Issue 243 | April/May 2026 - NZ Rural Contractor & Large Scale Farmer

FEATURE

A review of Spraying Technology

FEATURE

A review of Fertiliser Technology and Spreaders

EQUIPMENT

2026 Deutz-Fahr American Signature Series arrives

INTHIS ISSUE....

02 From the Editor: Making Every Pass Count INDUSTRY NEWS

04 Autumn checklist: pasture strategies for rural contractors and large-scale operations

06 Policy promises mean little if transport reality stays stuck

08 Plastic recycling scheme taking shape TECHNOLOGY

09 Biology is beginning to replace chemistry in the crop protection toolbox

11 Mechanical weeding, re-engineered for modern farming

PROFILES

12 A contracting legacy adapts

16 KP Contracting: built on reliability in a region that demands it

20 Across the Ditch: Small farm, smart strategy: how the right mindset and equipment drive success in Central West NSW

FEATURES

24 A review of spray technology

40 A review of fertiliser technology and spreaders EQUIPMENT

55 Award-winning MF 9S brings proven high horsepower performance to New Zealand

56 Power Farming to launch Väderstad’s next-generation Tempo row unit at Fieldays

57 2026 Deutz-Fahr American Signature Series arrives

59 Fendt drives precision and innovation at leading pine nursery

Editor

Angus Kebbell 022 052 3268 angus@agrimedia.co.nz

Advertising Manager

Michael Lightbourne 021 403 853 michael@agrimedia.co.nz

Advertising Sales

Brendan Challies 022 397 2076 brendan@agrimedia.co.nz

Circulation

Hilary Armstrong 027 443 3477 admin@agrimedia.co.nz

Production Design and Layout

Hannah Kincaid art@agrimedia.co.nz

Printed by Blueprint Ltd

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Making Every Pass Count

Every edition of this magazine reflects the rhythm of the farming year and the April/ May issue is no different. As autumn settles in across the country, many arable growers and contractors are entering one of the most demanding parts of the season. Machinery is rolling, paddocks are being prepared and inputs are moving in volume. It is a time when timing, efficiency and good decisions matter more than ever.

This issue focuses on spraying technology, crop protection, foliar fertilisers, fertiliser spreaders and fertiliser technology. These are technical topics, but they are also tools that underpin productivity on modern farms and the contracting businesses that support them.

At the same time, many growers are entering this season under the shadow of rising costs. Fuel prices continue to fluctuate and fertiliser remains one of the most significant expenses on any arable programme. While farmers and contractors have little control over global pricing pressures, they do have increasing control over how efficiently those inputs are used.

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Foundation for Arable Research technology manager Chris Smith notes that one of the most reliable places to begin improving efficiency is with guidance and auto steer systems. Many machines already have this capability in the cab, yet the efficiency gains are sometimes overlooked. Manual driving inevitably results in overlaps during field work, often between five and ten percent across a typical day. Guidance systems dramatically reduce that overlap, often bringing it down to between one and three percent, while also smoothing out throttle variation, reducing operator fatigue and helping machinery operate more efficiently.

The benefits become even more apparent when visibility drops or when wide implements are being used across large paddocks. Many growers who move from manual steering to a reliable guidance system report noticeable reductions in diesel use across a season.

Product placement is another area where efficiency gains can be made. Basic guidance systems already reduce chemical and fertiliser overlap, while section control further tightens application around headlands and irregular paddock shapes. Variable rate technology goes a step further again, tailoring fertiliser or crop protection inputs to the specific needs of each area within a paddock. Across typical New Zealand conditions, reductions in nitrogen use are common and significant savings can

© RURAL CONTRACTOR AND LARGE SCALE FARMER - No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily that of the publisher and suggest independent advice be sought before acting on information or suggestions contained herein.

Angus Kebbell,

editor.

also be achieved in phosphate, potash and lime applications where paddock variability is well understood.

Machinery setup also plays a role. Matching tractor size to the job, managing tyre pressures correctly and optimising combine settings can all reduce fuel consumption while maintaining productivity. Small refinements applied consistently across a season can deliver meaningful savings over time.

Before closing this comment I would like to acknowledge something personal. As I write, our family is going through the sudden loss of my brother-in-law in an accident. It is a difficult time and a reminder of how fragile life can be. He was a farmer and a reader of this magazine, and someone who took a genuine interest in the stories we tell about the people and businesses that keep rural New Zealand moving.

The rural sector is built on community as much as production. Behind every machine and every paddock are families and friendships that support each other through both good seasons and hard ones.

As always, thank you for continuing to support Rural Contractor & Large Scale Farmer. I hope the insights in this issue prove useful as the season unfolds.

Contributions - Editorial and photographic contributions are welcomed and should be sent directly to AgriMedia Ltd. Editing of submissions is at the sole discretion of the editor and will accept no responsibility for unsolicited material.

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From day one, our focus has been clear: deliver unmatched planting precision, simplify operation, and maximise field performance. After years of development, testing, and fine-tuning, we’re ready for the new generation row unit – taking the next step in agronomic precision, user-experience and field performance.

Autumn checklist: pasture strategies for rural contractors and large-scale operations

For rural contractors and large-scale pastoral operations, April and May are among the most operationally intensive months of the year. Unlike single-farm programmes, contractors are often managing multiple properties simultaneously, sometimes covering tens of thousands of hectares of spray-out, drilling, harvesting and infrastructure work within a compressed six to eight week window. At this scale, product procurement, logistics and application efficiency are not afterthoughts. They are often the difference between a profitable season and a costly one.

On large contractor spray programmes it is not unusual to mix 200–500 litres per hectare of glyphosate each day, with bulk storage of 5,000–20,000 litres becoming standard for operators running multiple rigs. A single contractor may also manage between 500 and 2,000 hectares of pasture renewal over the course of an autumn season. Planning ahead for product supply, equipment readiness and labour availability is therefore, essential.

Grass species are one of the first considerations when planning renewal work at scale. At the farm level, a decision about spray-out rate or drilling timing affects one paddock. At the contractor level the same decision may be replicated across 50 to 200 paddocks on multiple farms. Understanding the grass mix in advance helps determine herbicide volume requirements, scheduling and the likelihood of follow-up spraying.

Annual grasses such as annual ryegrass, summer grass, annual poa and barnyard grass are generally the easiest species to control. In many situations a single glyphosate application of around 3–4 litres per hectare (depending on the strength of the active ingredient) will achieve an effective knockdown. Turnaround from spray to drill can be relatively short depending on conditions and any tank mix partners being

used. For contractors managing hundreds of hectares of annual-dominated paddocks this still translates into significant product volume, reinforcing the value of bulk purchasing and seasonal supply agreements. Hybrid ryegrasses are the dominant sown species on many North Island dairy farms and are increasingly common on finishing units. At high biomass they can be more difficult to control with a single pass. Many contractors therefore, use a double-spray strategy, typically a glyphosate application with an appropriate tank partner followed by a second application if required. While effective, this approach adds both product cost and an additional spray operation, factors that must be built into contractor scheduling and client pricing.

Perennial ryegrass and other permanent pasture species such as cocksfoot and tall fescue present the greatest spray-out challenge. Their deeper root systems and stored energy reserves mean that underdosing or poor timing can allow plants to recover, leading to expensive re-sprays across large areas. Contractors typically apply higher glyphosate rates in the range of 4–6 litres per hectare and ensure the pasture is actively growing at the time of spraying.

For contractors operating large renewal programmes, understanding the grass mix before quoting a job is critical. Walking paddocks or reviewing paddock history helps

Matching herbicide programmes to pasture species and growth conditions plays a major role in successful pasture renewal and establishment.

identify dominant species and determine appropriate product rates and timing. Many contractors also work closely with technical field representatives to document spray dates, products and expected drilling windows. Accurate records help maintain discipline in large programmes and provide useful reference points should establishment issues arise later.

Herbicide programmes remain the largest input cost in autumn pasture renewal. Glyphosate continues to form the backbone of most programmes, particularly when dealing with perennial pastures. Contractors commonly use 360 g/L or 450 g/L formulations, which allow efficient dilution at the rates required for large-scale operations. Dense pasture canopies also require sufficient water rates to achieve good coverage, with around 200 litres per hectare often used in contractor spraying programmes.

At that application rate, a 3,000 litre spray tank will typically cover around 15 hectares. On a 200 hectare block that means more than a dozen tank refills in a single programme. Water source access, refill logistics and travel time between paddocks therefore, become important considerations in daily productivity.

Because of these volumes many contractors negotiate seasonal supply agreements with agrichemical suppliers. Bulk purchasing

in drums or pods reduces handling time, simplifies storage and can deliver meaningful cost savings across large renewal programmes.

Beyond herbicide programmes, biological soil conditioners have become increasingly common in pasture establishment systems. These products aim to support microbial activity and root development during the critical early establishment phase. For contractors the economic argument is straightforward. When the cost of seed, spraying and drilling is significant, improving establishment rates protects that investment.

Bulk ordering is common in large programmes. Contractors often secure their seasonal supply early to avoid shortages during peak autumn demand and store biological products separately from agrichemicals to maintain product viability. On larger jobs they may also be blended with liquid fertiliser to reduce application passes where compatibility allows.

Infrastructure readiness is another factor that can influence establishment success. On large dairy or sheep and beef operations, break-feeding systems play a major role in protecting newly established pasture. Contractors who include infrastructure checks as part of their service offering can help ensure that electric fencing systems, reels, posts and energisers are capable of handling the demands of winter grazing.

Water supply is equally important. Trough capacity must match mob size, while

pipework and float valves should be checked before winter conditions arrive. These practical details can have a direct impact on stock access and pasture utilisation. Regional conditions also influence autumn programmes. In the North Island, March and April and May are typically the core pasture renewal months, often running alongside maize silage harvest and late brassica establishment. This creates a period of intense contractor activity where machinery, labour and product supply are all under pressure.

In the South Island the programme is broader and often more fragmented, spanning cereal and fodder beet harvest, late silage work, cultivation and pasture establishment across a wide range of soil types and climates. Contractors may be managing multiple crop systems simultaneously, requiring a broader agrichemical inventory and careful record keeping across different paddocks and crop types.

Autumn cultivation also demands attention to seedbed preparation. Cold, dry conditions in many South Island regions mean seedbed quality is critical for successful establishment. Poorly consolidated seedbeds reduce seedto-soil contact and can significantly reduce germination rates. In suitable paddocks, direct drilling may provide an alternative that reduces cultivation passes while preserving soil structure.

Across both islands the fundamentals

remain the same. Matching herbicide programmes to grass species, securing product supply early and maintaining accurate paddock records all contribute to successful renewal programmes. Clear communication with clients about spray timing, residue periods and drilling windows also helps avoid costly establishment failures.

Fuel planning is another important consideration during this busy period. Autumn places significant pressure on machinery fleets and fuel supply chains. Contractors who have not planned ahead risk disruption at the very time machinery utilisation is at its highest.

Farmlands card partner Fern supports contractors across New Zealand in securing their fuel requirements ahead of the seasonal peak. Locking in supply arrangements and ensuring adequate on-farm storage can help protect operations from supply interruptions and fluctuating fuel prices.

Looking ahead to the autumn workload, preparation remains the most effective strategy. With careful planning around agronomy, infrastructure, procurement and fuel supply, contractors can approach the season with confidence and maintain the reliability that underpins their relationships with farming clients across the country. Always read and follow product labels and consult your Farmlands agronomist or technical field representative for site-specific recommendations.

Policy promises mean little if transport reality stays stuck

There are moments in every season when frustration spills over into the open and for many in the rural transport and contracting world that moment has clearly arrived. The recent stand-off between industry groups, NZTA and the Ministry of Transport over VDAM settings is not just another policy disagreement; it reflects a growing sense that the machinery of government is drifting away from the practical realities of keeping New Zealand moving.

For operators already juggling compliance, labour shortages, tight margins and everchanging regulations, transport policy is not an abstract discussion; it is something that affects every load, every job and every contract. When industry voices say they have had a “guts-full” of being sidelined, that language may sound blunt but it signals a deeper issue. It suggests a widening gap between decision makers and the people whose livelihoods depend on workable rules.

The push for a sit-down with Minister Chris Bishop and NZTA leadership is less about confrontation and more about urgency, because industry participants believe the VDAM overhaul has overtaken other priorities that affect safety, productivity and economic viability on a daily basis.

Transport settings matter to rural New Zealand in ways that are often invisible to those outside it. Weight limits, axle rules and permitting structures shape how efficiently contractors move fertiliser, silage, stock and machinery. They influence how quickly work can be completed when weather windows open and how economically farms can operate in an environment where costs are already under pressure. When the policy focus drifts too far from those realities, the consequences ripple through the entire supply chain.

Yet if the transport debate highlights tension between industry and government, the recent WorkSafe engagement offers a more encouraging example of what constructive collaboration can look like.

More than 600 horticultural workplace assessments conducted late last year, including many among Road Carrier New Zealand members, produced a result that deserves attention. The sector performed better than the wider benchmark averages and, importantly, no fines were issued.

That outcome reinforces a point many in the industry have been making for years.

When regulators approach workplaces with the intention of providing guidance rather than punishment, compliance improves and trust grows. Feedback from those assessed suggested the visits were useful, practical and supportive which aligns with the broader shift in tone signalled by ministers and WorkSafe leadership over the past year.

The first reading of the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill suggests that this more pragmatic approach may be taking root. Strengthening the role of Approved Codes of Practice should make guidance more tailored and accessible, and the proposed focus on critical risks for businesses with fewer than twenty staff reflects a recognition that trying to eliminate every conceivable risk is neither realistic nor productive. If implemented well, this shift could allow smaller operations to concentrate on the hazards that genuinely threaten lives and livelihoods rather than drowning in paperwork that adds little real protection.

For contractors and transport operators who spend their days in dynamic, high-risk environments, clarity matters more than complexity. Knowing which risks must be controlled and how to do so is far more useful than navigating a maze of theoretical compliance requirements. If the forthcoming ACOP delivers that clarity, it will represent meaningful progress rather than just another layer of regulation.

Labour policy, too, continues to evolve in ways that ripple quietly through the sector. The rise in the immigration median wage to thirty-five dollars an hour may not directly affect most contractors using the Accredited Employer Work Visa or the new Global Workforce Seasonal Visa, both of which now operate on market rates rather than median thresholds, but the change still shapes visa eligibility, residence pathways and family reunification rules. For employers relying on migrant labour to keep operations running, those details can influence recruitment decisions and long-term workforce stability. None of these policy threads exist in isolation. Transport rules, safety expectations and immigration settings all interact to determine whether a contracting business can function efficiently and competitively. When any one of those levers moves without a clear understanding of how it affects the others, the cumulative burden can quickly become unsustainable.

That is why industry engagement matters and why the tone of that engagement matters even more. Constructive dialogue between regulators and operators tends to produce workable solutions, while distant decision making often results in frustration,

Andrew Olsen says "transport policy decisions have real consequences for rural contractors, influencing productivity, costs and the ability to move machinery and products efficiently."

resistance and unintended consequences. The difference between the WorkSafe experience and the current transport dispute illustrates that contrast clearly. Amid these debates, the sector’s own community continues to provide opportunities for connection and shared direction. The upcoming Road Carrier New Zealand conference in Christchurch this June will bring together members, agency partners and industry suppliers in a setting designed not just for networking but for honest discussion about the challenges ahead. Events like this play a quiet but important role in shaping the sector’s future, because they create space for the conversations that do not always fit within formal consultation processes.

The programme, with its mix of governance sessions, technical workshops and industry briefings, reflects the breadth of issues contractors now navigate daily. From compliance frameworks to operational efficiency, from workforce pressures to emerging technology, the conversations taking place in those rooms often influence how businesses adapt long before policy changes filter through official channels. Ultimately, the message emerging from the past week’s events is not one of simple opposition or complaint. It is a reminder that policy works best when it grows from the ground up, shaped by those who live with its consequences. When government agencies engage openly with industry, the results can be practical and constructive. When they do not, frustration builds and trust erodes. For rural contractors and transport operators, the stakes are not theoretical. They are measured in fuel bills, turnaround times, staff availability and the ability to

Plastic recycling scheme taking shape

Rural contractors will be able to play a role in the revamped agricultural plastic recycling scheme with new regulations due for Cabinet sign-off before this year’s election.

Agrecovery Chief Executive Tony Wilson told February’s Rural Contractors NZ Board meeting that there would be opportunities for its members to collect plastic waste from farmers, either through charging or as an add-on to their service.

“The plan is that the market will build competition.”

Currently, farmers can buy a collection bin from commercial company Plasback and then pay $50 per liner bag for its removal of what is principally sileage wrap; farmers can also dispose of the bags themselves at approved sites for $30.

Last December, the government announced the industry-led scheme which will bring the Agrecovery and Plasback programmes together into a single national system for all users of agrichemicals and farm plastics. Agrecovery, which is a not for profit, will manage the scheme.

This will cover key farm plastics including agrichemical containers and drums, bale wrap and silage film, small bags used for agricultural products and bulk woven polypropylene bags.

Tony says the new regulations now being drafted propose to provide free plastic disposal for farmers at up to 120 sites around the country. Some would be permanent but others will be ‘event’ locations where farmers could take their plastics for a few weeks to a site run by an organisation such as a local Lions club.

The new scheme will be funded by a fee paid by producers on four waste streams –bale wrap and silage sheets , small plastic bags, large woven polypropylene bags and agrichemical containers.

Part of Agrecovery’s new responsibilities will be ensuring that there are no rogue players selling wrap without paying the fee. Currently, about 12,000 tonne of sileage wrap alone enters the NZ market. The fee will be about 50c for a bale of film or wrap.

Tony says currently Agrecovery and Plasback costs total around $8m a year which sees about half of annual agricultural plastic use recycled. The new scheme is

estimated to bring in $12m with an aim over time of recycling 100% of plastic. The European Union is currently recycling 85% of its sileage wrap.

Most of the extra costs would involve the leasing of five or six trucks to move plastic from the 120 collection sites to two processing centres in Matamata and Christchurch.

These sites will wash, shred and bale plastic for offshore recycling. Only properly accredited and audited recyclers will be used to ensure no child labour exploitation and that environmental standards are maintained.

Tony says Agrecovery and Plasback have worked on recycling plastic for 20 years and the new regulations would provide the framework to develop a fully integrated rural

Rural contractors may soon play a larger role in collecting and transporting used farm plastics as part of the revamped recycling programme.

recycling scheme.

He says the focus remains on making life easier on-farm. He agreed with questions from the RCNZ Board that some farmers didn’t want to currently pay for plastic collection and burning it was still allowed by some regional councils.

RCNZ CEO Andrew Olsen said councils had a role to play as did the government in ending such practices and his organisation wanted to help ensure plastic, including that provided to farmers by its members, was able to be recycled.

keep clients moving. Policy promises may sound good on paper, but their real value lies in whether they make that daily work easier or harder.

Right now, many in the sector are asking

for something simple; not fewer rules, not special treatment, but a genuine willingness to listen and respond to the realities of the job. If that conversation can happen, the outcome could be stronger for both industry

and government. If it cannot, the sense of disconnection that surfaced this week will only deepen and that serves no one in a country where transport remains the backbone of the rural economy.

Biology is beginning to replace chemistry in the crop protection toolbox

Every so often a piece of research appears that does more than add another brick to the wall of agricultural science; it quietly shifts how we think about what is possible. The recent work from the University of Queensland on RNA-based biopesticides looks set to be one of those moments, not because it promises an instant commercial product but because it changes our understanding of how biological crop protection could realistically function in the field.

For years researchers have known that double-stranded RNA can silence essential genes in pests and pathogens through RNA interference, effectively switching off the biological processes those organisms rely on to survive. The promise has always been clear. If the right RNA sequence reaches the right target, control can be extremely precise, potentially affecting only the pest while leaving the crop and beneficial species untouched. What has been less certain is whether sprayed RNA could reliably move

through plants to reach the places where many of the most damaging threats actually operate.

Dr Chris Brosnan, has now provided strong evidence that it can. Their research shows

that when dsRNA is sprayed onto leaves it does not simply remain on the surface or degrade quickly. Instead, it can move through

explained, “We have shown in multiple species that when it’s sprayed on a plant’s leaf, the dsRNA is mobile, travelling between cells and throughout the plant including to the roots.”

That systemic movement matters because it addresses one of the long-standing challenges in biological crop protection. Many pests and pathogens do their damage out of sight, operating in roots or vascular tissues where traditional sprays struggle to reach. Soil treatments exist but often bring environmental trade-offs, inconsistent performance or high cost. The idea that a targeted molecule applied above ground could move through the plant and encounter pathogens wherever they are active opens up an entirely different delivery pathway.

The research also clarifies how that movement occurs, overturning assumptions that the RNA must enter plant cells directly to be effective. Instead, the molecule travels largely through the plant’s external transport spaces and vascular system, remaining intact as it moves. That detail may sound academic, but in practice it means sprayed RNA can persist long enough to be transported and to remain biologically active once it reaches its destination.

