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Page 37

Tauranga company wins top dealer award Capital Tractors of Tauranga is the Hustler Dealer of the Year, after receiving the award at the Hustler conference in Auckland in August.

“It’s our first time at the yearly Hustler conference, so to get dealer of the year was a complete surprise, but we couldn’t be happier,” say Reg and Michelle Hedges, owners of Capital Tractors.

“Hustler is such a great brand for us, we have taken the time to do the training and they are a very supportive supplier.”

Tony Johnston, Sales Manager has made the majority of sales of the popular Zero Turn mower.

“Tony is so knowledgeable about these mowers that our customers feel comfortable that they are in great hands,” says Reg, who is also well versed in the attributes and operation of Hustler mowers.

Capital Tractors is the North Island largest commercial dealer of Hustler Zero Turn Mowers.

The company stocks residential and commercial models, suitable for mowing orchards, parks, and lifestyle blocks.

“These mowers truly epitomise the best of great innovation and design from a company that specialises in Zero Turn mowers only. They don’t do anything else,” says Michelle.

All models have heavy-duty fabricated steel frames, smooth and precise steering, an automatic park-brake system, a lower centre of gravity for safety and a simple design. Fewer parts mean fewer problems and the mowers are easier to service.

Reg and Tony believe the best way to make a decision on a Zero Turn mower Diesel Model shown

is to have a demonstration where you plan to use it. Give Capital Tractors a call today to book your demo.

“We are also very enthusiastic about developing our new website,” Michelle says. “We believe it’s important to invest in technology for the business to make it easier for new customers to find us and for all our existing customers to check out our current stock.

“We have had new staff photos done, and a drone here taking amazing shots of the business. It’s a very cool process,” says Reg. He and Michelle hope to have the new website up and running this month.

“Watch out for our website going live.”

Barkes Corner, Tauranga Ph: 07 543 0021

0800 4 TRACTORS www.capitaltractors.co.nz

AUTUMN IS COMING FAST AND SO IS YOUR GRASS! Capital Tractors has won the Hustler Dealer of the Year – pictured are Tony Johnston, Capital Tractor’s sales manager and company owner Reg Hedges .(Andrea Mahy Photography)

Stop & pop reduces risk of tractor fires Spring is in the air and a starlings thoughts turn to building nest, often under the bonnet of a tractor.

In last four years the insurance company FMG has received more than 170 claims for tractor fires caused by birds’ nests.

So in preparation for nesting season this spring, the company is again promoting its ‘Stop & Pop’ campaign to encourage farmers to lift the bonnet to check for nests, each and every time they use their tractor.

Starlings build nests in dry, sheltered spots, and under the hood of a tractor is the perfect place for them. Unfortunately, their nesting material is highly flammable, and causes many tractor fires around the country.

It only takes starlings 17 minutes to build a nest – a bit less than a lunchtime break for farmers.

Being vigilant by checking under the hood before starting the engine is important, but popping the hood at the start of the day isn't the only time to ‘Stop & Pop’.

FMG advised this should be done before starting the tractor throughout the day because starling nests are built any time of day.

So to prevent a tractor from going up in smoke, always stop to check under the hood, and keep a fire extinguisher on board.

It's not just nesting birds that can cause tractor fires. Rats chewing wiring have also been known to wreak havoc. Storing the tractor with the hood lifted will help to deter rodents from sheltering, and setting traps in sheds is also a good idea.

Vegetation build up around hot mechanical and engine components during spring and summer is nothing new – and neither is the risk of a fire if the build-up is large enough to turn into fuel. Remember to check for vegetation and debris regularly, removing any matter before driving off.

A fire extinguisher fitted in the cab can be used to prevent a small fire consuming the tractor, but if the fire is well alight, call 111 immediately.

Diesel Model shown

Barkes Corner, Tauranga Ph: 07 543 0021

0800 4 TRACTORS www.capitaltractors.co.nz

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Page 39

‘Adversity success’ award Tauranga company The founder of Walker Mowers, Bob Walker, presented Tauranga’s Action Equipment a special award when he visited the company’s Waihi Road showroom last month.

Bob gave an Outstanding Success in Adversity award to Richard Ive, the owner of Action Equipment in acknowledgement of the way in which the Action Equipment team relocated to the temporary Waihi Road premises following the devastating fire in Glasgow Street on Waitangi Day, and how they looked after all of their customers without any noticeable interruptions.

Plans are for the company to move back to the 15 Glasgow Street site before the New Year.

Bob was accompanied by his nephew Ryan Walker and together they make regular trips to New

Zealand from their base in Colorado, as the New Zealand market is second only to their USA sales.

More than 20 local Walker owners were invited to meet Bob and Ryan, and the Action Equipment team, (which include the experienced technicians and parts personnel as well the sales team) and enjoyed morning tea, and hearing the Walker ‘story’. All guests

were entered into the draw to win a $250 voucher against their next Walker service.

The premium Walker landowner or contractor mowers have been designed by the Walker family to

be manoeuvrable and versatile with their out-front true floating decks producing a beautiful finish, and the company is passionate about listening to the end users, so they are constantly making relevant improvements.

The very comprehensive range is available at Action Equipment’s Tauranga and Katikati stores, and free demonstra-

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Action Equipment have been Walker dealers for more than five years and provide a very professional and personal service to all the Bay of Plenty’s Walker community, from the private landowner, to the commercial users. Regular staff training programmes ensure their knowledge is second to none.

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The founder of Walker Mowers, Bob Walker (left), and Ryan Walker (far right) of Colorado, with Lucy and Richard Ive of Tauranga’s Action Equipment.

Preparation for accepting the inevitable There’s a race horse I know named “Milky Bar” who has never won a race in his life and his owner has had enough. "If you do not win this race today, you will have to pull a milk-wagon from tomorrow morning," his owner told Milky Bar just before his next big race.

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Page 40 FARMING THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

Farm a special place for generations to come The future for Mac Cawte didn’t look too bright when the three-year-old and his nineyear-old sister Barbara were placed in an orphanage after their parents died in the early 1930s.

Their guardians insisted brother and sister not be separated. Although two other siblings had gone to live with different relatives, the tough economic times of the 1930s Depression meant they were unable to take on four children.

Then when Mac was six, he and Barbara went to live – on trial with Bernard and Amy Cawte on their dairy farm at Pongakawa.

Apart from the occasional holiday, Mac spent the next 81 years on the farm as the adopted son of the Cawtes, changing his last name from MacCormick to Cawte, and taking the first name Mac. When Mac died two years ago, bringing in the cows for milking, he left behind a legacy of far more than the land he’d cared for all his life.

“Mac was the rock which kept the farm and the family together. He and his wife Maire are much loved by their children and grandchildren who hold their family values dear,” says Catherine Cawte, Mac’s daughter-in-law.

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Today Mac’s grandson James is 50/50 sharemilker on the property his family has farmed since 1904 when the Cawtes moved from Blenheim and bought a large block of land at Pongakawa.

Garrett Family

Maire Cawte (nee Mark) still lives in the house which was she and Mac’s home, while Barry and Catherine live in the homestead built by the Catherine and Barry Cawte are proud of the original owners, the Garfamily’s 111 years of farming at Pongakawa. rett family, in 1886.

In their kitchen hangs was extremely helpful with homework too. a framed, hand-drawn “They were so lucky to grow up having such a close survey map of the farms connection with their grandparents.” in the area, dated 1889, Mac’s mother and aunts, the Benner sisters, were with notations on the among the “first day” pupils at Pongakawa School in back which show the 1892, and Mac and his sister Barbara also attended, land sold for seven shilriding horses there each day. Later Mac and Maire’s lings and sixpence per five children, Barry, Sally, twins Ross and Graeme acre. and daughter Kim, were also pupils.

