MANAGEMENT
MACHINERY
NEWS
Roller-coaster ride for lavender farmer. PAGE 26
Claas Jaguars on the prowl in 2017. PAGE 37
New Zealand’s red meat sector looks forward to greater opportunities in South Korea. PAGE 9
TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS FEBRUARY 7, 2017: ISSUE 623
www.ruralnews.co.nz
High hopes for trade PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
PRIMARY INDUSTRY Minister Nathan Guy hopes formal negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between New Zealand and the European Union (EU) will begin later this year. Guy told Rural News that Prime Minister Bill English had two ‘fantastic’ weeks in Europe recently, where he met his counterparts. NZ has strong historic relationships with Britain and the EU, both important markets for NZ, Guy says. “Relationships are going to be important, and English met British PM Theresa May at 10 Downing Street, where they hit it off. I also had a good discussion with my counterpart there and I will be in Europe and UK midyear. “More ministers and officials will
visit Europe to work on relationships and trade.” Guy says a recipe for success in sorting out trade issues with the UK and EU is having industry and government officials and politicians giving out the same messages. A technical working group set up soon after the UK Brexit vote is proving useful. “This involves key officials from
MPI, MFAT and NZTE to ensure we are aligned because it is pointless to have industry running off and talking to someone without the left hand knowing what the right hand is doing,” he says. “We need a united front where industry and government work constructively together to protect our long term access and enhance further discussions.” Guy says NZ’s longstanding sheep-
meat quota in the EU is valuable and needs to be protected. He sees opportunity for growth in the EU and UK, but says NZ must work constructively on the details. Guy says things in Asia are better, with that region open for business. Work is underway on upgrading the FTA with China and Guy expects a sorting of protocols on chilled meat exports. – Revised TPP? Page 3
TOP CROP! Stuart Wright seen with a good crop of blue peas being harvested on his dryland cropping farm at Sheffield, Canterbury, last week. He says the plants were standing up well and the combine was not leaving a thing. “It’s really, really good.” Wright expects a yield of up to 50 tonnes of the highprotein blue peas, destined for stock food. The pea straw will be baled for the home gardener market. – More page 5. PHOTO NIGEL MALTHUS
Get sorted for the new milk cooling regulations. Sign up for a milk cooling assessment to see what you might need to do to be compliant. Comprehensive assessment of your on-farm dairy refrigeration
Gutless grass PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
WITH THE wet in the west of the country, a key component for fattening lambs is missing. This is both red and white clover, which enhances stock performance, says professor Steve Morris, of Massey University. But the lack of sunshine has reduced the amount of the plant in pastures in wetter areas such as Manawatu. Professor Peter Kemp, also from Massey, says the conditions in many western regions have not been conducive to clover growth. He says cloudy wet days impede photosynthesis, which in turn reduces the quality of the pasture. Some farmers have described their pastures as ‘gutless’ – meaning there is little nutritive value in these. In many cases, dairy farmers have been forced to feed out supplements to keep their cows milking, while lambs have taken longer than normal to reach killing weights. There is a theory that lambs perform better with a ‘bit of sun on their back’, but there is no evidence to support this. • More on weather pp6-7 @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
FREE Milk Cooling Assessment
Continuous monitoring using data loggers over four milkings A no obligation summary report including analysis and comparison of your plant performance with the new NZCP1 milk cooling standards and recommendations tailored to your individual dairy refrigeration needs Book in for a milk cooling assessment today.
How are you tracking? Let’s talk. 0800 878 837
D IN H E B R E W O P E H T D N A L A E Z W E N G IN FARM DEUTZ-FAHR AGROFARM 100GS
DEUTZ-FAHR M600
94,990
$
+GST
72,990
$
+GST
140HP, 6 CYLINDER • Electronic Deutz Engine • 4 Speed PTO • Cab Suspension • 24x24 Transmission
100HP, LOADER COMBO • User Friendly Comfort Clutch • 40kph Road Speed • True 4 wheel Braking • 40x40 Trans
DEUTZ-FAHR 5105
1000cc diesel engine 12” ground clearance 725kg payload 590kg towing capacity Power Steering
19,990
$
PAYMENTS FROM $57/WEEK*
KIOTI RX8030
KIOTI DS3510 35HP LOADER COMBO • 4WD, Power Steering $
23,980
• 8x8 Transmission • Heavy Duty Build • 540/1000RPM PTO
80HP LOADER COMBO • 4WD Power Steering • FWD/Rev Power Shuttle • 24x24 Transmission
PAYMENTS FROM $68/WEEK*
2 YEAR/1000 HOUR WARRANTY
4 YEAR POWERTRAIN WARRANTY
2 YEAR/2000 HOUR WARRANTY
deutznz
49,990
$
+GST
• • • • •
1000CC 2200 UTV
+GST
KIOTI MECHRON
deutztractors.co.nz
+GST
84,990
$
+GST
105HP, CAB, LOADER COMBO • Tier 4 Common Rail FARMotion Engine • Wet Clutch Power Shuttle / Power Shift Trans • Stop & Go Function
PAYMENTS FROM $140/WEEK*
kiotitractors.co.nz
kiotinz
DEUTZ-FAHR & KIOTI TRACTOR FINANCE AVAILABLE | 0% INTEREST OR 5 YEARS OR 10% DEPOSIT* WE’LL PAY YOUR INTEREST
PARTS AND SERVICE With over 100,000 parts lines and overnight delivery†, we keep downtime to the absolute minimum. Here’s a couple of products available today:
THEN 1/3 JAN 2018
THEN 1/3 JAN 2019**
WHANGAREI Power Farming Northland .......... 09 438 9163 DARGAVILLE Power Farming Northland ............ 09 439 3333 PUKEKOHE Power Farming Auckland ............... 09 239 1200 MORRINSVILLE Maber Motors ........................... 07 889 5059 TE AWAMUTU Power Farming Te Awamutu ..... 07 870 2411 TAURANGA Capital Tractors & Machinery .......... 07 543 0021
A non-drip product for use in chainsaw bar/ chain lubrication.
FROM
7,350
$
INCL GST
PAY 1/3 DELIVERY
3 EQUAL PAYMENTS
CUTTER BAR & CHAIN LUBE 4 Litre
aitchisonseeding.co.nz
WHAKATANE Jacks Machinery ........................... 07 308 7299 ROTORUA Truck & Tractor Services ....................... 7 349 6528 GISBORNE Power Farming Gisborne .................. 06 868 8908 HASTINGS Power Farming Hawkeʼs Bay ............ 06 879 9998 HAWERA Power Farming Taranaki ..................... 06 278 0240 FEILDING Power Farming Manawatu ................... 6 323 8182
*Weekly & Monthly payments based on 40% deposit (total GST paid in month 3) with 260 weekly or 60 monthly payments at 3.99%. Terms and conditions apply. **Normal lending criteria and conditions apply. For a limited time only. † Subject to availability, order cut-off times and courier restrictions.
ON E N AME CO V E R S IT ALL
1750
$
SHOP INSTORE OR ONLINE MASTERTON Power Farming Wairarapa ............ 06 370 8240 NELSON Brian Miller Truck & Tractor ................... 03 544 5723 BLENHEIM Marlborough Tractor Services ........... 03 572 8787 GREYMOUTH Power Farming West Coast ........... 03 768 4370 CHRISTCHURCH Power Farming Canterbury ......03 349 5975 ASHBURTON Power Farming Ashburton ............ 03 307 7153
www.powerfarming.co.nz
KNOCK ON KIT Suitable for all Kverneland Ploughs.
13995
$
+GST
GENERATION 3000 SERIES • Ability to sow accurately from 1kg up to 350kg of seed per hectare • Disc Coulter as standard • Price shown based on model AT-GF3014D
+GST
N EW
GRASSFARMER
partsdirect.farm TIMARU Power Farming Timaru ......................... 03 687 4127 DUNEDIN Power Farming Otago ........................ 03 489 3489 GORE Power Farming Gore ................................ 03 208 9395 INVERCARGILL Power Farming Invercargill ....... 03 215 9039
powerfarmingnz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
NEWS 3 ISSUE 623
www.ruralnews.co.nz
Lincoln confident of new Agri Hub NIGEL MALTHUS
NEWS ��������������������������������������1-14 MARKETS ��������������������������� 16-17 AGRIBUSINESS ����������������18-19 HOUND, EDNA ���������������������� 22 CONTACTS ����������������������������� 22 OPINION ����������������������������22-25 MANAGEMENT �������������� 26-30 ANIMAL HEALTH ������������ 31-33 MACHINERY AND PRODUCTS ���������������������� 34-38 RURAL TRADER �������������������� 39
HEAD OFFICE Top Floor, 29 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland 0622 Phone: 09-307 0399 Fax: 09-307 0122 POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 331100, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 Published by: Rural News Group Printed by: PMP Print CONTACTS Editorial: editor@ruralnews.co.nz Advertising material: davef@ruralnews.co.nz Rural News online: www.ruralnews.co.nz Subscriptions: subsrndn@ruralnews.co.nz ABC audited circulation 80,580 as at 31.09.2016
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY remains confident of the Lincoln Hub project despite concerns raised by a Treasury report on progress on the first stage building. The university and AgResearch are the lead partners in the hub, with Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and DairyNZ as shareholders, and others expected to join as tenants. The idea is to facilitate agricultural science research, teaching and development by improved collaboration between the participants. Lincoln and AgResearch are planning to house the hub in a new $206 million building, with construction due to start at the end of this year and be complete by the end of 2019. However, the Treasury’s Interim Major Projects Performance Report, released in November, gives the first stage building project an amber/red rating, a downgrade from amber. Amber/red is defined as “successful delivery of the project requires urgent action to address major risks or issues in a number of key areas. Changes to
budget, schedule, scope or benefits may be necessary if the project is to be delivered successfully.” The report says the amber/red assessment is because: The future financial viability of a key partner (Lincoln) is uncertain which presents significant financial risk for the investment Specific benefits attributable to the project and contribution to the strategic objectives and benefits of the related Lincoln University, AgResearch and the Lincoln hub programme business cases are unclear. Although already extended, the timeframe for submitting the business case to Cabinet in January 2017 looks challenging given these key issues. However, a Lincoln university spokesman confirms that the required business case was delivered on January 31 to Tertiary Education Minister Paul Goldsmith. In a statement a few days before the deadline, Lincoln University’s chief academic officer, Bruce McKenzie, said preparation of a detailed business case was “on track”. “Detailed work has been done
on benefits expected from the hub in terms of new ways of working, increased collaboration and sharing of resources by partners, and greater efficiencies gained by the partners. We are also confident of the benefits to be accrued for the land-based industries and wider economy the hub will support.” McKenzie says the university is undergoing a ‘Refreshing Lincoln’ programme, including changes in its financial management. “This year the university is expecting to produce a net operating surplus of $1.3 million – up $3m on the 2016 forecast, largely driven by the university’s fitness programme to contain and cut costs, mitigate risk, enhance productivity and improve student choice.” However, McKenzie declined to release details of the business case, as it was “confidential and commercially sensitive”. The Treasury report notes that it is the spe-
cific building project being scrutinised, not the overall hub concept. It is one of 53 major projects contained in the report, including a national bowel cancer screening initiative, several Canterbury quake rebuild projects and a major navy frigate upgrade. The report says its assessments are not a judgment about whether a project or idea is good or bad, but indicate whether a project is “on track to deliver its intended benefits within existing constraints”. Tertiary Education Minister Paul Goldsmith received the Ag Hub’s business case last week.
REVISED TPP A POSSIBILITY? NATHAN GUY says some kind of trade deal with the US may still be possible, despite President Trump saying no to the TPP. Trade Minister Todd McClay is planning to meet his counterparts in the next few
months to test the waters for a deal. “We need those discussions, particularly because the biggest opportunity for NZ exporters is Japan, which is big for horticulture and beef. So we are keen to engage
with the rest of the countries [in the TPP] to see if we can still harvest the benefits of the TPP. “Rather than the whole thing falling over, it is still worth trying to progress a TPP without the US.”
President Trump’s withdrawl of the US from the TPP has meant other options are been looked at by NZ.
THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB FREE MAKITA POWERTOOLS WITH EVERY TROJAN AND MUDBUG
ED IMEPACT R F ILL AN
SZM0283
DR DRIVER SET WORTH When there’s work to be done you need rugged, reliable machines that won’t let you down no matter what. They’re tried and true, no-nonsense work bikes – designed for NZ conditions and built to last. And right now if you buy a new DR200SE or TF125 we’ll throw in some free Makita tools – just what you need to get the job done.
549 $6
WITH SUZUKI DR200SE TROJAN
FREE
32CC CHAINSAW WORTH
$329 WITH SUZUKI TF125 MUDBUG
Offer not available with any other promotion and must end 31 March 2017 or while stocks last. Makita EA3200S Chainsaw and DLX2180X Drill and Impact Driver Set are covered by their own manufacturer’s warranty and cannot be exchanged for cash. See your dealer for details or go to www.suzuki.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
4 NEWS
Trade role boosted Dairy leader steps down PETER BURKE
peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
BEEF + Lamb NZ is planning to step up its lobbying of industry groups in the US, UK and EU in the light of Brexit and Donald Trump’s election as US president. BLNZ chairman James Parsons told Rural News
he expects to visit the US and the northern hemisphere this year to help protect access for NZ beef and sheepmeat. He says the issue of trade is now much higher, and risks and uncertainty are greater in these markets. Two BLNZ directors are now in those regions and others will visit later
Stock up.
SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
James Parsons
in the year. “It’s to maintain good relationships with our counterpart farming groups in Europe and US and stay close to the NZ government to see how things might unfold. “We are not looking to profit and don’t see Brexit as an opportunity. It’s more to ensure there is no disruption to trade in Europe and the UK.” BLNZ doesn’t have an office in the US and Parsons says most trade policy issues are handled by Wellington staff who are experienced and know
the US well. The objective is maximum results for NZ farmers without the expense of staff offshore. Parsons says the lack of an FTA with Japan – which Australia has – is a problem. “We are already seeing our exports into Japan decline by about 11% since Australia signed up their FTA. “We’d hoped the TPP would level the playing field for our beef.” Parsons says lower tariffs on beef exports to Japan would be great for NZ farmers.
DAIRY INDUSTRY leader Michael Spaans is stepping down from two key roles to deal with a health issue. He has resigned from Fonterra’s board and has temporarily stepped aside from his role as DairyNZ chairman. Spaans, who milks 500 cows at Te Aroha, will continue as a DairyNZ director. DairyNZ says director Barry Harris will take on the role of acting chair. Stepping aside will help Spaans focus on Michael Spaans recovering from his illness, Harris says, wishing him and his family well. Fonterra chairman John Wilson says Spaans’ tireless contribution to the dairy industry has been “significant inside and outside” the Fonterra boardroom. “Michael, a dairy farmer, came up through the ranks, spending time on the NZ Dairy Group shareholder council and then the Fonterra shareholders council before building his governance experience outside the industry,” Wilson says. “As a result, his insights and experience are invaluable, particularly on Fonterra’s milk price panel, audit and finance committee and the cooperative
relations committee.” Fonterra has agreed with Spaans’ decision, but says when he is recovered he should consider standing again for the Fonterra board. The co-op has appointed Ian Farrelly to fill the vacancy left by Spaans. Farrelly spent nine years as a Fonterra director until retiring in December last year. Wilson says the Fonterra constitution allows for an appointment to fill a casual vacancy; Farrelly will stay until the 2017 annual meeting. “We are grateful he has agreed to continue his contribution to Fonterra.” Spaans is also a director of ASB Bank and Shoof International Ltd.
LET’S COPY AUSTRALIA! ANDROVAX PLUS EWES = 20% MORE LAMBS Want a quick boost to your lamb production? Androvax® plus improves flock performance, instantly increasing lambing percentages by an average of 20%. Ask your vet about how Androvax plus can help you lift your lambing percentages.
PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
BEEF + Lamb NZ’s chief executive Rod Slater is keen to see NZ’s National Lamb Day on February 15 get as big as the Australian equivalent, held annually on Australia Day. “Absolutely, the day receives more attention each year and we would love to see it cemented in Kiwis’ calendars,” Slater told Rural News. “We consider NZ lamb a national icon and we wanted to give Kiwis a day to celebrate it. “It also gives us another opportunity to recognise the
hard work of our farmers and processors and to tell their stories on this day.” This year BLNZ is running a special event at the British High Commission, which gives another opportunity to tell the farmers’ and processors’ story to the media, food writers and government ministers. “In addition, we will be encouraging people to either cook lamb at home with family and friends or perhaps try one of our Beef and Lamb Excellence Awards restaurants where they’ll be guaranteed a beautiful lamb dish.” The day is aimed at both pro-
moting domestic consumption and celebrating pride in one of our best products. “February 15 was chosen because it marks the date 135 years ago when the first shipment of sheep meat left Otago bound for London on the Dunedin, a real milestone in establishing our thriving export community,” says Slater. In Australia, National Lamb Day is a controversial event. As a response to declining lamb sales, the Australian Meat and Livestock Corporation recruited former Aussie Rules footballer and media personality Sam Kekovich in 2005 to be its ‘Lam-
tunnel houses
AVAILABLE ONLY UNDER VETERINARY AUTHORISATION. ACVM No’s: A7886. ®Registered trademark. Schering-Plough Animal Health Ltd. Phone: 0800 800 543. www.msd-animal-health.co.nz NZ/ADXP/0915/0004
ELE-02025H-RN
Grow vegetables all year round Very affordable and easy to install New Zealand designed and made 35 years producing tunnel houses Range of models sized from 2m - 8m t/f
03 214 4262 |
e
morrifield@clear.net.nz
www.morrifield.com
bassador’. Kekovich’s first message – a 90-second diatribe – condemned vegetarians as unAustralian. Annual advertising has continued to promote lamb for Australia Day, resulting in a spike in lamb sales in the week leading up to the national holiday. But the advertising has also provoked controversy and complaints. NZ’s National Lamb Day was introduced in 2007 by then Agricultural Minister Jim Anderton and reintroduced last year in the hope of cementing the day as an annual event. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
CAMBRIDGE FARM ROLLERS
NEW 10ft Roller with Extension Drawbar & Screw Jack $6900 Vee Ring Roller Seeder Drill with Vee bottom seed box, hydraulic clutch, ext. drawbar, ........................ $18,800 Special rollers made to order, • All prices ex-Factory, Excl GST • Spare parts, Rings and Bearings. Competitive freight rates to the North Island $ 26"dia rings ............................ 90.00 Ph: 0800-838 963 24"dia rings ............................$85.00 AUSTINS FOUNDRY LTD 131 King Street, Timaru www.austinsfoundry.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
NEWS 5
Harvest goes up in smoke! HIGH SUMMER in Canterbury is a busy time, with crops ripening for harvest. At Sheffield, dryland cropping farmer Stuart Wright was last week burning off the stubble from a 6ha barley field harvested about two weeks ago. Meanwhile, his combine harvester was working nearby on a large field of blue peas. Wright sings the praises of burning-off as a quick and efficient way of preparing the land for its winter cover. The burn leaves it ready for nearly immediate light cultivation and sowing – in this case probably grass for winter lambs. On a sunny but not hot north-easterly day, smoke plumes on the horizon showed that some of Wright’s neighbours were also taking advantage of the conditions. Dragging a rake through the stubble quickly spread the flames around the perimeter. Once the middle caught, the whole burn was over in minutes. Wright says burning-off is safe “as long as you follow the basics and burn when conditions are right. As a rule you never burn in a nor’wester because the humidity’s so much lower and the wind strength could be stronger.” It’s also good for crop
hygiene. Wright says prolonged fire restrictions last season prevented burning-off and as a result he had a crop
plains, and taking water from the Waimakariri and Kowai Rivers, the Sheffield scheme is expected to be operational by next
Wright sings the praises of burning-off as a quick and efficient way of preparing the land for its winter cover. which suffered “terrible” Argentine stem weevil and had to be re-drilled. “One huge fire risk is gone. That’s the other thing – we’re getting rid of the fire risk.” Meanwhile, Wright’s long-time combine driver Paul Bellamy was at work nearby harvesting about 8ha of blue peas. The plants were standing up well and the combine was “not leaving a thing,” said Wright. “It’s really good.” He expected a yield of up to 50 tonnes of the high-protein blue peas, destined for stock food. The pea straw would be baled for the home gardener market. Wright, the current Potatoes NZ chairman, also grows several varieties of mainly seed potatoes. His potato harvest is due to start in about a month. Meanwhile, a big change is coming to the farm in the form of irrigation via the Central Plains Water Ltd’s Sheffield scheme. Physically separate from CPWL’s main scheme on the
summer. Wright says it will enhance his cropping operation and he does not intend to convert to dairy. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
FEED QUALITY AND SILAGE TESTING SEAL6761RN5
NIGEL MALTHUS
At Hill Laboratories, our Feed Quality and Silage Quality testing provides the information you need to ensure your stock receive nutritionally balanced feeds. Feeding stock with high quality pasture, supplemented with additional feedstuffs, ensures optimal animal health and performance!