For growers, the significance lies in what happens next. Once the dsRNA encounters a susceptible pest or pathogen, that organism’s own biological machinery processes the molecule and triggers gene silencing. In effect, the pest’s genetics become the control mechanism. Essential genes are switched off and the organism can no longer function normally. The plant itself is unaffected, and non-target species remain untouched because the RNA sequence is designed to be highly specific.

Dr Donald Gardiner described the implications plainly, noting that, “It’s a challenge to get anything protective into plant roots, so if we can spray RNA on a leaf and get it to move through the plant’s tissues as an

intact molecule to its roots, that’s a significant opportunity to target hard-to-reach pests and pathogens.” That opportunity is not theoretical. The team is already investigating organisms such as nematodes which quietly reduce yields across grains, cotton and horticulture yet remain difficult to control effectively with existing tools.

This matters because agriculture is entering a period where the pressure to reduce chemical inputs is growing steadily while the need for reliable crop protection remains unchanged. Regulatory scrutiny, environmental expectations and market demands are all pushing growers towards more selective solutions. Technologies that promise precision rather than blanket suppression inevitably draw attention in that context.

RNA-based approaches sit squarely in that emerging space. They offer the possibility of tailoring control measures at a genetic level, targeting only the organisms that need to be managed while leaving the surrounding ecosystem largely undisturbed. That does not mean they will replace conventional chemistry overnight. Crop protection rarely changes that quickly. But they do represent a direction of travel, one that aligns with both scientific capability and societal expectations.

The research also highlights how much of agricultural progress now occurs at the intersection of biology and engineering rather than within either discipline alone. The challenge ahead will not simply be proving that RNA sprays work; it will be developing formulations that are stable, affordable and compatible with real farming systems. RNA molecules degrade naturally in the environment, which is part of their environmental appeal but also part of the technical hurdle. Ensuring they persist long enough to be effective without lingering unnecessarily will be central to commercial

Even so, the broader importance of this work lies in the shift in understanding it represents. As Dr Gardiner observed, “This work changes the dogma around the stability, uptake and movement of dsRNA which is vital as we develop the technology.” In science, changing the underlying assumptions often matters more than any single result because it opens pathways that previously seemed closed.

For the agricultural sector, that shift suggests crop protection is gradually moving into a new phase. The future toolkit will likely combine traditional chemistry, improved genetics, biological controls and increasingly precise molecular technologies. None of these approaches will stand alone. Instead, they will form part of a layered strategy designed to manage risk while maintaining productivity.

Farmers and contractors tend to judge innovations not by how clever they sound but by whether they make practical sense. Any RNA-based product will ultimately have to prove its worth in the paddock, demonstrating reliability, value and compatibility with existing machinery and workflows. That process will take time but the underlying science now appears far more robust than it did only a few years ago.

The University of Queensland findings do not represent the end of that journey but they do mark a clear step forward. They show that sprayed RNA can travel through plants, remain active and potentially influence pathogens far from the original application point. In doing so, they strengthen the case that biological precision may soon sit alongside chemistry as a mainstream crop protection tool.

If that happens, the impact will not be measured only in yield gains or reduced inputs. It will be measured in a gradual reshaping of how agriculture manages risk, moving from broad intervention towards

Mechanical weeding, re-engineered for modern farming

As herbicide costs climb and resistance pressures increase, many New Zealand growers are revisiting mechanical weed control - not as a step backwards but as a smarter, more flexible way forward. The Lemken Thulit weed harrow is a good example of how modern engineering has reshaped a traditional concept into a precise, crop-friendly tool suited to today’s farming systems.

Rather than relying on brute force, the Thulit focuses on timing, consistency and adjustability, exactly what’s required when conditions change paddock by paddock and season by season.

Designed to work with the crop, not against it the Thulit is a lightweight but stable frame design that allows it to operate early and often. Available in 6 m, 9 m and 12 m working widths, it suits everything from smaller mixed farms through to large-scale arable and vegetable operations. Low tractor power requirements remain modest, meaning most farms can run the machine without changing their existing fleet.

What sets the Thulit apart is how evenly it works across the full width. Tight 31.25 mm tine spacing over 8 rows of tines ensures consistent soil contact, while generous underframe clearance allows it to pass cleanly through cereals, maize, vegetables and ridge crops without blockages. This makes it particularly useful during fast spring growth when timing is critical.

The key to successful mechanical weeding is control and this is where the Thulit excels. Its in-cab hydraulic OptiTine adjustment allows tine pressure to be modified on the move, ranging from very light contact (0.1 kg per tine) for young crops to more aggressive action (5 kg per tine) (Photo-Pressure adjustment) as weeds become established. This versatility means a single machine can be used multiple times throughout a crop’s growth stages, rather than being limited to a single pass. Consistent pressure across every tine achieved through the closed hydraulic system ensures weeds are uprooted evenly, rather than being scratched in patches. Ben Harris, Regional Service Manager NZ explains, “For growers dealing with variable soil types which is a

Mechanical weed control tools are increasingly being used alongside herbicides to improve system resilience and spread risk across the season.

common reality across New Zealand farms, this level of control can be the difference between effective weed suppression and wasted diesel.” With Thulit machines already in operation across New Zealand, we are seeing very beneficial results in that the Thulit doesn’t just remove weeds - it actively improves soil conditions. Light surface cultivation breaks crusting, enhances aeration and creates a loose welcoming seedbed; this, in turn, supports faster crop establishment.

By targeting weeds at the white thread stage the Thulit reduces early competition for nutrients and light, setting crops up for stronger, more uniform growth. For many growers, this also translates into fewer chemical applications later in the season

Mechanical weeding is gaining renewed interest as growers look to reduce herbicide use and manage resistance in modern cropping systems.

which is a major advantage. Whether you’re farming conventionally, transitioning systems, or operating organically, mechanical weed control has a clear place in modern rotations. The Thulit doesn’t aim to replace herbicides entirely; instead, it gives farmers another reliable tool that reduces reliance, spreads risk and improves overall system resilience. Reach out to your local Lemken dealer for further information or visit Lemken.com.

In many parts of rural New Zealand, contracting businesses evolve slowly, shaped as much by people and relationships as by machinery and balance sheets.

a contracting

legacy adapts

BT Contracting, based in Mangaroa near Upper Hutt, is one such business. Its story is less about rapid expansion and more about continuity, service and adaptation.

The landscape surrounding Upper Hutt has changed dramatically over the past half century. Once dominated by dairy farms, the region has gradually shifted toward lifestyle blocks, horse properties and smaller grazing units. Where there were once around thirty dairy farms within easy reach of Mangaroa, there are now

none. That transformation has reshaped the type of contracting work required in the district. Large-scale silage and cultivation operations have largely disappeared, replaced by a steady demand for small bale hay, haylage and a range of property maintenance services for landowners who often farm part time.

As Graeme and Mary Taylor moved towards their seventies, they saw it was time to hand the business over to younger and more energetic hands. Adam Doughty’s connection with the

Producing high quality hay and haylage requires careful attention to timing, moisture levels and weather conditions.

Taylors began when he was still at primary school. He worked with BT Contracting throughout

After decades in contracting, Graeme and Mary Taylor continue to remain involved in the rural sector while gradually easing back from the physical demands of the work.

his school days before going fencing full time. In time, Adam was keen to expand his fencing work into hay and haylage making. Graeme and Mary were keen to ease back from the seasonal pressures of making bales for their many customers, so Adam took on that role.

Throughout these changes, BT Contracting retained all the necessary equipment to make and sell mini haylage and conventional hay bales.

Graeme and Mary continue to supply their customer base who have bought their haylage and hay bales for many years. BT Contracting now supports Adam and other local contractors by providing help when needed. When a contractor has machinery issues, staff shortages, or the weather unexpectedly closes in, they are ready to assist. In that way, BT Contracting has become something of a “contractor to the contractors”.

“Rather than working directly to make haylage and hay on lifestyle blocks, our customers are now buyers of our mini bale haylage and conventional hay bales,” Graeme explains.

Haylage in particular has become a cornerstone of the operation. When Graeme first introduced haylage into the area there was some scepticism among horse owners, many of whom were more familiar with conventional hay.

“When we first started making haylage some people said horses couldn’t eat it,” Graeme recalls. “But in England they had been feeding haylage to horses for years so I knew it worked. We bought the machinery anyway and offered the service, and now there is a steady demand for it.”

Getting moisture levels right is key to producing quality haylage. Graeme explains that while cattle can tolerate wetter feed, horses generally prefer haylage that is slightly drier.

“Small bale haylage is best baled at about fifty to sixty percent moisture,” he says. “Cattle will eat it wetter than that, but horses usually prefer it on the drier side.”

The roots of the business stretch back much further than the contracting operation itself. Graeme's connection to agriculture began when his family moved onto a dairy farm near Otaki in 1963. Like many farming families of the era, they also carried out contracting work for neighbours, making silage and hay during the busy summer months.

Graeme and Mary later ran their own dairy operation until the mid 1980s, when a change in direction took them away from farming for a time. The

couple became involved in youth work in Upper Hutt and later spent time in Papua New Guinea. Beginning in the mid 1990s they spent thirteen years working with Prison Fellowship International, supporting prisoners, ex prisoners, their families and victims of crime.

Eventually the Taylors returned to rural life, settling on a five hectare block in Mangaroa near Upper Hutt. Retirement, however, proved to be a relative term.

“Farmers never really stop working,” Graeme says with a smile. “We moved onto the block thinking we might take things a bit easier, but it didn’t take long before we were looking for something to do.”

The catalyst for the contracting

GENUINE PARTS GENUINE PERFORMANCE

business came in 2007 when Graeme received a bill from a contractor for making hay on their small block. Looking at the invoice, he decided the job might be something he could do himself.

“So we bought a forty five horsepower Massey Ferguson 135, an old New Holland baler and a mower, and started making hay.”

That first season they completed four small jobs around Whitemans Valley and Mangaroa. The following year the number doubled to eight. Gradually word spread among lifestyle block owners and the customer base expanded.

“People talk to each other,” Graeme says. “If you do a good job someone tells their neighbour and before you know it you have another paddock to mow.”

Efficient haylage production relies on well matched equipment from mowing and raking through to baling and wrapping.

BT Contracting grew to more than forty customers before the more recent shift toward supporting local contractors and producing mini bale haylage and hay for sale. Grass is bought from landowners who choose not to run livestock on their properties. High quality pasture is purchased from local blocks totalling around 20 hectares.

In spring and autumn it is easy to make mini bale haylage as it does not need to be fully dry like hay. Summer provides ideal haymaking weather on the same blocks as second cut crops are harvested to make high quality hay. BT Contracting produces enough mini bale haylage to supply customers across the Wellington region and up the Kapiti Coast as far as Levin. All the hay is made to order. The same customers return year after year for the hay their horses prefer. Rather than storing hay through winter, the focus is on producing high quality mini bale haylage year round for their many customers.

From the beginning, the operation developed a distinctive theme in its machinery choices. Massey Ferguson tractors have been a constant presence in the Taylor family since Graeme first drove a

TEA 28 in the early 1960s.

“There has always been a lot of red machinery around here,” he says. “Our family farm had Masseys from the start and I’ve always found them reliable.”

Over the years the contracting fleet has included a long list of Massey Ferguson models, from the MF 165 and MF 188 through to later machines such as the MF 390 and MF 4255 that have carried much of the workload in recent seasons. More recently the fleet has been updated with two Massey Ferguson 5712 tractors equipped with Dyna 4 and Dyna 6 transmissions to handle the demands of mowing, turning, raking, baling, wrapping and transport.

The rest of the haymaking equipment reflects a similar emphasis on practical reliability.

A Krone EC280 CV mower conditioner handles mowing duties, supported by a Krone KW6.02/6 tedder and a Massey Ferguson RK662 twin rotor rake. Baling is carried out with a Massey Ferguson 1840 inline baler, producing the small rectangular bales preferred by many horse owners.

Wrapped haylage bales are handled by an Inagra high speed mini wrapper, allowing the team to wrap bales quickly

The introduction of the Inagra mini bale wrapper has significantly improved the speed and efficiency of wrapping operations.

after baling to preserve quality. In earlier years BT Contracting had two different mini bale wrappers, but together they could not wrap enough bales in a day. The Inagra has changed everything and can wrap as many as 100 to 120 bales per hour in a good paddock. It is now not uncommon to wrap 500 to 700 bales in an afternoon. A windrow moisture meter is also used to ensure the crop is baled within the ideal moisture range. Another development in recent years has seen BT Contracting extend beyond traditional contracting work and into agricultural machinery importing. As Graeme and Mary began to look ahead and gradually reduce the physical workload associated with contracting, they also began

Massey Ferguson tractors have long been a feature of the Taylor family fleet, reflecting Graeme’s long standing preference for the brand.

exploring ways to remain involved in the agricultural sector while drawing on the experience they had built through decades of working with machinery.

That search led them to the Hummel range of agricultural trailers, a brand manufactured in Turkey for the European market. After seeing the trailers and assessing their construction and specifications, Graeme and Mary made the decision to introduce them to the New Zealand market under the BT Imports banner.

For Graeme the attraction was straightforward. After years of operating equipment across small blocks and lifestyle farms he had developed a clear view of what makes machinery practical and durable in everyday use.

“I’ve spent a lifetime around tractors and machinery,” Graeme says. “You quickly learn what is well built and what isn’t. When we saw the Hummel trailers we were impressed with the strength of the construction and the simplicity of the design.”

The trailers are built to European Union standards and designed for demanding agricultural use, featuring heavy duty chassis construction, hydraulic tipping systems and a range of configurations suited to farm and contracting work. Graeme believes the simplicity of the design is one of their biggest advantages.

There are now more than forty Hummel trailers at work across the length and breadth of New Zealand.

For BT Contracting the move into machinery importing represents a natural extension of a lifetime spent working with equipment. While haylage and haymaking continue during the summer months, the trailer business provides another connection to the rural sector and reflects Graeme and Mary’s ongoing interest in agricultural machinery.

It also allows them to remain active in the industry while gradually stepping back from the more physically demanding aspects of contracting. After decades of working through long summer days making hay and haylage, the shift represents a subtle change of direction rather than a complete departure.

In many ways it reflects the same practical approach that has shaped BT Contracting from the beginning. Rather than standing still, the business continues to adapt, finding new ways to stay involved in the rural community that has supported it for so many years.

“As we’ve got older we’ve looked for ways to stay involved with machinery without doing quite as much of the heavy work,” Graeme says.

One recent addition to the BT Contracting fleet is the purchase of a 1973 Massey Ferguson 135. This is the same model of tractor they started with 18 years ago.

“It’s like going back to the past to remind us of where we started all those years ago. Looking at the two 120 horsepower tractors we run today, we wonder how we did it!” Graeme says.

The 135 is being set up for use as a yard tractor to move pallets and carry out light duties.

Even in semi retirement Graeme remains active during the winter months. Delivering hay and haylage to customers across the Wellington region and Kapiti Coast provides steady off season work.

BT Contracting focuses firmly on maintaining strong relationships with its customers. Graeme believes reliability and communication are the

foundations of a successful business.

For Graeme the most satisfying aspect of the journey has been watching the next generation take on the challenge.

“It’s great to see someone younger picking up the baton,” he says. “Contracting is hard work but if you enjoy machinery and working outdoors it can be very rewarding.”

In many ways the story of BT Contracting reflects the broader changes taking place across rural New Zealand. Dairy farms have given way to lifestyle blocks, contracting jobs have become smaller but more numerous, and machinery has evolved to suit different types of land use. Operators grow older and hand over to the next generation. This is the way it has always been and always will be. Change and

adaptation are not something to resist but to embrace.

Yet the fundamentals remain the same. Good service, reliable machinery and strong relationships with customers continue to underpin successful contracting businesses, regardless of their size.

For the Taylors, the future of BT Contracting lies not in dramatic change but steady adaptation, maintaining the fundamentals while allowing the next generation to take the lead. In a district where farming has steadily transformed over the past half century, that steady adaptation may be the most valuable asset of all.

Graeme continues to play an active role in BT Contracting, drawing on decades of experience in farming and machinery.

All our mini haylage bales are packed on pallets of 12 bales. This is just some of our current stock.

built on reliability KP Contracting:

in a region that demands it

KP Contracting has never been a business built around noise. In a region like the Manawatū, where farming systems are diverse and the weather can redraw the season in a matter of days, reputation rests on something far more practical than marketing.

It rests on whether a contractor turns up when they say they will, whether the job is done properly and whether farmers feel confident handing over responsibility at the moments that matter most.

That is the foundation KP Contracting has operated from since its early days and nearly two decades on from its last feature in this magazine, much of that foundation remains unchanged.

When revisiting the business today, the most striking thing is not how much has altered but how steady the core has remained. As Heather Pope, the company’s office manager, put it when reflecting on the earlier profile, “If you look back at the 2007 article, things are pretty much the same. We have kept to what we know and what works.” That continuity speaks volumes in an industry that has seen significant technological, regulatory and structural change over the same period.

KP Contracting was established to serve a local farming community that

required dependable support across cultivation, planting and harvesting. From the outset the business was structured around practical fieldwork rather than diversification for its own sake. Over time it expanded steadily as demand grew and as relationships deepened across the district. The growth was organic rather than aggressive, driven by repeat clients and

The KP Contracting team works across a wide range of tasks including cultivation, planting, spraying and harvesting.

Baleage and hay production remain an important part of the seasonal workload for KP Contracting.

referrals rather than headline expansion.

There have however, been some changes. The drainage side of the business once a component of the service

offering, has since been sold. That decision reflected a focus on refining rather than broadening the operation. “We made a conscious decision to concentrate on the areas where we felt we could add the most value,” KP Contracting says.

“Selling the draining side allowed us to put more energy into cultivation, planting and the crop protection work that our clients rely on.” In a region where soil conditions vary widely and timing is critical, sharpening that focus has proven more valuable than maintaining a broader but thinner service range.

Ownership has also evolved. Kerry Ploen, who played a role in earlier years has since retired from the business. Today KP Contracting is directed by three shareholders: Peter FullertonSmith who remains a constant presence from the early days, alongside Jason Brown and Tom Welsh. The structure is deliberately straightforward, with responsibilities shared and communication constant.

“Everything is shared between the three directors,” the directors say. “Jason looks after the spraying side more closely, Peter

oversees cultivation and Tom helps run the team and supports both of them. But they all step in where needed.”

That flexibility reflects the practical realities of contracting. In smaller to mid-sized operations, rigid divisions of responsibility rarely survive peak season. When weather windows open, everyone is involved in coordination, logistics and field decisions. The shared leadership model at KP Contracting allows for that adaptability while still ensuring each core area has clear oversight.

The services offered today mirror the central needs of Manawatū farms. Cultivation and planting remain the backbone of the operation, forming the starting point for crop establishment across mixed and dairy support systems. From ground preparation through to drilling, the work undertaken in spring often determines how the season unfolds. Soil variability across the region means that machinery setup, depth control and timing cannot be approached generically. Experience remains as important as horsepower.

Harvesting, hay and

Machinery reliability and careful maintenance underpin the day to day operation of the KP Contracting fleet.

baleage production also form a significant part of the annual cycle. Interestingly, KP Contracting noted a shift in workload patterns in recent seasons. “We have noticed that harvesting has slowed a little and hay production has increased,” they said. That change reflects broader trends within farming systems, where feed conservation strategies have adapted to market pressures and climatic variability. Baleage and haymaking windows have become more tightly managed, with contractors expected to respond

quickly when conditions align. Spraying rounds out the core service offering and operates across the calendar. “We spray all year round as required,” KP Contracting said. Unlike some seasonal tasks, crop protection and pasture management demand continuity. Modern plant protection work carries increased expectations around precision, record keeping and compliance. The contractor’s role extends beyond simply applying product to ensuring that timing, rate and method align with both agronomic and regulatory requirements.

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Careful planning and strong communication with farmers help ensure work is completed within tight seasonal windows.

Locally, KP Contracting has developed a reputation particularly in plant protection. “We are well known for everything that goes with plant protection, from prep to harvest,” KP Contracting said. That phrase encapsulates a broader strength of the business: involvement across the full cycle rather than isolated tasks. From initial cultivation and planting through to crop maintenance and eventual harvest, continuity of service allows for better planning and smoother execution.

Machinery underpins that delivery. The fleet today is predominantly Case, reflecting a preference that has developed

over time. While other brands sit in the shed where appropriate, Case equipment forms the backbone of the operation. Brand loyalty in contracting is rarely about image. It is about reliability, dealer support and familiarity for operators. Consistency in fleet selection simplifies maintenance, parts management and operator training.

Investment decisions are approached pragmatically rather than aspirationally. “We maintain our vehicles well and replace as we need to update the fleet and replace older equipment,” KP Contracting said. That measured approach avoids both over-capitalisation

and reactive spending. In contracting, machinery must earn its place. New purchases are justified by efficiency gains, reliability improvements or the need to meet evolving client expectations, not by novelty.