“This is a wonderful Barry says when his father arrived on the farm most old house with such a of the work was done by horses. “Dad loved horses homely feel about it. and although his father bought a tractor, Dad seldom Whenever alterations used it at first. have been made old “When I was a child we still had two old draught newspapers have been horses which were used to compact the silage pit found behind the scrim and give us very slow horse rides, as they were pretty and even the much passed doing bank book of the anything else.” original owner When he was dated 1886,” says a growing up, Catherine. much of the Catherine property was and Barry have over-grown between them with blackberry, five adult chilbarberry and big dren, Sara, Kate, old tree, giving James, Grace and Mac the excuse (little) Kate, all to do what he of who loved loved: cutting Mac Cawte driving the first tractor used spending time down trees and on the family farm at Pongakawa. with Mac on building fires. the farm and enjoy“Dad saw five cowsheds on the farm during his ing Maire’s afternoon time,” says Barry. These included an old walktea after school. Maire through shed which Mac milked cows in for many trained as a school years, until problems from a back injury necessitated teacher in the late 1940s something better. before marrying Mac, so “He built one of the first herringbone sheds in the southern hemisphere in 1954 and many locals thought it was a crazy idea,” says Barry, who also milked cows through the shed which was a 10 aside.

Radial change

“Visitors came from as far away as Australia to see it as it was such a radical change from the way cows were milked in the traditional walk-through sheds.”

In 1982 Barry built a new 16-aside herringbone shed that was later converted to a 34-aside.

In 2013 when James returned to the farm, a new 54 bale rotary dairy was built and it was Mac who had the honour of putting on the first cups at the first milking.

“Dad just loved the farm, working with animals and milking. By the time he was 60, I thought he should be taking it easy and tried to ban him from the shed at milking time but that made him thoroughly miserable so I had to give in after a couple of months.”

Catherine says Mac was still riding a two-wheel motorbike at 87 and was very active in the day to day running of the farm.

“It was only after he’d gone that we truly realised how much he did. It was hard to get him to take time out from farming.”

Conscious of the legacy Mac and his adopted parents have left, Barry, Catherine and family have worked through a succession plan to ensure the Cawte family’s links with the land continue.

That’s because, they say, “this is much more than a piece of farmland. To us it’s a very special place for our family and the generations to come”.

By Elaine Fisher

AVOCADO

Page 41

Effective and efficient treatment of phytophthora Further work has been done on Omnia’s established StemCap PC-1 product and application techniques in combating and treating phytophthora in avocado trees.

“Because prevention is better than cure, trees should be monitored closely and treated as soon as any yellowing or thinning of the canopy is observed,” says Dr Adrian Spiers of Omnia’s research and development team.

Treatment involves inserting StemCap PC-1 capsules, containing Fosetyl-Aluminium, into holes drilled into the base of the trunk, after which, capsule dissolution and subsequent release of PO3 ions to roots will take place over several months due to contact with sap in the wood/xylem, and at a rate of which is affected by the water content of wood/xylem tissues.

StemCap PC-1 dosage is: two (minimum) or three (maximum) capsules per metre of canopy diameter, and hole placement close to the

base is important.

“Research shows that full foliage trees require more active ingredient than similar sized, but less foliated trees, to produce equivalent responses.

“It has been established that accumulation and final concentration rates of phosphite levels in the roots is dependent upon application timing and the extent of tree infection. Applications should ideally be in August to September and December to March, but avoided after flowering, due to tender shoot growth,” says Adrian.

Research also shows active ingredient releases following insertion the PC-1 tablets gave a similar response to traditional syringe injection technology of phosphorous acid, however release by StemCap PC-1 is slower, peaking at 90 days as opposed to 45 days. PO3 levels of both methods exceeded 20 ppm after 50 through to 120 days.

“StemCap PC-1 treatment is convenient, cost effective and results in the active ingredient getting to target sites very effectively, and this Revolutionary capsule formulation capsule formulation dosage system overcomes mixing and labour-inten-Revolutionary Revolutionary capsule formulation sive handling in the orchard.”

SustainedSustained release ofrelease active of active

TopTop solutions solutions Top solutions for for Phytophthora Phytophthora for Phytophthora control control control

What’s What’s youryour preference? preference?

What’s your preference?

•

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ingredients ingredients to roots to roots Sustained release of active ingredients to roots labour more efficient*, labour efficient*, • 60% more • 60% costmore effective, cost quick effective, and quick easy and easy 60% labour efficient*, cost effective, quick and easy of materials of and materials and • No preparation • No preparation mixing of chemicals mixing of chemicals No preparation of materials and mixing of chemicals No maintenance No maintenance of injectionofequipment injection equipment

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Market leading MarketStemShot leading StemShot AV-1 withAV-1 Stemgun with Stemgun or syringe combinations orapplication syringe application combinations Market leading StemShot AV-1 with Stemgun or syringe application combinations Delivers treatment quickly andquickly assistsand with assists with • Delivers• treatment rapid movement rapid movement of active ingredient of active ingredient into the into the Delivers treatment quickly and assists with • root system root where system its needed where its needed rapid movement of active ingredient into the root system where its needed simpleand to use simple to use • Easy and • Easy Easy and simple to use • StemShotStemShot AV-1 is compatible AV-1 is compatible with with

•

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syringe treatments syringe treatments with StemShot AV-1 is compatible syringe treatments

No return visit to trees

* based on the time * based required on thetotime mix,required fill and retrieve to mix, syringes fill and retrieve syringes on the same size ontree. the same size tree. * based on the time required to mix, fill and retrieve syringes on the same size tree.

0800 774 6290800 774 629 0800 774 629 www.omnia.net.nz www.omnia.net.nz www.omnia.net.nz

N U T R I O L O G Y *T R I O L O G Y * N U *the science of growing*the science of growing N U

StemCap PC-1 is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, P8696. is registered to the ACVM Act 1997, P7450 StemCap PC-1 is registered pursuant to theNo. ACVM Act StemShot 1997, No. AV-1 P8696.

StemShot pursuant AV-1 is registered pursuant to theNo. ACVM Act 1997, No. P7450 StemCap PC-1 is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. P8696. StemShot AV-1 is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. P7450

Revital 30 Avocado Blend

Page 42

Compac opens new facility A company which grew from a backyard project to an international player, has opened a new facility at Papamoa.

Hamish Kennedy, who 30 years ago built a fruit sorting machine in his parents’ garage and went on to found the company known as Compac, says the fruit sorting technology business is now in 40 countries around the world.

The new facility has 32 staff, including 10 service technicians, who are focused on the kiwifruit and avocado industries and the facility replaces Compac’s previous premises in Te Puke, which it has rapidly outgrown.

“As our business continues to expand and develop globally, so has our thinking around how we can deliver the best possible products and services to our customers,” says Craig.

“The centre of excellence model brings us closer to the knowledge and experience of our customers and suppliers, so we can continue to provide the very best in innovative products and solutions for our local market.”

Hamish told the 100 guests at the Papamoa opening that he credits the kiwifruit industry for the “birth” of the company, as his interest began when his parents converted a dairy farm at Kerikeri to a kiwifruit orchard.

“However, I didn’t want to be an orchardist, but was more interested in engineering,” says Hamish who completed his university degree , built the first Compac fruit sorting machine and trialled it in his parent’s packhouse.

From those modest beginning and with a drive to provide the best technology and customer service possible, he built a company which today dominates fruit handling in New Zealand and is a major player internationally, with 90 percent of its business off-shore, including in China and the USA.

AVOCADO

Safety, productivity essential for avocado picking platform With dry matter readings climbing and some avocados now ready to harvest, most growers and contractors are gearing up for yet another busy season, says Jason Smith of Hydralada.

“Hydralada continues to be an integral part of the harvesting operation, and with many machines working in the Bay of Plenty.

A Hydralada is recognised as being the most productive way to pick fruit at high elevations.