FOR MORE INFO FREEPHONE
0508 HILL LAB (44 555 22)
www.hill-laboratories.com
UEEN MARGARET HOUSE Queen Margaret House: Opening 2018 Queen Margaret College is Wellington’s leading independent school for girls offering a dual qualification pathway of either the IB Diploma or NCEA. From 2018, Queen Margaret College will provide onsite student accommodation for girls Year 9 to 13 in the purpose built hostel, Queen Margaret House.
To enrol, visit qmc.school.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
6 NEWS
The wet, the dry and the ugly PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
A BIZARRE weather pattern is dividing the country right down the middle, with some areas facing serious drought and others swamped with too much rain. Primary Industry Minister Nathan Guy has been to one of the drier regions, Northland, and says unless there is rain soon a drought may be declared. Likewise, he says, Hawkes Bay, Gisborne, parts of the Bay of Plenty and North Canterbury are on his watch list. On the other hand, Guy says, farmers in some western parts of the country are wondering when they will next see the sun. Lisa Murray, of MetService, says this summer has been an extension of spring, and the country is effectively divided in two by the weather patterns. In many western areas farmers can’t harvest crops because the ground is so wet and other crops in these areas are much later maturing than normal. “Conversely, Northland, Coromandel, Gisborne and Hawke’s
Bay are particularly dry. For example, well back on their weaning weights. in January Napier had just 4.5mm of Now farmers are offloading them as rain, whereas it usually gets 64mm stores and at low prices because they in that month,” she told Rural News. have run out of feed, so it’s a double “Even the new weather patterns mean whammy.” Foley says there is virtually no feed there isn’t a lot of rainfall on the cards for Hawke’s Bay. Some farmers there left for sheep and only cattle feed available. He reckons have to buy water just to even farmers who do their washing.” A weak la Nina have grown crops are Murray says a weak now watching these la Nina pattern has the pattern has the shrivel up because of country in a neutral country in a the lack of rain. Dairy phase, opening it up all neutral phase, farmers in the region sorts of variations. have also been badly Federated Farmers opening it up hit by the dry spell, Hawke’s Bay provincial all sorts of some facing the president, Will Foley, prospect of drying off is looking at setting up variations. their cows early. a drought committee But it’s not all bad because of the region’s news, he says. “The other side of the plight. “A week ago I was saying this is the North Island is in a better position, normal Hawke’s Bay dry except it came giving those of us on the East Coast a bit earlier than normal, but now I an outlet for our store stock. There has think it’s got beyond that – another been plenty of demand for cattle and week with no rain and no decent rain lambs as well. We could be looking at a lot less for our lambs if this demand forecast. “On top of that are the poor returns wasn’t there so that’s one thing to be for sheep. The wool price has collapsed thankful for.” Meanwhile, Beef + Lamb NZ and as in most regions lambs have been
Hawkes Bay Fed Farmers chair Will Foley is setting up a drought committee.
chairman James Parsons says where he lives in Northland it is exceptionally dry and reports from Hawke’s Bay suggest farmers there are in a similar position. He says it appears the lamb carcase weights are ahead of last year on average, but the kill is back. “Farmers say it is taking longer to finish animals because even in ‘wet’ regions there hasn’t been enough
goodness in the grass. Some are waiting for their animals to put on more weight before they send them to the works.” Parsons says it’s good news the lamb schedule is holding up and there is more interest in sheepmeat from China. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
We’ve got you covered. Full Length Roof
Glass Windscreen
Windscreen Wiper
FREE CAB KIT
For a limited time get a Genuine Honda Cab Kit for FREE* with every new Pioneer 700
PIONEER 700
From $21,735
EXC GST
⊲ Longitudinally mounted engine for direct drive & less drivetrain power loss ⊲ Switchable 2WD & 4WD ⊲ Mechanical front diff-lock ⊲ Proven Honda 675cc power-plant ⊲ Flexible 2, 3 and 4 seating (4P model) ⊲ 454kg tray capacity
www.hondamotorbikes.co.nz The cab kit has a standard RRP of $2425 inc GST (2P) and $2,640 inc GST (4P). Offer is available until 31st March 2017. Offer is available at participating Honda Dealers. 700-2P RRP $21,735 + GST, 700-4P RRP $23,474 + GST. Offer only available with the purchase of new Pioneer 700 units.
Rural News Ad 700 Cab Kit / Testimonial.indd 1
⊲ 680kg towing capacity ⊲ No drive belts, Pioneer uses an automotive style transmission with hydraulic torque converter
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
NEWS 7
Northland looks set for HOPES EVAPOURATE a ‘doozy’ of a drought “This dry is a bit of a doozy – quite a bit worse than the average. It has probably impacted guys in those traditionally summer safe areas, so that’s one of the big differences.”
PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
NORTHLAND KNOWS about summer dry and even drought, but this one could be a “bit of a doozy”, says Gareth Baynham, an AgFirst Northland farm consultant. “I don’t want to understate it; it is certainly the worst I have seen for the last five or six years,” Baynham told Rural News. “Most guys feel we are probably on a par with the 2009-10 drought which was our first big drought for years. That was similar and largely impacted on the East Coast. The West Coast was also impacted but it came a bit later.” Everyone has been proactive in securing feed to make sure they preserve that option, he says. Many were waiting for the
Gareth Baynham
big round of final pregnancy tests which started last week. “There will be a lot of empty cows or culls identified and sent away.” Baynham says this dry is “a bit of a doozy – quite a bit worse than the average”. “It has probably impacted guys in those traditionally summer safe areas, so that’s one of the big differences,” he explains.
Those in the 200-300m altitude regions of Northland typically get some rain if it comes from any quarter. “Because there has been no rain anywhere they have missed out from November on. They don’t have as much kikuyu in their pasture so they are much more exposed.” For the last couple of weeks the main comment has been “let’s just get enough feed in to ensure the cows aren’t losing weight and hold on”. But Baynham said he was “looking at a pretty ugly 10 day forecast”. “The situation has
deteriorated significantly in the last 10 days or so,” he said last week. “Guys have strategically dried off the at-risk cows which are generally young or thin cows,” he says. In about two weeks farmers will have to make big decisions. “One of the other compounding factors is because of the wet spring crops were late sown. There’s been no rain since they were sown so there has been some crop failure. “That has compounded the issue; normally we’d rely on the summer crop a bit more.”
NORTHLAND NORTH Rural Support Trust secretary/ coordinator Julie Jonkers says farmers thought they would have a reasonable season this year so they could pay off debt. But instead they need to spend whatever money they may have put aside on supplement. “If the big dry goes on it will make it even more difficult for them,” she says. Rural support services needed to look at financial and management factors. “We’ve got to look at all sorts of things – farming practices and how farmers are coping,” Jonkers says. “If this was a big dry after several seasons of being able to conserve funds it would be different. But this could be our fifth drought, and we’ve had the low payouts…. It has not been easy to amass reserves for the extra expenses that will be incurred in these very dry periods.” They had droughts in 2010, 2011 and 2013, and in 2014 they had the West Coast drought. “If this ends up being classified as a
drought it will be the fifth in seven years.” She has heard of farming and rural people having to buy water when they had never had to before. Many upgraded their water supply during the 2010 and 2013 droughts so hopefully farmers will be okay for stock water, she says. She also says it is more like the 2009-10 year than 2013. “At the beginning of December we thought things were ok; we had had some rain and things were still growing. “We had quite a poor spring; it was cold and got wet just at the time people were planting maize.” Those who got in early were okay but those who planned to plant at the usual time were delayed. She says everyone is doing what they can. Farmers are drying off some cows early and sending off culls early. And beef farmers who would normally sell stock in autumn are getting rid of them now while the prices are still ok, and they are buying in a lot more supplement.
PROVEN BY YOU
A few mates had Hondas and they swore by them so we tried them. We’ve never looked back. Warwick Cleave Waikato
TO SEE MORE HONDA STORIES VISIT
www.hondamotorbikes.co.nz 11/01/17 2:23 PM
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
8 NEWS
Just what the doctor ordered PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
market. “We think we can supply everybody or just about everybody who is interested…. I expect we will have the first fruit available for sales into markets in two years.” Over 100,000 trees are already being grown by NZ growers including Mr Apple, Bostock NZ and Freshmax, and nurseries have prepared rootstock to meet the growers’ orders. The new variety will be grown mostly in apple growing regions in Nelson and Hawkes Bay but commercial orchards in other regions are welcome to talk to Fruitcraft also. Potbury says it is compared with the Royal Gala launch because they have lots of confidence in the apple. “It’s a really good product in lots of ways – a good product for the markets, particularly the close Asian markets. And it’s easy to grow in the market.” If it grows well they can ensure good quality fruit that
will get to markets in good condition. “We plan to commercialise it here in NZ by saying ‘all growers can grow it and all exporters can come and talk to us about it’.” The variety’s breeder, Plant and Food Research, at Havelock North, did consumer evaluations with Indian and Chinese consumers, and got a good response. “We have also sent fruit to different markets around the world and the response particularly from Asian countries has also been fantastic,” says Potbury. “It has given us the confidence to get some orchards planted; we need to give it a name and develop a brand and start growing the fruit because it is more than good enough to make a real splash in the market.” Because the breeding programme is funded by the NZ Apple and Pear Growers and the Australian Apple
and Pear Growers through a consortium called Prevar, it has the rights to the variety. Prevar has licensed Fruitcraft for worldwide production and marketing. Fruitcraft’s business is to evaluate and commercialise new apple varieties. “We have successfully bid for this licence for this variety. Then we have said ‘the way we will commercialise this is not just holding this out to the shareholders of Fruitcraft but by offering it to the whole industry’.” Fruitcraft will also look for specific partners in other countries but it won’t be open to all growers in all markets overseas. Only chosen partners will be licensed to grow and market the fruit to provide year-round supply. Fruitcraft is forecasting 1 million cartons of the Dazzle apple will be exported from NZ by 2028. Such a number would put it among NZ’s most popular apple varieties.
PLANT AND FOOD Research scientist Richard Volz says Dazzle has been bred conventionally, through cross breeding between Sweetie and Scired by breeders at Havelock North in 1997. “The parents and grandparents of the PremA129 variety all come from New Zealand. This has taken decades of work and investment by scientists at Plant and Food Research and the NZ pipfruit industry to develop a truly NZ apple with strong Kiwi heritage,” says Volz. Pipfruit NZ chief executive Alan Pollard says this reflects the sophistication and strength of an industry where growers, exporters and breeders work together on quality products. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
02045 WPAD RN
THE WHOLE apple industry is invited to launch a new apple variety tipped to have a big future. All growers were invited to place orders for the new Dazzle apple trees. Fruitcraft, holder of the production and marketing licence, will start deciding this week how many of those growers it can supply with trees; expressions of interest closed last week. The variety is PremA129 and the brand is Dazzle. Fruitcraft is a collaboration between Mr Apple, Bostock NZ and Freshmax. It is expected to be one of the biggest variety launches since Royal Gala several years ago. Fruitcraft chief executive Steve Potbury says they want to be inclusive. “We want to get as many people as we can behind this
variety so we can get some decent production going quickly, so we can make a mark in the market. “If we can get everyone behind us, it will have the potential to be one of the bigger apple varieties out of New Zealand.” The response so far from growers has been “fantastic – better than I thought”. They wanted orders for trees for next year in by the end of last week so they could look at how well they could meet demand. “We can then meet as many orders as we can,” he says. “The trees will be planted now in the nursery and delivered to growers next winter. It takes three years to get a crop, and six to seven years to get full production out of a tree. “It is a long term process; we need to get all this underway -trees being grown in nurseries and trees being planted in orchards -- before we can get fruit to be able to supply the
DECADES OF WORK
How many bankers does it take to make a decision? We think one is about right. At Westpac, our Agribusiness bankers know farming. And they bring all that accumulated knowledge and expertise to your business. So when it comes to making things happen they’re in a good place. Usually yours. We’re backing farming and we’re backing farmers.
To find your local Agribusiness banker, visit westpac.co.nz/agri
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
NEWS 9
Opportunities for NZ meat in Sth Korea PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND’S red meat sector can look ahead to increasing opportunity in the Korean market now that the bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) has come into force, says NZ’s trade commissioner in Seoul, Ryan Freer. “The price competitiveness with other countries’ beef and lamb products will erode no further as tariffs reduce to zero over time,” he told Rural News. “Meanwhile, NZ product is well positioned to capture Korean consumers’ growing consciousness of the health benefits of lean beef and their new interest in lamb. “But we will still need to put effort into capturing these opportunities ahead of our international competitors and a vocal local industry, who will be trying to protect their share of the market.” Freer says Koreans are used to grain-fed red meat, and consumers associate marbled (fatty) beef with premium quality. “This influences the type of cuts and the way that meat is used in tradi-
tional Korean dishes,” he says. “The perception favours beef produced in Korea, the US and parts of Australia, where cattle are raised on feed. “So NZ’s grass-fed, leaner red meat has typically been aimed at high-end western resRyan Freer taurants and the wider food service industry, with very little sold direct to Korean consumers.” But this leaner branding resonates with Korean consumers who are conscious of their general health, wellbeing and image. “Eating leaner meat, and beef in particular, has been linked to healthy body shapes, strengthened immunity, improved iron intake and warding off heart problems. “It also plays to Korean consumers’ strong concerns about (perceived) food safety. This is especially relevant for beef, with mass public protests that erupted during the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)-related issue with US imports about ten years
ago and regular outbreaks of foot-andmouth disease in local livestock keeping animal disease in the public consciousness. “Since the BSE issue it has been mandatory in Korea for restaurants over a certain size to identify on their menus the country of origin of the beef they serve; so NZ’s animal disease-free status and reputation as a clean and safe source of beef is beneficial in these circumstances. “Our traceability system is a further source of comfort.” Beef is by far the most popular red meat among Korean consumers. “Following the detection of BSE in Canada and the US, overall beef consumption dropped sharply in Korea in 2004 as imports from those countries were banned and consumers became wary of food safety issues,” Freer says. “By 2010, however, per capita beef consumption had risen above the preBSE levels again. Canadian and Ameri-
can beef is back in the market, however market share has shifted to Australian product. “Overall beef consumption now stands at about 550,000 tonnes – the equivalent of 10.9kg per capita (NZ = 48/kg) and is forecast to expand 1-2% per annum to 2020.” A range of beef cuts are used in various Korean dishes -- barbecues, stews and soups -- and in a growing number of western restaurants and fast food chains, Freer says. “The growth in the number of single-person households and doubleincome families in recent years has also led to higher demand for convenient, ready-to-eat meals and lunchboxes. “As a result, Korean food companies are looking to develop easy-to-cook products which contain meat extracts and products easy to consume and consistent in portion size -- attractive to retail and food service customers.” Korean consumers are also embracing new flavours and this could benefit NZ exporters, Freer says. “Sheepmeat, for instance, has not traditionally been a major part of the Korean diet; many consumers have a
negative perception of sheepmeat’s smell and taste, after being exposed to only cheaper cuts of mutton in the past,” he says. “But the younger generation is now flocking to Chinese-influenced lamb barbecue and skewer restaurants in Seoul in particular.” Korea’s “next big culinary craze” – as some media are describing it -- has caused sheepmeat sales in Korea to expand 47% in 2014 and another 24% in 2015. “The burgeoning Korean-Chinese population in Korea is being credited with starting the trend. “Chinese-Korean Lee Hang-yung told local media he opened the first Chinese lamb restaurant outside Konkuk University and now the street is end-to-end with restaurants with similar menus built on lamb shoulders, rack and flaps. “In the past, our customers were all Chinese, but now they’re 90% Koreans,” says Lee. “In China, lamb skewers are prepared with the fat and the meat together, but here it’s more like Korean barbecue (galbi) with seasoning of red pepper, cumin, mustard seed and other spices.”
200L/min
Fill your tank and look after your pump Ideal for Dairy Cattle Drinking Troughs
Deals Deals for for 2525 or more more or
CODE MFV2025D MFV20D MFV25D MFV32D
INLET SIZES 20/25mm 20mm 25mm 32mm
• • • •
Side & Bottom Mounting Detachable Compact/Robust Construction New! Pilot Flow Filter
• Available in: Topaz - Flows to 200L/min Vortex - Flows to 600L/min • Keeps pump operation to a minimum • Adjustable levels from 50mm-2.5M • Inlet Sizes: Topaz - 15/20/25/32mm Vortex - 32/40/50mm
• All Stainless Steel bracket • Fits all models of tanks • Highly Visible Yellow Indicator
20L/min
600L/min
200L/min
Check tank water level at a glance
Ideal for Storage Tanks • Keeps pump operation to a minimum • Available in Differential models also • Detachable
Compact Float design also available
Ideal for Dairy Cattle Drinking Troughs • Top Mounting for Compartment style Troughs • Fully Adjustable Mounting • Detachable • Compact Robust construction
CODE
TPV20D TPV25D TPV32D
INLET SIZES 20mm 25mm 32mm
CODE
VXV32 VXV40 VXV50
INLET SIZES 32mm 40mm 50mm
Ideal for Low Demand Drinking Troughs CODE INLET SIZES RJV15 15mm RJV20 20mm
8 Pepper St PO Box 17, Matamata Freephone:
0800 562 382 www.jobevalves.com
• Adjustable Mounting positions • Built in check valve • Flow stops when unscrewed for servicing • Ideal when space is limited
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
10 NEWS
More meat plant closures? SILVER FERN Farms (SFF), New Zealand’s biggest meat processor, says it cannot rule out plant closures as it aims to bounce back from a huge financial loss last year. Last month SFF announced a $30.6 million loss for the year to September 2016 – a big drop on the 2015 net profit of $24.9m. The loss included a $22.4m write-down following the sale of a controlling stake in the company to China’s Shanghai Maling for $267m at the end of last year. Despite some minority shareholder and political opposition – led by the NZ First party – to the Shanghai Maling sale, it was completed in December 2016. SFF says the deal enabled the company to repay debt and avert a threat from its bank-
ing syndicate to withdraw support. The company says it has now cut its net debt to $107m from $121m a year earlier and halved its finance costs to $14.8m, as well as having $17m in reserves. The Shanghai Maling sale has also enabled SFF to pay its first dividend since 2008. Shareholders in the co-op will receive a special dividend of 30c a share on February 14. Chairman Rob Hewett concedes Shanghai Maling is disappointed with the latest result. “We had a good year last year and expected it to continue and it didn’t happen.” Hewett blames falls in crucial markets in the first half, lower industry-wide volumes, unseasonal livestock flows and a strong dollar for its operating loss of around
SFF chair Rob Hewett.
$7.5m. He says beef and venison are doing “relatively well” compared to sheepmeat, though he admits “both have their challenges”. Hewett does not rule out further plant closures as the meat industry, in general, copes with falling stock numbers and overcapacity in processing plants. Last year SFF closed venison plants at Mossburn and Islington in
the South Island, and a mutton processing plant at Wairoa in Hawkes Bay. It also closed its Canterbury coldstore. Hewett says there is overcapacity in sheepmeat processing especially in the South Island. “We regularly review our plants and where the livestock flows are going to come from in the future. We make strategic decisions accordingly, as I expect our competitors will.”
He points out that SFF recently spent $5m building a new venison plant in Pareora, near Timaru, and a new packaging line at its Pacific Beef plant in Hawke’s Bay. Hewett remains upbeat about the Shanghai Maling deal and believes it will allow the company to “unleash” its plate-to-pasture strategy and provide it with “unprecedented access” to China. He says the investment has helped it to pay down debt and it hopes now to bring its strategy to China and other selected markets. He says SFF has distributed $40m to shareholders since the deal was struck, including the special dividend and the redemption of its supplier investment shares, completed last week.