A typical year at KP Contracting follows a rhythm familiar to many rural operators, yet within that rhythm lies constant variation. Winter is devoted largely to maintenance. Machinery is stripped, serviced and prepared for the intense months ahead. Planning conversations with clients begin early, mapping likely workloads and identifying potential pressure points. Spring signals the acceleration. Cultivation and planting dominate the schedule as soil conditions allow. Operators move between properties with careful coordination, chasing workable windows while monitoring moisture levels and forecasts. Summer shifts the focus toward crop maintenance and hay or baleage production. The pace rarely slows. “Summer is when everything seems to happen at once,” KP Contracting says. “You have crop maintenance, mowing, baling and all the coordination that goes with it.”

Autumn brings harvesting and regrassing. Crops reaching maturity across multiple farms can compress the workload dramatically. Weather remains

Plant protection has become a key part of the service offering, with increasing emphasis on precision and compliance.

The contracting fleet is built around practical machinery choices designed to deliver reliability in demanding conditions.

the overarching variable. In the Manawatū, where rainfall patterns can shift quickly, contractors must remain poised to act. KP Contracting was clear about the greatest challenge facing the business. “Weather is our biggest challenge,” they said. “It dictates everything we do.” That dependence on weather is not new, but variability appears to be increasing. Shorter, less predictable windows place greater pressure on scheduling and staff. When conditions align, the team must operate efficiently and safely for extended periods.

KP Contracting runs with a deliberately lean structure: three permanent staff, three casuals and the three directors themselves, all of whom operate as all-rounders. “Everyone can turn their hand to most jobs,” the directors say. “That flexibility is what keeps us moving.”

Retaining skilled staff remains one of the defining challenges of modern contracting. Experienced operators bring not only machinery competence but judgement. They read paddocks, adjust to changing conditions and represent the business on-farm. In a tight labour market, maintaining a stable team becomes a competitive advantage. Smaller teams also reinforce accountability. Each person understands their role within the broader schedule and the importance of communication.

Behind the visible fieldwork sits careful organisation. Contracting may appear reactive but success depends heavily on preparation. Planning conversations with clients, forward booking, equipment servicing and staff coordination ensure that narrow windows are used effectively. Communication has become increasingly important. “There is a lot more planning involved now,” KP Contracting says. “Farmers want to know what the schedule looks like and how weather might affect things. Keeping those lines open makes a big difference.”

What has also changed, even if the structure of the business has not, is the complexity of the environment in which contractors operate. Twenty years ago expectations around documentation, chemical traceability and environmental

With Peter, Jason and Tom directing the business, KP Contracting combines experience with the next generation of leadership.

oversight were present but comparatively light. Today they are embedded in daily workflow. Spray diaries are scrutinised, buffer zones are clearly defined and communication with neighbouring properties has become routine rather than optional. For a business known locally for plant protection, that responsibility carries weight.

“There is definitely more paperwork than there used to be,” KP Contracting said. “But it is part of being professional. Farmers need those records and we need to be able to stand behind what we have done.”

That shift reflects a broader maturation of the sector.

Contractors are no longer simply machinery providers. They are accountable operators within increasingly regulated farming systems.

There is also the question of generational transition. With Peter remaining involved and Jason and Tom stepping into directorship roles, the business now carries both institutional memory and forward momentum. Knowledge of paddocks, clients and seasonal patterns cannot be replicated quickly, yet new leadership brings fresh perspective and energy. In smaller rural enterprises, that blend is often what sustains longevity.

Risk management has become more deliberate. Machinery represents significant capital and downtime during peak periods is costly. Preventative maintenance is, therefore, not a winter formality but a strategic decision. Likewise, workload management is balanced carefully to avoid

Weather windows in the Manawatū can be short, requiring contractors to move quickly when conditions allow.

overextension. In contracting, chasing volume without capacity can erode the very reliability that built the business in the first place.

The Manawatū itself remains a demanding region in which to operate. The mix of dairy support, cropping and pasture-based systems means contractors must move between very different tasks across short distances. Soil types shift, paddock shapes vary and access can change dramatically with rainfall. That variability rewards operators who are observant and measured rather than purely mechanical.

Looking ahead, the three directors are conscious that the contracting environment will continue to evolve. Market volatility, input costs and environmental policy will shape farm decisions and, by extension, contractor workloads.

Adaptability remains central.

“We know things will keep changing,” KP Contracting said.

“The key for us is staying flexible and keeping the relationships strong.”

Those relationships remain the thread running through the business. In rural communities, longevity is earned. Farmers remember who turned up

during difficult seasons and who communicated clearly when plans shifted. They value contractors who understand the local soils and systems, who anticipate rather than react and who treat each job as part of a longer partnership.

Revisiting KP Contracting after nearly two decades reveals a business that has resisted the temptation to chase scale for its own sake. Instead, it has focused on doing core work consistently well. The sale of the drainage arm and the retirement of Kerry did not signal contraction but refinement. The arrival of Jason and Tom alongside Peter reflects continuity combined with renewal.

In many ways, KP Contracting embodies the quiet strength of regional contracting in New Zealand. It operates without fanfare yet underpins critical stages of the farming cycle. It adapts where necessary but holds fast to principles that have always mattered. Reliability, straightforward communication and practical competence remain its defining characteristics.

As farming systems in Manawatū continue to adjust to climatic variability and economic pressure, the need for dependable contractors

KP Contracting has built its reputation across the Manawatū through consistent service and dependable support for local farmers.

will only intensify. Machinery may become more advanced and compliance frameworks more detailed, yet the core expectation remains simple. Farmers require partners who will stand behind their commitments.

KP Contracting’s story, stretching from its early years through to its present structure under Peter, Jason and Tom, demonstrates that stability and adaptability are not opposing forces. They are complementary. By maintaining a clear focus on core services while adjusting structure and emphasis where needed, the business has sustained relevance across changing seasons.

KP Contracting reflection perhaps captures it best. “We have not tried to reinvent ourselves,” they said. “We have just kept working hard, looking after our gear and looking after our clients.” In a region that demands reliability above all else, that approach continues to hold its value.

small farm, smart strategy:

How the right mindset and equipment drive success in Central West NSW

Kevin Beatty from Molong in Central West New South Wales says smaller livestock and crop producers can get ahead when they have the right mindset and the right gear.

Kevin farms crops and raises sheep and cattle on a total of about 300 acres, with 60 acres of his own land and the remainder made up of a number of properties around Molong that he leases.

Versatility is key: multi-enterprise approach spreads risk

Feed crops make up the largest part of his feed strategy and he plants mainly oats for winter feed, although he has grown wheat in the past. Oats are versatile and can be grazed, cut for hay and left to stand for seed.

lambs. On top of that he runs Angus cattle that he calves to sell the weaners at six or seven months old.

In addition, Kevin also does contract work for other small producers in the area who do not have the gear to plant their own feed crops.

His contract work is similar to what he is already doing on his own properties, and he sows oats and other cereal crops for clients who mainly use it as feed

Most smaller producers do not harvest their own crops, as it is a large additional cost, and prefer to use contractors, Kevin says.

for lambs and stock.

He has sown pasture for himself, but not yet for clients.

He says with extreme temperatures, such as the 42°C at his place he recently experienced, and without much across ditch the Profiled in Australia's Ag Contractor & Large Scale Farmer March/April 2026, we

After having livestock graze oats he shuts it up either to harvest it for hay, or strip for seed.

Kevin also grows out second cross lambs and runs Merino ewes; he puts a Border Leicester over them to produce first cross

Kevin says smaller livestock and crop producers can get ahead when they have the right mindset and the right gear.

rain this season, he ideally gets seed into the ground as early as possible.

“I generally try to get seed in late February, early March. If the season goes well and you get rain you can feed late April to May. Depending on your season, you can turn stock in and out of that, twice to three times, again, depending on rainfall,” he says.

He fertilises paddocks with urea towards the middle of August, and then shuts them up, hopefully harvesting hay in the early October period.

Season dependent, he can strip seed around December.

Molong in Central West New South Wales can become extremely hot, and has average temperatures in the summer in the mid 30s. In winter it can drop to minus temperatures, with nearby regions even getting snow on the ground three or four times per year. It’s a massive temperature range to deal with, he says.

Precision tools for smaller producers: the AD140 advantage

To make a smaller farm work he has to rely on good gear.

Kevin says, as a smaller producer, the Agrowdrill 140 seed drill he bought from Davimac is the right tool to get the job done.

He says the direct drill machine is easy to transport on the road and is great for the contract work he does for other small livestock producers because it fits through 14 foot gates, something the area has a lot of.

He tows his AD140 with a John Deere 120 horsepower, 6120R. The AD140 can easily be calibrated down to any seed

The tyre roller on the AD140 closes furrows precisely.

Angus cattle are

to sell the

at six or seven months old.

tool for time-sensitive moisture conservation.

The pasture tool is in a heavy duty frame but is budget friendly.

He says sight glasses at the front of the seed box are a great add on to the AD140.

“You can see when your seeds start to get low through the viewing glasses; it’s handy.

“It’s just a really good size for small blocks.”

type and size.

“It’s very accurate,” he says. Best of all, it’s not complicated to manage. The AD140 runs a 425 coil tine and a 401 double disc unit in the undercarriage. It has a 150cm row spacing, 1.5m to 3m working widths and up to two 385L dual seeder/fertiliser capacity.

Agroplow says it’s their most popular seed drill for small farms, with the strength needed to penetrate dry soils, and is the

The AD140 is available in a CAT2 three point linkage (3PL) or a trailing design with hydraulic lift. The inverted T-shape Baker Boot Point minimises soil disturbance and ensures effective seed placement. The tyre roller then closes the furrows precisely.

The AD140 can support the 401 Double Disc undercarriage, transforming into a versatile disc seeder for improved trash management and zero till operations.

From passion to profit: making the

numbers work on 300 acres

Smaller producers face the same challenges as big producers, Kevin says.

“You’re at the mercy of market prices, and that’s a challenge for everything. At the moment, market prices are good. But the cost of production is expensive.”

He says small producers have to count the cost of spraying out weeds, buying seed and

seeding, diesel, machinery costing hundreds of thousands of dollars, treating and conditioning (if you produce seed yourself) and fertilising.

Most small producers pay others to harvest, which is an additional cost.

However, Kevin says his main focus is to feed his animals correctly, have them put weight on for sale and produce enough crop to get them through winter so they produce at the right time. He supplies to the open market, but will sell to anyone who wants breeding stock and often sells “directly from his paddock”.

The wool price has been unimpressive for years, but he says that’s just part of the job and part of good animal husbandry to make sure animals are healthy.

The wool price has come up in the last four months, with lamb prices also climbing to about $11/kg. He says at the peak of the lamb price hike he was selling lambs for $389 a head, and heard of others selling bigger lambs for $500 a head.

A higher price does make him more positive about the future. At about $250 he is covering costs. This is in stark contrast to 12 months ago when he was selling lamb for $80 a head.

He says newcomers should know that farming is a gamble, but if you do the right thing and properly prepare stock for sale you don’t only get satisfaction as a reward but can also be rewarded financially.

“There is some money to be made in good times.”

He also says well looked after stock are also healthy.

“By improving your country by putting cereal crops in, cleaning up your weeds, and eventually trying to put it down to good pastures, you produce healthier

Kevin says with extreme temperatures, such as the 42°C at his place he recently experienced, and without much rain this season, he ideally gets seed into the ground as early as possible. This photo shows what soil looks like post roller.

and better stock. And they are worth more money. It’s a gamble but a pretty safe gamble.”

He said good gear is also sellable if need be.

Kevin was a policeman and retired at the age of 50, 11 years ago. When he was in the police he was back in the countryside, and says he always had a passion for farming.

It was a hobby at first, but soon became a job he loves.

His grandparents used to own a block he visited as a kid. With lots of memories from those days, he is now continuing the legacy of working the land.

out

Buildings, sheds and food storage areas can attract large numbers of rodents, so ongoing effort is required to reduce trap or bait shyness. Our toolbox will guide you through how to manage pests across your buildings and storage areas.

a review of.... spray technology

Modern spraying is no longer just about application; it is about accuracy, timing and efficiency. Section control, rate control and drift management technology are helping contractors reduce overlap, minimise waste and ensure crop protection products are applied precisely where they deliver the greatest benefit.

With Amazone products farmers get precision, efficiency and savings all in one. Amazone spray technology represents a highly advanced suite of spraying innovations that apply crop protection chemicals exactly where and when they are needed, reducing waste, saving fuel and cutting input costs. Automated controls, GPS guidance and smart spot spraying technologies mean fewer passes over the field, less stress on crops and higher yields. Integrated digital systems make operation simple and data driven while sustainable application protects the environment. Simply put, Amazone helps farmers work smarter, boost profitability and grow better crops.

From smaller mounted units to large high capacity machines, Amazone offers a range of spray technology to suit any farm or contracting business.

Mounted sprayers are designed for small to medium farms where efficient

spraying is required without the need for a trailed rig, particularly in situations where manoeuvrability is important. The UF 01 mounted sprayer features a lightweight tractor mounted design with tank sizes from 900 L to 1,200 L. Boom widths range from 12 m to around 24 m and the unit incorporates strong suspension to maintain smooth and stable boom control. This makes it a practical choice for orchard, vine or smaller field applications where a compact sprayer is needed. Capacity can also be

increased by pairing the machine with a front tank system. For operators requiring greater capacity while retaining the advantages of a mounted sprayer, the UF 02 offers a step up. This larger mounted sprayer carries tank 2,000 L with boom widths reaching up to 30 m. It offers comfortable handling and like the UF 01, can be combined with front tank systems to achieve total capacities of up to 3,500 L.

Moving into higher output operations, Amazone’s range of trailed sprayers provides flexibility and greater tank capacity while still retaining

precision control. The Ug trailed sprayers represent the entry point in this category with capacities of approximately 2,200 L and 3,000 L. These machines work well for mid sized farms where a tractor mounted sprayer may be limiting but extremely large tanks are not required. Their strong and reliable design allows them to handle a wide range of spraying tasks.

The UX Special trailed sprayer sits in the middle of the Amazone range, offering tank capacities of around 3,200 L, 4,200 L and 5,200 L. With boom widths reaching up to roughly 36 m, the UX Special offers a practical balance of capacity, capability and cost. The machines are designed to be robust and straightforward to operate, making them a suitable option for many farming operations seeking increased output without stepping into the very largest equipment category.

At the top of the trailed sprayer range sits the UX Super series, Amazone’s flagship line designed for large scale cropping and high productivity field work. These machines

offer tank capacities ranging from approximately 4,200 L up to 11,200 L, combined with wide boom options from roughly 21 m to 48 m. Advanced features such as boom guidance systems, precise individual nozzle control and powerful pumping systems allow these sprayers to operate efficiently during long days in the field. Larger versions within the series include models such as the UX 7601 Super with around 8,000 L capacity and the UX 8601 Super with approximately 9,000 L, both offering improved stability and high output performance suited to demanding cropping environments.

For contractors or large cropping operations requiring maximum productivity, Amazone also offers the Pantera self

Smart spreaders, ready to go!

Bunning spreaders are trusted by contractors worldwide for their strength, reliability, and consistent spreading performance. Equipped with ISOBUS compatibility, integrated weigh scales, rate control, variable rate capability, and application mapping, these machines deliver accurate spreading and full visibility of your work in the field.

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propelled sprayer. This machine integrates the tank, chassis and spraying system into a single purpose built platform designed to cover large areas quickly and efficiently. Available with tank sizes such as 4,500 L and 6,600 L and boom widths up to around 48 m, the Pantera is well suited to large farms or contracting businesses where high travel speed and operational autonomy are important.

Across the entire range, user friendly digital controls, GPS guided section management and spot spraying capabilities help make spraying faster, easier and more reliable. Amazone sprayers feature advanced precision technology that allows farmers to apply crop protection products accurately, efficiently

and sustainably. Systems such as AmaSelect automatically select the correct nozzle according to forward speed and the desired application rate, while PWFM (Pulse Width and Frequency Modulation) ensures each nozzle delivers the exact volume required with consistent droplet size.

For even greater precision, a number of options such as AmaSpot, SmartSprayer and AmaXact use sensors, cameras and GPS data to detect weeds or crop areas in real time, applying chemicals only where needed. These integrated digital systems reduce overlap, cut chemical use, save fuel and improve crop quality while making spraying simpler, faster and environmentally responsible.

Chat to our product specialists

Sales: 027 302 0080 • sales@acmd.co.nz

Parts & Service: 07 843 7237 • parts@acmd.co.nz

2 Gallagher Drive, Hamilton agandcivilmachinery.co.nz @agandcivil

There are sprayers and there is Bateman. Farmers and contractors across the globe rely upon British-made Bateman selfpropelled sprayers.

Bateman is a family-run company. It produces all four models of its range entirely in-house at its plant in Devon.

Every detail of a Bateman sprayer is designed around the operator. The design is driven by the need for simplicity to give effortless, efficient spraying during long hours in the field.

Step into the Panoramic 3 cab of a Bateman and immediately you know that it is an environment created by people who know sprayers. The highbacked, heated and cooled air suspension seat provides comfort while air quality and circulation is distributed by a high-performance climate control system featuring CAT 4 filtration.

Visibility in a Bateman is second to none thanks to just two carefully positioned pillars and an Ag Leader terminal that can be lifted and lowered out of view. Noise levels in the cab are greatly reduced by substantial insulation and the solid, airtight door. The cab sits on a chassis designed for safe weight distribution and minimal compaction. Unique to Bateman is the positive link two/four-wheel steering. This is a hydro-mechanical system that cleverly changes the driving mode without the need for

electronic sensors or manual adjustment.

All Bateman sprayers feature hydraulically adjustable axles. With the flick of a switch, you can move the axles out to do a job or draw them back in when the job is finished.

The spraying system on a Bateman is easy to use and gets the job done every time. The plumbing system delivers high flow rates while auto filling provides increased efficiency on the farm and in the field.

For better fuel efficiency, all spraying systems on a Bateman sprayer are performed at low engine revolutions.

Air valves in the spray control system produce faster, more accurate on/off control of the spray line to minimise overlap and increase the effectiveness of chemicals or fertiliser.

Bateman Engineering also offers the Capstan AG Pinpoint III blended pulse modulation system. Pinpoint III controls flow and pressure at the nozzle in conjunction with individual nozzle boundary control.

It provides accurate and repeatable application to achieve the desired coverage. Speeding up, slowing down, turns, overlaps or any combination of those variables will not affect the consistency built into the Pinpoint III system.

The baffled stainless-steel tanks have capacities from 3000 litres on the RB30 model up to

AFFORDABLE RETROFIT YIELD MONITOR

6000 litres on the RB60 model. Bateman offers two booms, the standard contour version or the variable geometry version. Standard contour booms are available in 18m, 20m and 24m widths and variable geometry booms start at 24m and extend up to 42m.

When unfolded, a mechanical or hydraulic shear bolt system secures the lightweight steel boom in position.

Both boom versions feature a breakaway facility. The variable geometry boom has hydraulic break-back at every fold point, and it automatically returns to position after the sprayer passes the obstacle.

The fold position of the boom is behind the cab to eliminate the risk of contamination of the operator’s environment when entering the cab.

Designed and developed entirely in-house, Bateman Boom Levelling (BBL) is a big step forward in boom levelling. BBL allows the boom to follow the contours of the ground, and

provides the operator with the ability to spray under a vast range of conditions without the need to change settings.

This innovation is now available on all variable geometry contour booms across the Bateman range. It is also available as a retrofit.

Bateman maintains close relationships with the owners and operators of its sprayers. It aims to ‘keep the wheels turning’, so it provides the very best possible sprayers for the job and backs them up with outstanding service support and spare parts. Molloy Agriculture Ltd is the Bateman self propelled sprayer dealer for New Zealand. Based in Canterbury, Molloy Agriculture is also a spray contracting business that runs a fleet of Bateman sprayers.

Molloy Ag’s staff have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that you can call on whenever you need it. For more information on Bateman sprayers call David Molloy on 0274 362 441 or email david@molloyag.co.nz.

Install on any age or model combine

Instant in-cab display of live yield data on your iOS/Android device

Simple upload to the cloud directly from your phone - no SD cards

Automatic yield maps generated immediately after upload

First Season of Automated Yield Mapping included

Priced from $6950 + GST (limited quantites available, normally $7950)

Complete kit with everything you need for self-installation.

Power Farming

Agrifac

As farms become larger and cropping systems more intensive, the machinery responsible for delivering crop protection products must work harder while remaining precise enough to meet increasingly strict expectations around drift control, chemical efficiency and operator safety.

It is against that backdrop that Agrifac has introduced a new generation of self propelled sprayers, with the launch of three machines designed to raise the standard of what modern crop protection equipment can deliver. The Endurance 80, Vanguard 67 and Vanguard 55 represent the latest development from the Dutch manufacturer and signal a clear focus on increasing capacity, improving operator comfort and providing a more advanced technological platform for precision spraying systems.