“At the end of the day, it comes down to how many bins are picked in the hour. Due to the manoeuvrability of Hydralada, with its foot control leaving the operator hands free, Hydralada sets a hard score to beat.

“Driving becomes second nature to the operator, and the fixed boom design of the Hydralada means the machine can be driven into position knowing it is following directly behind.”

Unlike turntable-type machines, which the company also produces, where the slewing action of the boom has the tendency to disorientate the driver, the Hydralada fixed boom system is a far more direct, and precise action, and the machine becomes an extension of the operator making it significantly faster for picking fruit.

With many different models and options available, the Hydralada Maxi 640 equipped with tandem 4WD drive

is considered to be “the workhorse” on A Hydralada most orchards. is recognised as This machine being the most will operate on productive way rough, sloping to pick fruit at ground with high elevations. slopes of up to 20 degrees.

Of course, as with all machinery, it must be used within the guidelines of the manufacturer, and all new Hydralada Machines are delivered with a full set of operator’s manuals and each model is issued with a slope rating to safely work within.

Hydralada Company celebrated 40 years in business in July 2015, with its first machine which was produced and sold to an apple grower in Hawkes Bay in 1975, still operational today.

With a long history specialising in manufacturing self-propelled elevating work platforms for horticulture, Hydralada has accumulated a wealth of experience in many industries.

The company has made both safety and productivity, along with reliability its focus.

In the early days there were very little regulatory requirements, and, in fact, as a

company Hydralada was instrumental in putting together best practice documents for this type of equipment says Jason.

With a strong involvement on many relevant industry boards, Hydralada has worked hard to ensure it continues to produce a safe machine that is fit for purpose, as well as making certain the machine is productive in the field.

“We all agree, while safety is paramount, the machine must also perform to expectation and fulfil what it is designed to do – increase the productivity of the picker.

“With more pruning being carried out during the winter months increasing the hours a machine is being utilised, Hydralada machines are certainly a very worthwhile investment on today’s orchard.”

AVOCADO

Page 43

Airfreighting avocados to markets worthwhile JP Exports has been airfreighting avocados to Thailand, Malaysia and Korea since July with Thailand in particular taking good volumes by air and returns to growers to date have been good.

“The Australian markets are struggling to sell NZ avocados at the moment as there is still fruit from Mildura and Queensland available,” says JP Exports general manager Lesley Shield.

“There are only small volumes going to Australia by sea at the moment and this fruit is mainly from growers who want to pick for their own specific reasons.”

The JPX Team had a booth at Hong Kong Logistica from September 2 to 4. This is the company’s seventh year attending this exhibition.

“It has been growing over the years and this year the exhibition would have been the biggest to date. The booths were generally bigger than previous years also and attendance was good.

“We were part of the New Zea-

land stand which had a Maori theme to it this year. There were four of us from the JP Exports Team and we were all extremely busy for the three days of the exhibition.

“It was a great opportunity to catch up with many of our current customers and we came away from the show with a lot of potential new customers. We had lots of enquiries for our avocados from many countries including China, which unfortunately cannot legally import New Zealand avocados at this time.”

The New Zealand stand at Hong Kong Logistica had a Maori theme this year.

Demand for trees signals industry confidence JAPAN

PACIFIC ISLANDS

MALAYSIA

SINGAPORE MALAYSIA MALAYSIA JAPAN HONG KONG THAILAND PACIFIC ISLANDS PACIFIC ISLANDS TAIWAN AUSTRALIA SINGAPORE SINGAPORE HONG KONG HONG KONG THAILAND THAILAND TAIWAN TAIWAN AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA JAPAN

YOUR CROP WILL TRAVEL FAR AND WIDE YOUR CROP TRAVEL YOURWILL CROP WILL TRAVEL Stephen Wade of WIDE FAR AND FAR AND WIDE Lynwood Avocado

New Zealand’s specialist avocado nurseries are so run off their feet with orders, they’ve closed their books for this season and next and are now taking orders for delivery in 2017.

Nursery is planning to Driving this demand is new orchard produce 80,000 avocado developments in the Far North and trees next year.

Wellsford as well as extensive replanting programmes across all growing regions, orchard rennanissance including the Bay of Plenty. It’s in the Bay where the was a sign of confidence bulk of all fruit – almost two-thirds - is grown for in the industry and its both export and domestic markets.

MALAYSIA JAPAN export leadership.

AVOCO, the country’s largest export supply group, PACIFIC ISLANDS “With AVANZA, we’ve SINGAPORE is excited by what renewed orchard developments HONG KONG THAILAND focused our energy on mean for the industry long term.

TAIWAN AUSTRALIA developing key Asian Director Alistair Young says the replanting promarkets as well as lookgrammes and new orchards will help to boost New YOUR CROP WILL TRAVEL ing after Australia, which Zealand’s production over the next decade and help remains our biggest FAR AND WIDE meet global demand for the world’s latest super fruit. market for New Zealand “Right now, New Zealand’s export volume can’t CONTACT US avocados. Growers are keep up with the demand we’re seeing coming out of responding and now Asia and Australia. Consumers worldwide are making have the confidence to healthier food choices, particularly in Japan, Singareinvest in their orchards pore and Korea where consumers are very conscious for the future.” about their diet and wellbeing.

“Orchardists are recognising this as an opportunity to grow their businesses by replacing older, less productive trees with rootstock which, over time, will increase our national supply for export.”

Lynwood Avocado Nursery, west of Whangarei, is New Zealand’s largest provider of clonal rootstock.

Last year, it sold 20,000 young trees. This year it sold twice that and was forced to close its order book.

Such is the demand from growers, owner Stephen A new season is upon us and AVOCO is ready to export your fruit to the world.

Wade is planning to produce 80,000 avocado trees next year. His business, established in 1989 to The expertise of our people and planning, coupled with our commitment to the produce trees for his own orchard, has been forced industry and focus on the big picture, means you’re in safe hands. to rapidly expand and he now employs 14 staff as he works to double his nursery’s production.

Lynwood supplies its seedlings at around a year old, Be part of the AVOCO team and and the clonal rootstock between 12 and 18 months, and it’s the latter where the biggest demand is occurknow you’re on to a winner. ing, Stephen says.

“There’s been a lot of tree decline over the last decade or so and growers, especially those in the Bay of Plenty, are now opting to replace their trees with clonal rootstock.”

Clonal rootstock is considered more tolerant to phytophthora root rot which is the major limiting factor of production worldwide.

Riversun Nursery near Gisborne has also been inundated with orders from new orchard developers and growers wanting to replant. It has alreadysold www.avoco.co.nz out for the 2016 spring and is facing really strong demand for the following year.

AVOCO director John Carroll says the avocado

Experience the AVOCO advantage

CCQP0915

Some Bay of Plenty avocado orchards are having to wait up to two years to replace their trees with clonal rootstock as demand for new trees hits an all time high.

Page 44

HORTICULTURE

Fruit and veg have positive impact on behaviour Encouraging children to not only eat more fruit and vegetables, but to also grow some of their own, is paying dividends in New Zealand schools and homes.

harvest them. Bronwen says among the exciting results of the research into the Fruit in School Programme is the impact eating fresh fruit and vegetables is having on behaviour and learning.

“Many of the principals says FIS is making a valuable contribution to academic outcomes. Seventy-four per cent of principals whose schools New research shows the Fruit in are part of the programme say they Schools programme, managed by have seen increased concentraUnited Fresh, is having a positive tion in class as a result of Fruit in impact on children’s learning Schools, while 46 per cent report and behaviour, as well as fewer behaviour problems.” their nutrition. Although United Fresh manages the fruit and it’s called Fruit in Schools, vegetable provision for the government the programme includes funded Fruit in Schools programme fresh New Zealand vegetables nationwide. This programme provides as well. fruit and vegetables to 480 low-decile Students at 480 low-decile schools, 21 regions from the far North to primary and intermediate schools Southland, supplying 97,195 pieces of nationwide benefit from Bronwen Anderson and fruit and vegetables every day. the programme, with about Stephanie Wrathall.