SFF BLEEDS BADLY SILVER FERN Farms recorded a $30.6 million loss last year as earnings collapsed in what the company described as a “very challenging year across the industry”. In 2015 SFF posted a net profit of $24.9 million. The $30.6 million loss includes a $22.4 million impairment charge related to the Shanghai Maling investment. Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation dropped to $32.1 million in the year ended Sept. 30, 2016, from $90.5 million a year earlier. “While the result was in line with previous guidance of a small operating loss, it was nonetheless particularly disappointing and reflected a very challenging year across the industry,” chairman Rob Hewett said. “The company managed its way through a tough year as a perfect storm hit with sharp falls in several endmarkets in the first half, lower industry-wide volumes, unseasonal livestock flows which limited capacity utilisation, and a strengthening NZ currency through the year amplified in June by the Brexit event.” “Looking ahead, whilst mild weather and strong grass conditions have delayed the start to the new season, we are confident that if a more settled operating environment prevails combined with the improvements we have undertaken and have planned, we will see the performance of Silver Fern Farms improve significantly in 2017,” chief executive Dean Hamilton said. The redemption of approximately $5 million in remaining supplier investment shares and the payment of a $35 million special dividend are due to be completed by the end of February. Silver Fern’s annual report will be available ahead of its annual meeting, to be held in Dunedin in February.
GROWING FARMERS SINCE 1919
N OW G TAKIN NTS LME O R N E 017 FO R 2 D
Taratahi is New Zealand’s largest provider of agricultural training AIR
Y
Taratahi offer NZQA approved qualifications that provide hands-on introductory skills through to management level programmes. Industry Recognition: Primary ITO Industry Trainer of the Year (Beef + Lamb NZ Sheep Industry Awards) Awarded Central North Island Dairy Academy contract Education Institute for Excellence in Beef Industry Training (Hoof & Hook Competition) Farmer feedback indicates that graduates are valued for their skills and safe work practices.
ENROL NOW FOR FEBRUARY 2017 CALL NOW! 0800 TARATAHI www.taratahi.ac.nz info@taratahi.ac.nz
Check us out on Facebook
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
NEWS 11
‘Endless’ agri career opportunities Applause has replaced eye rolling as university students launch a scheme to show secondary schoolers the career opportunities in the primary industries. Pam Tipa reports. WAIKATO UNIVERSITY business and science student Jack Keeys says when the Waikato Rabobank Client Council came to talk in one of his courses about their plans the students’ response was only lukewarm. Rabobank invests money in the community or industry and the council had decided to aim to attract more students into agriculture. “They visited a class at the University of Waikato which I was in. They said they had this goal and were thinking of making an app,” he says. “A few of us were saying ‘noooo… I don’t think an app is the best way to go. Students are using apps for Facebook and Snapchat, not for career advice’. So a couple of us applied for some funding to create an alternative idea.” He and another agribusiness student, Alanah Vinson, created the AgriLeadership Programme with the client council to highlight the many career opportunities in agriculture. The 2017 programme is the second such event since the inaugural one in 2016. Following an application process last year, 31 year-11 and 12 students from Waikato attended the programme from January 16-19. They stayed on the university
campus and took part in an action-packed four-day event. The Rabobank Waikato Client Council is a group of leading Rabobank clients who meet regularly to identify and discuss the challenges facing the agricultural sector. They develop activities that contribute to a sustainable food and agribusiness industry for future generations. Keeys was involved in starting the AgriLeadership programme last year and is the primary coordinator. He says most of the students tend to have a farming background but a few have none. They are running surveys to see how many students who attend the programme move into primary industry careers. But because it is only the second year, it is too early to tell. Next year they will get a good picture. Meanwhile they have surveyed what careers students were thinking about before they did the programme, then afterwards. “We are seeing an increase of 20-30% in those thinking of an agri career path, bringing that to 80-90% who would like a career in the primary industry, whether it be engineering or computing, business or
Jack Keeys and Alanah Vinson who helped get the careers programme off the ground.
science,” he says. “Once they realise they can build all these other things they are interested in into primary industries, it is something that gets them excited.” High-profile industry speakers at last month’s event were Tony Collingwood, Rabobank; Tony Pearse, DINZ; Lain Jager, Zespri; and Ian Proudfoot, KPMG. Plant tours took in Silver Fern Farms at Te
Aroha, LIC, AgResearch, DairyNZ, Yashili, Quality Mushrooms, Farmax, Ravensdown, Gallagher, Oraka Farms and Plant and Food Research. The guest speakers’ overall themes were important, says Keeys. Notably, Jager spoke about career pathways – choosing the right studies and university. “That was brilliant for the students because it engaged them personally.
Then Ian Proudfoot talked about the future of agribusiness and primary industries and how it might be 20 to 30 years from now and students loved that.” Keeys himself is taking a business and science degree. He works for Farmax in the holidays and intends to join the company fulltime when he graduates. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
DOSE WITH 100% CONFIDENCE THIS FACIAL ECZEMA SEASON Protect your animals from the productivity, production, and reproduction losses that Facial Eczema can cause, with The Time Capsule®. The Time Capsule® slow-release boluses provide you with the security of knowing that your stock have been treated directly and are ensured of a consistent daily dose of zinc. Developed in New Zealand by AgResearch for New Zealand conditions, research shows that The Time Capsule® is an effective and proven method for preventing Facial Eczema*, providing 24 hour protection for 4 weeks in cattle and 6 weeks in sheep. The boluses leave no residue, are safe, cost effective and easy to use. Prepare your Facial Eczema Prevention Plan with confidence this season, with The Time Capsule®. Proudly manufactured and distributed by Agritrade *R Munday et al; A zinc-containing intraruminal device for prevention of the sporidesmininduced cholangiopathy of facial eczema in calves; New Zealand Veterinary Journal 49(1), 29-33, 2001 Time Capsule® is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, Nos A6275, A7600, A7763, A7931, A9006, and A10875. For registration details, see www.foodsafety.govt.nz
MADE, TESTED & PROVEN IN NZ
KingSt13731_RN_D
Reap Your Rewards You’ve put years of hard work into your biggest asset. Now’s the time to reap the rewards of those efforts. If you are thinking of buying or selling in a rising autumn market, watch out for the Property Express - our highly read national publication.
Contact your local PGG Wrightson Real Estate expert today to reap your rewards.
www.pggwre.co.nz
Licensed REAA 2008
AUTUMN 2 017 | www.pggwre.co.nz
Helping grow the country
GET ADVICE ON GETTING IT RIGHT BEFORE ANYTHING GOES WRONG.
Risks are an everyday part of running a rural business. Luckily FMG is here to help you manage those risks with practical advice and specialised rural insurance. It’s how we’ve been helping rural New Zealand for 110 years now. And it’s why we’re New Zealand’s leading rural insurer. Ask around about us, or better still call us on 0800 366 466.
We’re here for the good of the country. FMG0520RNFPNF
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
NEWS 13
Uncertainty remains for quake-affected farmers The uncertainty now concerns insurance cover and the rebuild. He does THE ROADS to the south not yet know if the milkhave mostly reopened, ing shed will be repaired but uncertainty remains or replaced. And while for the dairy farmers of Fonterra paid for the Kaikoura following the milk, which had to be November 14 earthquake. dumped during the three For about three weeks weeks when it could not after the quake 22 farms be collected, Collins is in the district had to unsure how far loss-ofdump milk, before Fonincome insurance may terra tankers could again compensate for the conmake pickups. With the tinuing reduced milk inland route now open yield. and even the coastal road “You just have to make open – albeit only during the most of the daylight – pickups The quake hit at a crucial situation. We are reliable, but full had two years recovery will be a time, three weeks into of drought long process. mating. Collins says the and we had to Graham Collins milks 700 cows lack of feed, coupled with make the most that,” he on two family farms the need to reduce stress of explained. either side of Red on the animals at a time “Now – Swamp Road, a few well, of the kilometres outside when they needed to get paddocks I the town. He says one got [the cows] milking shed survived into calf, meant he went the quake “without from twice-a-day to once- out of the past two morna hair out of place,” a-day milking. ings, probawhile the other, built bly a third of by his father in 1971, them have water a couple on the animals at a time is in use despite being of inches deep. That’s just when they needed to get badly damaged. come up. It’s not blocked into calf, meant he went The concrete has split drains, it’s just water from twice-a-day to onceand buckled and washthat’s risen in the heavy a-day milking. down water and effluground all around the disThe upshot is that ent no longer drains from trict.” even with the feed some areas. Aftershocks Meanwhile, neighbour restored, his milk yield are continuing and ColGrant Wareham’s rotary lins says that after a shaky is down 25% and not milking shed is unusnight, nervous cows baulk expected to recover this able. For two days after season. at shadows and are relucNIGEL MALTHUS
tant to step over the cracks. Alongside the damaged shed, a feed silo used for meal pellets fell into the creek on the night of the quake. When Rural News visited – nine weeks on from the quake – a team from Dan Cosgrove Ltd, Timaru, was on the farm erecting a replacement. The quake hit at a crucial time, three weeks into mating. Collins says the lack of feed, coupled with the need to reduce stress
Kaikoura dairy farmers Grant Wareham, left, and Graham Collins discuss earthquake insurance issues. While Collins is able to milk - despite a damaged shed which may yet have to be replaced - Wareham has had to completely destock.
not sure.” Collins is also unsure of his way forward. “To be fair, I haven’t tried to ask anyone…. But we’re a bit short of [someone to turn up] and say ‘you can do this or you can’t do that.’ We don’t really know,” he told Rural News. “We want to milk here to the end of May. Then we want to be milking here again in August. So, it only leaves a twomonth gap. I have tentatively booked a builder to do whatever. “We’re probably at a
the quake they had tried to milk his herd through Collins’ shed but the cows, used to a rotary shed, didn’t take to it. Wareham has destocked, sending most of his herd to Culverden. Now he has no income. He was harvesting grass on his land, but was unsure how much he could sell without affecting his business interruption insurance. Nor does Wareham yet know whether his shed will be repaired or rebuilt. “It was a rebuild a couple of weeks ago, but now I’m
bit of a loss as to who actually makes the decision – ‘you need a new cowshed’ or ‘we can repair this one’. But we haven’t really chased people up. We’ve been too busy.” Collins says the quake caused a lot of extra work, mostly because of stock water pipes breaking and sediment getting in. The ballcock in the header tank of the farmhouse domestic supply was repeatedly blocking for the first time in 27 years. The farm was also six weeks behind in harvest-
ing fodder on the run-off land because the contractor could not get into the district. Collins is also questioning why a government wages subsidy announced for quake-affected Kaikoura businesses is not available to the district’s dairy farmers. He employs three full-time staff and two parttimers, who he has kept on “because it’s not their fault that we’re milking only once a day now.” “The subsidy would have been quite handy for them,” he says.
UP TO
$
25
50 OFF
$
S A L E ON NO W ! Freephone 0800 10 22 76
Swanndri Paihia Men’s Shirt or Tasman Women’s Shirt Previously up to $74.99 ea
49
$
99 EA
JOHN BULL BOOTS
Cougar 2.0 and Himalaya 2.0 styles only
Terms and Conditions: Offers valid February 2017 only or while stocks last. Prices include GST and are subject to change. Products may not be available in all stores but may be ordered on request. Prices do not include delivery, delivery costs are additional. Discount offers apply to standard retail pricing only and exclude items already discounted. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
www.pggwrightson.co.nz
Helping grow the country
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
14 NEWS
Guy praises helpers NIGEL MALTHUS
THE MINISTER for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, says independent quake-relief volunteer efforts are “fantastic”, but he suggests farmers needing help get it via a Federated Farmers scheme. “As we move from the response to recovery phase, some farmers and growers will need skilled hands to get back to pre-quake operational levels,” he says. “For example, many farmers have suffered damage to key infrastructure such as fences and water
reticulation systems. This kind of infrastructure requires experienced labour to get back up and running.” The scheme uses the Federated Farmers 0800 FARMING (327 646) line as a single point of contact. The line has been open to members and non-members since the earthquake, showing listings of farmers’ needs and offers of help. “It’s fantastic to see some volunteer workers and networks have started their own initiatives. Officials will be extending a hand to these groups to encourage them to work with this centralised resource
if possible,” says Guy. “All skilled workers deployed will be suitably paid and volunteers can have some costs reimbursed. The scheme will also help ensure that health and safety are managed.” MPI has contracted Agriculture Employment Services Ltd (AgStaff) and Federated Farmers to manage the scheme over the next four months. This includes worker contracts, health and safety induction and training, coordinating travel and logistics, and the reimbursement of fair and reasonable costs for volunteer workers.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR EARTHQUAKE RECOVERY ASSISTANCE INCLUDE: ❱❱ The Rural Support Trust on 0800 RURAL HELP (0800 787 254). ❱❱ The Government Helpline for calls about all government support available, on 0800 77 99 97. ❱❱ Your accountant, bank, and Work and Income for financial advice. ❱❱ Industry groups Beef + Lamb NZ, DairyNZ and dairy companies, for technical advice such as farm management and land remediation.
WIN A $500 VOUCHER*. Visit www.rxplastics.co.nz and register any Drainaway pipe purchase before 1st April 2017 for a 1-in-20 chance to win $500 (incl GST) off your next RX Plastics purchase.
GET LESS MUD & MORE GRASS WITH DRAINAWAY! Available in convenient size and length options, Drainaway eliminates excess groundwater from farms, orchards, parks, home surrounds and excavation sites.
MINIMISES NUTRIENT RUN-OFF.
AUSSIE CATTLE NUMBERS EXPECTED TO CLIMB SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
THE AUSTRALIAN cattle herd is expected to increase in 2017 – its first increase in three years. According to Meat & Livestock Australia’s (MLA) 2017 Cattle Industry projections, the national herd will rise 3% year-on-year to 26.9 million. The change isn’t likely to kick in until the second half of 2017, the first six months of the year continuing on the same track as 2016, with tight supplies, strong restocker demand and the subsequent likelihood of a strong young cattle market. MLA’s manager of market information Ben Thomas says the cattle market will start to feel the impacts of the increase as the year progresses. “Once beef production slowly starts increasing again, there will be some downward pressure on prices in the Australian cattle market,” says Thomas. Expectations are for a further 3% decline in Australian cattle slaughter in 2017, to 7.1 million. “While this is a significant fall, it’s not nearly to the same extent as occurred over the past 12 months when there was an extremely rare 19% drop,” says Thomas. “The primary reason for the lower slaughter is the expectation that many producers will be retaining as many cattle as possible to replenish depleted herds; even though the herd is larger than last year, it is still historically low.” Despite forecasts of slightly heavier cattle, Australian beef production is also
forecast to fall, down 3% to 2.1 million tonnes carcase weight. “Again, it’s the first half of the year that is likely to see supplies at their tightest, and production will probably start slowly rebuilding from there.” Producers in southern Australia – New South Wales and Victoria in particular – are expected to rebuild their herds at a faster rate than their northern counterparts. Thomas says the number of cattle on feed is forecast to remain constrained by the still high feeder cattle prices. “While entry cattle prices remain dear, solace comes from cheaper Australian feed grain prices and, under this scenario, forecasts are for cattle to stay on feed for 10-30% longer than what otherwise would have been the case,” Thomas says. “The overall outcome is the expectation for numbers on feed to range from 700,000 to 750,000 head per quarter, and turn-off of just over 2.5 million, which is 35% of total adult slaughter.” Australian beef and veal exports are likely to correlate with the lower beef production and are estimated to ease a further 5% this year to 970,000 tonnes shipped weight (swt), meaning 69% of Australian production will be destined for international markets. Thomas said live exports would also continue to be challenged by the smaller pool of cattle, especially in the north, along with resistance from some markets at current price levels and continued uncertainty over import policies. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
Spain & Portugal - Ole! May/June 2017
PROMOTES HEALTHY SOIL STRUCTURES. ENABLES STRONGER ROOT SYSTEMS. REDUCES SURFACE PUGGING. IMPROVES LAND-USE OUTCOMES. Enjoy our farmer’s tour discovering sunny Spain with its vibrant culture, warm climate, delicious food, diverse agriculture and Portugal renowned for its coastline, villages, and food and wine production - a feast for all your senses!
More farmer travel options... To purchase, visit your nearest Rural Merchant or call RX Plastics on 03 307 9081 for the location of your nearest stockist. *TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Every 20th correctly registered and verified Drainaway pipe purchase will be deemed a winning entry. To win, Drainaway pipe purchase must be verified by RX Plastics to have been made between 1st February and 31st March 2017. Winning $500 (incl GST) vouchers are valid for RX Plastics products only and may be exchanged for RX Plastics products throughout New Zealand. Vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash and no change will be given for part use. Vouchers must be redeemed by 1st April 2018. rxplastics.co.nz Cannot be used in conjunction with any other RX Plastics offer.
South America - May • Canada & Alaska – June/July • China - May Japan - May • South Africa & Vic. Falls - May Europe - May/June • Queensland – June • UK & Ireland - June/July USA - June/July • Scandinavia – July • Western Australia - Sept Farm To Farm Tours PO Box 239, Victoria St Rangiora, 7440 info@farmtofarm.co.nz Ph 03 313 5855
Phone 0800 3838 747
Discover some of the world’s best farming, scenery and experiences in the company of like minded travellers.
www.farmtofarm.co.nz
0800 282 726
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
16 MARKETS & TRENDS BEEF PRICES BEEF PRICES
2Last Wks A Year go 5.25
Last Year 5.25
M 2 B ull - 300kg M 2 B ull - 300kg n/c
5.00 n/c
5.00 5.00
5.00 5.25
5.25
3.90 n/c
3.90 3.90
3.90 4.10
4.10
Last 3.90 n/c
2 Wks 3.90 3.90
Last 3.90 4.00
4.00
BEEF P 2PRICES Co w - P 230kg 2 Co w - 230kg n/c
n/c
7 .9 0
n/c
7 .9 0
North Island 16kg M lamb price
28-Dec
30-A pr
30-A pr
28-Feb
30-A pr
5.0
28-Dec
28-Feb
28-Feb
30-A pr
30-A pr
5yr AveLast Ye arLast Ye arThis Ye arThis Ye ar
North Island North 300kg Islandbull 300kg pricebull price 28-Dec
28-Feb
Last Ye ar
30-A pr
This Ye ar
North Island 300kg bull price
28-Feb
28-Feb
30-A pr
30-A pr
South Island South 300kg Island steer 300kg price steer price 28-Dec
28-Feb
30-A pr
South Island 300kg steer price
$/kg $/kg
28-Dec 28-Feb North Island North 60kg Island stag 60kg price stag price Last Ye ar
30-A pr
30-A pr
This Ye ar
North Island 60kg stag price
7.5
9.5 9.5
28-Dec
28-Dec
28-Feb
28-Feb
30-A pr
28-Dec 28-Feb South Island South 60kg Island stag 60kg price stag price
30-A pr
30-A pr
South Island 60kg stag price
8.5
8.5
7.5
7.5
6.5 6.5 28-O ct 28-O ct 6.5 28-O ct
10-Sep 10-Oct 26-Nov
10k 10k 20 40 20 15k
28-Dec 28-Dec 28-Feb 28-Feb 30-A pr 30-A pr 5yr Ave 5yr AveLast Ye arLast Ye arThis Ye arThis Ye ar 28-Dec 28-Feb 30-A pr 5yr Ave
Last Ye ar
This Ye ar
n/c 5.08 5.08 4.83 n/c 5.08 5.08 4.83 P X North - 19.0kgIsland n/c w Island 5.08 lamb 5.08 4.83 North eekly w eekly kill lamb N ort h Island N ort Weekly h IslandLamb Weekly KillLambkill Kill 250k 400 250k 400 P H - 22.0kg n/c 5.08 5.08 4.83 200k M utto n 200k M X1- 21kg n/c 3.10 3.10 2.10 150k
50k
10k
10-Nov 26-Jan
200
100k
200k
Last Year This Year
YM - 13.5kg
150k
250k 400
k 0
50k
200
k 0
Change Change A go 95CL USc/lb 95CL USc/lb +5 212 Export Market+5Demand NZc/kg NZc/kg +8 643 +8 2 Wks
A Ago go 21 207 2 643 636 3 Wks
50k 100
k 10 0Aug 10 Sep
26 Sep
A go
A go
Year
+8
643
636
659
Last Year
This Year
5yr A ve 205 626
626
Last Year This Year 150 $1.50 31-O ct Indicator 31-Dec 28-Feb 30-A pr Procurement Procurement Indicator 5-Jun 12-Jun 19-Jun 26-Jun 3-Jul 10-Jul 17-Jul 24-Jul 31-Jul 7-Aug 14-Aug 21-Aug 28-Aug 4-Sep 11-Sep 18-Sep 25-Sep 9-Oct 16-Oct 23-Oct 30-Oct 6-Nov 13-Nov 20-Nov 5yr ave Last Ye ar This Ye ar
2Wks Change Change
2Wks 3 Wks A Ago go % Returned % Returned NI -4NI 74.9 -4 79.0 2Wks 74.9 3 Wks Change % Returned % Returned SI -2SI 71 -2.9 71 74.3 .9 A go A go -4
74.9
79.0
3Last Wks A Year go 79.0 78.9 Last 74.3 69.0 Year
Last 5yr A ve 5yr A ve Year 78.9 77.5 77.5 5yr A ve 69.0 71.2 71.2
78.9
10 Sep
10 Oct
10 Nov
10 Nov
2 Last Wks 26 Nov Last 26 Jan Change Change 5yr Ave Last Ye ar Week Week A go
26 Sep
NZc/kg
-0
Change
n/c 5
55
-0 8
88
Last
2 Wks
2Last Wks 26 MarLast 5yr A ve This Year A go Ye arYear 55 55
Last
77.5
P rocu rement P rocuIndicator rement Indicator -- North -- North Procurement Procurement Indicator Indicator North I.Island North I.Island -2 71.9 74.3 69.0 71.2 95% Returned 95 SI 90% 90% 85% 85% P rocu rement Indicator Procurement Indicator -- North North I.Island 80%90% 95 80% 75 85% 75% 75 75% Last Y ear Last Y ear 70%80% 70% 75 65% This Year This Year 65%75% Last Y ear 60% 55 70% 60% 55 0… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 0… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 28-O ct 28-O ct 28-Dec 28-Dec 28-Feb 28-Feb 30-A pr 30-A pr This Year 65%
98
9
5yr A ve
500 p/kg 500 n/c UK Leg
5
5
5
5
-0
8
8
9
9
NZc/kg
400
500
Export 400 demand indicator - UK CKT leg
300 400
31 Oct
300 31 Oct31 Dec
31 Dec 28 Feb
31 Oct
31 Dec 2Wks 2832Wks Feb Wks Change Change A go A Ago go Procurement Indicator % Returned % Returned NI 0 .6NI 65.4 0 .6 64.7 65.4
28 Feb30 Apr
30 Apr
30 AprLast 3Last Wks 5yr A ve Year A go Year 57.5 64.7 66.0 57.5
2Wks 3 Wks Last 65.4 0.0 65.4 65.4 55.7 65.45yr A 63.2 55.7 ve A go A go Year % Returned NI 0 .6 65.4 64.7 57.5 66.0 Procurement Procurement indicator indicator North Island North Island P rocu rement P rocuIndicator rement Indicator - North I.- North I.