All three machines share a common design philosophy centred around usability and control. Each model is equipped with the Claas X11 cab and Agrifac’s new EcoTronicPlus 3 operating system, bringing together machine control, spraying functions and operator interface into a single integrated environment. For operators spending long days in the cab during busy spraying windows, the emphasis on visibility, ergonomics and intuitive controls reflects the increasing importance of operator comfort alongside raw machine performance.

The flagship model in the range is the Endurance 80, a machine built for operations where spraying capacity and productivity are critical. Equipped with an 8,000 litre main tank and powered by a 405 horsepower Cummins engine, the sprayer is designed to cover large areas efficiently while maintaining the accuracy required for modern crop protection strategies. With spray boom options extending to 55 metres and tyres up to 2.3 metres in diameter, the Endurance 80 also offers a ground clearance of 154 centimetres allowing operators to continue spraying in taller crops or challenging

field conditions without compromising crop safety.

While the Endurance 80 focuses on maximum capacity, the Vanguard 67 is positioned as a machine that balances performance with manoeuvrability. With a 6,700 litre tank and a 325 horsepower engine, the sprayer offers substantial capacity while maintaining a wheelbase and overall footprint that remain well suited to modern farming operations where paddock access, turning space and road travel are important considerations. For many growers this balance between capacity and agility can be the defining factor in how effectively a sprayer integrates into everyday farm operations.

Completing the range is the Vanguard 55, a more compact machine designed to offer versatility across a broad range of cropping systems. Despite its smaller footprint the sprayer still carries a 5,500 litre tank and can be equipped with large diameter tyres similar to those used on its larger sibling. The result is a machine capable of operating across varied terrain and crop types while maintaining the capacity needed for efficient spraying.

Across the three models operators can select boom widths ranging from 24 to 55 metres depending on the machine and configuration. Folding options include both three and four section boom designs, allowing the machines to adapt to a wide range of field sizes and operational requirements. This flexibility is particularly important as growers increasingly look to optimise spray width for both efficiency and crop protection accuracy.

An important part of the new sprayer generation lies in the technologies that support precise chemical application. Agrifac continues to focus heavily on systems that improve spray accuracy while reducing environmental impact. Two key technologies highlighted with the new machines are StrictSprayPlus and the AICPlus spot spraying system, both of which reflect the broader shift

toward smarter, more targeted crop protection.

StrictSprayPlus uses pulse width modulation technology to control each individual nozzle electronically. By rapidly adjusting the flow rate through the nozzle without altering droplet size, the system maintains a consistent spray pattern even when the machine changes speed. This ensures that the application rate remains accurate across the entire boom width regardless of ground speed or terrain variation.

Complementing this system is the AICPlus spot spraying technology, which allows the sprayer to apply chemicals only where they are required. By identifying target weeds or plants within the crop, the system reduces unnecessary chemical application while maintaining effective crop protection. In practice, this type of technology represents one of the most significant shifts currently occurring in crop protection equipment, moving away from blanket applications toward highly targeted treatment strategies.

Another key component

of the sprayer design is the availability of the Agrifac AirFlowPlus boom system. This technology improves spray penetration and crop coverage by guiding droplets deeper into the crop canopy while reducing drift. In practical terms this allows operators to maintain effective coverage even in more challenging weather conditions while helping ensure chemicals reach the parts of the plant where they are needed most.

Together these technologies create a platform that supports both efficiency and sustainability in crop protection. For Agrifac, the launch of the Endurance 80, Vanguard 67 and Vanguard 55 represents more than simply expanding a product range. It signals a continued focus on building spraying platforms capable of supporting the advanced technologies that are shaping the future of crop protection. As precision application systems become more sophisticated, the machinery that carries them must provide the stability, capacity and control required to deliver consistent results in the field.

Mega

Mounted sprayers have traditionally occupied a compromise position in arable and mixed farming systems. They offer manoeuvrability, lower weight and straightforward transport, yet historically they have not matched the capacity, stability or control sophistication of trailed machines. The Hardi Mega has been developed specifically to challenge that assumption, combining higher tank capacities, advanced boom management and integrated electronic control to deliver a mounted sprayer that operates much closer to trailed-sprayer performance than the category once allowed.

At the centre of the Mega concept is capacity. With tank options ranging from 1,200 to 2,200 litres, the sprayer is positioned to suit medium to large cropping operations and contracting fleets that require meaningful output without stepping into a trailed platform. That upper capacity in particular shifts the mounted sprayer conversation, allowing operators to maintain productivity across larger paddocks while retaining the agility and transport convenience that mounted units still offer. For extra capacity front tanks can be added with sizes of 1200 and 1500 litres complete with a 12 volt agitation pump.

However, capacity alone does not define spraying performance. The Mega’s PRO Force boom range, spanning 15 to 28 metres, is designed to deliver stability and coverage in conditions where mounted booms have traditionally struggled. The boom uses a pendulum-suspended centre section combined with hydraulic control systems to maintain a consistent spray height and alignment, even when travelling at higher forward speeds or working on variable terrain. Boom stability is further supported by Hardi’s AutoTerrain and ActiveSlant control systems. These use ultrasonic sensors and roll sensors to monitor boom

position and automatically regulate height, tilt, slant and yaw movement. Rather than reacting after the boom has moved, the system anticipates terrain changes and corrects movement before instability develops. In practice this reduces operator workload, limits drift risk and helps maintain consistent application quality across the field.

Suspension also plays a critical role in keeping the boom stable. The Mega incorporates an AirRide suspension system mounted in the lower linkage that isolates shock loads between tractor and sprayer. This not only improves operator comfort during transport and field work but also stabilises the boom platform, allowing higher working speeds without sacrificing accuracy.

Precision application is driven by the Mega’s DynamicFluid4 liquid regulation system. This processor continuously analyses pressure, flow, pump speed, forward speed and section status, updating calculations multiple times per second to maintain the target rate. The result is a system capable of rapid response to speed changes or section adjustments, ensuring that application remains consistent across the boom regardless of field conditions.

At the mechanical level, the diaphragm pump remains central to the system. Hardi’s long-standing pump design separates liquid from bearings and mechanical components, allowing the pump to run dry without damage and ensuring long service life. Combined with the EasyClean suction filter and Cyclone pressure filter, the liquid system is built for reliability as well as accuracy, reducing downtime and protecting the nozzles from contamination. Application precision is further enhanced through PrimeFlow and AutoNozzleControl. PrimeFlow maintains pressurised circulation within the boom, ensuring that spray pressure is stable from the moment the system starts and preventing residue build-up or nozzle

clogging. AutoNozzleControl then manages each nozzle individually, automatically switching them on or off to prevent overlap or missed strips. Operating in increments as small as 50 centimetres, the system can significantly reduce chemical use while improving coverage consistency across irregular paddocks or headlands.

For farms increasingly focused on environmental accountability and input efficiency, this level of nozzle control is becoming less of a premium feature and more of an operational requirement. By ensuring that product is applied exactly where it is needed and nowhere else, the system supports both cost management and compliance expectations.

Electronic integration is another defining element of the Mega platform. The SmartCom control architecture is fully Isobus compatible, allowing the sprayer to communicate directly with the tractor terminal or dedicated touchscreen controllers. This integration brings mapping, section control, variable rate capability and application logging into a single workflow reducing duplication and improving data accuracy.

Connectivity extends further through USB, WiFi and data-platform compatibility, enabling application data to be transferred directly to farm management systems or advisory platforms. In an era where spray records increasingly underpin compliance and

nutrient planning, the ability to export verified application data without manual paperwork is a meaningful operational advantage.

While digital capability often draws attention, practical usability remains central to the design. The WorkZone layout groups filling, mixing and valve controls into an accessible operator area with colour-coded manifolds and a high-capacity TurboFiller to simplify chemical handling. The system’s agitation design uses Venturi nozzles to maintain consistent mixing across the tank, ensuring accurate dosing even with challenging products.

Cleaning and maintenance have also been considered carefully. The DilutionKit allows flushing of the boom and tank from the cab, while optional external cleaning systems enable in-field washing. These features help reduce contamination risk between jobs and support best practice stewardship around chemical handling.

Taken as a whole, the Hardi Mega reflects how mounted sprayers are evolving. Instead of serving solely as smaller alternatives to trailed machines, they are increasingly becoming high-capacity, high-precision platforms in their own right. By combining advanced boom control, responsive liquid regulation and integrated digital management, the Mega moves the mounted sprayer firmly into the realm of modern precision agriculture.

The new Fendt 800 Vario makes work a pleasure.

Redesigned from the ground up, the Fendt 800 Vario Gen5 blends innovation and passion in every detail. With immense operational strength, maximum efficiency, impressive payload capacity, and new 360º lighting, it delivers the performance you need — day in, day out.

Contact your local dealer and find out more today.

• VarioDrive transmission

• New AGCO Core80 engine

• Fendt ID engine

• Dynamic performance across all models

• Central tyre inflation

• Reverse fan

• All new 360º degree lighting system

In perennial cropping systems spray effectiveness depends on how well airflow, droplet formation and machine stability interact within the crop canopy. The Silvan 4000L G2 Turbo Scram trailed 3 row tri-wrap sprayer is designed around that interaction, using air-shear technology and multi-fan airflow management as the core of its application system rather than relying solely on pump pressure or nozzle size.

The defining feature of the Turbo Scram system is its air-shear spray head. Rather than producing droplets purely through hydraulic pressure, the sprayer uses high-velocity air streams to atomise the spray solution as it exits the venturi outlets. This process creates a consistent droplet spectrum and improves penetration into dense foliage, allowing spray to reach both the outer canopy and interior leaf surfaces. In practice, this approach gives operators greater control over deposition while reducing the reliance on very high liquid volumes.

Air delivery is handled through multiple turbine fans positioned along the spray head, each generating a directed airflow column aligned with the crop rows. These fans are sized to produce sufficient air velocity to move droplets deep into the canopy without excessive turbulence. By pairing airflow with droplet formation the machine shifts application control from pressure-driven spraying to aerodynamic placement, which is particularly relevant in vineyard and orchard environments where canopy density varies significantly. Liquid supply for this system comes from a stainless steel centrifugal pump rated at approximately 350 litres per minute. The pump is hydraulically driven and designed to maintain

stable flow across multiple spray outlets, ensuring that each row receives consistent delivery. Because multi-row sprayers depend on uniform distribution across all spray heads, maintaining steady pressure within the circuit is critical to achieving even coverage across the working width.

The machine’s control architecture is centred on electric section valves paired with an automatic rate controller. This allows the operator to maintain a consistent application rate regardless of travel speed while also enabling independent section control across the spray head. For contractors and growers managing irregular block shapes or headlands, this level of automation reduces overlap and ensures chemical placement remains consistent throughout the job.

A key structural element of the tri-wrap configuration is its independent hydraulic folding system. The left and right arms can be adjusted to suit row spacing, while the central frame supports alignment across three rows simultaneously. This design allows the sprayer to adapt to varying vineyard layouts without requiring major mechanical changes, and it ensures airflow remains directed at the crop rather than dispersing above it. Adjustable geometry is particularly valuable in perennial systems, where canopy height and structure evolve over the season.

The hydraulic system that supports these adjustments is built around a self-contained power pack mounted on the chassis. This unit incorporates an oil reservoir, filtration and pressure-management components designed to stabilise hydraulic flow and protect the system from cavitation or overheating.

By isolating the hydraulic circuit from the tractor where necessary, the sprayer can maintain consistent performance regardless of the towing machine’s hydraulic capacity. Tank construction follows a durability-focused approach. The 4000-litre polyethylene tank is designed to withstand impact and chemical exposure, with integrated agitation and filtration systems supporting consistent mixing and flow. Separate freshwater and flushing tanks allow operators to rinse lines and maintain hygiene in the spray circuit, reducing contamination risk between products. These features contribute to operational reliability rather than headline performance, but they are essential to maintaining spray quality across a season.

The chassis design reflects the machine’s intended operating environment. A galvanised steel frame provides corrosion resistance, while tandem suspension axles distribute load and maintain stability over uneven ground. This stability is not simply about towing comfort. Maintaining consistent ride behaviour helps preserve spray head alignment and airflow direction, both of which influence droplet placement accuracy.

Taken together, the engineering approach behind the Turbo Scram tri-wrap platform places airflow control and droplet

formation at the centre of the spraying process. Rather than increasing spray volume or relying on pressure alone, the machine focuses on how air and liquid interact as a combined delivery system. This reflects the broader direction of orchard and vineyard spray technology, where aerodynamic placement and canopy penetration increasingly define performance. For operators working in highvalue perennial crops, the ability to treat multiple rows in a single pass while maintaining uniform coverage can significantly influence productivity and chemical efficiency. Machines such as the Silvan Turbo Scram show how manufacturers are addressing that requirement through airflow engineering, hydraulic integration and structural adjustability rather than simply scaling up tank capacity.

As spray technology continues to evolve, the interaction between airflow, droplet size and canopy structure will likely become the defining measure of performance. The Turbo Scram tri-wrap platform demonstrates how those principles can be translated into a practical machine, designed to deliver consistent application across complex crop environments while maintaining the mechanical reliability required in commercial operation.

Born on the land and raised in the skies, Bayden Neustroski and Scotty Horgan are bringing a fresh perspective to New Zealand’s aerial application. With more than 14 years of helicopter spraying experience behind them, the pair recognised a new chapter was unfolding in the sector. In 2020 they saw what they’d been waiting for - a truly commercialgrade agricultural drone that could perform to the standard New Zealand farmers demand. “We were watching the drone space for a while,” says Scotty. “There was a lot of hype, but it never quite delivered. Then we saw what XAG was doing and we thought: right, now it’s ready.”

The first drone the pair imported was an XAG P30 - a 16 litre drone that had a place but was too small to make a real difference. Fast forward a few years, and the XAG P100 PRO has now proven itself a solid performer across the country’s vineyards, orchards and rolling paddocks. But the recent arrival of the fifth model Airborne

Solutions have imported, the new XAG P150, takes things up a gear, or ten. “Now we have a real workhorse at our disposal,” says Scotty.

With a 70kg lift capacity, 115L spreading tank and up to 30L/ min spraying rate, the P150 is built for serious work. Coverage of up to 20 hectares per hour and an RTK-guided app-based interface means it’s capable, precise and surprisingly simple to operate. “It’s the closest thing we’ve seen to a true contractor’s drone,” says Bayden. “The speed and spread rate make it competitive with ground rigs, but without the compaction and with way better access.”

Still, for all its capabilities, the pair are quick to remind customers that the drone itself is just part of the puzzle. “We’ll give you the gear that suits your setup,” says Scotty. “But more importantly, we’ll show you how to get the best out of it.”

Airborne Solutions is now one of the few operators in the country both selling and using spray drones in the field. This

hands-on approach sets them apart - Bayden and Scotty understand the challenges their customers face because they’ve faced them themselves.

That real-world knowledge underpins every sale, service and job they deliver, and is winning over clients across the country. Viticulturist Daniel from Hawke’s Bay, says the communication and flexibility from Airborne Solutions has been first-class. “Highly recommend Scotty and the team to anyone looking at drones as an avenue for fert or pesticide applications,” he says. Mitch Neal of Aerofarm echoes the sentiment, praising their product knowledge and after-

sales support. “They were there to answer every question and offer guidance the whole way through.”

With bases in Hawke’s Bay and Wanaka, Airborne Solutions services clients across the country, many of them contractors themselves, often looking to add aerial application to their offering.

“We’ve got a few customers now who started off with a single drone and are running a proper business with it,” says Bayden. “It’s cool to be part of that. We don’t just hand them a box and walk away. We help them get set up, get their Part 102 [certification] if needed and stay in touch.”

Croplands

Croplands are the spraying specialists in New Zealand. With over 50 years’ experience, they are now leading the way in both traditional and emerging solutions technology to help maximise efficiency on-farm. Hear more about their latest and greatest on-farm solutions.

Croplands Kilter AX1 autonomous robot for the vegetablemarket

Now commercially available in both New Zealand and Australia, the Kilter AX1 marks a major step forward in sustainable weed control for the vegetable market. Developed in Norway and brought to market locally through Croplands, the AX1 uses patented Single Drop Technology (SDT) to apply herbicide with extreme precision, functioning much like an inkjet printer for weeds.

Green on green: Using AI vision to apply application targeting weeds, 360 degrees around the crop.

Single drop technology:

Providing a 1150 micron vmd droplet every 6mm, targeting weeds at their smallest. Helping preserve soil nutrients and moistures.

Autonomous solutions:

The AX-1 is a light-weight autonomous solution that allows earlier application of critical sprays onto beds while also releasing labour to focus on high-value tasks within the farming operation. Multiple AX-1s are a great tool for productivity; the portability of these small machines makes it easy to move between locations.

Organic friendly: Suitable for

both organic and conventional farming operations. Speak to your local Croplands territory manager to find out how the Kilter AX-1 works for your operation.

Crop types: With 21 different crop classifiers either shovelready or in development, the AX 1 is ideally suited to vegetable and horticultural growers looking to improve sustainability, reduce input costs and lift productivity through autonomous technology.

Croplands Robotics Plus Prospr, powered by Yamaha Agriculture

The Robotics Plus Prospr is an autonomous fan sprayer commercially available in New Zealand and Australia, with multiple units already in operation, while additional machines are being assembled. Developed in partnership with Yamaha Agriculture, Prospr is a multi-use hybrid vehicle platform that significantly increases efficiency across a variety of crop tasks designed specifically for vineyards and orchards. Launched with Croplands’ proven Quantum fan spraying technology, the platform features a modular, demountable design that allows it to perform a range of tasks beyond spraying as the technology continues to evolve.

With advanced guidance systems, comprehensive safety features and the ability to operate for extended periods, Prospr is helping growers address labour challenges, and sustainable farming practices while maintaining consistent

spray quality and operational efficiency.

Croplands Quantum Vine Pro

New to the Croplands vineyard range, the Quantum Vine Pro sets a new benchmark for trailed vineyard spraying. Designed after years of market research, customer collaboration and field testing, the Vine Pro combines Croplands’ market leading Quantum fan technology with a rugged, highly adaptable new platform. Vine Pro is designed for all vineyards with row spacings to suit from 2.4m out to 3.6m.

Available in 2,500 L and 3,500 L tank configurations, the Vine Pro delivers exceptional coverage, stability and efficiency across varying row widths and terrain. Features include multirow capability, improved weight distribution, hydraulic fan control and advanced boom options, all engineered to provide the best coverage, control drift and add efficiency to your spraying programs.

Robot Ready Pinto –autonomous broadacre spraying

Croplands released their first optical spot sprayer as a robot ready unit in Australia, the Robot Ready Pinto. This autonomous solution is suited to large scale broadacre growers looking to introduce new farming methods and efficiencies only possible with autonomy.

Autonomous solutions allow growers to free up one of their most precious resources – time. It reduces driver operational costs, allows a single operator to multitask and allows for efficient

use of existing farm labour. Multiple units combined can allow for maximum efficiencies and operational gains for larger scale growers.

Croplands Dura chemical mixing & transfer solutions (Compact range)

Expanding Croplands’ Compact Range, Dura Chemical Mixing and Transfer systems provide a safer, faster and more accurate way to handle agricultural chemicals. Designed to reduce operator exposure and minimise product waste, Dura solutions include transfer pumps, Easy Caddy systems, batching options and mixing hoppers to suit a wide range of farm setups. Built for reliability and ease of use, these systems streamline the loading process, improve accuracy and help growers meet increasing safety and stewardship expectations making them a practical addition to both broadacre and horticultural operations.

Croplands Hol Spraying Systems (HSS)

Croplands and Hol Spraying Systems partnered up to bring New Zealand orchardists the latest in multi row sprayer technology. Our shared vision of providing orchardists with sustainable and efficient solutions combined with Croplands 50+ years’ experience in the New Zealand Horticultural market enables us to bring Kiwi growers the ultimate solution for modern narrow plantings. These units range from one to three row models, with an even, low drift air distribution matched to the canopy. With a low decibel efficient fan and synchronised folding, plus a mid-mounted boom for improved weight distribution and flotation tyres, the HSS range is low maintenance and reliable. The full HSS range has the new ARAG IBX-100 platform as an option. To learn more about any of these units, please contact Rob Marshall, Croplands Regional Manager and Territory Manager for the South Island, 027 248 6822 or Ashley Robinson, Territory Manager for the North Island, 027 726 0330.

The importance of the active ingredient in the spray tank is a given. But what’s often taken for granted can be the weakest link and the difference between spray programme success and failure.

Water, used as the carrier and making up around 90% of the spray tank, is itself an active chemical - an inorganic compound. Pieter van der Westhuizen, Adjuvant Lead and Regional Manager Upper North Island at UPL New Zealand Ltd, says our familiarity with water means its influence on spray performance is often overlooked along with the resulting impact on crop performance and yield.

“For example, water pH, whether acidic or alkaline, can vary, even across a single property. Some chemicals don’t perform well in alkaline water. Contractors sometimes tell me the active isn’t performing, but more often than not it’s actually the water. In most cases we want to lower the water’s pH which is easily corrected by adding the right amount of an acidifying adjuvant, such as Li 700.