Thanks to United Fresh and 20 million servings of fresh 5+ a Day, Coast & Country produce being distributed during the academic year. has an adults ‘Take the 5+ a Bronwen Anderson and Stephanie Wrathall of Day Challenge’ apron to give United Fresh New Zealand Incorporated and the 5+ away. To be in to win send A Day Charitable Trust say the results of the Fruit hi-res Jpeg images of you in School programme are far reaching and and your children eating exciting. or growing fruit and “As well as providing fruit to schools, we vegetables to elaine@ are also providing teaching resources to early thesun.co.nz or post childhood centres and primary schools,” says prints to Coast & Stephanie.

Country News, PO These resources are designed as fun and Box 240, Tauranga interesting fresh fruit and vegetable experi3110, to arrive no later ences. The resources also include vegetable Be in to win this than October 27. seeds and information on how to grow and 5 + A Day apron.

It is a great time to be an avocado grower I recently asked Nathan Guy, our Minister for Primary Industries, a question in the House during Question Time: “What recent reports have been received on growth in the avocado industry?”

It was a great opportunity to hear about the record breaking season they have had this year. Some 7.9 million trays were produced, up from 4.9 million trays in the previous year.

New Zealand is a world leader in the avocado

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industry and our growth was a topic of conversation at the World Avocado Congress in Peru.

Around 90,000 more Kiwi homes are buying avocados and record volumes are exported to priority Asian markets.

The average orchard gate returns are now almost $25,000 per hectare, up from $20,700 last year.

From the Government’s side, we’re supporting the growth of the avocado industry through our $8.5 million Avocados Go Global Primary Growth Partnership programme. This is about transforming our avocado industry into a globally competitive, high-value, sustainable export industry, alongside a growing domestic market.

It will help support the industry to triple productivity to 12 tonnes ha and quadruple the industry to $280 million by 2023. Also free-trade agreements, such as with Korea, are hugely positive for the avocado industry. It is a great time to be an avocado grower.

HORTICULTURE

Page 45

Vital to ensure foreign investment benefits NZ In a speech to businesses in Tauranga in September, the Minister for Economic Development, Simon Joyce, highlighted the importance of foreign investment in New Zealand so we can maintain our economic growth.

There has always been foreign investment in New Zealand but as the world’s investors move their focus from “mines to meals”, we will see increased investment in New Zealand-owned orchards, farms and the businesses that service primary industries.

In 2011, foreign investment totalled $92.4 billion and came mainly from Australia (more than 50 per cent of the investment) and the US. From 2005 to 2011, overseas interests invested in just over 13 million hectares of pastoral and dairy land and 145,456 hectares of horticultural land.

This was exceeded by arable land at 233,422 hectares and forestry at 5,848,317 hectares. The total area of land invested in by overseas interests for 2005 to 2011 was 19,451,398 hectares or 1.4 per cent of NZ’s total land area. At the same time, New Zealand invested $21.4 billion overseas.

Fortress NZ

There are two schools of thought here: fortress New Zealand that opposes overseas investment; versus the need for overseas investment if New Zealand is going to prosper. Overseas investment generates jobs, increases incomes, improves competition and consumer choice, improves productivity and assists in the spread of technology and innovation. New Zealand benefits from the tax take, not only of the direct investment, but also from all the associated economic activity. However, the profits are lost to New Zealand.

Those arguing against overseas investment say this leads to a loss of economic sovereignty. The counter argument to this is that all overseas-owned and controlled companies must comply with New Zealand legislation and regulations in the same way that domestic companies must comply.

To help protect New Zealand from overseas investment, the Government established the Overseas Investment Office in 2005, replacing the Overseas Investment Commission. Under the OIO rules, an overseas person, company, partnership, joint venture or a trust, and those New Zealand people and entities associated with overseas investors, require OIO consent when investing in New Zealand. An overseas person is defined as neither a New Zealand citizen, nor ordinarily resident in New Zealand.

Sensitive land

The OIO’s mandate is to ensure that New Zealand’s highly productive land and businesses are not sold off to overseas investors without some controls. Overseas investors need consent of the OIO if they want to buy: • What is termed sensitive land, including nonurban land greater than five hectares in total (this includes buying shares in a company that owns sensitive land) ; or • Business assets worth more than $100 million; or • A fishing quote or an interest in a fishing quota.

If the land being purchased by the overseas investors includes non-urban land that exceeds five hectares (either alone or with associated land), the OIO must determine that the benefit will, or is likely to be, “substantial and identifiable”.

In coming to this decision the OIO takes into

account the following factors: • Are there new job opportunities for New Zealanders and are existing jobs retained?

• Are new technologies and business skills being introduced?

• Will New Zealand’s export income be increased?

• Will there be added market competition, greater efficiency or productivity or enhanced domestic services in New Zealand?

• What is the plan for additional investment – this is a mandatory requirement?

• Is value being added to New Zealand’s primary products in New Zealand?

• Are significant indigenous vegetation, habitats and fauna protected?

• Is our historic heritage protected?

• Is walking access provided?

• Is Government policy, trade and

COSIO COSIO INDUSTRIES

international relations supported?

The OIO has the ability to impose conditions on purchases to ensure the above factors become requirements for the OIO’s recommendation to the approving Ministers.

Through the OIO, the Government has tried to set a balance allowing foreign investment where it benefits New Zealand.

No matter what your view is, foreign investment will increase. We need to be certain the protections provided by the OIO are sufficient and that foreign investment will benefit New Zealanders.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author.

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Page 46

KIWIFRUIT

Italy emerging threat to NZ kiwifruit industry Rapid increases in volumes of Italian gold kiwifruit and the development of large areas of new orchards, could see Italy become a significant threat to New Zealand’s kiwifruit industry, warns Nathan Balasingham of Indigo Ltd who recently visited Italy.

for Soils

“Huge expansion of new orchards is underway in Italy. Production on existing orchards is increasing after the impacts of Psa-V marketing alliances are being formed with Chilean and South African growers. I think this is something New Zealand growers should be aware of.”

Not only is Italy closer to markets than New Zealand, but the costs of growing kiwifruit there are significantly less than in this country he says.

“Land in the main growing region of Latina is virtually flat so establishing new orchards is easy. I saw workers and machines pushing in concrete poles for orchard structures, including hail protection and completing many hectares a day. There are new plantings going in like crazy.

“Because there is little or no wind, orchards don’t need shelter or tying down of canes. In summer the aim is to keep the canopy quite dense to protect fruit from sun burn so there is hardly any pruning or grass under the vines to mow.

“Due to their weather conditions there are few pest or disease problems and therefore very little if any pesticides are used. Casual labour is also cheap. The

lciZest

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My Name is Neil Woodward.

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org.nz

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

mprovement

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

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

My Name is Neil Woodward.

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

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

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

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

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

We hold all certificates needed to meet Globalgap compliance.

We look at all challenges to help ensure we protect your crop with excellence.

Agrizest

Workers are completing several hectares a day of support structures for new kiwifruit vines in Italy.

Italians are clever at inventing farm machinery, their operations are so efficient.”

and taste as New Zealand growers says Nathan.

“New Zealand will remain competitive provided we continue improving the quality and productivity. We will need to spend even more on research and development.”

However, increasing volumes of all varieties has seen Italian post-harvest and export companies delaying making commitments to take growers’ fruit and Nathan believes this may mean lower returns for Italian orchardists.

“The beauty of what we have in New Zealand with Zespri’s single desk structure means growers don’t face that sort of problem and are able to manage their business effectively.”