% Returned % Returned SI Change 0.0SI
85 % Returned SI85 80%
75
70% 85 80%
65 60% 75 70%
80%
0.0
65.4
65.4
55.7
5yr A ve 66.0 63.2
63.2
Procurement P75 rocu rementindicator Indicator-- North North Island I. 70% 65 60%
Last Year Last Year
This Year This Year
50% 50% 55 55 65 60% 11-Aug 11-Aug 11-Oct 11-Sep 11-Nov 11-Oct 11-Dec 11-Nov 11-Dec 11-Feb 11-Jan 28-O ct 11-Sep 28-O ct 28-Dec 28-Dec 28-Feb11-Jan 28-Feb 30-A pr 11-Feb 30-A pr Last Year
This Year
50% 55 Procurement Procurement indicator indicator - South Island - South Island 11-Aug 11-Oct 11-Nov 11-Dec 11-Jan 11-Feb 28-O ct 11-Sep 28-Feb 30-A pr P rocu 28-Dec rement P rocuIndicator rement Indicator - South I.- South I.
85 80%
85 75 70% 80%
85 80%
Procurement indicator - South Island P rocu rement Indicator - South I.
75 70%
5yr ave
Last Ye ar
This Ye ar
SI Stag - 60kg
n/c
7.90
7.90
7.20
6.77
Beef & venison prices are reported as gross (before normal levies & charges are deducted). Lamb & mutton prices are reported nett (after levies & charges are deducted).
NEW ZEALAND’S APPLICATION EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS FOR OVER 40 YEARS 1000 LITRE LINKAGE WITH 10 METRE BOOM LA1000/80/10M
1300 LITRE LINKAGE WITH 12 METRE BOOM LPMEC1300/160/MHL12
$9,120
$23,921
» 1150L tank » Heavy duty frame » Hand wash tank » AR80 LFR pump » 4 tap manual controls » 10m manual fold boom with nozzle protection » 30m hose reel and turbo gun
» 1300L tank » Flushing tank » 3 section in-cab electric controls » Chemical induction hopper » Hydraulic height adjuster » 12m hydraulic folding boom with self levelling All prices are exclusive of GST. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
FOR A FULL LIST OF OPTIONS PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER OR CROPLANDS EQUIPMENT North Island, Lower Vic Barlow 0274 752 322
5
99
75 65 65 70% 60% 60% 60% 55 Procurement Procurement Indicator Indicator -3… South Island -3… South Island 0… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 3… 3… 3… 2… 3… 3… 28-Dec 28-Feb 30-A pr Last Y ear Last Y ear This Year This Year 90 28-O ct 90 P rocu rement P rocuIndicator rement Indicator - South I.- South I. 65 60% 50% 50% 85% 85% Procurement Indicator - South Island 55 55 11-Aug 11-Sep 11-Aug 11-Oct 11-Sep 11-Nov 11-Oct 11-Dec 11-Nov 11-Jan 11-Dec 11-Feb 11-Jan 28-O ct 28-O ct 28-Dec 28-Dec 28-Feb 28-Feb 30-A pr 11-Feb 30-A pr Last Y ear This Year 80% 90 80% P rocu rement Indicator - South I. 5yr ave 5yr ave Last Ye arLast Ye ar This Ye arThis Ye ar 50% 85% 55 75% 75% 11-Aug 11-Sep 11-Oct 11-Nov 11-Dec 11-Jan 11-Feb 28-O ct 28-Dec 28-Feb 30-A pr 7080% 70 5yr ave PricesLast Ye ar This Ye ar 70% 70% VenisonVenison Prices 75% 70 65% 65% Last 2 Last Wks 2Last Wks Last Last Year Last Year 70% Venison Prices Change Change 5yr A ve 5yr A ve 60% Week Week A go Year A go Year This Year This Year 5065% 60% 50 Last 2 Wks Last Last Year 28-O ct 55% 28-O ct 28-Dec 28-Dec 28-Feb 28-Feb 30-A pr 30-A pr 55% Change ve NI Stag - 60kg n/c 7.90 n/c 7.90 7.90 Year 7.20 7.905yr A 6.73 7.20 6.73 60% Week A go This 19-Jun 26-Jun 3-Jul 10-Jul 19-Jun 17-Jul 26-Jun 24-Jul 31-Jul 3-Jul 7-Aug 10-Jul 14-Aug 17-Jul 21-Aug 24-Jul 28-Aug 31-Jul 7-Aug 4-Sep 14-Aug 11-Sep 21-Aug 18-Sep 28-Aug 25-Sep 9-Oct 4-Sep 16-Oct 11-Sep 23-Oct 18-Sep 30-Oct 25-Sep 6-Nov 9-Oct 13-Nov 16-Oct 20-Nov 23-Oct 30-Oct 0-Jan 6-Nov 13-Nov 20-Nov 0-Jan NI Stag - 60kg 50 ave Last Ye arLast Ye ar This YeYear ar This 28-O ct5yr ave 5yr 28-Dec 28-Feb 30-A pr Ye ar 55% SI Stag 60kg SI Stag 60kg n/c 7.90 n/c 7.90 7.90 7.20 7.90 6.77 7.20 6.77 NI Stag 60kg n/c 7.90 7.90 7.20 6.73 19-Jun 26-Jun 3-Jul 10-Jul 17-Jul 24-Jul 31-Jul 7-Aug 14-Aug 21-Aug 28-Aug 4-Sep 11-Sep 18-Sep 25-Sep 9-Oct 16-Oct 23-Oct 30-Oct 6-Nov 13-Nov 20-Nov 0-Jan
Beef & venison Beef & prices venison are prices reported areasreported gross (before as gross normal (before levies normal & charges levies & are charges deducted). are deducted). Lamb & mutton Lambprices & mutton are prices reported arenett reported (after levies nett (after & charges levies & are charges deducted). are deducted).
North Island, Upper Greg Small 0276 879 010
5yr A ve
Weekdemand A go indicator Year Export demand Export indicator - UK CKT- UK leg CKT leg
Procurement Indicator Indicator 300 Procurement
This Year
150 $1.50 $1.50 31-O ct 31-O ct 31-Dec 31-Dec28-Feb 28-Feb 30-A pr 30-A pr 5-Jun 12-Jun 19-Jun 26-Jun 3-Jul 5-Jun 10-Jul 12-Jun 17-Jul 19-Jun 24-Jul 26-Jun 31-Jul 3-Jul 7-Aug 10-Jul 14-Aug 17-Jul 21-Aug 24-Jul 28-Aug 31-Jul 4-Sep 7-Aug 11-Sep 14-Aug 18-Sep 21-Aug 25-Sep 28-Aug 9-Oct 4-Sep 16-Oct 11-Sep 23-Oct 18-Sep 30-Oct 25-Sep 6-Nov 13-Nov 9-Oct 16-Oct 20-Nov 23-Oct 30-Oct 6-Nov 13-Nov 20-Nov $2.00 5yr ave 5yr ave Last Ye arLast Ye arThis Ye arThis Ye ar
A go Procurement Indicator
10 0Aug
NZc/kg
$2.00 Last Year
10 Oct 10 Nov
Export Market Export Demand Market Demand k
Export Market Demand
Export Export indicator indicator - US 95CL US beef 95CL beef D edemand mand DIndicator edemand mand Indicator - US 95CL - US B-eef 95CL B eef 95CL USc/lb +5 212 207 194 205 250 250 $3.00 $3.00 NZc/kg
10 Sep 10 Oct
26 Sep26 Nov 26 Nov26 Jan 26 Jan 26 Mar 26 Mar 5yr Ave 5yr AveLast Ye arLast Ye arThis Ye arThis Ye ar
UK Leg p/kg UK Leg p/kg n/c
5yr A ve
10 Nov26 Mar
50k 100
This Year
5yr A ve Year 205 194 659 626
This Year
10 Oct 26 Jan
50k 100
400 200k
This Year
A Year go 207 194 636 659 Last
Last Y ear
South Island w eekly lamb kill 100k 200 S outh Island Weekly Lamb Kill
100k 200
5k
Last Y ear
This Year
S outh Island S outh Weekly IslandLamb Weekly KillLamb Kill
4005yr Ave 200k
k 300 150k 10 0Aug
26-Nov 10-Oct 26-Jan10-Nov 26-Mar 10-Sep 2 Wks Last23Ye Wks Wks 3Last WksThis Ye Last 5yr Ave ar ar
Last Y ear This Year
South Island South w Island eekly lamb w eekly kill lamb kill
500 250k
10-Dec 26-Mar
Last Y earThis Year
5yr Ave Last Y ear
500 250k
100k 200
5yr AveLast Y ear
5yr Ave
k 0
10 Aug 26 Sep 26 Nov 300 300 10 Sep 150k 150k
S outh Island Weekly Cattle Kill
5yr Ave
North eekly lamb N ort hIsland Islandw Weekly Lambkill Kill
1026 Aug Aug 10 10Nov Oct 10 Oct 10 10 Nov26 Mar Sep 1026 SepSep 26 Nov10 Sep 26 26 Jan 26 Nov Jan 26 Mar 150k
This Year
South Island Weekly Cattle Kill
% Returned NI
7.5
SI Lamb
Last Year 4.96 4.98 5.00 5.01 2.40 4.83 4.83 4.83 4.83 2.10
Slaughter Slaughter P M - 16.0kg
Slaughter 200
South Island South Weekly Island Cattle Weekly KillCattle Kill
$2.50 150 200
5yr Ave
5.20
S outh5yrIsland S outh Weekly Island Weekly KillCattle Kill Ave Last Cattle Year This Year 15k40
k 0 10-Aug 26-Sep
$2.00
7.5
6.5 28-O ct
5.20
$2.50 $2.50 Export indicator - US 95CL D edemand mand Indicator - US 95CL B eefbeef 250 200 200 $3.00
8.5
6.5 6.5 28-O ct 28-O ct
5.20
5yr Ave Last Year
Change
$/kg
9.5 8.5
n/c
4.55
USc/lb
28-Dec
4.5
9.5
3.90
5yr Ave
5.5
3.5 28-O ct
5yr Ave
USc/lb
$/kg
5.5
6.5
4.80
3.90
5.20
North N ort hIsland IslandWeekly Weekly Cattle Cattle Kill Kill
20
20
USc/lb
$/kg
3.5 6.5 28-O ct
4.80
n/c
5.20 5.00
100k
20k
26-Sep 10-Aug
28-Dec
4.00
5.20 5.20 5.20
n/c
0 Exportk Market Export Demand Market Demand
3.5 3.5 28-O ct 4.528-O ct 28-Dec 28-Dec 28-Feb 28-Feb 30-A pr 5yr Ave 5yr AveLast Ye arLast Ye ar This Ye arThis Ye ar
8.5
3.50
5.20 n/c 5.20
4.10
3.90
0 20 k 0 k 26-Sep 26-Sep 26-Nov 26-Nov26-Jan 26-Jan26-Mar 10-Aug 10-Aug 10-Sep 10-Sep 10-Oct 10-Oct 10-Nov 10-Nov 26-Mar 5yr Ave 5yr Ave Last Ye arLast Ye ar This Ye arThis Ye ar 5k
5.5
9.5
3.90 3.50 5.25
3.90
100k k k 500 0 40 10-Aug 0 10-Sep 10-Sep 10-Aug 10-Oct 10-Oct 10-Nov 10-Nov 10-Dec 10-Dec 250k 20k 26-Sep 26-Sep26-Nov 26-Nov 26-Jan 26-Jan26-Mar 26-Mar 50k 400 200k
5k
4.5
3.5 3.5 28-O ct 4.528-O ct
7.5
3.90 3.90 5.20
3.90
% of export returns
$/kg
6.5
8.5
3.90 n/c 5.15
3.90
5.25
% of export returns
5.5
9.5
3.60
Mcal CoTrade w - 200kg M- 230kg Co w - 200kg n/c -5 Lo
n/c
Lo cal Trade - 230kg
Thousand head
28-Dec 5yr Ave
5yr Ave
4.5
3.90 3.60
40k60 20
Thousand head
$/kg
5.0 4.0 6.5 28-O ct
5.5
3.90 3.90
n/c
M Co w - 200kg
5.00
40 40 Slaughter
15k40
6.0
6.5
3.90 n/c
P 2 Co w - 230kg
40k60
20k
South Island 16kg M lamb price
4.0 4.0 28-O ct 28-O ct
4.5
4.55
P 2 Co w - P 230kg 2 Co w - 230kg n/c
Thousand head
28-Feb
South Island South 16kg Island M lamb 16kg price M lamb price
7.0
5.5
4.80 4.55
Thousand head
28-Feb
% of export returns
$/kg
28-Dec
Thousand head
28-Dec
6.0
6.5
4.80 4.80
5.00
3.60 Island North Weekly Island Weekly Kill Cattle N Island N ort Weekly hn/c IslandCattle Cattle Weekly Kill Cattle Kill3.50 MNorth Coort w -h 200kg 3.90 3.90 Kill
40k60
4.0 28-O ct
6.0
4.80 n/c
n/c
M 2 B ull - 300kg Slaughter Slaughter
% of export returns
7.0
5.00
M 2 B ull - 300kg M 2 B ull - 300kg n/c
M 2 B ull - 300kg
Lo cal - 230kg n/cn/c SILo cal Trade P 2 Steer - Trade 300kg - 230kg
Thousand head
$/kg
7.0
5.25
5.20 5.00
P 2 Co w - 230kg
6.0 4.0 4.0 28-O ct 28-O ct
Year 5.25
5.20 5.25
Thousand head
Ve 6.0 n is o n - AP 60kg
A go 5.25
5.1 5.20 5 5.20 5.20
2Last Wks Year A go 4.96 4.96 4.98 4.98 5.00 5.00 5.01 Last5.01 2.40 3.00 Year 5.08 4.964.83 4.984.83 5.08 5.004.83 5.08 5.01 4.83 5.08 2.402.1 3.100
UKp/kg
4 .8 0
Week 5.20
5.1 -55
5.20 n/c
-5
P 2 Steer - 300kg
P 2SISteer -P300kg 2 Steer - 300kg n/c
% of export return
n/c
5.0
SI
5 .2 0
5 .0 0
5.0 7.0
NI
% of export returns
5 .0 8
c/kgCWT
Lo cal Trade Lo cal - 230kg Trade - 230kg -5
% of export returns
$/kg
n/c
n/c
5.0
5.0
4 .9 8
B u ll - M2 300kg $/kg
6.0
n/c
Island North 16kg Island 16kg price M S te7.0 e r - P2 North 300kg -5 M lamb 5 .2 0 lamb price n/c
$/kg $/kg
$/kg
$/kg
$/kg
7.0
$/kg
$/kg
L amb - PM 16.0kg
M Co w - 200kg M Co w - 200kg n/c Change
Last 2 Last Wks Change Change c/kgCWT c/kgCWT Week Week A go NI Lamb NI YM Lamb - 13.5kg YM - 13.5kg n/c 4.96 n/c 4.96 4.96 P M - 16.0kg PM - 1 n/c 6.0kg 4.98 n/c 4.98 4.98 P X - 19.0kg PX - 1 n/c 9.0kg 5.00 n/c 5.00 5.00 LAMB PRICES P H - 22.0kg P H - 22.0kg n/c 5.01 n/c 2 Wks 5.01 5.01 Last Change Mc/kgCWT utto n M M utto X1 -n21kg M X1 - 21 n/c kg Week 3.00 n/c A go 3.00 3.00 SI Lamb YM Lamb 13.5kg YM - 13.5kg n/c 5.08 n/c 4.96 5.08 5.08 NI Lamb SI YM - -13.5kg n/c 4.96 PPMM- -16.0kg 16.0kg P M n/c -1 n/c 6.0kg 4.98 5.08 n/c 4.98 5.08 5.08 PPXX- -19.0kg 19.0kg P X n/c -1 n/c 9.0kg 5.00 5.08 n/c 5.00 5.08 5.08 PPHH- -22.0kg 5.01 22.0kg P H -n/c 22.0kg n/c 5.08 n/c 5.01 5.08 5.08 M kg M utto uttonn M M MX1 utto X1-- 21 n21 kg M X1- n/c 21 n/c kg 3.00 3.1 n/c 0 3.00 3.1 3.100
Thousand head
2Last Wks Week A go 5.20 5.25
S te e r -Me SP2 teat 300kg e r - P2 300kg-5 No rth-5 5Is .2lan 0 d5 .2 0n/c 5Is.2 0 d 5 .2 0 S o u thn/c lan
B u ll - M2 B u300kg ll - M2 300kg n/cC h an n/c 5 5 .0 g .0 e 0 L as t 0n/c C h ann/c g4 e.8 0L as4t.8 0 c /kgCWT k 0n/c c /kg We e7k.9 0 Ve n is oVe n -nAP is o 60kg n - AP 60kg n/c c /kg n/c 7 .9 0We7e.9 n/c 7 .9 0
LAMB LAMB PRICES PRICES
Last Change Change c/kgCWT c/kgCWT Week NI P 2NI Steer -P300kg 2 Steer - 300kg -5 5.20 -5
Thousand head Thousand head Thousand head Thousand head
No rth Is No lan rthd Is lan dS o u th SIsolan u thd Is lan d C h an g C e h an L as g et L as C ht an g C e h an L as g et L as t c /kgCWT c /kgCWT c /kg c /kg We e k We e ck/kg c /kg We e k We e k L amb - LPM amb 16.0kg - PM 16.0kg n/c n/c 4 .9 8 4 .9 8n/c n/c 5 .0 8 5 .0 8
LAMB MARKET TRENDS
UKp/kg UKp/kg
Me at
% of export returns
Me at
BEEF MARKET TRENDS
% of % export returnsreturns % of export of export % of return export return
MARKET SNAPSHOT
South Island Rob Marshall 0272 486 822
Otago/Southland Chris Waites 0277 260 330
Freecall 0800 106 898 Email sales@croplands.co.nz
www.croplands.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
MARKETS & TRENDS 17 PRICE WATCH
held largely steady in recent weeks. With the Easter chilled trade commencing, it is likely that this level will hold in the short-term. There are plenty of lambs coming forward for slaughter, however, there is no backlog, and little certainty around supply. Lambs in the Hawke’s Bay are struggling with condition, and as such the larger numbers are being offloaded as stores as opposed to slaughter. This has placed considerable pressure on market prices, which have dropped around 30c/kg since the beginning of the year. Demand for store lambs in the South Island is stable. Conditions were hardening off, but the extra rain in the past fortnight has removed some of the apprehension from store lamb buyers. A noticeable lack of demand from China has left wool prices especially weak. Lamb’s wool is now under half its value made just a year ago.