“If water is hard - meaning it contains positively charged ions like calcium, magnesium or iron, these can react with negatively charged herbicides including glyphosate. Testing water pH and hardness before spraying is important and is as simple as using a spa pool test strip. I recommend contractors always carry some with them.”

Pieter says water hardness of 150 ppm is considered moderately hard and requires action. He recommends using a water conditioner and ion scavenger X-Change to optimise spray performance. X-Change is a proprietary blend of organic and inorganic compounds that acts as a ‘sacrificial’ agent, binding free ions and effectively converting hard water into soft water.

Drift is another common challenge, particularly for contractors using drones or helicopters. Again, water is often the issue with very small droplet sizes increasing drift risk.

“With water as the spray carrier you don’t want droplets that are too large or too small, they need

to be just right. Small droplets are often too light to be affected by gravity and can drift, meaning the crop protection product doesn’t reach the target. Large droplets on the other hand, can simply bounce off.

“Drift isn’t just about avoiding waste, it’s also about being a good steward of the land,” says Pieter. Products such as the multi purpose Li 1000, Li-700 or Unison can help ensure the active ends up where it should.

Conversely, large droplets can also be ineffective if the correct adjuvant isn’t included in the tank. “We want the active to stick to the target surface not end up on the ground and be lost.

“Adjuvants help make droplets fit for purpose,” Pieter says. In addition to drift control agents such as Li 1000, Li 700 and Unison adjuvants also include spreaders (Actiwett and Ranger), super spreaders (Du-Wett) and stickers (Du-Wett WeatherMax and Bond Xtra).

“In nature, a drop of water on a leaf is perfectly rounded and simply sits there,” Pieter explains. “For spray actives to work, that droplet needs to flatten out and cover much more of the target surface. Adjuvants can spread droplets to 15–25 times their original size, delivering up to 25 times more surface coverage and enabling uptake up to 25 times faster.”

For decades, vegetable, apple, grape and kiwifruit growers have relied on Du-Wett Super-Spreader. In the kiwifruit industry alone, adding Du-Wett Super-Spreader to the spray tank allows growers to use, on average, just half the conventional water rate.

Graham Greer, owner of Greer Groundspraying Ltd, says Du-Wett allows his team to spray at lower water rates while still achieving better coverage, an advantage that’s become increasingly important as the business incorporates drones. “You can actually see the difference Du-Wett coverage makes on the leaves,” he says.

To get a spray active inside the plant, they need to penetrate the plant. This involves moving through the cuticle, the waxy

outer layer or entering via the stomata, the plant’s ‘breathing’ apparatus. A clear example of the importance of penetration, Pieter says is gorse control.

“Gorse is a survivor. It has a thick wax layer and a relatively small leaf surface area for the size of the plant.

“The most effective way to control gorse is to add an organosilicon such as Slikka, Ad-Hance or Satur8 to the tank with the herbicide. A good

quality organosilicon reduces surface tension so effectively that the spray solution flows into the stomata, pulling the active ingredient in with it.”

To learn more about how to manage water for more effective spray performance, talk to your local technical representative or contact Pieter Van Der Westhuizen, UPL NZ Adjuvant Lead and Regional Manager Upper North Island at 021 392 740.

Running a rural contracting business in these challenging times?

Rural Contractors NZ is here to help you.

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Spray application has always required a careful balance between biology, chemistry and machinery and while farmers and contractors invest heavily in crop protection products the effectiveness of those inputs ultimately depends on how accurately they are delivered to the target. Droplet size, pressure stability, travel speed and boom performance all interact in ways that can either maximise the value of every litre in the tank or quietly erode it through drift, overlap or inconsistent coverage. As spraying technology has evolved the industry has increasingly focused on bringing greater precision to that moment of application, ensuring operators can maintain consistent results even when field conditions are constantly changing. The Pssag SymphonyNozzle system sits firmly within that evolution, introducing nozzle level control and pulse width modulation technology to modern spraying systems.

Traditional sprayer systems manage application rate primarily through pressure changes and flow adjustments across the boom. While this approach has served the industry well for decades, it introduces compromises that become more obvious as work rates increase. When travel speed rises, the system must increase pressure to maintain the desired application rate, and as pressure rises, droplet size changes. When the machine slows, pressure drops and atomisation can become less consistent. In practical terms, operators are often forced to balance two competing priorities, maintaining the correct application rate while also trying to preserve droplet characteristics that minimise drift and deliver good crop coverage. The SymphonyNozzle system is designed to remove that

compromise by separating rate control from pressure control, allowing both to be managed independently across the sprayer. At the core of the system is pulse width modulation, commonly referred to as PWM. Rather than relying solely on pressure adjustments to regulate flow, the nozzle assembly pulses rapidly on and off many times per second. By altering the proportion of time, the nozzle remains open during each cycle the system adjusts the effective flow rate while maintaining a consistent pressure at the nozzle body. The result is a spraying environment where droplet size remains stable across a wide range of operating speeds and application rates, delivering a far more consistent spray pattern along the entire boom.

For contractors and large scale operators, this level of control carries clear advantages. Spraying operations rarely occur under perfectly uniform conditions and ground speed inevitably changes as machines climb hills, turn on headlands or respond to varying field conditions. Under a conventional system these speed changes translate directly into pressure fluctuations which then alter droplet size and spray quality. With PWM control, the SymphonyNozzle system maintains a programmed pressure regardless of those speed variations, while adjusting the duty cycle of each nozzle to maintain the target application rate. The operator can, therefore, preserve consistent droplet characteristics, whether travelling slowly through a tight corner or working at full field speed across large paddocks. Another significant development lies in the system’s nozzle by nozzle control. Instead of managing application across broad boom sections, the

SymphonyNozzle system allows each individual nozzle to operate independently. That level of precision introduces several practical benefits in the paddock. Overlaps on headlands and irregular paddock shapes can be reduced because individual nozzles can shut off exactly where coverage has already been applied. In areas where boom sections would normally overlap, the system automatically adjusts output to maintain accurate rates without over application. Over time, this approach not only improves crop protection performance but also reduces chemical wastage, something that carries both economic and environmental value.

The SymphonyNozzle system integrates with Precision Planting’s Gen 3 20|20 monitor, providing operators with detailed real time feedback on spray performance directly in the cab. Through the display operators can view application metrics, including the duty cycle of individual nozzles, giving them a clear picture of how the system is performing across the entire boom. This level of visibility turns the sprayer into

a far more data driven machine, allowing operators to monitor performance in real time rather than relying solely on indirect indicators such as pressure gauges.

Mapping and swath control are also integrated within the system. As the sprayer moves across the paddock, the monitor records application data while ensuring product is delivered only where it is required. For contractors managing large areas or operating across multiple farms during the season, this functionality helps maintain accurate coverage while avoiding unnecessary duplication of product on overlapping passes. The combination of mapping, nozzle level control and pulse width modulation effectively transforms the sprayer from a simple application machine into a precision management system.

Installation has also been considered carefully in the design of the SymphonyNozzle hardware. The system is designed to retrofit to many existing self propelled and pull type sprayers, providing an upgrade path that does not require operators to replace their entire machine.

The custom nozzle assembly connects through a point to point harnessing architecture and does not require specialised tools for diagnostics or service. In a contracting environment where machinery must remain operational throughout busy seasonal windows and where downtime can quickly become costly, that simplicity becomes an important part of the system’s appeal.

Looking at the broader direction of spraying technology, it is clear the industry is steadily moving toward greater precision at the point of application. Variable rate systems, GPS guidance and section control have already transformed the way inputs are applied across large paddocks. The next step in that progression is finer control at the individual nozzle level,

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ensuring the sprayer can respond instantly to changes in speed, terrain and field geometry while maintaining consistent droplet characteristics.

The PSSAG SymphonyNozzle system represents a practical step in that direction. By combining pulse width modulation with individual nozzle control and integrating those capabilities with a modern in-cab display, the system allows operators to maintain both rate accuracy and droplet consistency in a way that traditional pressure based systems struggle to achieve. For contractors and growers who rely on spraying as a critical part of crop protection programmes, that combination of precision and visibility has the potential to lift both performance and confidence in every pass across the paddock.

The grass is greener.

Smart Apply

Smart Apply proves its worth for high-value

crop farmers

New Zealand wine grape growers, fruit orchardists and nut producers say they’re achieving comprehensive pest and insect control using less water and less chemical using John Deere’s Smart Apply Intelligent Spray Control System.

Smart Apply uses sophisticated LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology to sense the presence of individual trees and vines, enabling spray nozzles to automatically apply chemical only where necessary.

The system has achieved up to 93% less chemical runoff and up to 87% reduction in airborne drift, while reducing chemical use by an average of 50% which, in turn, delivered a 50% reduction in water use.

Reducing application from six vats to one

Fourth generation Mildura orchardist, Darren Minter, has been amazed by the results of using Smart Apply on 400 hectares of almond and citrus trees at Iraak, on the Murray River.

After planting 80 hectares of new almond trees, the Minters used Smart Apply on their standard Air-O-Fan band sprayer and cut chemical use from fice and a half to six vats down to a single vat.

“It saves chemical, fuel, and refilling time which adds up to quite a lot,” Darren said.

“With Smart Apply, we estimate

we saved around 20% of spray on our big trees and between 60% and 80% on the little trees, depending on the density. It’s unreal!”

Customised kit shares precision data with Operations Center

Smart Apply is a customised kit that can be installed on almost every air blast and over-the-row sprayer, transforming it into a high-tech precision spraying system.

The system’s proprietary, GPSenabled software also captures a broad spectrum of data while it sprays. The system documents date and time of spraying, litres applied, chemical savings, hectares sprayed, tree counts in smaller trees, canopy volumes to determine crop vigour, as well as crop width and height for management of the canopy.

To mitigate any risks of accidental spraying and chemical wastage, when the Smart Apply unit is switched on and auto is active, the system will only spray if the unit is inside the particular block selected in the ‘Jobs’ function.

Growers can choose to share their Smart Apply data with John Deere Operations Center farm management software to unlock another level of insights by capturing data from both the tractor and the sprayer in one single platform.

It’s an exciting development and one that will positively impact farmers’ bottom lines, said Erin Wagstaff, John Deere

Australia and New Zealand Marketing Manager for Small Ag and Turf.

“Operations Center is free and it’s a great platform for record keeping. We are actively working to bring more and more data from Smart Apply into the Operations Center,” Erin said.

“Smart Apply can capture hundreds of data points and does so in 3D as well, so it is able to provide really important insights from tree count to foliage density.

“This type of precision data leads to a deeper understanding of an orchard's or vineyard's productivity, profitability, health and sustainability, all of which are becoming increasingly important.”

Winemaker proves sceptics wrong

Fifth generation Victorian winemaker, Ben Thomson from Best’s Wines at Great Western, was quick to prove the sceptics wrong when he began using Smart Apply on grape vines three seasons ago.

At a field day he hosted to demonstrate the technology, Ben said almost half of the visitors said it would never work.

“Smart Apply has delivered a reduction of 40% in our chemical use and we’re using 40% less water, which also makes us more fuel and time-efficient because we’re not filling up as often,” he said.

“It’ll produce maps for you and you can click on each vine, and it’ll show how many millilitres you’ve applied to each vine. We’ve had two pressure seasons and no disease, so that’s the biggest proof I’ve got.”

Smart Apply = efficiency

Erin said the ability to view Smart Apply demonstrations at John Deere dealerships and trade shows across the country had been a significant step for producers.

“Many of our customers already have an established and trusted relationship with their local dealership and, now, through that same dealer network, they are able to access these additional benefits during their spraying,” she said.

For New Zealand producers heading over the Tasman Sea to Melbourne to attend Hort Connections in June, John Deere will be showcasing the Smart Apply system fitted to a mini GUSS autonomous orchard sprayer. Both products will then be available for New Zealand growers to demo across the country.

Erin said John Deere would continue to innovate to ensure that producers around the world find ways to increase their efficiency.

“Solutions like Smart Apply, 5 Series tractors and the GUSS autonomous sprayer are a part of our shared journey towards reducing the cost of production for New Zealand high-value crop producers,” she said.

“The overall goal is to optimise their efficiency by enabling them to do more with less.”

In modern spraying systems technology often gets framed around electronics, guidance and rate control, yet none of those systems can perform accurately without stable hydraulic delivery behind them. The pump remains the core mechanical component of any sprayer and its specifications ultimately dictate flow consistency, agitation performance and spray accuracy. That reality is reflected in the pump range supplied through Agtech, where selection is driven by application pressure, flow demand and duty cycle rather than simply matching tank size.

Agtech Hawke’s Bay supplies diaphragm, centrifugal and motor-driven pump assemblies centred largely around the Comet PTO pump range. These pumps span low, medium and highpressure categories allowing contractors and growers to match pump output precisely to spraying task rather than compromise performance with a one-size-fits-all approach.

Low-pressure diaphragm pumps form the backbone of most broadacre spraying systems. Units in this category typically operate up to around 20 bar, making them suited to boom spraying and liquid fertiliser work where high flow stability is more important than atomisation pressure. Models in the Comet BP Series supplied through Agtech range from compact units such as the BP60K through to highercapacity pumps in the BPS range capable of significantly larger output volumes. These pumps are designed specifically for weed control and fertiliser application in broadacre conditions where steady delivery across wide booms is critical.

Stepping up in performance, medium-pressure diaphragm pumps extend operating pressures to around 30 bar. This category is often chosen where operators need flexibility to run a boom and a hand-gun from the same system. A practical example is the Comet P48 pump, which delivers a maximum flow of around 64 litres per minute at pressures up to 30 bar while requiring only modest PTO horsepower. That output places it squarely in the range suitable

for mid-sized tanks, moderate boom widths or mixed spraying setups where both coverage and spot treatment capability are required.

At the upper end of the diaphragm spectrum are highpressure pumps designed for orchard, vineyard and highpenetration spraying. These units operate at pressures up to 50 bar, enabling finer droplet formation and improved canopy penetration. Within the Comet APS Series, pumps such as the APS41 through to the larger APS166 provide a progression of capacity options depending on airflow demand, tank size and spray rig configuration. For contractors working across multiple crop types, this ability to scale pressure output becomes central to maintaining spray effectiveness across different application environments. While diaphragm pumps dominate boom spraying, centrifugal pumps serve a different purpose. Rather than prioritising pressure stability, they deliver very high flow rates, making them suited to transfer operations or large self-propelled systems where hydraulic drive and high water volume are required. Their role highlights the fundamental trade-off in pump design. Diaphragm pumps offer pressure control and chemical compatibility, while centrifugal pumps prioritise throughput and simplicity.

What increasingly defines pump choice today is not simply output but integration with precision control systems. Electronic rate controllers and section shut-off systems rely on consistent flow delivery in order to maintain application accuracy. Any fluctuation in pump output directly influences droplet size, spray rate and overlap control. This is why modern pump selection often focuses on pressure stability curves and flow characteristics across operating rpm rather than just maximum output figures. Durability and chemical compatibility are equally important considerations. Agricultural spray solutions can include abrasive fertilisers, suspension products

and aggressive herbicide formulations. Diaphragm pumps used in agricultural spraying are designed so that spray liquid does not contact moving mechanical parts, reducing corrosion risk and extending service life. Components such as plastic-coated aluminium heads, reinforced diaphragms and replaceable valve assemblies allow pumps to withstand demanding chemical environments while remaining serviceable over multiple seasons.

Serviceability itself has become a critical design factor. Contractors now operate within tighter spraying windows and cover larger areas per day than ever before. A pump failure is no longer a minor inconvenience but a direct productivity loss. Agtech’s emphasis on spare parts availability, maintenance kits and accessories reflects this operational reality. Rapid replacement of diaphragms, valves or accumulators can mean the difference between returning to work the same day or losing an

entire weather window. Ultimately, the pump determines how effectively a sprayer converts operator input into field performance. Guidance systems can steer the machine and controllers can adjust application rate, but neither can compensate for inconsistent hydraulic delivery. When the pump provides stable flow and pressure, the rest of the system performs as designed. When it does not, even advanced electronics struggle to maintain accuracy.

As spraying technology continues to evolve, pumps remain one of the least visible but most influential components in the system. The Agtech range demonstrates how pump selection has shifted from a simple mechanical decision to a core part of spray system design. For contractors and largescale operators, the message is straightforward. Before electronics, before tank size and before boom width, sprayer performance still begins with the pump.

There are moments in agriculture when a piece of technology arrives that quietly changes how growers think about a problem they have been managing the same way for decades. Weed control has long been one of those areas where the standard approach has been relatively straightforward. A paddock is sprayed, weeds are suppressed and the crop moves on. The process works but it is inherently blunt, applying chemistry across an entire field when in reality only a fraction of the area actually requires treatment. For many growers that has always felt like an unavoidable compromise. The emergence of ultra precision spraying technology suggests that compromise may not need to exist any longer.

The Ecorobotix ARA precision sprayer represents one of the most advanced examples of that shift. Developed by the Swiss based precision agriculture company Ecorobotix, the machine uses artificial intelligence and computer vision to identify weeds individually and apply treatment only where it is needed. Rather than blanket spraying an entire paddock, the system recognises individual plants and targets them directly, dramatically reducing chemical use while maintaining effective weed control.

For New Zealand growers, the technology is now becoming more accessible through Ashburton based Reith Agri Imports, a family owned and operated agricultural equipment business with more than three decades of industry experience. Established originally as an importer of second-hand tractors and combines from the United Kingdom, the company has evolved into a specialist supplier of cultivation equipment, trailers, vegetable harvesting machinery and precision technology sourced from a range of international manufacturers. Operating from a new purpose built facility in the Ashburton Business Park, the business continues to focus on providing specialised machinery supported by strong after sales service and direct

relationships with its clients.

That approach has made the introduction of the Ecorobotix ARA into New Zealand a natural extension of the company’s portfolio. While the concept of AI driven weed detection might sound experimental at first glance, the technology is already well proven internationally. More than 600 ARA machines are currently operating across Europe, North America, South America and Australia with Ecorobotix employing more than 200 staff globally and continuing to expand into new markets. The company’s entry into Australasia during 2025 marked an important step in bringing that capability to local growers.

At its core, the ARA is a tractor-pulled precision sprayer designed to operate within existing farming systems. The machine spans 6.2 metres and travels at operating speeds of around 7.2 kilometres per hour. Across that working width sit 152 individual spray nozzles, each capable of applying treatment within a spray zone measuring just 6 by 6 centimetres. Mounted cameras scan the paddock continuously while onboard computing systems analyse the images in real time, identifying crops and weeds using trained algorithms before activating the appropriate nozzle.

From the operator’s perspective, the process remains straightforward. The system is controlled through a wireless tablet inside the tractor cab. The operator selects the appropriate crop algorithm and defines a safety zone around the plants or crop , after which the machine manages the spraying automatically. On the screen the crop plants appear highlighted in green while target weeds appear in red, allowing the operator to see exactly what the system is identifying and treating as the machine moves across the paddock.

The accuracy of that detection is impressive. The system is capable of recognising weeds larger than 2 millimetres in diameter while distinguishing crop plants greater than 2 centimetres in size. Larger species, such as docks and

thistles can be targeted once they exceed approximately 5 centimetres, making the machine suitable for a wide range of crop and pasture situations. The operator can also adjust the safety zone around crop plants, providing additional confidence when working close to sensitive or high value crops. One of the most compelling aspects of the technology lies in the reduction of chemical inputs. In situations where a grower might traditionally apply 10 litres of herbicide per hectare, the ARA can reduce usage to less than a single litre by targeting only the weeds that are actually present. The impact is not limited to chemical cost savings. Lower chemical volumes also mean reduced resistance pressure on weeds and a significantly smaller environmental footprint.

Early results from New Zealand growers suggest the technology is already proving its value in the field. Five machines are currently operating across the country with more than 3,300 hectares treated during the current season across seed crops, pasture systems and vegetable production. In one case, an onion grower was able to harvest a crop two weeks earlier than expected despite a difficult and unpredictable season, allowing the crop to be lifted before heavy pre Christmas rain arrived. That kind of timing advantage can make an enormous difference in high value vegetable systems. Equally important is the way the technology continues to evolve. Ecorobotix has already developed more than 25 crop specific algorithms, with additional algorithms currently under development. These algorithms allow the machine to recognise different crop types and weed species, and they are continuously refined

as more imagery and field data are collected. Reith Agri Imports is now working with the Ecorobotix development team to feed imagery from New Zealand paddocks directly into the system, ensuring the algorithms learn to recognise local weeds, soil conditions and crop characteristics rather than relying solely on European data.

The implications extend beyond weed control alone. Because the ARA functions as a highly precise liquid application platform, the same technology can potentially be used for other targeted applications. Selective liquid fertiliser placement, organic approved treatments and crop thinning applications are all areas where the system may eventually provide additional benefits for growers seeking more precise input management.