Trial orchards

Nathan went to Italy to assess trails of Indigo products Agrizest and Biozest on Hayward, Hongyang, G3, Soreli and Nathan says the gold variety Soreli is producing very high yields of good sized Top Gold (Y356) orchards.

“Latina was the area hardest hit by Psa fruit and it appears growers of all varieOur Atoms are set up with radar speed sensors, this and for the last four years I have been ties have over-come issues with Psa-V. combined with fully automated sprayer controllers and following progress on orchards using Zespri SunGold (G3) which is grown three nozzle rings enhances application efficiency and Agrizest. One orchard had Psa in 80 per under contract to Zespri, is performaccuracy. cent of vines with exudates but there is ing well and growers are subjected to Wethe alsosame use ahigh quad bike for strip weed spray no sign of it this year.” 216 Pongakawa Bush Road standards of fruit quality applications.

Te Puke

Soreli fruit

Growers warned to check for Psa

We hold all certificates needed to meet Globalgap compliance.

To contact us: the Psa management practices which Spring has arrived, the buds are Webursting look at all challenges to help ensure we protect should be used.Phone: 021 907 621 and kiwifruit orchards are yourcoming crop with excellence.

Piers says;E-mail: “Hume Pack-N-Cool will back to life. Time for growers to zcl@zanadu.co.nz be extending its harvesting of be vigilant in their monitoring male flowers this spring to for any signs of the ensure it has a supply of disease Psa-V, says pollen for its growers Hume Pack-N-Cool for this year and General Manger beyond as Psa-V Operations, Piers has the potential Zajac-Wiggett.

216 Pongakawa Bush Road to have “We have had a Te Puke a devastating cold wet winter, effect on and there is an To contact us: pollination. expectation that Any growers Psa-V could 021 be 907 621 Phone: wishing to harvest more prevalent E-mail: zcl@zanadu.co.nz their male flowers this spring. As the prior to pollination sap begins to rise so should make contact does the expression of with us.

Psa-V symptoms.

“As the new season “In cold low lying Hume Pack-N-Cool will be starts we reflect on areas of orchards we extending its harvesting of male the season past. It was are seeing cankers flowers this spring. incredible. Orchard and tip dieback. productions levels far exceeded previous Best advice to growers is to remove years and the good news is that all the this if practical, and keep up with your gold variety has been shipped. We are protective spray programme and ensure continuing to condition check and good hygiene protocols are kept in repack the large volumes of green, and place.” this is expected to last until the last Hume Pack-N-Cool has a Psa shipment which is around the end of monitoring service available for its November.” growers and the staff able to advise on

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WE ARE GROWER OWNED, LOCALLY RUN, AND WE ARE HERE FOR YOU! At Hume Pack-N-Cool Ltd we are committed to maximising our growers’ returns.

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Committed to Grower Returns

KIWIFRUIT

Page 47

No re-entry interval required for bird repellent The bird repellent Avex, that works through gut reaction and colour recognition by the birds to the treated areas, and proved to be an effective tool for kiwifruit growers last growing season, has one attribute in particular that is popular with users, says Pieter van der Westhuizen from Etec Crop Solutions.

“The low toxicity of Avex means a re-entry interval is not required, which is a major benefit over competitor products. The active ingredient, polycyclic quinone is found in many plant tissues including perennial ryegrass, grapes and aloe vera.”

Avex has US EPA approval as having no adverse effects on humans, plants, pets or the environment.

Avex works by irritation of the bird’s sense of taste and smell. It does this without causing any harm to the bird. The effectiveness of Avex is proven with birds exposed to Avex rapidly developing a conditioned response to avoid treated crops. The visual deterrent is a colour in the ultraviolet section of the

bird’s sight spectrum.

Avex has proven to be particularly effective against sparrows, blackbirds, starlings, pigeons and other species.

When used at label rates with a rain-fast adjuvant such as Bond Xtra or Du-Wett WeatherMAX, Avex is proven to resist rain wash-off and provide up to two weeks of deterring birds which helps protect newlyemerging buds. Birds may be observed re-entering the area but will usually move on again to find another feed source.

As new growth after an application of Avex is not protected it is important to re-apply 10 to 14 days later if bird pressure continues. Monitoring areas that generally have high bird pressure such as rows nearest to shelterbelts will often provide a good guide if a follow up application is required.

Avex can be used on fruit, vegetable and arable crops but not within six weeks of harvest on food crops. Do not use on export wine grapes or on edible parts of any crop that is to be exported or processed for export. It can also be used in non-crop situations such as parks, sports grounds and buildings.

Rex is back and better than ever Landini’s titan of horticulture returns to the kiwifruit industry stronger, smoother and better specified than ever.

“After an absence of over 10 years many current and past Landini tractor owners have had to bide their time waiting to update to Landini’s latest offering and for the lucky few the waiting is over,” says Shaun Hurst, sales manager for Bay of Plenty Tractors.

The first shipment to arrive was the all-new Rex DT90GE powered by the legendary Perkins 4cyl 4.4 litre engine, Shaun says it outclasses its three cylinder competition with superior low end torque and by realizing peak horsepower at lower RPM. “Ask any V8 fan there is no substitute for cubic capacity. The wealth of power is transmitted via Landini’s robust 15 x 15 synchro shuttle or silky smooth 30x30 power shuttle option.

“The new Rex is more than raw power and smooth drivetrain there is finesse in the significant remodelling of the operator platform that will increase ease of operation

and dramatically reduce operator fatigue. Ergonomic control layout and enhanced driver positioning will make long or repetitive tasks less tedious.”

The new kiwifruit Rex is available in two options, either on the original factory fitted guards or on the heavy steel rolled guards, the choice is yours.

New Rex has more; more power, more spec and more comfort than ever and that’s why the initial shipment has sold out.

“If you would like to take the quantum leap forward to a new Rex, Bay of Plenty tractors is offering special pricing and terms on their next order.

“Get your Rex at special pricing saving $1000s off list price, but this is for a limited number of units so be quick.”

The all-new Rex DT90GE is powered by the Perkins 4cyl 4.4 litre engine.

for Soils

MAIZE

Page 48

Keeping the real ‘bank’ - the cows – well fed We know that for every action there is a reaction – sometimes positive – sometimes negative.

I’m concerned that the reaction of some farmers to the low dairy pay-out (which has lifted slightly) may have a serious negative impact on their farming business and incomes in both the short and long term.

I understand farmers have to make cut backs and question every aspect of their spending but those

which involve feeding their cows are among the most crucial because in effect cows are their “bank” – the true source of their income.

Judging by what I’m hearing from farmers and by our own orders for maize silage, many farmers are making drastic cuts to the provision of supplements, hoping that fewer cows and good grass growth will get them through.

However, that’s a big gamble to take, especially as the weather gurus and now Fonterra itself, are predicting a summer drought.

We’ve had quite a hard winter and in the past

lciZest

3 809

or go to

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that’s often been followed by a kind spring but there’s no guarantee we’ll get a good one this time.

In fact it’s looking like a cold but wet spring then turning dry with not a lot of silage able to be made to get stock through summer, should it be dry as predicted.

Some silage

It would appear wise for farmers to order in some maize silage, even if it’s half or a third of normal, just to ensure they have something to fall back on. Declining orders mean we and other contractors and growers won’t be growing as much maize as usual so supplies will be tight.

Areas like the Hawkes Bay where we traditionally get extra supplements, appear to be affected already with low rainfall so there’s unlikely to be much surplus feed there.

Sheep and beef farmers who usually grow maize for extra income may instead decide to grow more grass to feed their beef cattle because returns are good at present.

Drystock farmers who have had their dairy grazier numbers reduced will also be looking to increase their own stock numbers which could mean when dairy farmers want to use their services in future, they may have changed farming systems and might not be able to accommodate them.