INTERNATIONAL BEEF: Prime beef markets have started the year on a softer note. Globally, increased supply of NZ product is meeting resistance in some key markets as production from competitor markets also lifts. The Chinese market is reportedly stable at present, but there are some signs of weakness and demand may soften post Chinese New Year. Improving export
Overseas Wool Price Indicators
Change
26-Jan
12-Jan
Last Year
Co arse Xbred
-32
348
380
580
Fine Xbred
-32
361
393
Lamb
-56
368
M id M icro n
n/ c
727
Indicato rs in NZc/kg
850800
Change
26-Jan
12-Jan
Last Year
Co arse Xbred
- 19
255
273
384
625
Fine Xbred
- 18
264
283
414
424
758
Lamb
-36
270
305
502
727
952
M id M icro n
+9
533
523
630
Indicato rs in USc/kg
Wool trends Woindicator ol Indicator Trends CXI
700 750 600 650 500
450
FXI LI
400 350
550400
300
450300 22-Jan 22-A pr42236 22-Jul 22-O ct 42418 22-Jan WeekNo 42110 42124 42138 42152 42166 42180 42194 42208 42222 42250 42264 42278 42292 42306 42320 42334 42348 42376 42390 42404 42432 42446 42459 CXI FXI LI
250 27-O ct
700 650 600 600
Xbred indicator C oCoarse arse Xbred Indicator Last Year
39 micron w ool (US$)
500
c/kg
SHEEP: Lamb slaughter prices have
WOOL PRICE WATCH
This Year
500 550
27-Dec
5yr ave
500
27-Feb Last Ye ar
27-A pr This Ye ar
35 micron w ool (US$)
450 c/kg
performance from the US is placing pressure on the Korean and Japanese markets. The US market for imported bull meat has lifted sharply. The lift has been underpinned by a lift in domestic beef and fed cattle prices, combined with many importers scrambling to ensure short term requirements are filled.
c/kg
BEEF: The North Island cattle slaughter is in full stride, with plants full and evidence of small waiting times appearing. Numbers coming out of the dry Northland and Hawke's Bay regions are solid. Prime numbers, in particular are plentiful. Cows are also still slow to move, however, there is evidence of some making early decisions in the drier areas. Store cattle are moving quickly out of Northland and Hawke's Bay as both feed and stock water become an issue. While there are eager buyers from other regions with plenty of feed, some classes, 18 month bulls in particular, are becoming harder to shift and prices have suffered as a consequence. Local buyers have kept soaking up any store cattle that have become available in the South Island. The lower outlay for lighter cattle has meant interest in these has held particularly well.
c/kg
NEWS
400 500
400 350
300
300 450 Oct Feb Apr 27-Feb Jun 27-O ct Dec 27-Dec 5yr ave Last Ye ar
Aug 27-A pr This Ye ar
250 27-O ct 5yr ave
27-Dec 27-Feb 27-A pr Last Ye ar This Ye ar
OUR INSIGHT. YOUR EDGE.
AgriHQ is the leading source of independent agri market analysis that farmes can bank on. For the latest market reports visit agrihq.co.nz/farmer or call 0800 85 25 80.
agriHQ.co.nz
50,000 cows say they prefer a clear roof free-range Redpath shelter … if cow’s could talk
!
T C E R I D Y BU h Farmlands/CRT
or throug
ite Built on-s 0 from $52 * per cow!
N An effective and affordable off-pasture shelter system N Multiple flooring options, or build over existing pads N Designs for Feedpads, Standoffshelters or Winteringbarns N 50,000 cows enjoy their free range natural light shelter
Healthy leaf is hard to beet!
for increased condition score, improved feed utilization, better pasture quality and regrowth + protection from weather
Free Ph 0508 733 728 www.redpath.co.nz Email: sales@redpath.co.nz * + GST. Conditions apply.
Insist on Escolta from Bayer.
For easy identification of threatening fungal disease, use our handy disease ID guide at www.hardtobeet.co.nz BAC 1606
BEAT
! S N O S THE SEA
Fodder Beet leaf is stacked with valuable proteins that, combined with the carbohydrates in the beet, offer a ‘hard to beet’ higher yielding supplementary feed. Escolta provides exceptional defence against a range of foliar fungal diseases that threaten your crops potential.
Escolta® is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. P9302 and is approved pursuant to the HSNO Act 1996, No. HSR101050. Escolta® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. © Bayer 2016.
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
18 AGRIBUSINESS
Strong, smart women have firm sweeping along Irish women have played a key role in the success of an Irish agritech company now 70 years in the business. Visiting Ireland, reporter Peter Burke met Clodagh Cavanagh, managing director of Abbey Machinery. “My family were blacksmiths in the 1800s and would have been famous for the Cavanagh plough back in the 1900s. My grandfather was a trained blacksmith who also worked as a foreman for the aluminium factory, which was in Nenagh at the time,” she told Rural News. “He went to the US in the 1940s and picked up welding techniques from the shipyards in San Francisco. Rumour has it he hitched a lift home on a navy ship.” Cavanagh’s grandfather Joe and his wife Mary set up Abbey Machinery in 1947 and it has grown from a small family factory to a large high-tech business on a new site.
Proven Design - Proven Applicator Ph: 0800 242 824 Web: www.leaderproducts.co.nz
Jumbo HDX Sheep Tag
Abbey’s R&D is employing part-time farmers to work with engineers and others who work fulltime in that area. Cavanagh says this means farmers who use the products are involved at an early stage and are able to provide practical feedback on product design. The company also emphasises getting feedback from customers to build up knowledge. The NZ market is important to Abbey and it has exhibited at National Fieldays to promote its products. The products follow the seasons: when slurry tankers are selling in the northern hemisphere, it’s likely feeders will be selling in the southern hemisphere and
& ID l r E ina Fo rig O
LEADER SHEEP IDENTIFICATION
nic ro g ct nin Ele can S
(NZ)
“My grandfather was the engineer and innovator and my grandmother the businesswoman. She was a strong woman and in May 2016 at the amazing age of 100 officially opened our new factory. She has since passed away, but she was a tough lady and a great role model for me and other women.” The new 13ha site includes a 10,000m2 factory with a big R&D centre. The site is large to allow for testing new products. “Our driver is innovation and new products and in the space of two years we have created four new products,” she says. An unusual aspect of
Leadermatic Applicator
TAG AND APPLICATOR FOR MATCHED PERFORMANCE
Visual Swatch Ask your Retailer
Ireland’s farming technology resurgent: (from left) Julie Sinnamon, chief executive Enterprise Ireland; Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD; Clodagh Cavanagh, managing director Abbey Machinery, winner of the Anna May McHugh Female Leadership Award; Anna May McHugh, managing director National Ploughing Championships.
vice versa. Cavanagh, now aged 35, says her rise to managing director has coincided with an upsurge of interest in science and agriculture in Ireland and more emphasis on education. Young people see the value of science in raising crop yields and productivity and are keen to be a part of this renaissance. Cavanagh believes it also helps that, for the most part, young people in Ireland are close to the land and farming is part of the culture. Last year Cavanagh won the inaugural Anna May McHugh Female
Leadership in Agriculture Perpetual Trophy. Anna May McHugh established the National Ploughing Championships in Ireland and is a respected and revered businesswoman in Ireland. “It was a great privilege and especially to get the award form Anna May. She is a gem of a role model for any woman. In Ireland the times are changing and there is more encouragement for women,” she says. “There are more women in engineering and we are encouraged into engineering by schools and Enterprise Ireland. Then you
look at my grandmother – she was a great woman in business for years, the same as Anna May.” Though Cavanagh has two brothers involved in the business, she had the support of her father to take over his role as managing director. She is passionate about the business and says its strength lies in its strong team and culture. From humble beginnings as a family business making ploughs for local farmers, Abbey Machinery now employs 90 staff and has established itself as a successful agri-tech company in Ireland and on the international stage.
WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ
RIGHT NOW!
$9,995 GST PLUS
LT-F400FL6
2016 KINGQUAD 400 MANUAL RUNOUT
— SAVE $2,500 — INCL GST
Promotion must end 31 March 2017 or while stocks last. Offers applies to 2016 model LT-F400FL6 manual only. Not available in conjunction with any other offer.
SZM0294
FOUR YEARS ago, aged just 31, Clodagh Cavanagh took over from her father in running Abbey Machinery and kept on with its repositioning and growth. From an early age she was destined to become part of the company which makes slurry tankers, mixers, spreaders and sprayers, selling them worldwide, including New Zealand. Cavanagh graduated in business studies and qualified as an accountant. She is seen as one of the young, rising entrepreneurs in Ireland. But the company itself had humble beginnings in the town of Nenagh, County Tipperary, south-east Ireland.
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
AGRIBUSINESS 19
Approval for school programme to encourage agriculture A PROGRAMME designed to encourage school students into farming can now be used to gain NCEA credits. The Red Meat Profit Partnership (RMPP) programme, trialled last year in 10 primary and 16 secondary schools, aims to help students learn more about the sector and promote awareness of the wide range of career opportunities. Resources including assessments within the programme have now received the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) Quality Assured Assessment Materials (QAAM) trademark. Diane Falconer, RMPP’s project manager for people capability, says the resources were developed in response to farmers and the need identified by the Ministry for Primary Industry for more skilled and qualified people to enter the industry; it will start in more schools this year. RMPP is a Primary Growth Partnership programme that is working to help the red meat sector increase productivity and profitability. Funded by 10 partners – government and private sector – it works with farmers and sector businesses to develop, test and introduce new ideas, technology solutions and ways of working. “MPI’s 2014 People Powered report showed the red meat sector will need about 11,000 more qualified people by 2025, particularly to achieve its targets of doubling the value of primary industry exports,” says Falconer. “Also, 75% of farmers agree not enough young people are coming into the industry and there’s a need to address the perception that farming is for secondary school students who are struggling.” She says agriculture offers exciting and rewarding career opportunities using smart agribusiness technol-
The RMPP partners are Alliance Group, ANZ, Beef + Lamb NZ, ANZCO Foods, Blue Sky Meats, Greenlea, Progressive, Rabobank, Silver Fern Farms and Ministry for Primary Industries.
ogy to meet the growing world demand for NZ’s red meat products. “The sector needs farmers, scientists and agribusiness professionals.” St Hilda’s Collegiate, Dunedin, was among the trial schools. John Bradfield, head of maths, says the maths department had used the resource in all its level 3 statistics classes, using adapted NCEA level 2 inferences work for level 3 students. “The trial went well and we will keep using the resource,” says Bradfield. “We are always looking for material like this. There is a lot of depth to the data provided including on stock. We used data such as lamb weights, dates and single and multiple births.” John McPhail, in charge of agriculture at St Bede’s College, Christchurch, says he plans to use the resources this year. “They are great for getting ideas for planning units of work,” he says. “I have adapted them slightly to meet my needs but I would assume most teachers would do that.” The programmes were written by the Core Education professional learning and development organisation and are managed on RMPP’s behalf by NZ Young Farmers. The primary school resource, for years seven and eight, is designed to fit into the school curriculum and be applicable to different subjects. Falconer says the resource looks at common stereotypes and aims to debunk the myths and broaden understand-
ing of the many skills farmers need. “At the end of the programme the children get to visit a farm.”
The secondary school programme includes a cross-curriculum resource for maths and science for years nine and 10.
Scholarship students attending last year’s HortNZ conference are exactly the kind of young people the newly NZQA-approved programme is trying to encourage into the primary sector.
MEET THE
ALL NEW
TRACTOR GENERATION
MF 5700 SL SERIES | 100 – 130 HP REAL DEAL POWER AND PERFORMANCE The latest reliable Tier4 final AGCO Power engine with exceptional fuel economy Unparalleled visibility due to steep nose bonnet and Visio roof options Complete AutoGuide solutions for reduced overlap and simple operation 100 L/min hydraulic flow and four speed PTO, enough to handle any operation
Proven 16 x 16 and 24 x 24 semi-power shift transmissions with AutoDrive and brake to neutral functions for straightforward control Exceptional cabin comfort with mechanical cab suspension and air seat Built in Europe for outstanding quality and reliability
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MF DEALER FOR A REAL DEAL MASSEYFERGUSON.CO.NZ | FREECALL 0800 825 872 MF 5700 SL – Winner of Tractor of the Year 2016 (Best Utility) as voted at Agritechnica, November 2015.
MASSEY FERGUSON®, MF®, the triple-triangle logo® is a worldwide brand of AGCO. © 2017
For more information, visit nufarm.co.nz ÂŽWeedMaster is a registered trademark of Nufarm Ltd. ÂŽPulse is a registered trademark of Nufarm Technologies USA Pty Ltd. *Conditions apply.
NUF0076_RN_DPS
Do it once and do it right with the twin-salt power of WeedMasterÂŽ TS540 from Nufarm. Our patented glyphosate formulation gives you the strength to clear the decks with a faster brownout and quicker turnaround. Plus, with PulseÂŽ Penetrant, WeedMaster TS540 is rainfast within 20 minutes.
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
22 OPINION EDITORIAL
EDNA
Prepare for change THE WORLD changed, for better or worse, with the inauguration of Donald Trump as US President. While many argue the merits of Trump’s policies and even take to the streets to oppose them, the main thing for New Zealanders to consider is how these policies may or may not affect us as a trading nation: the primary sector, especially, stands or falls on world trade. Trump’s inauguration ushers in dramatic change especially in that sphere. The new president’s discarding of the TPP and signalling an ‘America First’ flavour to trade deals offers both challenges and opportunities for NZ. Add to the mix Brexit, and it means the world of trade has absolutely changed. Calls by opposition parties, political activists and media talking heads for Prime Minister Bill English to condemn and/or vilify Trump’s newly imposed immigration rules are naïve and foolhardy. How would these same people react to the US trying to dictate to our democratically elected government NZ’s immigration policies? Meanwhile, English, on behalf of the nation, needs to ensure that the prickly President Trump – who can take offence at a critical tweet, let alone pontificating do-gooders – and the US find no excuse to punish our exports, NZ’s economic lifeblood. Despite the US withdrawing from the TPP, the NZ primary sector remains strongly supportive of the deal. Both the Meat Industry Association and Beef + Lamb NZ argue that multilateral trade deals create stable and level playing fields that are important to the growth and prosperity of their sector and NZ generally. Work is now in progress on a possible TPP without the US. Meanwhile it is imperative NZ’s trade strategy is reviewed in the face of growing anti-globalisation sentiment to ensure a continuing quest for opportunities to open up further export markets. And this already appears to be happening. As reported in this issue, the hope is that formal negotiations for a free trade agreement between NZ and the European Union will begin later this year. Meanwhile, discussions with the US about a possible bilateral trade deal are also planned. Beef + Lamb NZ says it is planning to step up its lobbying of industry groups in the US, UK and EU in the light of Brexit and Donald Trump’s election. Similar work is being done by NZ’s dairy and horticulture lobbies. So forget about the political sideshows and concentrate and what really matters to NZ’s future prosperity – developing and enhancing international markets for our produce.
RURALNEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS
HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 331100, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 PUBLISHER: Brian Hight ......................................... Ph 09 307 0399 GENERAL MANAGER: Adam Fricker ....................................... Ph 09 913 9632 CONSULTING EDITOR: David Anderson .................................. Ph 09 307 0399 davida@ruralnews.co.nz
They couldn’t compete with Trump!”
Want to share your opinion or gossip with the Hound? Send your emails to: hound@ruralnews.co.nz
THE HOUND Twit(ter)
Sour grapes?
Vote him out
Silence
YOUR OLD mate would have thought politicians of all stripes may have learnt a thing or two from the new US President about how not to use social media. President Trump has certainly set the bar (pretty low) on how a politician can use Twitter to react to criticism or slights from various people. However, it seems Labour’s primary industry spokesman Damian O’Connor must have been to the Donald J Trump School of Social Media, going by some of his Trumpesque tweets of late. O’Connor recently got into a heated argument on Twitter about Fonterra and TAF with a number of people, and ended up swearing and blowing his cool. Not a good look for a supposed ag minister in waiting. Mind you, poor old Damien may be ‘waiting’ a fair bit longer before he is ever minister of ag, so he probably has a bit of time to work on his social media etiquette.
THE HOUND notes that former Silver Fern Farms chief executive Keith Cooper has gone public with his disapproval of former Richmond chair Sam Robinson as a new director on the joint SFF/ Shanghai Maling consortium board. It seems that Cooper -- who before becoming top dog at SFF spent 25 years there – still holds something of a grudge against Robinson for fighting hard against the then PPCS’s bitter takeover of Richmond Meats a decade ago. While Cooper has now been put out to pasture (figuratively and literally) from SFF, Super Sam is back in the fold and on the new board, which has got Kiwi Keith a bit peeved. Your old mate reckons Cooper needs to let bygones be bygones and get on with farming on his own account instead of trying to stir up fights dead and buried years ago.
YOUR CANINE crusader sees that the country’s biggest meat processor SFF made a huge loss of about $30 million last year. He wonders where all those naysayers protesting about the Shanghai Maling ‘takeover’ of SFF got their information about the Chinese buyers getting a great deal? One of the biggest clowns leading the anti-SFF/Shanghai merger was self-appointed mining expert, meat company maestro and lifetime politician Winston Raymond Peters. Proving – once again – that when it comes to the real facts that he is a stranger. Meanwhile, SFF shareholders will be delighted to know that the vocal minority Peters fanned, forcing SFF to hold two special general meetings added something like $3m extra to the SFF loss last year.
THIS OLD mutt hears that swimming has been banned at 10 Auckland beaches this summer because of worsening pollution from human and domestic animal wastes. Water has not been safe for swimming since the start of summer at Laingholm and Wood Bay near Titirangi, the north and south lagoons at Piha, and at the Bethells Beach lagoon – all popular swimming spots. Meanwhile, Auckland Council has now stopped routine monitoring of water quality at all five sites, and at five other beaches that already have permanent warning signs: Cox’s Bay, Meola Reef, Weymouth, the Wairau Stream outlet at Milford Beach and Little Oneroa lagoon on Waiheke Island. Yet there is not a peep out of self-proclaimed waterquality warriors like the Green Party, Greenpeace, Mike Joy or Rachel ‘Toxic’ Stewart.
PRODUCTION: Dave Ferguson ........................Ph 09 913 9633 davef@ruralnews.co.nz Becky Williams ........................Ph 09 913 9634 beckyw@ruralnews.co.nz REPORTERS: Sudesh Kissun ....................... Ph 09 913 9627 Pamela Tipa ............................. Ph 09 620 7811 Peter Burke .............................Ph 06 362 6319 Nigel Malthus ...................... Ph 021 164 4258 MACHINERY EDITOR: Mark Daniel ............................. Ph 021 906 723 or 07 824 1190 SUB-EDITOR: Neil Keating ............................Ph 09 913 9628
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER: Stephen Pollard ....Ph 09 913 9637/021 963 166 stephenp@ruralnews.co.nz
WELLINGTON SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Ron Mackay ......... Ph 04 234 6239/021 453 914 ronm@ruralnews.co.nz
WAIKATO SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Ted Darley .......... Ph 07 854 6292/021 832 505 ted@ruralnews.co.nz
SOUTH ISLAND SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Kaye Sutherland Ph 03 337 3828/021 221 1994 kayes@ruralnews.co.nz
ABC audited circulation 80,580 as at 30/09/2016
WEBSITE PRODUCER: Jessica Wilson ........................ Ph 09 913 9621
Rural News is published by Rural News Group Ltd. All editorial copy and photographs are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions or comments expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of staff, management or directors of Rural News Group Ltd.
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
OPINION 23
Defining ‘sustainable’ really important INDUSTRY GIANT Unilever has reported that one in five (21%) consumers “would choose a brand based on the belief that it was produced sustainably”. Even more important to a business is the suggestion that at least some consumers are doing what they say they will do: Unilever reports that its sustainably labelled brands are growing 30% more than those without labels indicating ‘sustainable’. The results of the Unilever research support the company’s commitment to halving the environmental footprint of production, and using only sustainably certified palm oil. Unilever is the thirdlargest consumer goods company in the world and estimates that the sustainability market is worth 2.5 trillion euros.