The company has also recently introduced a smaller companion machine called ALBA, designed specifically for turf environments such as golf courses, sports grounds and public parks. Operating at similar speeds but with a narrower 2.2 metre working width, the ALBA delivers spot spraying accuracy down to 3x3 centimetres, effectively the size of a golf ball. Equipped with 108 nozzles and a 140 litre tank, the machine is capable of treating approximately 1.6 hectares per hour while targeting problematic turf weeds such as Poa annua and other broadleaf species.

Taken together, the arrival of this technology signals a broader shift in how growers may approach weed management in the years ahead. Rather than applying chemistry uniformly across an entire paddock, the focus is moving toward treating individual plants with precision.

a review of... fertiliser technology and spreaders

Fertiliser spreading has become a precision job. Section control, variable rate technology and accurate calibration allow nutrients to be placed where they are needed and reduced where they are not, improving input efficiency and helping farmers manage both costs and environmental responsibilities.

JCB Fastrac 4220Kverneland Exacta Tl Geospread fertiliser spreader combination

There is a quiet confidence that comes with machinery built on decades of refinement and in the case of the JCB Fastrac icon 4220 from the 4000 Series, that confidence is well justified. As Power Farming takes the reins as the exclusive distributor of JCB Agriculture in New Zealand, farmers are being offered a machine that is not only different from the rest but one designed to work seamlessly with the increasingly sophisticated implements that define modern farming systems. When paired with technology such as the Kverneland Exacta Tl Geospread fertiliser spreader, the result is a combination that brings together speed, operator comfort, precision control and proven reliability in a way that reflects the changing expectations of professional farming operations. With more than 25 years of

development behind it, the JCB Fastrac has built a reputation for challenging conventional tractor design while delivering tangible gains in productivity. The 4000 Series continues that philosophy with hallmark features such as equal sized wheels, four wheel steering, 50:50 weight distribution and all round self levelling suspension. These design elements are not simply engineering curiosities but the foundation of the tractor’s balance, stability and traction which become particularly important when operating precision implements such as fertiliser spreaders where maintaining consistent speed and control directly influences application accuracy.

In fertiliser spreading operations, the tractor is not simply a power unit but a key component in the accuracy of the entire system. The ability to maintain steady forward speed, smooth handling and consistent traction across varying terrain

has a direct impact on how effectively modern spreader technology can perform. In that respect, the Fastrac platform provides an ideal partner for the Kverneland Exacta Tl Geospread, which has been developed to deliver high levels of spreading precision while remaining straightforward to operate in day to day conditions.

The Exacta Tl Geospread sits within Kverneland’s long established fertiliser spreader range and reflects the company’s ongoing investment in precision application technology. At the centre of the design is Kverneland’s signature CentreFlow spreading system, where fertiliser is released in the centre of the disc and accelerated smoothly to disc speed before reaching the vanes. The result is a spreading process that avoids impact and fragmentation of fertiliser granules, reducing dust and preserving fertiliser quality while maintaining an even distribution pattern across the working width.

Accurate dosing is maintained

through a clever weighing system that uses four load cells supported by a reference sensor. This system continuously measures the fertiliser weight and automatically adjusts the metering system in real time, ensuring that the target application rate is maintained even when travelling over slopes or uneven terrain. By compensating for shocks and changes in ground conditions, the system maintains a high level of application accuracy regardless of field conditions.

The Geospread system itself represents a further step forward in spreading precision. Working through GPS based section control, the spreader is capable of automatically adjusting its working width in sections as small as one metre, with a maximum of up to 54 sections across the spreading width. This allows the machine to reduce overlap when working in wedges, irregular shaped paddocks or along headlands, ensuring fertiliser is placed exactly where it is required while minimising waste.

For operators working with prescription maps or variable rate technology, the Exacta Tl Geospread is also capable of adjusting fertiliser rates automatically across the field. Variable rate options allow fertiliser to be applied according to soil variation, or crop demand, while the Geospread system simultaneously adjusts the spreading width to maintain an accurate distribution pattern across the paddock. The result is a spreading system that combines precise placement with efficient fertiliser use.

Capable of travelling at up to 60 kilometres per hour, the Fastrac is designed to cover ground efficiently, particularly when farms are spread across multiple blocks or when fertiliser operations involve significant travel between paddocks. Importantly, that speed does not come at the expense of control. Four wheel disc brakes with ABS, selectable four wheel steering modes and a hydrostatic dual steering system provide a level of stability and road handling that is uncommon in traditional tractor designs. For contractors and farmers moving between jobs or managing time sensitive nutrient applications, that combination

of speed and stability can make a significant difference to overall productivity.

The advantages of the Fastrac’s design become even clearer once in the paddock. The self levelling suspension system helps maintain stability, and ride quality over uneven terrain while the tractor’s balanced weight distribution ensures consistent traction. These characteristics allow operators to maintain accurate spreading speeds across varying ground conditions, which, in turn, helps the Exacta Tl Geospread maintain its precise application rates and spreading patterns.

Modern fertiliser management requires accurate application rates, uniform spreading patterns and the ability to minimise overlap, particularly along field boundaries. The Exacta Tl Geospread addresses these requirements through a combination of electronic weighing technology, adjustable spreading systems and full Isobus compatibility allowing the spreader to integrate directly with the tractor’s control interface. The spreader is available in several configurations within the Exacta Tl range, including TL, TL Geospread and TL Geospread iDC models, giving operators the ability to match the specification to their precision farming requirements.

On the Fastrac icon 4220 that integration is managed through the tractor’s advanced cab technology. The machine is equipped with a 12 inch high definition touchscreen that allows operators to control and monitor a wide range of machine and implement functions from a single interface. When operating an Isobus compatible spreader such as the Exacta Tl Geospread, the operator can adjust application rates, monitor

performance data and manage spreading functions directly from the cab display. This level of integration reduces the need for multiple control terminals and simplifies the overall operating environment.

The Fastrac’s hydraulic system also plays a supporting role in implement performance. Delivering up to 195 litres per minute of hydraulic flow, the tractor provides ample capacity for high demand implements while maintaining precise control through its configurable valve system. Although fertiliser spreading itself does not demand extreme hydraulic output, the availability of strong hydraulic capacity ensures that the tractor remains versatile across a wide range of tasks throughout the season.

Operator comfort is another area where the Fastrac distinguishes itself, particularly during long working days that are common during fertiliser application windows. The centrally mounted cab enhances the tractor’s natural balance while advanced suspension smooths out rough ground, helping to reduce operator fatigue. A 60 degree rotating heated and ventilated seat allows the operator to maintain an optimal working position, particularly when monitoring rear mounted implements.

Inside the cab the environment is closer to a mobile office than a traditional tractor workspace. Automatic climate control maintains a comfortable temperature regardless of outside conditions, while Bluetooth connectivity and customisable armrest controls ensure that key machine functions remain easily accessible. For contractors training new staff or working in shared operations, the inclusion

of a full size instructor seat adds a further layer of practicality. At the heart of the Fastrac icon 4220 sits a reliable and efficient engine producing between 167 and 218 horsepower with maximum torque of up to 1,000 newton metres. The engine’s strength lies not simply in peak output, but in its ability to deliver consistent power across a wide operating range which is essential when maintaining steady forward speeds for precision tasks such as fertiliser spreading. Combined with intelligent transmission management, the result is a machine that performs equally well on the road and in the field.

For the Exacta Tl Geospread spreader, that consistent power delivery helps ensure stable operating conditions which are vital for accurate fertiliser placement. The spreader itself is designed to deliver even distribution across wide working widths while maintaining application accuracy through its integrated weighing system and advanced section control technology. The combination of accurate rate control and stable tractor performance allows operators to apply fertiliser with confidence, knowing that nutrients are being placed exactly where they are required. Support and service also play an important role in the success of any machinery combination. With Power Farming now representing JCB Agriculture in New Zealand, operators gain access to a well established support network, including parts availability, workshop services and technical expertise. That backing ensures the Fastrac platform remains a dependable partner for a wide range of equipment, including precision fertiliser spreaders such as the Kverneland Exacta Tl Geospread.

Certificate Who should do it?

Basic

Prerequisite:

None

Standard

Prerequisite:

Growsafe Basic (or equivalent knowledge) plus one season’s spraying

Growsafe recommends that all staff using agrichemicals attend a Growsafe Basic course and at least one person from each workplace hold a Growsafe Standard certificate.

• First time agrichemical users

• Those operating under supervision

• Agrichemical users working with little or no supervision

• Those with responsibility for a workplace where agrichemicals are used

• Those managing or supervising agrichemical users

Higher level specialist certificates:

Prerequisite: Growsafe Standard (or equivalent knowledge and experience)

Advanced Managers, team leaders and decision makers who are managing large scale or higher risk operations

RCA Spraying contractors who spray for hire or reward

Calibrator Those who calibrate agrichemical spray equipment for hire or reward

Supplier Rural retail staff with responsibility for bulk storage or selling agrichemicals

What does it cover?

Practical, task-related knowledge and skills with a focus on personal safety

Safe and responsible use of agrichemicals, risk management and an understanding of regulatory and market requirements

Can be used as evidence towards WorkSafe’s Certified Handler certificate (only required for products classed as Acute toxicity category 1 or 2)

Specialised knowledge to meet market and regulatory requirements in the specific roles

Bogballe M35W fertiliser spreader

The Bogballe M35W fertiliser spreader sits firmly in the category of machines designed to remove guesswork from nutrient application, combining a proven twin-disc spreading platform with an integrated weighing system that constantly monitors and adjusts output. In an era where data-driven farming continues to rise in importance, that level of control is not simply convenient, it is essential.

At its core, the M35W is a mounted twin-disc broadcaster intended for medium to large farms and contracting operations that require both capacity and precision. Working widths extend from roughly 10 to 42 metres depending on vane selection and fertiliser type, placing the machine comfortably alongside modern tramline systems and controlled traffic layouts. Hopper capacities vary by configuration, typically reaching up to around 3,000 kg on the base model and higher on extended versions, which allows operators to cover significant hectares between refills without pushing tractor lift limits unnecessarily. That balance between payload and mounting practicality is a defining feature of the design philosophy behind the spreader.

What distinguishes the M35W from simpler broadcast spreaders is the integrated weigh-cell system. Instead of relying solely on calibration charts or pre-set shutter openings, the machine continuously measures the amount of fertiliser leaving the hopper and adjusts the outlet accordingly. This automatic calibration system ensures application remains accurate regardless of product density, granule shape or flow characteristics, which is particularly valuable when switching between different fertiliser blends or dealing with variable moisture levels in stored product.

In practical terms, that translates to consistency across the paddock. Speedrelated spreading comes as

standard, meaning the machine automatically compensates for changes in forward speed to maintain the target rate. For operators working rolling country or headland turns where speed naturally fluctuates, this function prevents the overapplication and striping that can otherwise occur with purely mechanical systems. The result is improved nutrient efficiency and reduced risk of costly misapplication.

The spreading system itself follows Bogballe’s established in-centre twin-disc design, engineered to produce a symmetrical spread pattern with overlapping trajectories that smooth out distribution. Optional section control and GPS integration allow the spreader to shut off individual zones to reduce overlap on wedges or headlands, an increasingly important feature where fertiliser application must meet both economic and environmental targets. Electronic border spreading is also available on many configurations, ensuring product is directed precisely to the paddock edge without waste or runoff risk.

Construction is another area where the machine reflects its contractor-friendly intent. Stainless steel discs and hopper components resist corrosion from aggressive fertiliser blends, while wear-resistant vanes help maintain spreading accuracy

over time. These design choices are not glamorous, but they are vital for machines expected to handle abrasive materials in exposed conditions season after season.

Control options vary depending on specification. The spreader can be run through Bogballe’s dedicated control units or integrated into Isobus terminals, allowing it to slot directly into existing tractor displays and precision farming systems. Variable rate application linked to prescription maps becomes straightforward in this setup, enabling farmers to tailor nutrient inputs to soil variability rather than applying blanket rates. As farm data platforms become more sophisticated, machines like the M35W are increasingly judged by how easily they integrate with those systems rather than by mechanical performance alone. From an operational perspective, the machine’s modular hopper extensions and configurable control packages allow it to be tailored to different roles. A farmer running a mixed cropping programme may prioritise weigh-scale accuracy and section control, while a contractor focused on output may opt for larger hopper extensions and high-speed coverage. The platform accommodates both approaches without requiring a fundamentally different machine.

Ultimately, the M35W’s

strength lies in how it combines mechanical reliability with electronic precision. The spreading discs and agitator system are designed to treat granules gently to maintain even distribution, while the weighing system ensures the machine is always working toward the correct target rate. In combination, those elements produce a spreader that is less about raw hectare capacity and more about delivering consistent, measurable results across every pass.

As fertiliser continues to represent one of the largest input costs in arable and mixed farming systems, the expectation is no longer simply to spread product but to account for it. Machines like the Bogballe M35W reflect that shift. They are built not just to cover ground but to document, regulate and optimise nutrient delivery in a way that supports both profitability and environmental stewardship.

For contractors and larger farms alike, that transition from spreading fertiliser to managing nutrients is where the M35W finds its relevance. It is not a radical reinvention of the fertiliser spreader concept, but rather a refinement of it, adding the sensors, control systems and durability needed to meet the expectations of modern farming. In that sense, its real value lies not in any single feature, but in how the entire machine works together to deliver accuracy where it matters most.

Spreaders

Farmers and contractors who need precise nutrient application and quick coverage for large areas during peak growth windows turn to Amazone. Fertiliser application is one of the most important management tools a farmer has.

Fertiliser is an investment and when applied correctly it delivers a measurable return. Higher yields mean more saleable or feed product, and better crop quality improves market or feed value. Stronger pasture growth lowers feed costs for livestock; incorrect rates or uneven spreading can quickly reduce the return on that investment. For livestock farmers, in particular, more pasture means higher stocking rates and improved animal performance.

Fertiliser application is not simply about feeding plants but about sustaining a farming system that builds resilience and stable yields across seasons. When soils are deficient, plant growth slows, root development weakens and yields decline. When nutrients are managed correctly, they drive long term productivity and underpin both profitability and environmental responsibility.

Amazone takes much of the guesswork out of achieving accurate application. Precision spreading technology delivers

even coverage, reduces overlaps, minimises environmental losses and ensures nutrients are applied exactly where they are needed. This level of control becomes especially important near waterways or environmentally sensitive areas where fertiliser placement must be carefully managed.

Amazone’s development approach centres on resource use efficiency, crop uniformity and environmental stewardship. Their fertiliser spreaders represent a significant step toward autonomous precision spreading. The technology is engineered to deliver excellent border control and accurate distribution at high speeds while integrating with electronic control systems and GPS guidance so operators can complete wide and even spread patterns across large paddocks. Modern fertiliser practices are increasingly guided by the principles of the four Rs: applying the right product at the right rate, at the right time and in the right place. Amazone spreaders are designed to support these principles by ensuring fertiliser is delivered precisely when and where it is required which helps boost productivity while saving time and money and supporting smarter nutrient management across the farm.

Across the range Amazone spreaders are built to deliver

both capacity and accuracy. Machines are available with high fill capacities and optional hopper extensions which reduce refill frequency during busy spreading periods. Twin disc centrifugal spreading systems ensure even distribution across the full working width while robust construction allows the machines to withstand heavy seasonal workloads. Optional weighing systems, together with electric or hydraulic drive options and modern terminal control, provide precise rate management and easy adjustment from the tractor cab. Integration with GPS and precision agriculture tools allows operators to combine fertiliser spreading with variable rate technology and accurate field mapping.

With both mounted and trailed machines available, the Amazone range provides solutions suited to a wide variety of farm sizes cropping systems and contracting operations.

Tractor mounted spreaders attach directly to a tractor’s linkage and are well suited to smaller and medium sized farms, or contractors who require flexibility and manoeuvrability. The ZAX represents the entry level twin disc spreader designed for small to medium operations, offering a compact hopper and working widths of up to around 18 metres. Moving up the range, the ZAM provides a more professional specification with

hopper capacities of up to around 3,000 litres, and working widths reaching approximately 36 metres. Built with stainless steel components and reliable control systems, the ZAM has become a widely used machine for farmers who require both durability and spreading accuracy.

For higher output operations, the ZAV offers increased capacity and higher working speeds of up to around 30 kilometres per hour, while maintaining accurate application rates. Where maximum output is required, the ZATS sits at the top of the mounted spreader range offering hopper capacities of up to approximately 5,000 litres and working widths of up to around 54 metres. This model is built around Amazone’s TS spreading system which delivers particularly precise distribution across wide working widths.

For larger farms and contracting businesses working across extensive areas, Amazone also offers trailed spreaders which are pulled behind tractors and provide significantly greater capacity. The Zg Ts range features high capacity trailed spreaders, equipped with the TS spreading system delivering wide working widths of up to around 54 metres along with advanced electronic control systems designed for precision agriculture. The Zg Tx combi spreader takes the concept further by offering a flexible machine capable of both fertiliser and lime spreading. Designed for high output work, the Zg Tx combines broad working widths with advanced rate control, and border and headland optimisation which makes it particularly suited to large scale farming or contracting environments.

Amazone continues to push the boundaries of fertiliser spreading technology with its latest development, the ZATS 01 Ultra. This machine marks a new era in intuitive spreading systems and has already received an Agritechnica innovation award. Early demand for the machine is expected to be strong and numbers will be limited during the first release phase with the full range scheduled for wider launch in 2027. The ZATS 01 introduces technology designed

to fundamentally change the way fertiliser is applied in the field. One of the most significant innovations is the new AutoSpread system which has been implemented for the first time in an Amazone spreader. AutoSpread acts as an autonomous solution for optimising fertiliser distribution by continuously monitoring the actual spread pattern of the fertiliser as it is applied. The system automatically adjusts machine settings to maintain optimum distribution across the working width.

Combined with an intelligent online connection to the Amazone Spreader Application Centre, the system permanently validates the spread pattern during operation. This means the operator no longer needs to manually adjust settings during spreading because the machine continually measures the spread pattern and automatically corrects it where necessary. Through this process the spreader effectively self adjusts by measuring its own distribution pattern and making corrections in real time. The technology also allows permanent

optimisation across all spreading scenarios, including automatic determination of the correct switching points for section control. Continuous validation of spreading accuracy is maintained through the online connection with the Spreader Application Centre while the system reduces time spent on traditional fertiliser testing procedures in the field. It can also warn the operator of faulty or defective spreading vanes before distribution errors occur. Overall reliability is improved through detailed evaluation of the fertiliser application process within the AmaConnect data platform.

Alongside AutoSpread, the ZATS 01 introduces a completely new software platform that brings a range of digital innovations designed to make operation more intuitive and efficient. Existing technologies such as ArgusTwin HeadlandControl, WindControl, and Section Control were previously separate systems but are now integrated together through AutoSpread. This integration allows each technology to operate with greater accuracy and

coordination, ensuring that every part of the paddock receives the correct fertiliser rate.

Additional precision features further improve field performance. CurveControl ensures accurate fertiliser application, even when spreading around curves. A new border spreading setup allows the operator to simply enter the distance to the field boundary before starting work with

the machine, automatically optimising the border spread pattern and allowing the distance to the field edge to be individually adjusted. The BorderTs border spreading system is fully integrated into the machine’s operation and the system also records complete and accurate documentation of border spreading activities, including the actual working widths used during application.

Sky Agriculture

In New Zealand farming, fertiliser is too valuable to waste. Whether it’s nitrogen ahead of a grazing round in Waikato or base nutrients across a Canterbury cereal block, the priority is the same: apply the right rate, in the right place, with minimal fuss. Choosing the correct spreader is no longer simply about capacity. It is about accuracy, adaptability and ease of use.

Sky Agriculture structures its mounted fertiliser spreader range in three clear steps: the DX Series, the DX+ WPB range and the X Series Econov models. The progression reflects the varying scale and precision demands across New Zealand farms.

The DX series is built for straightforward, everyday reliability. Designed for dairy platforms and mixed operations, these machines focus on consistent spreading without unnecessary complexity. Mechanical setup is simple, adjustment points are clear and hopper sizes suit medium tractors common on owneroperated farms. For businesses applying routine nitrogen or maintenance fertiliser, that simplicity matters. Operators can hitch, calibrate and spread with confidence, keeping the focus on pasture management rather than machinery settings.

For farms seeking tighter rate control, the DX+ WPB range adds integrated weighing systems that provide real-time feedback. As hopper weight changes during spreading, the

system automatically maintains the target application rate which is easily adjustable from the tractor cab through the Isobus Quartz 600 touchscreen console or the tractor's own Isobus compatible screen. The practical benefit is immediate: reduced risk of under- or over-application, particularly when working with variable fertiliser products. Arable growers gain greater certainty in nutrient budgeting; dairy farmers see more consistent pasture response and improved feed planning. Importantly, added precision does not mean added complication. Calibration remains logical, and an inclinometer guarantees extremely accurate measurements even on slopes. At the top of the mounted range sit the X40+ and X50+ Econov models, where section control and patented Speed Control technology come into play. On narrowing runs, curved headlands and variable terrain, automatic section control reduces overlap by adjusting the spread pattern as the machine moves through the field. Speed Control maintains distribution accuracy even as forward speed changes. The result is cleaner headlands, improved crop or pasture uniformity and measurable fertiliser savings over time. For large arable units working tight weather windows, wider working widths mean fewer passes.