In the past 10 to 15 years dairy farmers have increased production by growing better pasture species and improved cow genetics but retaining feed quality

is vital. DairyNZ encourages farmers to make the most of pasture by managing their grazing well but if stocking rates drop to the point where cows can’t keep up with it, and are leaving residuals of above 15001600, feed quality drops.

Feed quality

Young stock could be used to control the extra grass but farmers won’t get an immediate income from them.

Cows which aren’t well fed won’t be in good condition for mating which can affect conception rates.

Strategies have to be carefully thought through because once you take something out of the equation, such as reducing stock numbers, it has a flow-on effect which may not be what’s desired.

Palm kernel prices may have dropped currently but because of demand, you can’t always get it when you want it – I understand there’s a seven day deliv-

ery time at the moment on trucks.

We have pulled back our maize silage prices in order to help farmers and to share some of their pain so many of our regular customers are still placing orders.

I’ve heard of several banks supporting their farmers to continue buying in feed, in recognition of the importance of keeping cows milking and due to confidence that the pay-out will improve.

Forage Crops

To reduce reliance on grass only, now is the time to get forage crops like chicory, turnips and Lucerne in, while there’s still some moisture around to get them established. These crops can be break-fed and will help get herds through the summer.

We are currently making silage off our lease blocks and are delivering in-bulk and bales to our clients. Last year we averaged 11.95ME (megajules of energy) for our bales we sampled, so you can rely on it being top quality and you know exactly what you are getting for your money.

You can be rest assured that the cows and animals will do well on it too. Check out DairyNZ Feed Calculator for the comparing and costing of bought-in feed. If you put in 11.95ME instead of their recommended industry average of 10.5, this will make a huge difference as to what you can afford to pay for top quality feed like our silage.

In tight times such as this it is advisable to be prudent with what is needed to be spent, not just reduce spending.

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MAIZE

Independent maize hybrid results released New Zealand’s first maize hybrid performance trials have been completed, and the analysed results for the 2014-15 pilot season are out now.

In June of this year, the Maize Technical Committee of New Zealand Plant Breeders Association met to review the first season of trials, and in the early stages were able to see some difference between maize hybrids.

The final results will provide growers with similar information to that The results booklet, which has been of the well-established formatted along the same cereals performance lines as the trials. The project’s aim Foundation for is to deliver objective Arable Research’s measurement of the well-known cereal agronomic and quality performance trails performance of combooklet, presents mercial maize hybrids the results taken available to the New from the three Zealand arable indusspecially designed try. trial sites established Additional New in spring of 2014.

Zealand maize grain These were in Waiand silage growkato, Bay of Plenty ing regions will be and Canterbury. brought into the MPT Project Manscheme as experiager Allister Holmes ence is gained says FAR maize with the trialling growers have been procedures. requesting an indeThe MPT propendent maize hybrid The results of hybrid maize gramme has been testing scheme for a performance trials are outlined carried out with number of years, with in this booklet from FAR. support from PGG the aim of obtaining Wrightson, the New objective research results Zealand Plant Breeding and Research rather than marketing information.

Association and Pacific Seeds and analy“We can see that the results of these ses of the trial results have been carried trials will provide growers with valuable out by an independent statistician. insight into the various maize hybrids MPT trials are to be planted again and how to maximise industry efficiency in spring 2015, and will include and profitability. The development of hybrids from Corson Maize Seed the trials are a constructive investment and Pacific Seed. for the industry collectively. "

Page 49

New maize herbicide also controls cutworm Growing maize just got easier with the launch of Cutter – the new combination herbicide and insecticide from Orion AgriScience.

Cutter is applied with atrazine as the normal preemergent herbicide mixture. Cutter controls weeds as well as providing the extra benefit of cutworm control over the critical period of crop emergence.

Cutter is a contact insecticide whose action complements the insect control from insecticide treated seed. Because Cutter is sprayed over the soil surface it knocks down the cutworm that are present just before the maize emerges.

This is important because insecticide seed treatments work predominantly through systemic

activity where the insecticide is taken up inside the maize seedling. This means the insect has to start feeding on the maize plant to ingest the insecticide.

By knocking down the cutworm population just prior to emergence Cutter works in combination with the seed treatment insecticide to prevent damage to the maize crop over the critical emergence period.

By applying the pre-emergence mixture of 3L/ ha Cutter plus 3L/ha Atraflow it is now possible to control weeds and proactively manage cutworm problems.

Furthermore time and money is saved because Cutter costs about the same as the leading acetochlor herbicide brands and it reduces the need for additional insecticide applications.

CUTDOWN WEEDS CUTDOWN CUTWORM CUTDOWN TIME CUTDOWN COSTS Cutter™ controls weeds and cutworm in one hit. Apply Cutter with Atraflow™ (atrazine) as your normal pre-emergent herbicide mixture. Cutter will control weeds and protect your emerging crop against cutworm attack. It works perfectly in combination with insecticide seed treatments because it’s contact activity cuts down cutworm before crop damage occurs.

Cutter saves time and money. By combining the herbicide and insecticide there is less chance of incurring the extra time and cost of a follow up insecticide treatment.

Main advantages of using Cutter.

• Controls cutworm across the entire field – even between the rows • Attacks cutworm before it ruins your crop • Less cost compared to separate herbicide and insecticide applications • Perfect complement to insecticide seed treatment

www.orionagriscience.co.nz

For more information contact Orion AgriScience Ltd. Freephone: 0800 674 6627 ™CUTTER and ATRALOW are Trade Marks of Orion AgriScience Ltd. Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. P8850 and P7775. Approved pursuant to the HSNO Act 1996 No. HSR100858 and HSR000534.

See www.foodsafety.govt.nz for registration conditions. See www.epa.govt.nz for approval conditions.

MAIZE

Page 50

The times they are a changin’ If you look at the economic clock, it is about 11 o’clock. Property prices have risen, the market has been buoyant and interest rates are declining.

The New Zealand dollar is falling, making our exports more attractive to other countries. Conversely imports will be more expensive.

A chat with a sales person in a department store recently revealed that once the present floor stock is sold the prices of laptops and other electronic equipment will rise by 25 per cent. So you had better be in quick.

China has forced its dollar down, why? To make it more competitive in the market to sell more “stuff ”. Share markets have been rising unabated for some years now and there are a few wobbles with some downside risk, particularly in China.

Baby boomers

Demand for shares has also been strong as the baby boomers invest in stocks and shares for their retirement income. If shares start to fall away there could be a lot of money shifted away from shares and into property.

Most of the western countries have printed so much money to bolster their economy it would make a Kiwi’s “eyes water”. It is

called quantitative easing in the economic term and can cause rapid inflation.

The commodity boom is also over. Bauxite, iron ore, coal and other commodities are no longer in demand. Given that much of the wealth in Australia was created by taxing these exports to China and elsewhere the country is now seriously in the doldrums with little income.

Dodgy investments

Dairy has also tanked, (excuse the pun). How we did not see that coming is beyond me!

Fonterra employs all these multifaceted people on multi-dollar incomes as professionals and they were silent.

In fact during the boom payout Fonterra were busy spending suppliers’ money on dodgy investments like San Lu and Beingmate not to mention new offices in Auckland, and dairy farms in China. They are now cash strapped and feeling the pinch. So Fonterra won’t be spending much into the economy either.

Dairy farmers with high debt will see most of their income being retained by the banks so they will not be spending much. Many have not had a dairy cheque for three months.

The Reserve Bank has chopped interest rates further to “stimulate the economy” as they appear concerned at the slow-down.

The Reserve Bank has even mentioned the word “recession”!

The change in LVR (or deposit rates) in the Auckland house market will also have an impact. Thank goodness all purchasers must have an IRD number.

Refugee crisis

Finally, the refugee crisis, which is the worst since the Second World War, is making people a little nervous and will cause further slowing.