SCIENTIFICALLY SPEAKING JACQUELINE ROWARTH
input. These are important factors to consider, but are not being asked in a systematic manner. Indeed, at the end of last year soil scientists from overseas indicated concern at the media focus on ‘alternative approaches to food production’ which were presented as ‘better’ – but had not been shown to be more sustainable than conventional methods. Speaking at the Australasian Soils Conference in Queenstown in December, University
There are no silver bullets or easy answers and ‘good, better, best’ depends on context. However, quite what constitutes ‘sustainable’ in the minds of the consumer is still in question. The main issues are still price paid to the farmer, cost paid by the consumer, impact of production on soil and water, generation of greenhouse gases (GHG) and animal (including human) welfare. Within at least some of these categories, the unit of measurement is important. For example, what appears to be a reduction in environmental impact per hectare could be an increase per kilogram of energy or protein consumed. A farm leaching the average nitrate per hectare, but doing twice the average production has increased its N use efficiency. If it has increased GHG per hectare because it has increased animal numbers, but is still producing fewer GHG per unit of production than neighbours, is the farm more or less sustainable? The same applies to nitrogen and any other
of Western Australia’s emeritus professor Bob Gilkes stated that he was dismayed at the emphasis in New Zealand media on ‘alternative production systems, presented with the underlying suggestion that somehow conventional systems weren’t as good’. ‘Good, better and best’ are subjective assessments, and frequently are contextdependent. For instance, ‘free-range’ sounds terrific. But for Europe, concerns about animal welfare and business viability are threatening the free-range egg concept. Bird flu means that hens are being kept inside, but after 12 weeks they are no longer considered to meet the definition of ‘free-range’. What then of premium prices? Staying with poultry, the move to use slowergrowing chickens by the Whole Food Market in the US improves the life of the bird, but increases the ultimate cost of the bird to the consumer and use of resources including water, air, fuel and land.
The National Chicken Council calculates that if one third of birds were a slower growing breed, nearly 1.5 billion more birds would be needed annually to produce the same amount of meat now produced – requiring an extra 7.6 million acres of land. An extra 5.1b gallons of water would
also be needed just for the chickens to drink during their lifetime, and an extra 28.5b pounds of manure would also be added. The cost to the consumer would increase by US$9b. In fishing, the University of California Merced has reported the sustainable tuna fishing
involving selective fishing techniques reduces catch and increases carbon emissions. The research estimates that catching one tonne of tuna today requires three times the amount of fuel it did 25 years ago. Many companies, including Unilever, are trying to do what
consumers think they want, but unintended consequences are rife. Research in all areas must continue to try to identify the sweet spot between environment, price, cost and welfare by considering all aspects of production. There are no silver bullets or easy answers
and ‘good, better, best’ depends on context. • Jacqueline Rowarth is chief scientist at the Environmental Protection Authority. Her doctoral research was in soil science and she was a member of the panel discussion on the future of soils science in which Professor Gilkes took part.
Bringing agricultural East Coast Farming Expo innovation 5-6 April 2017 and Wairoa A&P Showgrounds technology Serious farming conversations start to you! here!
Explore everything from water systems and fertilizer options, to cloud based farm recording systems and stock handling equipment East Coast and Hawke’s Bay sheep and beef farmers will have the chance to network and learn about agricultural innovation in their region.
eastcoastexpo.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
24 OPINION
How to keep horticulture growing Value of 2014 exports
MIKE CHAPMAN
LAST YEAR (2016) was one of growth for horticulture. For the year ending June 30, 2016 export growth was as (see table). The challenge now is to consolidate and continue that growth in 2017. The key contributors to that happening include market access; protection of vegetable/fruit growing land from urbanisation and lifestyle blocks (only 5% of New Zealand is suitable for horticulture); access to water; access to reliable and skilled labour; ready registration of new compounds, biopesticides and biological control agents; grower succession; management of the biosecurity risks posed by Queensland fruit fly and the brown marmorated stink bug; manageable regulatory compliance; and managing the impacts of climate change. These matters challenge most primary industries. As an industry we are advocating to mitigate the risks to continued growth. Three related issues stand out: market access, protecting our crops from pests, and biosecurity invasions.
Value of 2016 exports
Percentage change
Kiwifruit
$930,695,914
$1,668,949,432
79.32%
Pipfruit
$547,269,333
$701,937,501
28.26%
Other fruit crops
$147,807,229
$179,868,159
21.69%
Berries
$50,867,086
$62,042,687
21.97%
$97,118,292
$112,499,417
15.84%
Buttercup Squash
Onions
$45,983,352
$58,190,743
26.55%
Other vegetables
$311,643,989
$315,021,490
1.08%
Other products*
$279,183,445
$262,630,632
-5.93%
$2,410,68,640
$3,361,139,791
39.43%
Total
*Other products: Citrus juice and other citrus products, kumara, processed and mixed veges not included above, fruit mixes and dried fruit which couldn’t be separated by commodity type, and export nuts & nut mixes. Source: Report on New Zealand Horticulture Barriers to Our Export Trade 2016
The minimum residue levels for pest protection compounds are progressively reducing in our export markets, mainly in response to consumer awareness and demands. Added to this, the chemical companies are reluctant to bring ‘new age’ compounds onto the NZ market. This is due to regulatory complexities in gaining approval for use in NZ and the small size of this market presenting limited financial returns. Introducing chemical alternatives such as biopesticides and biological control agents into New Zealand is
difficult. There are no established processes for biopesticides, and obtaining biological control agent approval is a rigorous and lengthy process. Unless horticulture is able to embrace new technologies, our ability to get our products into overseas markets will become progressively limited. This is a major challenge to our growth. The brown marmorated stink bug is a prime example of a pest we should be getting prepared for. It will eat most vegetables and the leaves of fruit trees in home gardens, as well as
many commercially grown fruit and vegetables. Once it’s finished eating its way through our gardens and crops, it likes to spend the winter in dark spaces; the eaves and walls of houses are among its favourite spots, and once disturbed it will give off a horrid smell, hence the name. See the picture, the poster and watch https://youtu.be/2syIdxVbmRQ to see how it affects people and their homes. This pest is not confined to damaging crops, it will invade your home too. If you see what you think is a brown marmorated stink bug, catch
it, take a picture of it, and report it on 0800 80 99 66. There are no viable chemical controls for the brown marmorated stink bug, but there is a natural predator. We have started the approval process for this biocontrol agent to be introduced into NZ, should it be needed. We are fortunate that the Ministry for Primary Industries and Plant and Food researchers have strong links to US scientists who have experience managing this stink bug. At present it is sweeping across Europe and US. Production and horticulture’s growth will be significantly affected should it get established in New Zealand. Keeping it out through strong biosecurity policies and actions is our best option. For horticulture to continue to grow, supporting local economies as well as NZ’s total economic health as a country, we need an active partnership with the Government and its agencies to manage risks and capitalise on opportunities; these are goals for 2017. • Mike Chapman is the chief executive of Horticulture New Zealand
Check out our websites BREAKING NEWS MANAGEMENT STORIES MARKETS & TRENDS MACHINERY REVIEWS COMPETITIONS AND MUCH MORE...
www.ruralnews.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
OPINION 25 ag twits Rural News’ irreverent and hypothetical look at what’s happening in the farming world Top Bleats view all @therealdonaldtrump@billenglishpm: Bill? Bill Who? You’re not Chinese are you? Oh… Bill English? Ah Brexit. Well done Bill, fantastic decision. You will never regret taking English out of the EU; just like America will never regret electing me president. #iwillgiveyouaringoneday @therealdonaldtrump@winstonfirstandlast: I very muchly love your style Peter Winston. Great hair, fantastic age at 70-plus to be a political leader, tremendous anti-trade and immigration policies. But remember it is America First not NZ First! #loveyoubigly
NO HELP NEEDED HERE, THANKS! HERE’S AN offering to cheer up Terry Newton, who was so disappointed (Rural News January 17) that Chris Kelly had to hop out because he’d fouled his own nest. Terry said he would stop to help a woman [whose vehicle had a flat tyre] because she might
not be able to remove the nasty old wheel nuts. He might be surprised to learn that smart women know they don’t need the “strength of a man” for this job; they just step on the end of the wheel brace to shift them without breaking a sweat. Thirty years ago I
was changing a wheel on a King Country back road when a burly local stepped out of his ute, folded his arms and watched for a minute, then announced, “You’re better at that than I am,” before leaving me to it. Yes, I knew him, and I’ll always remember that as
@therealdonaldtrump@jkelseyconspiracyexpert: It is wonderful to have such an esteemed international trade expert backing my decision to dump the TPP. I see you were marching in Auckland the other week, no doubt supporting my trade policies. #loveyourwork
a true mark of respect for the little woman. I’ve also stopped and assisted a helpless bloke. Patricia Hosking (Rural News January 17) made a great job of explaining Kelly’s crime. If he’d had his facts straight he might have withstood the onslaught. Being offensive
about female vets AND wrong was never going to work, especially in the top job at a tertiary institution. Applying some scientific rigour before publishing would have been more appropriate in his position. Sharyn Price 10 D R D Oamaru
You can always produce bales with optimum efficiency
@therealdonaldtrump@littleandylabour: I understand you are not a fan of my immigration policies. I guess they’re not up to your standard. Perhaps I should try banning people with Muslim sounding names? That wouldn’t be racist would it? #thanksfortheadvice @therealdonaldtrump@jaimieatthecountry: Just read your latest informative, insightful and tremendously tremendous column. You sound very much like me. I did’nt realise that, among your many self-proclaimed achievements, you invented sliced bread and the question mark. #mineisbiggerthanyours @therealdonaldtrump@garethmorgan: Tremendously tremendous policies you have borrowed from me and are now advocating. However, be careful about your pussy policy; it got me into all sorts of trouble a while back. #graballthecats
SUPPORT FOR FEDS FEDERATED FARMERS’ concerns about the impact of freedom camping are supported by the national organisation representing motorhomers. Feds’ call for the government to fund “small communities in need of significant investment to cope” reflects what we’re hearing from communities all over the country. Communities welcome responsible freedom campers driving Certified Self-Contained (CSC) vehicles not in need of public facilities. However, the consistent message we’re getting from communities – big and small, rural, provincial or urban – is that freedom campers in non self-contained vehicles are unacceptable. Motorhome tourism is growing in importance in the tourism market. New Zealanders are taking it on more and more; it is growing rapidly as a holiday option for families and a lifestyle option for many retirees. So we must be careful that Kiwi families aren’t prevented from enjoying this leisure activity. But look carefully at the source of the problem: the tiny minority of freedom campers in non self-contained vehicles and the obvious concerns this raises about hygiene and sanitation. If councils choose to create facilities to cater for this segment of the market, that’s one thing; but if travellers don’t have CSC vehicles they shouldn’t be freedom camping. That’s the bugbear for councils and communities nationwide. NZMCA’s 70,000 individual members represent about 80% of NZ’s private motorhome owners; membership is conditional on their vehicles being self-contained. Also, the mainstream motorhome manufacturers and distributors focus their sales efforts on self-contained vehicles, and the motorhome rental industry is mostly CSC. These three segments of the industry are doing the right thing, so it’s not unreasonable to control the problem area – travellers in non-CSC vehicles. Bruce Lochore, chief executive, NZ Motorhome and Caravan Association
Lely Welger Tornado - Contour Edition The Lely Welger Tornado fixed and variable balers feature the latest upgrades, making them the strongest and most reliable combination balers on the market.
3D ground following (Alpine Pickup) User friendly monitor & software Positive hill transfer system Large flotation tyres
Quality pays. The new Lely Welger Tornado - Contour Edition balers produce high density, well shaped bales each and every time. John Clark, Director of John Clark Contracting.
www.lely.nz www.lely.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
26 MANAGEMENT
Roller-coaster ride for lavender farmer NIGEL MALTHUS
GIVING UP an IT career in the defence industry to run a lavender farm in New Zealand has been “a roller coaster ride” for British woman Myra McLelland. McLelland and her two adult sons immigrated in June 2015 to take over Lavendyl Farm, nestled under the hills on the western edge of the Kaikoura flats. “I did a Trade Me search for a B&B or a coffee shop and this place popped up,” she says. The property is something of a tourist attraction in the area, offering everything from garden tours and a wedding photography venue to a two-unit bed-and-breakfast, a cafe, and a shop with a variety of lavender-based products such as tea and
lavender soaps, as much as possible made and packaged onfarm. “I love doing this because there’s a huge variety of stuff involved in it – making the products, talking to customers, running the B&B, being able to make scones and shortbread and stuff for the shop,” McLelland told Rural News. “It’s been a huge roller-coaster. But we’ve come to know a lot of people in the lavender industry. We’ve had so much help from the lavender association.” The farm covers nearly 3ha, about 2ha planted in lavender. There is also a small derelict vineyard she intends to convert to lavender. The farm grows at least 50 varieties, but many are only specimen plants. Of the
main crop lavenders, about four angustofolia varieties (also known as English lavender or true lavender) hold their colour so are popular in flower arrangements but can also be used in edible products. Another five or six varieties are known as the lavendins. A high camphor content makes them inedible, but useful in body products, shampoos, soaps and fragrances. Alasdair (22) hopes to train as a pilot, but McLelland says her younger son, Douglas (20) sees his future in running the farm. “Having done a year, we were all set. We learned a whole lot of lessons in year one. We were all set to put them in place for year two. We’d started, we ordered a whole load of stuff for
making all this [the shop merchandise] and then the earthquake struck.” However, with Kaikoura cut off the tourists are staying away and McLelland had many B&B bookings cancelled. Researching markets would normally be a winter job, but McLelland says she is making the most of the quiet season. “We’re taking advantage of it being quieter to look at export opportunities.” Meanwhile, quake damage to the property is mostly limited to sticking doors in the shop building and cracked concrete foundations in
Myra McLelland amid the rows of lavender on Lavendyl Farm, Kaikoura.
the distilling shed. McLelland is critical of Civil Defence’s policing of access to Kaikoura in the first weeks after the quake, when an engineer she had asked to come
Alisdair McLelland loads the oil-extraction still at Lavendyl Farm, Kaikoura. The basket, containing a 15kg batch of freshlyharvested flowers, will be sealed in the large drum at left and the oil extracted by steam from the boiler at rear.
Love Dairy?
from Christchurch to inspect the distillery boiler was not allowed to join one of the early army convoys over the restricted inland route. She believes Civil Defence was needlessly scared of possible liability under new Health and Safety regulations, when their concerns could have been met simply by having people sign indemnities. However, the boiler is usable, after being okayed by a local marine engineer, although McLelland believes it may yet have to be replaced along with the distillery shed itself. “The boiler’s sitting at an angle, but it’s still working.” Distillation involves piling cut flowers into a steel basket which fits into a pressure vessel which is then fed steam from the boiler. The
steam picks up oil from the flowers then runs through a water-cooled condensing tube to be collected as condensate with the oil floating on top. The oil is decanted then spends a night in a freezer so any remaining water turns to ice and can be filtered out along with impurities such as insects and plant fragments. McLelland says the yield can approach 20ml of oil per kg of plant matter, although rain just before harvest can wash oil off the plants and high temperatures can evaporate it, resulting in yields as low as 6ml/kg. The bulk of the water collected at the still becomes a by-product called hydrosol. “It retains some of the lavender oil so it has a lavender smell. So we sell that as a linen spray.”
Kia hiwa rā! Ngāi Tahu Farming’s Dairy operation currently consists of seven dairy farms on 1,800 hectares of irrigated pasture at Te Whenua Hou (Eyrewell), half an hour north of Christchurch. Multiple opportunities exist for individuals who are committed to advancing sustainable dairy farming practices; who are adaptable to change, enjoy the farming lifestyle and have a knowledge and respect for Māori cultural values and customs. What Ngāi Tahu Farming can offer successful applicants: • Top quality infrastructure and housing; • Farm systems which utilise best practice technologies and target top 20% performance; • 5 days on, 2 days off roster, 6 on 2 off roster during calving and mating; • Great opportunities for learning and career progression; • Personal development program with a supportive team environment; • Competitive remuneration including health and life insurance.
S LE N O
Higher Productivity + Lower Servicing SACostsUMME
= AES Waterblasters TORNADO RANGE
• UDOR ceramic plunger pump & gear-box • Genuine Honda petrol engine • 10 models from 1800 to 5000 psi
To find out more about current opportunities or to register your interest for the upcoming season, please visit our careers website www.mahi.ngaitahu.iwi.nz Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
find out more at ngaitahu.iwi.nz
FREEPHONE 0508 78 78 78
www.aesblasters.co.nz
Sales & Service dealers throughout New Zealand
R W ON
HURRICANE WATERBLASTER/ SPRAYER • Tough 600 litre tank, Cat 2 mounts • New Udor 3000 psi pump with massive 35 L/min flow • Blast/spray/clean drains
ELECTROBLAST RANGE • 230 or 400 Volt 1440 RPM electric motors • 8 models from 1600 to 5000 psi
!
Kiwis love Hansen Fittings and Valves. But don’t just take our word for it...
Ask Your Neighbour...
When we decided to upgrade our wa ter system we wa right first time. nted to make sure We know the ins it was done an d outs of running understand the im a dairy support fa portance of a re rm and liable water supp ly. While having a ya rn with my neighb our I mentioned th on our water syst at we were going em, he said “Whate to do an upgrade ver you do make they last forever! sure you use Hans ” en fittings So I called Hansen and they got thei r water specialis some options on t Nigel to visit an a new layout. In a d go through very short time we had decided on a plan! Nigel provided us with 20 local stoc kists and installe Services as we he rs. We chose Sou ard good things ab thland Farm out them. Scotty installing and they and his team did were able to offe a great job of r some advice fo along the way. r future-proofing the installation The extension co mprises of 35 tr oughs, fitted with over 8km’s of pipe Superflo and Max and Hansen’s new flo valves, MD compression recommendations fittings. When Nige to us he urged us l made to use ball and ch followed his advice eck valves in the and we already fo sy stem. We und the valves ve ry helpful. The new system was commissioned on time and within has worked perf the budget, and fr ectly! After many om day one it years of farming plan and it is rare I can say things do to find a business n’ t always go to so focused on de livering on their promises. Like my Neighbou r we too are now big fans of Hansen ’s products and se rvices! - Grant & Anna Ch amberlain, Woodlan ds, Southland -
Hansen products are available in over 1,400 stores nationwide Check out www.hansenproducts.com to find your local stockist
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
28 MANAGEMENT
Overseer alternative? AN ALTERNATIVE to Overseer to help farmers manage nitrate losses and improve water quality may get the go-ahead for use in South Canterbury. Approval will be sought for N-Check (computer program) from the Orari Temuka Opihi Pareora (OTOP) water zone management committee. If approved, N-Check would be used within its zone as an alternative to the most commonly used ECan-approved programme, Overseer. Like Overseer, N-check uses key information about a farm, including location, type, inputs and management, to calculate an estimated nitrogen loss from a property. N-Check requires users to answer simple questions about their farms on a free web-based application. It then uses the results and information from representa-
tive farms modelled with Overseer to determine nitrogen loss rates for their properties. N-Check was approved late last year by ECan for use in limited circumstances in the Selwyn Te Waihora catchment. ECan staff have recommended it for use in the OTOP zone. Chief executive Bill Bayfield says he would approve N-Check for use in other zones aside from Selwyn Te Waihora if zone committees supported it. A report to the OTOP committee’s January 30 meeting says: “A number of catchments in the region are not achieving the water quality outcomes set in the Canterbury Land Water Regional Plan (LWRP) or are at risk of not meeting [the outcomes]”. The OTOP zone committee is expected this month to back the
CRIDGE SEEDS LTD Doyleston Canterbury www.cridgeseeds.co.nz
use of N-Check in its zone as an alternative to Overseer to determine whether consent is required and a farm is below a fixed nitrogen loss rate threshold. The new system could also be used in the consent process and during onfarm audits in the short term, until 2022, for horticultural and arable farms, while further improvements are made to Overseer. “While Overseer provides robust estimates of nitrogen losses for pastoral systems, it is currently less robust for arable and horticultural systems,” the report to the OTOP zone committee says. ECan concedes that without an alternative to Overseer it would have to accept delays to farmers working out whether they needed consent, applying for consent, receiving limits and implementing farm environment plans.
Ph 03-324 3951 or Stu 0274-323 834 or Aaron 0226-089 251 0800 4seeds (473 337)
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW?
LOAD UP FOR AUTUMN SOWING SEASON TOP QUALITY PERENNIAL AND ANNUAL RYEGRASS AVAILABLE NOW FOR AUTUMN SOWING SEASON
Fairlie farming couple Neil and Lyn Campbell with the Lincoln University Foundation Farmer of Year and Plate to Pasture awards announced in November last year.