For dairy support blocks, precise section management

supports both economic and environmental objectives. Matching model to operation ultimately comes down to scale and nutrient management goals. DX delivers dependable simplicity. DX+ WPB introduces weighing-backed accuracy.

X Series Econov provides advanced precision for highefficiency systems.

Beyond mounted options, Sky Agriculture has extended its offering with the new Falcon T range of trailed fertiliser spreaders built to handle everything from granulated fertilisers to lime, wet bulk and organic products.

The Falcon T range is engineered around three principles: speed, precision and versatility. Its patented Speed Control technology adjusts the spreading pattern automatically according to forward speed, while brushless electric motors and a new intelligent dosing unit provide constant responsiveness. Dynamic weighing systems — using up to six load cells and hundreds of measurements per second — compensate for slope and temperature, ensuring consistent application regardless of terrain.

Precision extends to GPSmanaged curve control, independent left-right rate modulation and advanced border management. Together, these systems aim to guarantee accurate dosing per hectare under varied conditions.

The most striking feature is versatility: operators can switch from spreading granulated

fertiliser to wet bulk or lime in approximately seven minutes, without tools. For operations juggling multiple nutrient types, that flexibility reduces downtime and increases seasonal efficiency.

A standout innovation within the Falcon platform is FertiEye, a system awarded a silver medal at Agritechnica Innovation Awards 2025. Using image recognition and artificial intelligence, FertiEye analyses a photographed fertiliser sample, measuring particle size and morphology before automatically calculating and transmitting optimal spreader settings automatically via WiFi. Rather than relying on generic databases or lengthy laboratory testing, farmers can obtain calibrated adjustments in seconds. Given industry research indicating that inaccurate fertiliser settings can increase application error risk by more than 30 percent, the potential gains in efficiency and environmental protection are significant.

Capacity across the 4-model Falcon T range spans from 7,500 to 16,000 litres. Multiple configurations — including Econov+, PRO and CaP variants — ensure suitability for precision-focused arable systems as well as limespecialist operations.

For New Zealand farmers facing rising input costs and tightening environmental expectations, the message is clear. The right spreader is not simply a machine; it is a management tool. Whether through the straightforward dependability of the DX series, the weighing-backed assurance of DX+ WPB, the section-controlled intelligence of Econov, or the high-capacity adaptability of the Falcon T, modern spreading technology is evolving toward one goal: delivering the right rate, accurately and efficiently, in conditions that demand nothing less.

Across all the Sky Agriculture spreader offerings, usability and simplicity remains central — a necessary focus in an environment where nutrient application is increasingly scrutinised.

Kuhn

Precision fertiliser application has always been one of those operations where consistency matters far more than speed alone. Across large blocks of land the difference between an even spread and a slightly uneven one can quietly influence crop performance for months afterwards. For contractors and farmers alike the challenge has long been the same; ensuring nutrients are placed evenly across the full working width while maintaining the efficiency required to cover ground quickly when conditions allow.

It is within that space that machines such as the Kuhn Axis 50.2 H EMC fertiliser spreader have been developed. Built as the largest model within the Axis mounted spreader range, the 50.2 combines high capacity with a suite of technologies designed to maintain spreading accuracy across wide working widths. With a working width ranging from 12 to 50 metres and hopper capacities from 3,200 to 4,200 litres, the machine is clearly aimed at larger farming operations and contracting businesses where productivity and precision must work together.

At the heart of the spreader’s design sits Kuhn’s EMC system, short for Electronic Mass Flow Control. Unlike conventional fertiliser spreaders that measure the flow of fertiliser by weighing the entire hopper, EMC works by measuring what is happening on each spreading disc individually. Sensors positioned beneath the discs monitor the torque required to drive them, which directly reflects the quantity of fertiliser flowing through the outlets.

Because the system measures the flow independently on the left and right discs, the spreader can automatically adjust the opening of each outlet to maintain the programmed application rate. If fertiliser characteristics change or a partial blockage occurs on one side, the system compensates immediately without affecting the opposite side. The result is a spreading pattern that remains consistent across the full working width rather than drifting unevenly across the paddock. This individual disc monitoring

is a key distinction compared with traditional hopper weighing systems. When a conventional spreader detects a change in flow it can only adjust both outlets simultaneously because the measurement is taken from the hopper as a whole. EMC, instead, identifies exactly which side of the machine needs correction and adjusts that outlet alone, ensuring the intended application rate is maintained across the full spreading width.

Supporting this system is Kuhn’s CDA distribution design which governs how fertiliser is delivered onto the spreading discs. The metering outlets are positioned close to the centre of the discs so that fertiliser is supplied evenly to the vanes. By maintaining a consistent drop point and steady product flow the system helps preserve an even spreading pattern across a wide range of fertiliser types. Different fertiliser products behave differently when spreading. Granule size, density and moisture content can all influence how fertiliser travels through the machine and across the paddock. By controlling the drop point precisely and stabilising the flow to the discs, the CDA system allows the spreader to maintain a uniform distribution whether applying urea, ammonium sulphate, NPK blends or other granular products.

Section control technology is another important part of the Axis 50.2 H EMC package.

The Varispread Pro system continuously adjusts the effective spreading width by altering the fertiliser drop point on the disc. This is achieved using electric motors known as SpeedServo, which react significantly faster than traditional hydraulic cylinders. The faster response allows the spreader to adjust the spreading pattern rapidly as it approaches paddock boundaries, irregular field shapes or previously treated areas. By progressively narrowing the spreading width, the system reduces overlap and helps avoid areas of double application that can occur on headlands or tapering field edges.

Accuracy at the start and finish

of each run is further improved through the Optipoint system. Rather than relying on the operator to judge the moment to open or close the outlets, Optipoint calculates the correct point automatically based on the fertiliser type and the forward speed of the tractor. The system then activates the outlets so that fertiliser lands precisely where it should across the headland boundary.

The Axis 50.2 H EMC also uses a hydraulic drive system for the spreading discs. Unlike mechanically driven spreaders that rely on the tractor’s PTO speed, the hydraulic system maintains a constant disc speed regardless of engine rpm. This allows operators to work at lower engine speeds while still maintaining the correct spreading pattern and working width.

Beyond the mechanical aspects, the spreader integrates with modern precision farming systems through full Isobus compatibility. Using compatible terminals such as Kuhn’s CCI displays, operators can import

application maps, adjust spreading rates automatically and document fertiliser applications directly from the tractor cab.

The ability to link fertiliser spreading with GPS mapping and variable rate technology reflects the broader direction of nutrient management in modern farming. Rather than treating every hectare identically, fertiliser can be applied according to soil variability, crop demand or previous yield data ensuring nutrients are placed exactly where they will deliver the greatest benefit.

Taken together, the technologies built into the Kuhn Axis 50.2 H EMC show how fertiliser spreading has evolved from a relatively simple field operation into a precise agronomic process. Accuracy across wide working widths, continuous monitoring of fertiliser flow and integration with digital farm systems all play a role in ensuring nutrients are applied consistently and efficiently across the paddock.

Precision in fertiliser application is usually framed around technology. We talk about rate control and section shut off, we reference Isobus integration, digital scales and spread pattern testing. We analyse bout widths and product density and debate the merits of variable rate maps. All of it matters and modern spreaders are remarkably capable machines, but there is another side to precision that sits beyond the hardware and software. It comes back to a far simpler question - who is sitting in the seat?

Contracting has never been more demanding. Machinery is more advanced and compliance expectations continue to rise. Clients expect professionalism, accuracy and reliability every time you pull into the farm. A fertiliser truck arriving at the gate now represents more than tonnes per hectare - it represents nutrient management plans, environmental accountability and the reputation of the business on the door.

No matter how sophisticated the technology becomes, performance still comes back to the operator.

That thinking sits behind Hanzon Jobs, a specialist recruitment business working alongside contractors across New Zealand to place skilled Northern Hemisphere operators into silage, spreading, harvesting and cultivation crews. Over the past few seasons they have worked shoulder to shoulder with contracting businesses and, as they describe it, a pattern keeps repeating itself. The crews that run best are the ones that are organised early.

In Northland last season Glen Lugtigheid had Zoe Stanbury and Alex Barbackreturn, with Nathan Frankland joining alongside. The difference was immediate.

“They’ve done a season, become one of us,” Glen said. “They remember the farmers, know the farms; it makes my life so much easier.”

In spreading work, that familiarity carries real weight - knowing the contours of a property and where gateways tighten, understanding how wind moves across a paddock and where shelterbelts will influence spread pattern, remembering which client wants documentation emailed before you leave the gate. Those details are not captured on a screens they are built through experience and reinforced by continuity. Not every operator returns year after year and that is the nature of seasonal work, but when a placement fits well, the benefits compound. There is less repetition and less second guessing. When workload builds and weather compresses the season, there is less pressure in the yard and on the road. For fertiliser contractors operating under increasing scrutiny around nutrient placement and environmental impact, that reduction in friction is significant; confidence in the cab translates directly into performance in the paddock.

The real gain is not simply in having someone return for a second season - it is in getting the right fit from the start.

In the Central North Island Darragh Greenan and Kieran Nixon did not know each other before arriving. They stepped

into key roles with Josh Carston’s crew as chopper driver and triple mower operators. They were strangers when they landed but preparation shortened the adjustment period, crews settled quickly and workflows tightened. When the season inevitably compressed, the foundations were already in place.

That emphasis on preparation reflects another point Hanzon Jobs makes clearly; this is not a CV forwarding service detached from the realities of a contracting yard. The team comes from contracting backgrounds and understands what it means to hand someone the keys to high value machinery in the middle of a tight season. As contractors often tell them, “You understand it because you’ve done it.”

That lived experience shapes how operators are assessed. In fertiliser and spreading work, the difference between someone who says they can run a high capacity spreader and someone who genuinely can is not academic. It shows up in both accuracy and product stewardship, it shows up in how machinery is treated at the end of a long day and how the business is represented on-farm.

When Hanzon Jobs talks about operators, they are referring to people who will respect the machinery, represent your business well, understand documentation and compliance requirements and slot into a crew without friction. Those qualities are not secondary to technical skill; they underpin it.

Technology continues to lift the bar. Spreaders now weigh product to the kilogram and adjust automatically for changes in flow characteristics. Integration with farm nutrient

plans is increasingly seamless, but none of that prevents poor outcomes if loading is careless, calibration is rushed or basic machine care is overlooked. Precision equipment still depends on disciplined operators. Looking ahead to the 2026 season the next intake of staff will arrive in September and October. The pattern is familiar. Contractors who are calm in August are usually the ones who booked in early. Those under pressure are often the ones who waited. Early organisation is not simply about filling a seat, it is about building a team that understands expectations around precision application before the first load is tipped into the shed.

If you already know you will need a silage harvester driver, a baler operator, a tractor driver for drilling or mowing or an all rounder capable of moving between roles, the conversation needs to start now. In fertiliser work especially where timing, compliance and public perception intersect, the person in the cab carries more than operational responsibility - they carry the standing of the business.

In a feature dedicated to fertiliser technology and spreaders it is right to celebrate innovation. New systems improve accuracy and efficiency and they matter to the bottom line, but precision is not confined to steel and software. It is embedded in people and planning. Product placement matters and so does people placement. For contractors preparing for 2026 that may be the most important decision made long before the first paddock is spread.

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Fertiliser technology is increasingly moving toward precision delivery rather than simple bulk spreading. Liquid and suspension systems are gaining traction because they allow nutrients, biologicals and trace elements to be applied more accurately and at lower rates, improving efficiency while reducing waste. The Tow and Fert Multi 4000 sits firmly within that transition, built as a high capacity liquid fertiliser system designed to combine mixing, transport and application into one integrated machine.

At the core of the Multi 4000 is its 4,000 litre tank which allows the machine to treat roughly 30 to 40 hectares per load depending on application rate. With a delivery range from about 50 to 500 litres per hectare, operators can tailor nutrient placement to pasture demand, crop stage or soil conditions rather than applying uniform blanket rates. That flexibility is central to modern fertiliser strategies where performance is measured in nutrient uptake rather than tonnes spread.

The system is designed around dissolving fertiliser directly on-farm rather than transporting pre mixed liquids. Tow and Fert’s agitation setup allows fine particle fertilisers to be loaded straight into the tank without pre mixing, reducing handling time and eliminating the dust associated with granular spreading. For urea users, the tank can dissolve significant volumes of product into water, allowing nitrogen to be applied as a liquid rather than broadcast granules. This approach supports more even

distribution and reduces losses through volatilisation or uneven spreading patterns.

Agitation performance is supported by dual drive options. Mixing can be powered either by PTO at 1,000 rpm or by a hydraulic motor supplying around 55 litres per minute. This allows the machine to be matched to different tractor hydraulic capacities while ensuring fertiliser particles remain in suspension even in heavier mixes. Maintaining that suspension is critical for even nutrient delivery, particularly when applying biological products or trace mineral blends that could otherwise settle during transport.

Delivery performance centres on a stainless steel centrifugal trash pump driven hydraulically. The pump provides high flow output, capable of maintaining boom pressure while supporting continuous recirculation within the tank. This ensures the solution remains uniform and that application rates remain stable across the full boom width. Stable flow is essential in liquid fertiliser systems, because uneven delivery immediately translates into uneven pasture response.

Working widths typically fall in the 18 to 22 metre range depending on boom configuration, allowing the machine to cover ground efficiently without sacrificing application accuracy. At typical operating speeds, the Multi 4000 can achieve substantial daily coverage, transforming liquid fertiliser from a niche option into a practical broadacre tool for both contractors and

large scale grazing operations. Structural design reflects the weight carried by liquid fertiliser mixes. With a dry weight around three tonnes and a loaded weight approaching ten tonnes depending on solution density, the machine is intended for tractors in the 120 horsepower class and above. The trailed configuration spreads this load across the chassis while maintaining manoeuvrability across paddocks and headlands, helping reduce compaction compared with machines carrying similar volumes on a single frame.

Operational efficiency is also built into the loading process. With the optional crane system, several tonnes of fertiliser can be loaded quickly, allowing faster turnaround between fills and ensuring the machine spends more time working in the paddock rather than sitting in the yard. This becomes particularly valuable in autumn and spring when nutrient response is highly timing sensitive and weather windows can be short.

Beyond nitrogen delivery, the Multi 4000 reflects a broader shift toward multi product nutrient systems. Liquid application allows operators

to incorporate trace elements, biological stimulants and soil conditioners into the same pass. Combining inputs in this way reduces traffic across paddocks, and enables more targeted nutrient programmes that respond to plant and soil requirements rather than relying solely on seasonal spreading cycles.

From a systems perspective, machines like the Multi 4000 highlight how fertiliser technology is evolving away from simple spreading toward controlled nutrient placement. By dissolving fertiliser on-farm, maintaining it in suspension and delivering it evenly across wide booms, the machine bridges the gap between conventional bulk fertiliser and precision liquid application. That capability supports a more measured approach to nutrient use where efficiency, timing and placement matter as much as product choice.

For contractors and large scale operators, the appeal lies in integration. The Multi 4000 is not just a sprayer and not just a mixer but a complete nutrient delivery platform capable of handling solid inputs, converting them into liquid solutions and applying them in a single workflow. As fertiliser costs rise, that ability to apply exactly what is needed, where it is needed and when it is needed becomes increasingly valuable. In that sense, the Tow and Fert Multi 4000 represents more than a machine. It reflects a shift in fertiliser thinking from volume to precision, from bulk distribution to targeted application and from separate processes to integrated systems designed to make every kilogram of nutrient count.

For much of the past century fertiliser strategy in New Zealand has been dominated by what goes on the soil rather than what goes on the plant. Granular nitrogen, spreaders and aerial topdressing have shaped the rhythm of pasture management, and for good reason. They have delivered scale, simplicity and predictable results across diverse farming systems. Yet as environmental pressure increases and seasonal conditions become less predictable, farmers and contractors alike are starting to look more closely at how efficiently nutrients are actually being used once they are applied. That shift in thinking is one of the reasons foliar fertilisers are attracting renewed attention, and it sits at the heart of the approach taken by Progro. Foliar fertilisers are not a new concept, but they are being reconsidered in a new context. Rather than replacing conventional fertiliser programmes, they are increasingly viewed as a way to complement them, delivering targeted nutrition directly through the leaf when soil conditions limit uptake. By bypassing the root zone, foliar nutrients can be absorbed quickly and used immediately by the plant, a benefit that becomes particularly relevant during dry spells, cool soil temperatures or periods of rapid growth when

nutrient demand outpaces supply. In those situations, timing often matters as much as total application rate, and the ability to feed the plant directly can make a measurable difference to performance.

Progro’s approach has been to simplify that concept for farmers who do not have the time or inclination to blend their own solutions. Its products are supplied as ready-to-use liquid fertilisers designed for specific growth stages or seasonal conditions, with each formulation combining nitrogen with macro nutrients, trace elements and biological stimulants.

The intention is to remove guesswork, allowing operators to apply a balanced nutrient package rather than focusing solely on nitrogen inputs. By delivering nutrients through the leaf while also supporting soil biology, the system aims to improve overall nutrient efficiency and reduce losses through leaching or volatilisation.

One of the key drivers behind interest in foliar fertilisers is the growing recognition that lush pasture growth does not always equate to high feed value. Rapid spring growth, for example, can dilute protein and mineral content, producing bulk without the nutritional density animals require. Foliar blends applied at the right stage can help sustain nutrient balance during those high-growth periods, supporting

both yield and feed quality rather than simply chasing tonnage. In that sense, the role of foliar nutrition aligns with a broader shift in farming away from input volume and toward input effectiveness.

Application also fits naturally into existing spray programmes, which is one reason contractors are taking notice. Foliar fertilisers can often be applied alongside crop protection products, reducing the need for separate passes and allowing nutrition to be delivered as part of routine field operations. In a contracting environment where efficiency and timing are critical, that integration can make the difference between a product being used or overlooked. It also reflects a wider trend toward multi-purpose passes, where each trip across a paddock is expected to deliver more than one outcome.

The environmental dimension is another factor shaping interest in products like Progro’s.

Nutrient losses from soil-applied fertilisers remain a major concern

for regulators and catchment groups, particularly in regions facing water quality constraints. By improving uptake efficiency and reducing the proportion of nutrients left in the soil system, foliar approaches have the potential to lower losses while still supporting production. For farmers balancing regulatory expectations with economic pressure, that possibility is increasingly relevant.

None of this suggests that foliar fertilisers are a silver bullet. Soil fertility remains fundamental, and no amount of leaf feeding can compensate for poor soil structure or long-term nutrient depletion. What foliar nutrition offers is a more responsive tool within a broader nutrient management strategy, allowing farmers to address short-term deficiencies, support growth during stress periods and finetune feed quality when it matters most. Used that way, it becomes part of a system rather than a replacement for one.

For contractors and growers alike, the growing interest in

Precision Farming

Precision agriculture often conjures images of high-spec tractors, RTK correction signals and complex data platforms, yet for many farms the most significant gains still come from improving the basics. Fertiliser placement, spray coverage and irrigation positioning remain tasks where small errors quickly compound into wasted inputs, uneven growth and unnecessary compliance headaches. Spreadify has been developed squarely for that reality, offering a guidance and recording system that works with the machinery farmers already own rather than requiring expensive new hardware.

At its simplest, Spreadify is a GPS-based guidance app that runs on a smartphone or tablet, allowing operators to map, guide and record on-farm applications without installing dedicated in-cab systems. That simplicity is central to its appeal. Instead of treating precision farming as a specialist add-on, the system lowers the entry barrier, turning any tractor, ute or sprayer into a basic guidance platform. For farms that self-spread fertiliser or manage their own spraying programmes, that shift from analogue to digital workflow can deliver immediate practical gains.

The core function is straightforward. The app provides visual guidance across paddocks so operators can see exactly where product has already been applied and where coverage is still required. This reduces overlap, missed strips and inconsistent placement, which are among the most common inefficiencies in manual spreading. Even small overlaps quickly inflate fertiliser costs across a season, while missed areas can lead to uneven pasture response that persists for months. By simply keeping operators on track, the system addresses one of the

most fundamental drivers of application accuracy.

Beyond guidance, Spreadify also acts as a recording tool. Every application can be logged automatically, capturing details such as timing, location and product use. This digital paddock diary becomes increasingly valuable as regulatory expectations tighten and nutrient tracking requirements grow more formalised. Instead of reconstructing records at the end of the season, farms can maintain an ongoing, verifiable log of where nutrients have been placed and when.

The compliance dimension is particularly relevant in the New Zealand context. Nitrogen caps, freshwater farm plans and nutrient budgeting frameworks all rely on reliable proof of application data. Spreadify connects directly to the wider Precision Farming platform, allowing information to flow automatically to fertiliser suppliers or farm management systems. Integration with tools such as MyBallance and Hawkeye means proof-of-application data can be returned without manual paperwork, reducing both administrative workload and the risk of reporting errors.