In summary, everything is pointing towards a slowing-down of the economy. I am not saying it will “tank” but it is definitely going to be quieter and all the indicators are that we will see more uncertain times. This will not necessarily be reflected in the real estate market.

My recommendation is that you make measured decisions and try to minimise risk in your business. Find, and take good advice and get yourself a realistic view on the world.

In the words of that ‘famous philosopher’ Bob Dylan ...

“As the present now Will later be past Your old road is Rapidly fadin’.

And the first one now Will later be last For the times they are a changin’ ...”

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.

Don’t feed HT swedes in spring – farmers told Farmers are being advised to avoid feeding pregnant and lactating cows on swedes grown from herbicide tolerant seeds following the deaths of hundreds of cows in Southland last spring.

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DairyNZ is also advising caution if farmers are considering other leafy varieties. The industry body says that feeding maturing swede crops increases the risk of ill-health in cows. This follows results from analysis of Southland swede plants collected last season.

Autopsies undertaken by Southland veterinarians at the time showed in some cases, severe liver damage and occasionally kidney damage, associated with the deaths.

Significantly elevated liver enzymes and compromised kidney function was also revealed by blood testing of some affected animals, including all ages and classes of stock.

Last September DairyNZ arranged for swede sample analysis from 11 Southland farms following issues with cows becoming ill and some dying after feeding on swedes.

Staff collected swede samples, dissected plants and froze the samples in liquid nitrogen to stop any spoiling of the plant material and break down of the glucosinolates (known as GSLs), the naturally occurring compounds in brassicas that have been linked to cow health problems.

Swedes were dissected into up to six plant parts so that each section could be analysed separately.

Up to 150 plant parts were analysed from three swede varieties across the 11 different farms.

DairyNZ Southland-South Otago regional leader, Richard Kyte, says the new plant data supports the current DairyNZ advice that farmers should be very cautious when feeding swedes.

“This analysis confirms that feeding maturing swede crops increases the risk of ill-health. We’re continuing to advise farmers to focus on managing a number of factors involved in feeding swedes this season, including the proportion of swede that makes up the diet of their cows.

“And these new plant results back up our earlier farmer survey findings that feeding swedes on the milking platform (farm) in spring when cows are approach calving and early lactation increases the risk of ill-health.”

MAIZE

Page 51

Banks supporting dairy farmers Banks are providing much-needed support to New Zealand’s dairy industry during this period of desperately low prices, a survey from Federated Farmers has revealed.

Only 6.6 per cent of dairy farmers say they have come under undue pressure from banks over their mortgage. Just 5.7 per cent are dissatisfied with banks over their mortgages and as little as 3.1 per cent are unhappy about the quality of communication from banks over the past three months.

Across all farming industries the level of dissatisfaction over mortgages is even less (5.2 per cent), with 5.5 per cent saying they have come under undue pressure in this area and 3.5 per cent unhappy with how banks are communicating with them.

The survey was conducted the week following Fonterra’s announcement on August 7 of a forecast payout to farmers of $3.85 per kilogram of milk solids, and Federated Farmers President Dr William Rolleston says the organisation took the step because it was vital the industry knew exactly what level of support it was receiving. The forecast has since gone up.

“The support of banks is absolutely critical in these market conditions. They have the ability to make a significant difference to farmers, the industry and the economy if they work constructively and take a long-term view.

“The high levels of satisfaction our survey has identified are extremely encouraging for the dairy industry, but at the same time it’s concerning that some farmers are coming under pressure from banks. We are following this up and continue to urge banks to stand by the industry. A repeat of this survey in November will tell us whether they have.”

The Federated Farmers survey also found that 25 per cent of dairy farmers do not have a detailed budget for the current season. This compares with 33 per cent of all farmers.

“More than 10 per cent do not have a mortgage and many more have very low levels of debt so this is not entirely surprising, however we remind farmers that, particularly in difficult market conditions, it is important to review your budgets and obtain expert advice from your bank, accountant and farm advisor.”

New Zealand Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Kirk Hope says it is helpful to have the survey by Federated Farmers confirm that banks are working closely with dairy farmers to help them manage through tough times.

“There’s a range of measures available across the banking sector, and banks will continue to provide assistance according to the particular circumstances involved.

“Two-way communication in times of financial stress is essential, and the survey overwhelmingly shows that’s happen-

Searching for agritech superstars their home locality. This initiative is Business talent scouts are in the Bay about finding the next global stars, and of Plenty looking for a startup with boosting regional economies at the same the potential to be New Zealand’s next time,” he says. global agritech superstar.

Sprout is being supported and funded Sprout, a national agritech business by a mix of public and private sector accelerator, is searching the country leaders in agritech and startup investfor eight budding entrepreneurs with ment, including Callaghan Innovation, embryonic agritech businesses for a new Massey University, Gallagher Group, development programme.

Livestock Improvement Corporation, The chosen eight will receive a cash NZTE, Sir Stephen Tindall’s K1W1 injection of $20,000 and be placed in a fund, Enterprise Angels and Manawatu 20-week part time and remotely delivInvestment Group. ered programme that The Sprout accelwill see them flown erator programme around the country was designed by for mentoring from BCC, a Palmerston world-class business North-based business and technical experts. incubator. Over the The programme last two years BCC will culminate in an has helped establish opportunity to pitch four globally focused for investment to a agritech startups, Biohandpicked group of Lumic, CalfSMART, potential investors, The search is on for embryonic CropX and Polybatics, business leaders and agritech businesses needing a which have raised in industry experts. cash injection. excess of $15 million in Sprout Programme growth capital from New Zealand and Manager James Bell-Booth says Sprout overseas investors. wants to grow businesses in their home“Our focus is on helping entrepreneurs towns. grow their startups from great ideas into “We’re looking for new businesses investment-ready early stage compafrom around New Zealand that have nies.” big ideas but would benefit from the To apply, see sproutagritech.com. network, expertise and funding to grow Entries are open until October 16, globally. Those engaging in the pro2015. gramme have no need to move from

ing on the ground. This helps farmers facing challenges to act early and have a plan and a budget in place, which is what’s needed to get through.”

The Federated Farmers Banking Survey was completed by 1300 farmers around New Zealand (over half of them in the dairy industry).

Page 52

RETIREMENT

Rural retirement at Putaruru offers something for all Rangiura Retirement Village, is set in the friendly rural town of Putaruru, within easy driving distance of Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua and Taupo and is an area which really does have something for everyone.

The purpose-built retirement village complex features 85 thoughtfully designed homes, which offer increased privacy, added safety and a real sense of space – both inside and out, says Ellie Davies, the village’s general manager.

“There is so much on offer with villa prices ranging from $189,000 to $259,000. Why worry about mowing that lawn, maintaining the exterior of your home or noisy

neighbours? Come and check us out and you can see for yourself what being retired can really mean.

“Don’t delay – call today for an information pack or to arrange for a private viewing of our wonderful homes and make that first step towards worry free retirement,” says Ellie.

Ellie, along with Nicole Tidmarsh and the team at Rangiura Retirement Village, understand that people longing for the freedom a retirement village can give can be unsure of what to expect from a change of lifestyle.

“We can put your mind at ease and help you to start that new journey.”

Much to be learnt from great gardens Artists who ‘painted’ with gardens – inveterate collectors, eccentrics, experimenters, presidents, billionaires and monarchs who found gardens and gardening the finest way to express their creativity or status – are among the 40 great gardeners featured in the book ‘Lessons from Great Gardeners’ by Matthew Biggs, published by Exisle.

Gardening is a universal interest too and this book has gardeners from Japan, China, France, the United States, United Kingdom, Africa, South America, Italy, South Korea, the Netherlands, Australia and Bev McConnell of New Zealand.

Bev has gardened at Ayrlies for 50 years and believes, “If you don’t like a plant, Be in to win Lessons get rid of it, you won’t like it any better from Great Gardeners next year”.