No hunches for top farming couple A SOUTH Canterbury couple have been named the 2016 Lincoln University Foundation Farmer of the Year, based on a detailed and analytical approach to farm management. Neil and Lyn Campbell farm 769ha of rolling hills and flats in Middle Valley, just east of Fairlie, running sheep and deer and producing a variety of crops. Chief judge Nicky Hyslop cited the Campbells’ “efficient, incredibly flexible and adaptive” approach to developing their dryland property. Their focus had been on systems to generate the most profit at the most effective time, with land stewardship always the foundation of their decisions. Hyslop says that when the Campbells moved to their property their aim from the start was to be in the top 10% of producers. They not only changed how the property was run, they instigated analysis systems so every aspect of the farm operations could be measured and compared against key performance indicators. “Neil and Lynn use accurate data to validate their decisions,” Hyslop says. “There’s no reliance on hunches or assumptions. Hard data is analysed to compare and choose between the different enterprises on the farm.” Hyslop says the farm’s small paddock
sizes also allow for specialist crops to be grown – oat and grass seed, and rape seed for oil -- for maximum return. “We can’t compete on volume and, likewise, we aren’t big enough to compete by going straight to the market,” Neil Campbell says. “So our best option is to deliver each product at the time when it is most profitable. “We go from summer dry valley floor to higher altitude moist hill country. Some of the things we are doing at altitude are more common at sea level, like growing crops. The diversity of our business gives us strong balance environmentally and financially.” The Campbells hope the farm remains in the family and the judges noted their succession planning. Their aim is for a sustainable and environmentally compatible farm producing nutritious food. “Our biggest and most important goal is to continue to enjoy what we do,” Campbell says. “Farming is a fantastic industry; if we can be part of telling that story and encouraging the younger generation into the industry we will be satisfied.” The Campbells’ prize a $20,000 travel and study grant. As part of their win they will also host a field day at the farm in early April. – Nigel Malthus
SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS KIRWEE • 29 - 31 MARCH 2017 Courtenay Road, Kirwee. 25 minutes from Christchurch. Showcasing the latest Ag-technology, equipment, machinery and lifestyle opportunities. $15 per person, Under 15s are free.
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
MANAGEMENT 29
Farm safety requires working together NEW ZEALAND farming still suffers the highest rates of workplace deaths of any industry. Now that the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015 is in effect, and the potential for prosecution or business risk exposure has hugely increased, rural businesses must pay attention to their health and safety performance. Rural businesses now recognise that getting health and safety advice from a credible professional is just as important as getting financial or legal advice. Tim Barrett, managing director of Farm Venture, recognised this several years ago and chose OnFarmSafety NZ to work with all his farms to create, develop and monitor their health and safety systems.
Hence Barnett choosing the firm for his business. “Farm Venture and OnFarmSafety have been working together and developing farm safety systems since 2013,” he says. An initial on-site voluntary audit discusses the current health and safety system status, identifying hazards and creating a master hazard list acknowledging risks; it creates the opportunity to have a list of things to focus on for improvement. “We call it ‘bringing in the friendlies’, which allows for proactive planning and then continuous improvement,” Muir explains. “It is based on what Steve Hansen from the All Blacks says: ‘If there is likely to be risk
“We call it ‘bringing in the friendlies’, which allows for proactive planning and then continuous improvement.”
This way of doing HSE compliance is a commonsense way to increase productivity rather than restrict it.” Barnett says the health
and safety culture on the Farm Venture farms is now embedded in everyday thinking and work activity. The OnFarmSafety NZ
team are regularly on the farms, or on the phone, to ensure continued compliance and support the development of a safety culture.
Bronwyn Muir.
BAILEY WATER TANK 25,000L MIST GREEN 202589
WATER SAVE
10%
3,01499
$
IT’S A CONSTANT
PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS FARM TROUGH 150L 201408
– Bronwyn Muir Farm Venture has an 11-year history of setting up syndicated farms, converting, improving and managing them well; it has done this for 30 years. OnFarmSafety NZ is a nationwide company founded by managing director Bronwyn Muir in April 2013. The company’s trained consultants specialise in helping rural business owners take control of their health and safety needs. The firm develops workable risk management procedures that look after everyone and manage rural business risk with respect to the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015 rules. It also does health and safety compliance audits to assess rural workplace standards and performance, and encourages businesses to own, customise and implement their health and safety programmes.
of things going wrong, plan to prevent it and if something bad does happen then learn from it’. Focus on where you’re going and take action.” Muir says when she’s asked by fellow owneroperator farmers what she thinks of all the new compliance requirements, she says compliance can create a lot more work to plan and monitor. “But it is a good thing in that it creates security of operations,” she explains. “After identifying potential hazards, the most important aspect is continuous improvement from learning as we go.” Muir adds that with a near miss, the most important parts of the one-page report are: “what did you learn from this and what can you share to help others learn? “A very good saying is: ‘Be a safety leader, not a hazard debt collector’.
SAVE $ 99
STREAM
37
19900
$
APEX ULTRAFLO TROUGH VALVE
250948
BUY 2 FOR
4999
$
HYDROFLOW HOSE CLAMPS 200816
BUY 1, GET 1
FREE
LOWEST PRICED PRODUCT FREE
We’ve got the bits to fit to keep your water flowing. Talk to us today T&Cs: Offers valid at Fonterra Farm Source stores nationwide from 1 February to 28 February 2017, unless otherwise stated and while stocks last. Prices include GST and are subject to change.
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
30 MANAGEMENT
Farming data standards add to practical helps ROB MITCHELL
BETTER PASTURE management, greater fertiliser efficiency, reduced farm expenses and seamless payroll and roster systems – there’s an app for that. Well, not quite yet, but researchers and analysts have produced the Health and Safety Data Standard and its Farm Features and Attributes Data counterpart. These are the work of Transforming the Dairy Value Chain and the Red Meat Profit Partnership – two Primary Growth Partnership (PGP) programmes jointly funded by industry and MPI. Andrew Cooke, managing director of Rezare Systems, the company doing the R&D as part of the PGP programme, says the new data standards will help build a “dictionary” that will help developers and others translate the data from many appli-
cations and tools into a common language. “Farmers won’t directly apply the standards themselves, but over time the farm data standards will mean that the information generated and used by the different tools and technologies they have is more compatible, so it can be re-used between applications,” says Cooke. He expects the greatest immediate benefit for farmers to be time saved. “Think of the hours farmers now spend filling in forms, or sitting with various reps and advisers helping them fill in forms and calculators. “Most of that time could be saved or turned to more valuable conversations.” The Health and Safety Data Standard covers information from various tools designed to ease the burden of legislation that came into force last year
Jenny Jago.
and potentially involves systems covering payroll, rosters and farm finances. The Farm Features and Attributes Data Standard is designed to help organisations re-use and exchange farm maps and other ‘spatial’ information. “It seems like every second farm software package now comes with a mapping tool,” says Cooke. The framework for both standards was defined during work-
NOW READ IT ONLINE READING THE PAPER ONLINE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER. BREAKING NEWS MACHINERY REVIEWS MARKETS & TRENDS
MANAGEMENT STORIES COMPETITIONS AND MUCH MORE...
Keep an eye on the Aussies too.
www.ruralnews.co.nz
shops, followed by research, editing and reviews. “Rezare Systems then brought the definitions together into a single document to make it easy for farm and environment
software vendors to find and use the standard definitions.” The two new standards and others being developed are part of a wider project building DataLinker. “That’s the next logical step – a framework that companies can actually use to share data. DataLinker lets all these applications work together as though they were one tool, regardless of which vendors the farmer has selected.” He says the longer term benefit will be smarter tools and better advice for farmers. “Imagine the benefit of
a few percentage points improvement in pasture utilisation, fertiliser efficiency or reduced farm working expenses.” Andrew Fletcher, programme manager of the Transforming the Dairy Value Chain PGP, also sees benefits from work with data. “The convenience of smartphone apps and the power of big data analysis have great potential for farming, offering benefits across the entire supply chain,” he says. “However, before we can do this we need to be able to combine data from multiple sources. These common data standards
are a critical step.” Jenny Jago, DairyNZ strategy and investment manager and chair of the industry steering committee overseeing the work, is keen to see organisations using the new standards, along with others developed over the past two years. “It’s now up to organisations to adopt the common language, which will allow better information flows through the industry and the benefits from this important work to be realised.” • Rob Mitchell is communications manager for the Primary Growth Partnership.
PLANNING WATER FOR LIVESTOCK TAKES TIME, EFFORT MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
GETTING CLEAN, fresh water to livestock is not just a case of getting a 100m roll of pipe from the local rural supply depot. It requires getting expert advice on what will work, how it will deal with future expansion and how it will withstand a hard life – often determined by topography, climate and livestock. Every farm is different but all have one thing in common: the need for a reliable source of clean water to keep livestock healthy and productive. In designing a new system or upgrading an existing one, it is important to understand that one size doesn’t fit all. Many factors need to be considered to ensure the design is a success. The best starting point for any project is an accurate scale map of the farm, with existing fence lines, proposed new fence lines, roadways, races and possible trough placements in individual paddocks. There is also a need to understand current stocking rates and, of course, any proposed increases likely in future. This last point is often overlooked and can lead to a poorly performing system; that is the risk of being unable to keep up with the increase in demand. Another point is the way stock will be grazed. All in one paddock at a time - meaning water only needs to be delivered to one location; or the more likely scenario of multiple groups of different animal types, spread throughout a property and
Nigel Henigan, left, Hansen Products water systems specialist.
requiring a much more extensive system. The type of stock will determine water needs. For instance, 500 dairy cows will need more water than 500 sheep. It’s likely a mixed farm will need to cope with the higher demand. A good water system designer will take care to understand the topography of the farm and any elevation changes within the system area. Troughs may be higher or lower than the supply. Understanding these parameters will help determine pipe sizing, flow rates and pipe pressure ratings – plus whether a pump or gravity is used for a feed. And distance will need to be considered. A detailed map will lead the designer to consider pipe diameter to cope with friction losses over the length of the delivery pipework. Once these key operational
needs have been understood a choice of system can be made. This might be a ring main layout – where water passes around a circuit and is delivered to a trough from either direction, and normally results in lower supply pressures, often through smaller diameter pipes. Alternatives might include a branch main – where one pipe runs the length of the property and branch lines are teed off to feed the troughs. The once common rising main layout sees water pumped to an elevated holding tank from the lowest point; once full the flow returns down the same pipe via gravity to feed the troughs, before being replenished by a pump run on a timer throughout the day. Rural News acknowledges the help of Nigel Henigan, water systems specialist, Hansen Products, in researching this article. www.hansenproducts.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
ANIMAL HEALTH 31
Higher temperatures mean more worm risks PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
PARASITES IN sheep will become more of a problem for New Zealand farmers as temperatures rise with climate change, says AgResearch principal scientist John McEwan. And market demand is rising for products which do not contain anthelmintic, he says. This is likely to increase the importance of breeding sheep for parasite resistance, the science for which has been well proven over 20-30 years. “Pressure is rising in our overseas markets to reduce antibiotic use in farmed animals, because antibiotic resistance is affecting the use of antibiotics in humans. This is also having a spinoff on anthelmintic use. Some European countries have restricted the use of anthelmintics -- to be by prescription only -- as a response to anthelmintic resistance in worms. “We sell into those markets. There is a lot of pressure in recording the use of antibiotics and minimising their use. This comes from governments and through into
the supermarkets where they want antibiotic free produce. “Those same supermarkets want the use of anthelmintics recorded and they want reduced or [zero] use of anthelmintics in the production of the products they sell.” Overall, there is a move to reduce chemical inputs into farming systems. “In behind, it is driven by the fact that indiscriminate use of antibiotics in particular has impacts on human health remedies. “You might say it is a long bow to draw about anthelmintic use because typically the parasites that affect humans are not the same parasites that affect the animals being treated.” But nevertheless there is a lot of pressure to reduce chemical input. Another issue is rising temperatures with climate change: diseases seen to be worse in certain parts of the country will become more widespread over NZ. Last year was particularly bad for facial eczema. It was spread across the country in places where it has never
been seen widely before, like the West Coast of the South Island. Another example is a particularly nasty internal parasite called Haemonchus. This is a blood sucking gut parasite pres-
Ag Research scientists Kathryn McRae, left, Shannon Clarke and John McEwan.
ent in the North Island but not always a problem in southern regions. “One of the critical things about Haemonchus is the conditions conducive to an outbreak. The TO PAGE 33
WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER. One injection of SMARTSHOT can maintain adequate B12 and selenium levels for up to
®
six months.
RESEARCH ONGOING THE “HARD science” behind parasitic resistance breeding is about 20-30 years old but two recent relevant papers are the most comprehensive globally, says AgResearch principal scientist John McEwan. A 2012 paper summarises results from over 260,000 faecal egg counts from a data set of 1.7 million animals. A 2015 paper reports that genomic selection for parasite resistance is now practical in New Zealand sheep; it genotyped many of the key sires and animals from the first paper. “These two papers basically are the biggest and most comprehensive reports on this trait in the world. However they broadly reflect work also being done in Australia, UK, Ireland, France and the US, amongst others for this trait.” To McEwan’s knowledge, the 2012 paper summarises a larger number of recorded animals than any previous study; it is perhaps 10 times bigger than anything else in the world. It summarises breeders’ data over about 20 years in NZ and is directly applicable to any NZ sheep. The second paper is about using DNA markers to be able to predict resistant sheep and once again that paper summarises the largest amount of data anywhere in the world, he says. It shows that breeding for parasite resistance in sheep with DNA markers is quite possible and it is available now in the NZ industry. That paper was published in 2015 and summarises results that were completed by 2012-13.
SMARTShot® B12 Prime Lamb and SMARTShot® B12 + Se are innovative, long-acting injections that can boost and maintain adequate Vitamin B12 and Selenium levels in your hoggets for up to six months with a single dose. Fewer injections and less yarding reduces stress on stock. Works for up to four times longer than short-acting injections on the market. Extensive, published NZ trial work.
Talk to your vet about the SMART WAY TO HELP YOUR hoggets reach their potential with smartshot® b12 prime lamb and smartshot® b12 + Se. www.virbac.co.nz/ashotandascratch ACVM No.s A009402, A009984
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
32 ANIMAL HEALTH
Worm-resistant sheep less susceptible to pneumonia – research shows PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
SHEEP THAT are genetically resistant to parasites may also be less likely to get pneumonia, research is indicating. AgResearch scientist Kathryn McRae in a recently published paper shows evidence that more parasiticresistant animals also showed fewer symptoms of pneumonia. AgResearch principal scientist John McEwan told Rural News this suggests a potential additional benefit of selecting for parasitic resistance. If this relationship holds up under further study, farmers may become more enthused about breeding for parasitic resistance. “There are drenches that can assist with the problem of parasites, but there are not a lot of options for pneumonia other than management. There are no vaccines that are currently very effective.” McRae says problems with pneumonia increase the further north you go in New Zealand, but it is a problem
nationwide. “In the study we were looking at chronic non-progressive pneumonia; the animals weren’t dying from it but there were lesions on the lungs of the slaughtered lambs,” she says. Her paper is part of a project started in 2009 by AgResearch senior scientist Shannon Clarke looking at pneumonia in lambs at slaughter to estimate if there was a genetic com-
ponent, McRae says. That paper published those results, which showed that pneumonic lesions are heritable, which means there is a genetic component. “It is not as heritable as the likes of parasite resistance, or facial eczema tolerance which is even higher… But we found a genetic component and it appears there is a positive genetic correlation between faecal egg count and lung lesions at slaughter. This sug-
gests that breeding for reduced faecal egg count may result in reduced lung lesions. “This is a single set of results – we would like to independently validate them. But it is looking promising. We are trying to confirm whether that correlation is actually real in other flocks as well.” McEwan says pneumonia in NZ sheep is similar to ‘shipping fever’ in cattle. “It is basically a viral infection that typically the animal gets over, but the problem is secondary bacterial infections,” he says. “If you get an outbreak, a proportion of the animals will die but typically what happens is it will compromise the animal over a longer time.” However, other than animals which have died, or are seen to have pleurisy after slaughter, any depression in production is not always externally visible. So the effect on the performance of the animals that have remained alive has not been well documented.
“The estimates would suggest that parasitism is the major disease influencing sheep production and then you have a constellation of things like facial eczema, pneumonia, fly strike and foot rot. Of those, pneumonia and fly strike would probably be the bigger ones. “Facial eczema, for the [farmers] and the regions it affects, is a much bigger problem. But pneumonia is spread across the whole country. Probably more people breed for parasitic resistance than breed for facial eczema resistance nationally and a lot more animals get measured.” But when farmers make choices when buying stock, they tend to look at what is in the pen, and genetic resistance to parasites or facial eczema is not always a visible trait. Hence breeders are not selecting for resistance as much as scientists would recommend. “Breeding is only one control approach, but it is low cost and effective and it is likely to become more important as global warming allows TO PAGE 33
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
ANIMAL HEALTH 33 Higher temps could mean more worms FROM PAGE 31
second one is whether it can be prevalent all year round. A 2°C - 3°C temperature change would mean Haemonchus outbreaks would occur as far south as Southland. “But it would also become a year-round problem in places like Napier, Hastings and around Wairarapa. That is a long term issue.” The sheep typically grazed in wet tropical climates have a much higher level of resistance to these parasites. “Breeds in NZ have come from northern Europe, from latitudes of about 47-50 degrees. So that is pretty much starting at Stewart Island and going south to the Auckland Islands; that’s the latitude they are adapted to. “They have been here for 100 years or so, but they still don’t cope well with the environment north of Rotorua, though some northern breeders selecting for parasite resistance have done a very good job. Gordon Levet, the Northland Romney Development Group and several other breeders have done a
good job. “So the likes of facial eczema, parasitism and particularly Haemonchus -- which can rapidly cause death in susceptible livestock -- will become a bigger problem.” More resistant stock is one option to cut down on drenching to reduce parasite resistance to anthelmintics. “Things are only going to get worse because of global warming. This will be one of the bigger issues for sheep.” One of the less talked about ways that parasites are managed in the northern North Island is having a lower stocking rate of sheep and more cattle. This trend will continue if there is no management system change or breeding for parasite resistance. McEwan says breeding for parasite resistance is a low cost method for a farmer to mitigate his losses due to parasitism. “It is low cost; it has proven to be effective.” If early indications from research show that parasite resistant sheep are also less vulnerable to pneumonia, it may have other benefits that weren’t obvious, he says.
FE danger periods and management ■■
■■
■■
Be vigilant during danger periods, January to May in most years Identify danger to animals from spore counts, on farm or local Use historical records to identify most at-risk paddocks
Use two or more of the following protection measures: ■■ Breeding animals for FE tolerance is a medium-long term strategy that underpins other protective measures
■■
■■
Can achieve significant tolerance in 5-10 years if managed well Requires consistent use of tested and certified sires.
Protecting animals with zinc: ■■ Has a prophylactic effect in animals for FE protection ■■ Can be administered as a zinc bolus or in drinking water ■■ Is also effective if sprayed on pasture animals that are grazing.
Spraying risky pastures with a fungicide: ■■ Kills the fungus and avoids toxic sporadesmin. Management during danger periods: ■■ Use alternative crops such as chicory. ■■ Practice lax grazing to avoid the toxin. ■■ Identify ‘safe’ paddocks from historical records. (Source: BLNZ’s ‘Facing up to facial eczema’ version 2)
100% of farms have toxoplasmosis present. 88% of farms have campylobacter present. So what are the odds?
WORMRESISTANT SHEEP LESS SUSCEPTIBLE
ABORTION STORMS. TWO DISEASES. TWO VACCINES.
FROM PAGE 32
When you think abortion storms, you probably think toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is everywhere and any ewe that contracts it may abort. But campylobacter also causes abortion, is nearly as prevalent and equally as deadly. Campylobacter can cost you 20-30% of your lambs.
ELE-02025-RN
Haemonchus (a blood sucking parasite which can quickly cause death) to spread more widely geographically. It is also complementary to other control mechanisms.” But breeding for parasitic resistance is not more popular because it costs the breeders money to record and, secondly, many clients over-rely on anthelmintics. Also, unless the flock has a chronic Haemonchus challenge, the advantage of parasitic resistant sheep is not immediately obvious to farmers – although parasites will be costing money. “We suspect if the relationship of parasitic resistance with less pneumonia holds up, farmers will become more enthused because currently there are few practical alternative control strategies for that disease.”
There are two diseases that cause abortion storms and preventing them takes two vaccines. So talk to your vet about how the Toxovax®+ Campyvax4® combination gives you the best protection against abortion storms.