From an operational standpoint, this connectivity transforms the app from a simple mapping tool into part of a broader farm data ecosystem. Orders, application maps and compliance records can all align within a single digital workflow, reducing duplication and improving transparency across the season. For contractors working with multiple clients, this type of integration can also streamline job management and reporting, ensuring information flows both ways between farmer and operator.

Another practical advantage lies in versatility. Although

fertiliser guidance is the most obvious application, the same system can guide spraying operations, effluent placement and even irrigation sprinkler positioning. This multi-use functionality reflects how modern farms operate, where machinery and labour are often shared across tasks and where any tool that can support several jobs becomes more valuable than one dedicated to a single function.

The irrigation element is particularly noteworthy. On farms using pods or sprinklers, accurate placement can influence water distribution, energy efficiency and pasture response. By recording previous placements and timing shifts, the app introduces a level of repeatability that is difficult to maintain through memory or paper notes alone. Over time, this type of record can help identify patterns in water use and improve scheduling decisions.

Importantly, the system’s design philosophy avoids overwhelming the user with complexity. Precision agriculture tools sometimes struggle because they demand significant training or workflow changes before benefits are realised. Spreadify instead focuses on ease of adoption, with a familiar app interface and minimal setup requirements. That accessibility means the technology can be used by any operator on the farm

rather than being confined to a single tech-savvy individual.

From a broader industry perspective, tools like Spreadify signal a shift in how precision farming is evolving. Rather than relying solely on expensive machinery upgrades, innovation is increasingly arriving through software that enhances existing equipment. This approach spreads the benefits of precision technology more widely across the sector, allowing smaller operations to access capabilities that were once restricted to large capital-intensive farms.

In that sense, Spreadify’s value lies less in any single feature than in how it fits into the everyday rhythm of farm work. It does not attempt to replace high-end guidance systems or variablerate controllers. Instead, it fills the gap between traditional manual spreading and full-scale precision platforms, offering a practical stepping stone that delivers immediate accuracy improvements while laying the foundation for more advanced data use in the future.

For self-spreading farmers and contractors alike, that balance between simplicity and usefulness may be the system’s greatest strength. It turns everyday spreading into a documented, guided process, helping ensure that every pass across the paddock contributes to productivity rather than uncertainty.

foliar fertilisers reflects a wider change in how fertiliser is viewed. The conversation is shifting from how much nutrient is applied to how effectively that nutrient is used, and from blanket application toward targeted

timing. Progro’s ready-mixed formulations sit within that trend, offering a practical option for operators who want to deliver balanced nutrition quickly and efficiently without complicating their workflow.

As farming systems continue to evolve, tools that improve nutrient efficiency are likely to become more important rather than less. Foliar fertilisers will not replace traditional programmes, but their role as a complementary

tool is expanding. For many farms, the question is no longer whether to use them at all, but how to integrate them effectively into an overall strategy that delivers both production and sustainability.

Break feeding gear so winter crops go the distance. We

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Award-winning MF 9S brings proven high horsepower performance to New Zealand

Massey Ferguson has introduced its new MF 9S Series to New Zealand, bringing to the local market a high horsepower tractor range that has already earned international recognition for its design, performance and operator comfort.

Developed as the next evolution of the MF 8700 S platform, the MF 9S Series is Massey Ferguson’s new flagship for large-scale farming and professional operations where long working days, heavy draft loads and transport efficiency are critical.

Since its European debut, the MF 9S has received multiple international awards, including the Red Dot Design Award, recognising its engineering, innovation and operatorfocused design ahead of its New Zealand arrival.

The MF 9S Series comprises six models from 285hp to 425hp, offering flexibility to match power and specification to demanding applications such as cultivation, forage harvesting and high-capacity transport. All models feature Massey Ferguson’s Protect-U design, which isolates the engine from the cab to reduce noise, heat and vibration while improving visibility, a practical advantage during long days and precision work.

At the heart of the MF 9S Series is a well-proven six-cylinder, 8.4-litre AGCO Power engine. The engine complies with Stage V emissions regulations using a simplified ‘All-in-One' system that removes the need for an EGR valve, instead relying on a single advanced turbocharger. This streamlined approach reduces complexity and maintenance requirements while maintaining strong performance under sustained load.

Engine Power Management (EPM) is available across the range, providing additional power during PTO and hydraulic applications at transport speeds above 15 km/h. With high torque available at low engine speeds, the MF 9S is designed to maintain productivity in heavy draft conditions without

excessive fuel consumption.

The MF 9S comes standard with Dyna-VT continuously variable transmission, giving operators smooth, precise speed control for both fieldwork and transport. Massey Ferguson also highlights a new Automatic Mode, with speed controlled via the MultiPad lever or foot pedal, designed to simplify operation as loads and conditions change.

Fuel capacity has been increased to support extended operating hours, with a 660-litre diesel tank and a 68-litre AdBlue tank enabling long days in the field or on the road without frequent refuelling. The engine is also approved for use with HVO fuel, offering an option to reduce emissions without compromising output.

Cab comfort and usability remain a key focus of the MF 9S Series. The spacious cab, combined with reduced in-cab noise and vibration, is designed to limit operator fatigue during extended shifts. Integrated technology options, including MF Guide, MF AutoTurn and MF Connect, support precision operation and machine monitoring, making the MF 9S well suited to modern farming and contracting businesses working to tight seasonal windows.

For those wanting to experience the MF 9S in realworld conditions, two models, the MF 9S.340 and MF 9S.400, are currently on demonstration in New Zealand. These units allow operators to assess performance, visibility and comfort in their own working environment. Interested buyers can contact their local Massey Ferguson dealer to arrange a demonstration.

The MF 9S Series is now available to order, allowing customers to specify a machine that suits their operation ahead of upcoming seasons.

With its combination of high horsepower, proven engineering and operator-focused design, the MF 9S reinforces Massey Ferguson’s commitment to delivering straightforward, dependable machinery for

The MF 9S Series comprises six models from 285hp to 425hp. LEMKEN EC-Weeder hoeing implement One weeder for all needs.

New Zealand’s rural sector. To learn more, visit www. masseyferguson.com/en_nz.

The LEMKEN EC-Weeder is a true all-rounder among hoes. It is suitable for all crops that are cultivated in rows and can be individually configured to suit the location thanks to a wide range of tool options

Harris

Power Farming to launch Väderstad’s nextgeneration Tempo row unit at Fieldays

Väderstad, one of the world’s leading companies in tillage, seeding and planting has recently launched the next generation row unit for the Tempo planter. During the last 15 years, Väderstad Tempo has set the global benchmark for high-speed planting precision. The new row unit takes that legacy even further.

The row unit is the heart of the planter and it is key to the high-speed planting precision that Väderstad Tempo is known for. In 2026, Väderstad is introducing the nextgeneration row unit for Väderstad Tempo.

Over the years, the current row unit has been continuously refined with new features and improved accuracy. But this time, the company went back to the drawing board. The result is not just an upgrade – it’s a complete redesign, says Oskar Karlsson, Vice President Product & Development Planters, at Väderstad.

“After years of development, testing, and fine-tuning, the company is ready for the new generation row unit - taking the next step in agronomic precision, userexperience and field performance,” he says.

The new row unit comes with a long list of new features. The most visible change is the new design, giving the machines a more modern and refined appearance.

“Throughout development, the team focused on user-friendliness, making every step of operation smoother and more intuitive. To boost performance, they have added more cab-controlled functions, such as electronic planting depth setting

and electronic closing wheel pressure adjustment. These enhancements allow farmers to control the machine directly from the cab while on the move,” says Oskar.

Another major focus during development has been planting precision.

“For example, the development team found a way to tighten the seed disc angles to ensure an even narrower seed furrow. This leads to even better seed placement at high planting speeds,” says Oskar.

To match different farming needs, the new row unit can be configurated with a full range of options and features.

The row unit is available in both a centralfill version with a 5-litre mini-hopper, as well as a standard version with a larger seed

The next-generation row unit for the Väderstad Tempo planter focuses on improved planting precision, user control and overall field performance.

hopper on the row unit.

The new row unit will be fitted to all Tempo product models from June 2026. At the same time as the new row unit enters serial production, the current row unit will be discontinued.

The generation II Tempo row unit will be on display at the Power Farming stand at the 2026 National Fieldays. For further information get in touch with your local Power Farming dealer.

2026 Deutz-Fahr American Signature Series arrives

Deutz-Fahr New Zealand is proud to introduce the strictly limited 2026 American Signature Series, offering New Zealand operators a unique opportunity to secure premium American specification Agrotron Professional Series tractors with market leading purchase terms.

Due to recent market volatility in the United States, an oversupply of high specification inventory has become available, prompting Deutz-Fahr America to release selected units to the global market. For New Zealand, this creates a rare moment to obtain top-tier machinery with enhanced specifications, immediate ordering availability and an approximate delivery period of three months.

All tractors within this exclusive promotion arrive finished in the iconic Deutz-Fahr green and include the standard manufacturer’s warranty of two years and or 2,000 hours.

Four key models have been highlighted as well suited to our market and growing horsepower requirements. These tractors span three separate ranges and weight classes providing customers a choice of options from within this limited time offer.

A CVT continuously variable transmission is standard across all machines, including the 6180 TTV and range topping 6230 TTV, 7250 HD TTV and 8280 TTV tractors.

All four models feature Deutz-Fahr’s MaxiVision cabin, characterised by the use of high-quality materials and bestin-class comfort for acoustics and vibration dampening. Each machine features electro hydraulic spool valves as standard, a 12 inch iMonitor, Maxcom armrest, PowerCom joystick and Isobus connectivity. LED lighting is standard including a Leather XXL Grammer air suspended seat with integrated climate control. The range topping models also feature an upgraded pneumatic cabin suspension system to provide a best in class operator experience. Upgraded high performance hydraulic pumps span 160 – 210 L/min hydraulic flow on demand catering for the most demanding

implement requirements. In addition, Front linkage and PTO is standard on the 6230, 7250 and 8280 models. The 8280TTV even features an electronically adjustable two-stage front PTO for greater fuel economy. Loader ready variants are available on both six series models with completely integrated electronic loader controls.

All units are GPS ready featuring integrated hydraulic steering valves and can be sourced with the latest Agrosky SR20 receiver. The receiver being capable of utilising a range of correction services including, UHF RTK, Corrs Ntrip and a range of paid subscription services.

To top off this American package, all tractors feature Trelleborg tyres as standard, albeit in a range of sizes. Configurations span from a traditional 650/65R42 on the 6180 TTV whilst the range topping 8280 TTV features 800/70R38 rears.

The American Signature Series offers New Zealand buyers an unmatched opportunity to access American spec professional tractors with outstanding promotional terms. These tractors are in strictly limited supply with volume allocation limited for each model. For more information on how you could get behind the wheel of one of these high specification tractors, talk

to your nearest Power Farming dealer today.

6180 TTV Loader Combo –premium mid horsepower versatility

The 6180 TTV Loader Combo provides a refined balance of power, operator comfort and loader ready capability making it an ideal solution for mixed farming operations and contracting applications. Featuring a 6.1 litre Deutz engine producing 192 horsepower with power boost. This powerplant is mated to a TTV continuously variable transmission, delivering seamless acceleration and precise control at transport speeds up to 50 km/h. The American specification includes a suspended front axle and 160 L/ min sophisticated closed centre hydraulics delivering impressive flow to multiple remotes.

The Maxi Vision cabin is built for long day performance with a Hi Vis roofline, mechanical cab suspension, an instructor seat for training or supervision and a Bluetooth enabled sound system. LED lighting ensures clear visibility during night work or low light conditions. With factory integrated loader

The limited American Signature Series brings high specification tractors to the New Zealand market with premium features and strong transport and hydraulic performance.

controls and compatibility with Deutz-Fahr’s professional loader systems, the 6180 TTV Loader Combo stands out as a highly capable all rounder.

6230 TTV FL & PTO / Loader

ready / loader combo – the flagship of the 6 Series Representing the highest specification available within the 6 Series lineup, the 6230 platform delivers exceptional capability with a 217 horsepower rated output and up to 230 horsepower via power boost.

The American Signature Series configuration utilises the T7540 Compound TTV transmission, engineered to optimise torque delivery, towing strength and low rpm efficiency in demanding applications.

These tractors arrive equipped with factory front linkage and a 1000 RPM PTO, enabling complete compatibility with a wide range of front and rear mounted implements. The hydraulic system is among the most advanced in its class, featuring a 160 L/min closed centre load sensing pump and multiple electronic rear remotes offering exceptional control for attachments requiring precision

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oil flow. Inside the MaxiVision 2 cab, operators gain access to climate controlled leather seating, a dedicated instructor seat, a high definition 12 inch iMonitor interface and full Isobus connectivity with TIM compatibility and Agrosky steer ready. LED lighting and American market tyre packages, including 710/70R38 rears, complete the advanced specification. Available as a Loader Ready option the 6230 TTV is designed to meet the expectations of contractors, large-scale farmers and operators who demand versatility and premium performance.

7250 TTV HD FL & PTO –heavy

duty high performance

The 7250 TTV HD brings the engineering strength of the 7 Series to a new level with an American spec heavy duty configuration. Powered by a Deutz TCD 6.1 Stage V engine producing 246 horsepower, this tractor offers remarkable pulling power supported by the highly efficient T7780 TTV transmission capable of reaching 60 km/h where regulations allow. With a maximum permissible weight of 16 tonnes and a payload capacity of up to 6.5 tonnes, the HD model is built for serious work. A front linkage with a lift capacity of 5,450 KG and a 1000 rpm PTO create full implement flexibility. Additionally, 210 L/min closed centre hydraulic system with Power Beyond capability delivers exceptional stability and flow for even the most demanding implements. The tractor is equipped with dry front disc brakes, adaptive front axle suspension, radar assisted wheel slip control and EasySteer functionality for improved

manoeuvrability.

Inside, the American cabin specification includes pneumatic cab suspension, premium leather seating, DAB+ Bluetooth connectivity, a monitor rail for precision farming displays and a large 12 inch iMonitor. This model is engineered to support operators tackling heavy draft work, high-speed transport and contractor level workloads.

8280 TTV – The Elite 287 HP contractor’s machine

The 8280 TTV represents the pinnacle of the American Signature Series, delivering 287 horsepower through a dual turbo Deutz TTCD 6.1 engine that generates exceptional torque at low engine speeds. This model is renowned for its high transport capability thanks to dry front disc brakes enabling speeds of up to 60 km/h while supporting a maximum permissible weight of 16 tonnes.

Advanced hydraulic functionality includes 210 L/min flow with up to five electronic rear remotes and optional front remotes. 8280 TTV models feature an unmistakable premium appearance with chrome accents, full LED lighting delivering up to 50,000 lumens and exclusive interior enhancements, including high comfort leather seating. The 8 Series is available with an optional SR20 GNSS receiver and SDF Fleet Management connectivity package. This collectively makes the 8280 TTV one of the most technologically advanced tractors ever released by Deutz-Fahr.

Ideal for contractors requiring maximum horsepower, long distance transport efficiency and high capacity hydraulic performance, the 8 Series stands in a class of its own.

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Fendt drives precision and innovation at leading pine nursery

When Patrick Murray took over his family’s pine seedling nursery in New Zealand, he saw an opportunity to disrupt an entire niche industry. More accuracy, better engineering and smarter machinery would unlock more production per hectare.

With Trimble guidance and Fendt 300 Series tractors working in perfect sync, Murray Nurseries now trims roots within 4.5 cm of each plant, sprays the entire farm in 12 hours instead of months, and pushes output toward an incredible 17 million seedlings per year.

Three Fendt tractors - a 313 and two 312 Series - run highly specialised nursery implements with the precision needed to maximise space, speed and consistency across the operation.

When your crop is more valuable than gold kiwifruit, there are plenty of incentives to increase output per hectare. That is why Murray Nurseries have developed their own planting, trimming and spraying implements for their Pinus radiata seedling operation. They have also invested in top-end Fendt tractors and Trimble guidance to run those

implements with the precision needed to maximise every centimetre of their farm.

The Murray family started producing radiata pine seedlings on their 38-ha Woodville nursery in 1961. It is the largest single site pine seedling nursery by production in the

Repeatable accuracy and careful machinery setup are key factors in high-output nursery and horticulture systems.

StrictSprayPlus

• Reduce the amount of chemicals used by only applying in the desired area

• Turn compensation delivers 100% spray coverage everywhere, regardless of travel speed or location of crop in comparison to boom movement

• Spray pressure is measured by StrictSprayPlus by change in speed of liquid through each nozzle plus spray pattern droplet size

• Prevent overlapping and overdosing with single nozzle shut-off

• Pressure independent speed control enables the crop to receive the desired amount irrespective of the flow speed

• Fast switching nozzle opens and closes up to 100 times per second with StrictSprayPlus

• Increase longevity of the valves with a more precise spray pattern, whilst still achieving optimal coverage

country, providing seedlings to forestry businesses in both the North and South Islands. Patrick is the second generation of the family to run the seedling business. He took over in 2011, and he has poured a lot of effort and resources into boosting its efficiency.

When he took over, Patrick could see the niche industry’s technology and farming practices desperately needed to improve. An initial step was to work with his engineer to develop a 10-row vacuum seed sower. He also adopted GPS and reconfigured his beds and row spacings to produce more seedlings in the same area. He and his team went on to design and build more implements - a hooded sprayer, a lateral root trimmer and an under cutter (which slices the tap root at a precise depth in preparation for harvesting).

By 2020 they had increased their output from 8.5 million seedlings per year to 11.5 million. Since then, they have increased it further to 16.6 million and they have a target output of 17 million. “We reduced the spacing between bed centers from 162 cm to 160 cm. A difference of 2 cm might not seem like much, but it allowed us to add another bed to the nursery. That alone increased our capacity by 800,000 trees,” Patrick says. “Our tractors are on narrow 270-mm or 300mm crop tyres and we use highly accurate GPS and implement steering to perform all our tasks precisely.”

Early on Patrick began working with Trimble to achieve the repeatable cm-level accuracy

that the nursery requires. “We have our own base station to provide RTK signal correction, so we do not have to depend on any network. Our implements are all mounted rather than trailed, to reduce the space needed for turns on the headlands.”

Each implement is fitted with a Trimble NAV receiver and a steering cylinder driven by a proportional valve. This gives them the ability to adjust according to signals from the tractor’s GPS.

The system is not cheap to install. Patrick says it costs about $85,000 to kit out each tractor and implement with GPS, but it delivers both precision and speed. For example, spraying the full farm used to be done over several months by two or three labourers with backpacks. Now it can be done with the hooded spraying unit in 12 hours. “Our rows are on 9-cm spacings. This means that when we use our lateral trimmer to trim the seedlings’ side roots, the discs are making cuts 4.5 cm from the plants. We can do that at 7 kph.”

Murray Nurseries uses three Fendt 300 Series tractors, a Fendt 313 and two Fendt 312s to operate their precision implements. Patrick says they got their first Fendt in 2014, and they added the other two as the operation has expanded. He says they never hesitated to get another Fendt each time it was necessary to add another tractor to the fleet. “We bought our first Fendt because of the Vario hydrostatic drive. We believe it is the most accurate and reliable transmission

Precision guidance and specialised machinery are helping increase production and efficiency in high-value nursery operations.

available. Fuel economy is not a big issue for us because each tractor only does about 350 hours/year, but we really need the accuracy to grow 17 million trees in a limited space. “It is easy to monitor and run our equipment with the Fendts. The implements all require different oil flows, which we have pre-programmed so we can easily move the tractors between them. The Fendts also have a very good power-to-weight ratio, which is very important to us. We require a reasonable amount of horsepower, but we want our tractors to be as light as possible to reduce compaction and provide good manoeuverability.”

The Fendts 300 Varios also work very well with Murray Nurseries’ Trimble guidance system. Each tractor has automatic steering as well as a Trimble touchscreen which, Patrick says, provides a nice logical operating system.

“Our Fendt 313 uses a hydraulic proportional valve for auto steer. One of the 312s uses electric auto steer and the other 312 came with Fendt’s auto steer ready setup. “All of them work well but the auto steer ready tractor is the nicest. It integrates smoothly with the Trimble guidance and engages quickly.”

Murray Nurseries has worked with Vantage NZ to develop its high-intensity, high-accuracy seedling nursery. They have purchased all of their Fendt tractors from TRC in Feilding, who also provide all the back-up support they need.

Modern tractors paired with precision technology are enabling specialised operations to improve productivity while reducing labour requirements.

Work Smarter

From silage to grain — lift more, load faster, keep your operation moving.

Features a 115hp DEUTZ TCD 4-cylinder engine, 4WD hydrostatic drive with EPD, and a 85L fuel tank for powerful, efficient performance. 3300 7

*Terms & conditions apply. Contact your dealer for details.

Optimised engine and transmission management delivers lower fuel consumption and reduced operating costs. Automatic system adjustment optimises power delivery and hydraulic response, helping operators work safely and efficiently.

Largest cab in its category with excellent visibility improves comfort and productivity during long shifts.

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