Bev has received the Veitch Memorial with Coast & Country.

Medal, the first New Zealand woman to do so, and her garden has been designated a Garden of International Significance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Many of the gardeners featured in the book are long gone – some lived centuries ago, others are still gardening today but all have something to teach modern day gardeners.

Thanks to publishers Exisle Publishing, Coast & Country has a copy of ‘Lessons from Great Gardeners’ to give away. To be in to win, email your name and address, with Book Prize as the subject, to: elaine@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 October 27.

RETIREMENT

Page 53

Residents value place of friendship, fun and security

A community of people where friendships are forged and there activities to be enjoyed is how residents describe Richmond Villas Lifestyle Village at Thames.

“A place to live, love and laugh in your golden years, offering security and support. I love it,” says one long-time resident.

“What we most enjoy is that Richmond Villas is a family owned and operated lifestyle village, with no big corporate overloads,” says another resident.

Richmond Villas is adjacent to shops, amenities and healthcare facilities, providing safety, security and a friendly village atmosphere. Resident s enjoy the privacy of their own individually designed villa, with no worries about gardening and maintenance.

Various villa designs are available, and they are north facing for maximum sun. The village has 24-hour security camera surveillance and 24-hour medical alarms.

The villas are two bedroom, ranging from 100 square metres to 166 square metres or two bedroom plus den, ranging from 124 square metres to 140 square metres.

Some villas have an extra toilet and designs have been amended to suit individual requirements. All the homes are brick and tile with aluminium joinery.

There are well-designed kitchens with large pantries with automatic light and power points inside. Modern oven, cooktop and rangehoods are included,

as well as a waste disposal unit and a single dish drawer. Generous provision has been made for storage with sizeable cupboards and drawers.

Ensuites feature heated towel rail, toilet, vanity and mirror with two wall lights. The master bedroom is spacious and has both TV and telephone jacks.

Good quality carpets and blinds are supplied, with slim-line venetian blinds in the kitchen and garage window areas.

Garages contain a supertub with space for washing machine and dryer. All garages come with automatic garage door openers and carpeted floors. Outside clothesline and private patio area provided.

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COAST & COUNTRY

Page 54

trades & services cars wanted

Tauranga

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To list your rural event please email: julie@thesun.co.nz with Rural Event in the subject heading.

Monday 5 October Rural Professionals Meeting

$1000 CASH per week

0800 382 828

Rotorua - BNZ Partners Business Centre.

Level 1. 1202 Amohau St. Rotorua. 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm. Contact: Wilma Foster phone: 021 246 2147.

Tuesday 6 October

DairyNZ Kaharoa/Mamaku Farm Assessment group.

An open forum that utilises the experiences of all members within the group - 11am - 1:30 pm.

Contact Kevin McKinley 027 288 8238.

Wednesday 7 October DairyNZ Whakatane Plains Farm Systems group.

An open forum that utilises the experiences of all members within the group. 10:30 am - 1pm . Contact Julian Reti-Kaukau phone: 027 593 4123.

Thursday 8 October

DairyNZ Waimana/Opotiki Farm Systems group.

trades & services

An open forum that utilises the experiences of all members within the group. 10:30 am 1pm. Contact Julian Reti-Kaukau phone: 027 593 4123.

Friday 9 October Whakatane A&P Show

Oct 9, 3pm start & Oct 10, 9pm finish at Rex Morpeth Park, Whakatane. Bringing the best of local livestock, produce, competitions, exhibi-

tions & entertainment. Cost: Entry by donation. Registration forms can be collected & returned at the Whakatane Visitor Centre (i-Site).

Saturday 10 October Business & Professional Women (BPW) Franklin

Leadership Forum Oct 10 & 11. An opportunity to advocate, promote, influence, build your club, collaborate & lots more. Contact Jill Lawson ph/txt 027 383 6789 email: bpwnz.pa@bpwnz.org.nz

Wednesday 28 October

Business & Professional Women (BPW) Franklin

Dinner at Portobello, Pukekohe 6.30pm.

Mothers & daughters evening. Speaker: Ally Allard – “Dress for Success.” RSVP Noelene 09 238 1140 txt 021 148 0859 email: johnsuns@xtra.co.nz

Thursday 29 October Kiwifruit Innovation Symposium

and Hayward Medal Dinner, ASB Arena Mount Manganui. Details at www.zesprievents.co.nz

Saturday 31 October Business & Professional Women (BPW) Franklin Career ready workshop for young women (school leavers) on interview skills & planning a career 8.30am – 1.30pm. Ph Fiona 021 022 97102 email: fiona@sparrowhawkleather.co.nz

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COAST & COUNTRY

Page 55

Readers’ reputation tarnished by brass seal The reputation of Coast & Country readers as a knowledgeable bunch has slipped somewhat after no one was able to identify a 16cm tall strange-looking brass device from the Opotiki Museum.

Graham Payze thought it looked like a tool used to put rubber inflations onto milking cups.

Eric Muir of Pukekohe East also believes it is a hand held inflation ring installer used in the milking machine cups.

However, Dorothy-Anne Wilson, Opotiki Museum manager, says it was definitely not used in dairy sheds.

“We have been unable to get a positive identification from Te Papa or the Auckland Maritime Museum.

“But information given to us was that the item was a trading seal stamp used in the early 1800s, after the Napoleonic - British Wars when British ships were barred from This strange device certain ports, but ships from the Opotiki owned by Maori were Museum may have admitted. Trading seals been a trading were issued by French stamp seal from the to Maori and other early 1800s. ship owners. There are

symbols on each arm the item,” she says.

Readers had no problems identifying September’s mystery item from the Morrinsville Heritage Centre as a device screwed to the top of a flagon for ease of pouring out its contents – usually alcohol. Museum manager Barbara Dalziel says it was invented in the 1970s.

Jeff Bryant says it is “a screw on handle which screws on to glass flagons or bottles. The flagon’s original cap then screws on to the device to seal the contents in”.

Bryan Anglesey wrote: “The mystery item is a flagon pourer. A flagon is also known as a “Half G”, or half a gallon. We used to screw the pourer onto the half gallon jar and use it to pour the beer out into glas ses”.

Irene Farrell of Pukekohe still has one of the caps. “It is a bottle handle holder which screws on to the bottle.

Great for carrying half gallon bottles.

Used them all the time especially when taking drinks to the hay paddock,” she writes – so winning a visit for two to the Morrinsville This clever Heritage Centre. adaptor to make This month’s mystery item carrying and from the Te Aroha and District pouring a flagon Museum was used in about easier is from 1940 to assist in rearing young the Morrinsville stock.

Heritage Centre.

If you know what it is you could be in to win a visit for two to the Te Aroha and District Museum. Send your entry to: elaine@ thesun.co.nz with ‘Mystery item’ in the subject line,

or post to Mystery Item, Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than October 20.

The winner will be announced in Coast & Country’s November issue. The Te Aroha and District Museum is in the domain in the town’s main street, Whitaker St. It’s open seven days from noon-3pm in winter and 11am-4pm from Labour Weekend to Easter, and other times by appointment.

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Page 56

COAST & COUNTRY Olivia and Claire Matthews ready to sell freshly picked daffodils.

Charlie (2 1/2yrs) meeting another new playmate.

Liam 6 and Reid 4 with their new pet lambs.

RY COAST & COUNTABS!

PRIZE UP FOR GRolution jpgs) to

be emailed (high res x 240, Pictures and details canera” or posted to Coast & Country, PO Bo entry. ry Cam eve try h un wit “Co er .nz mb .co and phone nu amy@thesun lude a name, address Tauranga. Please inc

LilliannaRose and Harriet’s first time in Morrinsville.

Rikayla with her bestie "Creamy".

Carter 16 months, checking out the Tractors for Sale.