AVAILABLE ONLY UNDER VETERINARY AUTHORISATION. ACVM No’s: A4769, A9535. ®Registered trademark. Schering-Plough Animal Health Ltd. Phone: 0800 800 543. www.msd-animal-health.co.nz. NZ/TVAX/0915/009
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
34 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
JD adds serious muscle to 2017 range MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
THE JOHN Deere 6R Series tractors have been hugely successful, but customers’ thirst for more power in a midweight package will see two new models added to the range in 2017. The 6230R and 6250R models will use a 6.8L PowerTech PSS engine to deliver 230 and 250hp respectively, using dual turbochargers, with DPF and SCR to meet Tier 4 emission regulations. Using Intelligent Power Management (IPM) the flagship 6250 model will deliver up to 50hp boost to make the dial hit 300hp when required, while tipping the scales at 9.3 tonnes and allowing a maximum operating weight of 15 tonnes. With service in mind, these new tractors are
offered with 750-hour engine oil, engine filter and fuel filter service intervals, while a lifetime DPF and a 2-3% SCR fluid inclusion rate should help reduce servicing costs. An upgraded AutoPowr transmission is now said to offer 100% mechanical effort at 3.5km/h for heavy draft work, 11km/h for top work, 22.5km/h for heavy haulage and 47.2km/h for high-speed road travel. At maximum speeds, 50km/h comes up at 1630rpm, while 40km/h tilts the dial at a lowly 1300rpm, and will result in real savings in fuel use. In the cab, an all-new CommandPro joystick is said to combine ergonomics with versatility, can allow a move to top speed with a single push, and offer a choice of 11 programmable buttons to control the PTO, SCVs
and guidance functions. Hydraulics are taken care of by a PFC system delivering up to 160L/min flow at 1500rpm, once again helping to save fuel, and can be specified with up to 6 SCVs. Rear linkage capacity is rated at 10.4 tonnes, and a healthy 5t can be lifted up front. Operator comfort is taken care of with the new HCS Plus, hydro pneumatic cab suspension system, which helps isolate noise and vibration, and up front a selflevelling version of JD TLS is fitted. Called TLS Plus, the system automatically adjusts sensitivity and suspension effort to help deliver 10% more power to the ground, and it works with the threepoint linkage system to eliminate power hop. Also in the package is a variable ratio steer-
The 6250R model is one of two new tractors been released by JD this year.
ing function which can be accessed through the Command Centre to adjust steering ratios to tasks encountered.
Complementing the hardware, a new connectivity package features My JobsConnect and JobsManager to give operators real-time views of
work as it is done, and can combine with navigation and logistics optimisation for more productive working days. Expect to see these
new tractors arriving in New Zealand in August/ September. www.deere.com.au @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews The new 5R Series came with an all-new Lonnand Pro joystick, which combines ergonomics with versatility.
GROW MORE GRASS FOR LESS MONEY WITH K-LINE. Simple, efficient and effective, K-Line Farm Pack is the stress-free summer watering solution for areas up to 1 Hectare.
LOW START-UP AND RUNNING COSTS. EASY D.I.Y. INSTALLATION. EFFICIENT, LOW-RATE SPRAY.
DAYTECH
MULTI-TERRAIN SUITABLE. PERFECT FOR FARMLETS, SPORTS FIELDS, PASTURES, PARKS AND DUST SUPPRESSION.
WOOD SPLITTERS Built strong with a double-skinned main beam, 50mm back plate and dished wedge.
❱❱ 2 stage hydraulic pump coupled to a 9.5hp Kola motor ❱❱ Motor will do the best part of a day’s work on a full tank of petrol ❱❱ Wedge has a hardened sharpened leading edge ❱❱ Filtered hydraulics system fully fitted ❱❱ Sprung axle 13” wheels make road-towing comfortable
TO PURCHASE, VISIT YOUR NEAREST RURAL MERCHANT OR CALL RX PLASTICS ON 03 307 9081 FOR THE LOCATION OF YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST.
rxplastics.co.nz
Ph 06-370 1329 • Stuart 0274-387 528 124 Lincoln Road, Masterton E: daytech@wise.net.nz W: www.daytech.co.nz LEADERS ON FARM MACHINERY DESIGN
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 35 New vehicle market continues to surprise THE AGRICULTURE sector had an ordinary year in 2016, but the motor industry has been sounding a fanfare that the market for new vehicles was a belter— up 9.5% and hitting an all-time record of 146,753 units sold. The stellar year also showed a shift in buyer choice, with SUVs
(36%) trumping passenger vehicles (35%) for the first time, with 52,913 SUVs sold versus 51,592 passenger vehicles; commercial vehicles made up the remaining 29%. Overall for the year Toyota led the charge with 18% market share, followed by Ford (11%), Holden (10%), Mazda (8%) and Mitsubishi
(6%). The Ford Ranger continued its march as the best-selling commercial vehicle for the year, as well as retaining the top spot for any model in 2016. Its sales amounted to 8478 units, followed by the Toyota Corolla with 6274 cars sold, which was closely followed by the HiLux with 6187 trucks.
HEAV Y DUTY
L to R Kyle Britton, David Donnelly, Darryl Chambers; Origin Agroup and Thomas Lambermont from Joskin.
Origin Agroup and Joskin team up BELGIAN EFFLUENT and transport trailer manufacturer Joskin has agreed with dealer-owned cooperative Origin Agroup to take over all marketing, importing and distribution of the company’s products in New Zealand from January 1, 2017. The European manufacturer evolved from humble beginnings in 1968, when agricultural contractor Victor Joskin saw the scope for making effluent management and transport systems for the agricultural market; slurry tankers and trailers are the result. The Joskin company is now among the largest in the sector, employing 750 people on five sites and producing 2500 machines each year. Its products are sold in 60 countries and supported by 600 dealers worldwide. The company says it recognises Origin Agroup for its extensive dealer distribution network in NZ and its reputation for outstanding after sales service “In our experience, privately owned family companies like Joskin are more caring about their farmer and contractor customers than larger publicly owned corporations,” says David Donnelly, managing director, Origin Agroup. “Ultimately the customer is listened to and looked after better. These values and ethos fit with our own cooperative structure, and how we work with our customers to ensure they are looked after properly.” Joskin’s range includes slurry tankers, effluent application tools and muck spreaders, transport trailers, pasture toppers and grass harrows. “These products fit perfectly into our existing product mix which will enable Origin Agroup and its distribution network to expand its product offering into new market segments,” Donnelley adds. “They will also allow us to support the existing Joskin users throughout NZ.” He says Joskin’s growth can be largely attributed to on-going product development, which sees large spending on technology and designing machines to ensure that the farmer and contractor receive the best build quality, reliability and product support. – Mark Daniel www.originagroup.co.nz
$15,648 SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES:
ROLL OVER PROTECTION STRUCTURE
EX GST
HARDEST WORKING, SMOOTHEST RIDING FEATURES:
ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING
44 HP
DUMP BOX CAPACITY - 227KG
SPEED KEY READY
AWD Mode
KG 680
SEAT BELT INTERLOCK
ON DEMAND TRUE ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE (AWD)
680KG TOWING CAPACITY
HEAVY DUTY FEATURES
Turf Mode
ENGINE BRAKING SYSTEM & 4 WHEEL DESCENT CONTROL (4WDC)
UNLOCKING REAR DIFF
Offer only available at participating Polaris Dealers. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes fleet clients.
*Offer ends 31/3/15 or earlier if stocks run out. Only available at participating Polaris dealers. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes fleet clients.
0800 440 290 | www.polaris.co.nz |
/PolarisNZ
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
36 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Jaguars on the prowl MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
FAMILY OWNED harvesting specialist Claas employs about 11,300
people globally and 10% of its workforce is in R&D. This explains why the lime green machines dominate the grass harvesting market in NZ and over-
seas. For the 2017 season, Claas Jaguar will be offered in three ranges: Jaguar 800 series (type 496), Jaguar 900 series
One Pass Autumn
SEEDING
With 14 models across the range, the Jaguar Series is the largest in the market.
TO SAVE TIME & MONEY Cultivate & seed directly into hard ground with an ALPEGO ROTOPICK Knife powered cultivator & Hatzenbichler broadcast seeder
IDEAL FOR PUGGED GROUND! • Unique central drive for less power requirement • Rear levelling bar which will leave your field smooth • Specially designed knives which do not ‘pan’ the soil • Made from high tensile Swedish Steel
CONTACT OUR ALPEGO PRODUCT SPECIALISTS, OR YOUR LOCAL ORIGIN AGROUP DEALER SOUTH ISLAND Darryl Chambers 021 775 861 KAITAIA KAITAIA TRACTORS (09) 408 0670 WHANGAREI BRYANT TRACTORS (09) 438 1319 SILVERDALE AGROWQUIP (09) 427 9137 PUKEKOHE AGROWQUIP (09) 237 0043 MORRINSVILLE PIAKO TRACTORS (07) 889 7055 HAMILTON AGROWQUIP (07) 847 0425 CAMBRIDGE AGROWQUIP (07) 827 5184 ROTORUA PIAKO TRACTORS (07) 345 8560 STRATFORD FIELD TORQUE TARANAKI (06) 765 8643 GISBORNE D.P WILLIAMS (06) 863 2612 WAIPUKURAU STEVENSON AND TAYLOR (06) 858 6041 DANNEVIRKE LANCASTER TRACTORS (06) 374 7731 PALMERSTON NORTH TRANSAG CENTRE (06) 354 7164 * Normal lending criteria and special conditions apply.
NORTH ISLAND Alan Morrison 021 880 574
MASTERTON WAIRARAPA MACHINERY SERVICES (06) 377 3009 NELSON GORDON HANDY MACHINERY (03) 543 8041 BLENHEIM GORDON HANDY MACHINERY (03) 579 1111 KAIKOURA GORDON HANDY MACHINERY (03) 319 7119 GREYMOUTH GORDON HANDY MACHINERY (03) 768 5116 AMBERLEY COCHRANES OF CANTERBURY (03) 314 9055 LEESTON COCHRANES OF CANTERBURY (03) 324 3791 ASHBURTON COCHRANES OF CANTERBURY (03) 307 8027 TIMARU GORDON HANDY MACHINERY (03) 687 4005 OAMARU GORDON HANDY MACHINERY (03) 437 1111 MOSGIEL JJ LIMITED (03) 489 8199 GORE JJ LIMITED (03) 203 9970 INVERCARGILL JJ LIMITED (03) 211 0013
(type 497) and the new Jaguar 900 series (type 498) – the latter only available for the coming season with Tier 4 Final engines. With 14 models now available across the three families, the Jaguar range is the largest in the market and able to cope with a wide range of operations. The new Type 498 includes several technological advances: a continuously variable front attachment drive system, enhanced crop-flow and an automated loading system. Up front, the hydraulically driven attachment drive will automatically adjust its speed as chop length is changed, thereby maintaining crop feed and chop quality. Particularly useful for grass pick-ups or the Orbis maize header, there is also the ability to use a split system which combines the new hydraulic and the original mechanical drive lines to allow high power transmission at constant speeds. This might be the case with attachments like the DirectDisc cutterbars. Grass pick-ups can also be equipped with the maker’s Active Contour system to improve ground following accuracy in undulating or hilly conditions, while ensuring clean raking and minimal crop contamination.
The new 900 Series also has an automatically adjusting cylinder concave said to aid crop flow by its working with automated shear-bar setting software. In practice, once the blades have been sharpened and the shear bar has been adjusted to its optimal clearance the concave is also adjusted to its premium setting irrespective of the blade condition. The AutoFill function, as the name suggests, does exactly that and removes strain from both the harvester and haulage operators by automatically filling trailers, wagons or trucks. A discharge spout mounted, high-resolution camera looks at the transport body dimensions in real time and fills the void automatically. Also new for the 2017 season are improvements to the main driveline which has been designed to offer maximum tractive power and quick response, especially in difficult terrain or conditions. A new hydrostatic motor offers two ranges, with field speeds up to 22km/h, while an added function called Cruise Pilot allows precise control of forward speed and reduces engine speed. A differential lock set-up can be triggered manually or automatically when wheel slip is detected. www.harvestcentre.co.nz
BALE WRAPPING FROM PAGE 37
Film loading is accessed via the left-hand side through a safety gate. After the first film roll is replaced, an index button automatically brings the second dispenser into position. The Expert Plus control console oversees all machine functions throughout the wrapping cycle, as well as record-
ing individual jobs, daily and seasonal outputs, and monitoring any fault or failures. Weighing 1850kg, the Orbital is equipped with 480-45R17 tyres to carry the combined weight of the machine and up to two bales. It is said to require a tractor of only 50hp and a minimum oil flow of 35L/min. www.powerfarming.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 37
Bale wrapping taken to new heights MARK DANIEL
WHILE MUCH of the baleage in New Zealand seems to be baled and wrapped in combi-style machines, there still seems to be a place for standalone machines which follow the baler around the paddock. Specialist Irish manufacturer McHale has seen huge success with its Fusion machines, and says it made sense to use the wrapping technology from this series to develop the new Orbital machine. The heart of the machine is the patented, high-speed vertical wrapping ring. This results in increased stability for the film dispensers, meaning the machine can run at about 40rpm and apply six layers of plas-
tic to a 1.25m diameter bale in about 25 seconds. This achieves output of 100 bales per hour. This certainly seemed, pre-Christmas, to be the case in a Waikato paddock where the first machine in NZ was being demonstrated by product specialist John ‘JP’ Chapman. He believes this high output allows the machine to work alongside two balers with ease. In operation, the machine
is offset to the right of the tractor and once contact is made with the lift arm, a fully automated cycle takes place, firstly with the bale being lifted into the wrapping ring. A patented-design sees the forward roller ‘dropping’ to allow a smooth transition from the ground to the wrapping position and a resultant lowering of the centre of gravity, which helps promote stability on sloping ground.
The vertical wrapping ring carries twin 750mm film dispensers, equipped with film break monitors to notify the operator. It also cleverly automatically slows bale rotation speed to allow one applicator to finish the job, while ensuring consistent overlap. Once wrapped, the bale is gently lowered to the ground, with the option of a vertical tipper to place the bale on its strongest face. The Orbital can wrap bales from 1.1 to 1.45m diameter, by way of its patented tip roller; that can be adjusted to maintain a position to ensure dispensers stay central to the midpoint of the bale to ensure the correct overlap is maintained always.
CULTIVATION COVERED MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
THE AMAZONE Cenius is a range of mulch cultivators – four mounted and four trailed machines with operating widths from three to seven metres. Said to be versatile with a configuration that can include shares, discs, rolls and drills, the Cenius lends itself to shallow or deep cultivation. They are designed for use with tractors in the 200-400hp bracket. All models have three staggered tine banks offering 280-305mm spacing and 80cm underframe clearance. This layout aims to promote good stubble flow through the cultivator and allow the mixing of high levels of residue into the soil layers. The cultivators are offered with a choice of two overload systems: the C-Mix Special set-up uses shearbolts and is said to be well-suited to medium to light soils; by contrast, the C-Mix Super layout has coil spring protection with a 600kg release pressure, 300mm of clear-
ance height and a secondary shearbolt if these values are overcome. A range of shares – which includes 350mm wing types or 80mm tips with, or without guide plates –are available to suit all ground conditions and allow working depths from 5 to 28cm. Following the tine banks, a row of serrated levelling discs creates a smooth level finish and are easily adjusted for depth by frame mounted spindles. Meanwhile, depth control is achieved by forward frame-mounted, depth wheels which work with a rear roller set up. Roller options include wedge ring, knife, tandem or cage versions, with the ability to crumble or consolidate, as conditions dictate. Depth adjustment sees a doubleacting, hydraulic circuit controlling the depth wheel and roller assemblies. For difficult conditions, an optional traction control system can be specified to transfer up to 1500kg of the machine weight to the tractor’s rear axle to improve traction and reduce fuel usage. www.claasharvestcentre.co.nz
TO PAGE 36
SHEAR GENIUS
Side Discharge Muck Spreaders Low cost option for small jobs Ideal for small tractors - 90hp+ Simple & reliable solution Handles liquids & solids with ease
The Unique, All-In-One Attachment
L OFFICIA R E T IMPOR
ND MADE IN IRELA are built ProDig products t quality using the highes king components, ma able and them robust, reli easy to maintain.
XCEL 1250 Muck Spreader
• BALE SLICE & WRAP RETAINER • GENERAL ALL PURPOSE BUCKET • SHEAR GRAB FOR PIT SILAGE • ULTIMATE FEEDPAD ATTACHMENT
Spreading width of up to 24 metres 12 tonne capacity Ability to spread full load in 3-5 mins
WIDE RANGE OF IMPLEMENTS AVAILABLE:
SILAGE GRABS • BUCKET GRABS • BALE GRABS • FOLDING SILAGE FORKS • TELEHANDLER BUCKETS AND FORKS
See more at gaz.co.nz/prodig Jarred L’amie | Product Manager 07 823 3765 | 027 203 5022
gaz.co.nz
Jarred L’amie | Product Manager 07 823 3765 | 027 203 5022
gaz.co.nz
Optional scales available High quality - Built to last
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
38 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS / RURAL TRADER
Mixed bag around country for 2017 THE NEW year has started with contractors and farmers nationwide more upbeat with the recent increases in dairy payouts and, generally, a more positive outlook for the agri-sector. So far, the season for rural contractors everywhere can best be described as a mixed bag. Many South Island contractors have had “a season out of the box” with good silage, hay and baleage crops made so far this summer. I understand grass growth in the South Island has been “amazing” and keeping contractors busy making silage. It is a different story in the North Island where, generally, harvests have been later and patchier. Weather during spring and early summer in the north have
generally been colder, wetter and windier than usual. In the lower and central North Island, lots of grass has been harvested during the recent fine weather. Much of this is destined for sale in the dairy farming areas of Waikato and Taranaki, although with the big drop in cow numbers demand may be less than before the dairy payout dropped. And blustery winds have made things frustrating as they blow the hay out of its rows. Inclement weather in the South Island has seen many contractors fall behind. Let’s hope some good weather over the next few weeks will help speed up hay and silage making and crop harvesting. Unfortunately, in
SINGLE DOG BOX GST $525 incl
the north of the North Island – including where I am based in Northland – it has been very dry, which may be good for harvesting but not so good for grass growth. Drought is a reality in many parts and a lot of water has been carted in the north to fill up dry water tanks. Even if we get rain, any chance of making hay is probably over for this season. We can only hope that a good autumn will set the region up for a better winter and spring.
TOP DOG BOX Accommodates up to 4 dogs 6 individual air vents Removable centre board 2 lockable galvanised gates In-house drainage Tie down lugs on each side Fits all wellside & flatdeck utes (2 models) ❱❱ Raised floor for insulation ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱
$745
incl GST
Meanwhile, the recent death of farmer in the Hakataramea Valley in a hay baling accident is a stark reminder to all contractors and farmers about the importance of safety, especially at this busy time of year. I was saddened by news of the accident and offer, on behalf of Rural Contractors NZ, my sympathy to the young man’s family. This tragedy followed another recent incident where a farm worker from Fairlie was injured while working with a hay bale wrapper. Fortunately, in this latter incident, the worker was not seriously injured. However, these incidents are a reminder of the caution we as contractors and our staff should be taking during busy times of the year.
So far, the season for contractors around the country can best be described as a ‘mixed bag’.
Health and safety must be at the fore, particularly when tight timeframes and impending bad weather are thrown into the mix. Many of us have been in situations where an envelope of good weather may be closing and we are keen to get a job finished, but this must never be at the expense of safety. We work in
an industry where there is always risk of injury and harm, but we need to ensure these are minimised to ensure our own or our workers’ safety. RCNZ, as an organisation, promotes health and safety vigilance through the year as a key role. If you want further information on this go
EXTREME TOUGH SEAT COVERS HARD WEARING SEAT COVERS FOR HARD WORKING KIWIS
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITES
RUGGEDVALLEY.co.nz 0800 4 RUGGED
www.ruralnews.co.nz www.dairynews.co.nz @rural_news
Phone 0800 625 826 www.mckeeplastics.co.nz
facebook.com/ruralnews
Culvert Pipes New Zealand’s CHEAPEST Culvert Pipes! FREE joiners supplied on request. ONE STOP WATER SHOP 300mm x 6 metre ................................ $410 400mm x 6 metre ................................ $515 500mm x 6 metre ................................ $690 600mm x 6 metre ................................ $925 800mm x 6 metre .............................. $1399 1000mm x 6 metre ............................ $2175 1200mm x 6 metre ............................ $3475 ALL PRICES INCLUDE G.S.T.
to our website: www. ruralcontractors.org.nz . In the meantime, I hope the weather treats you well as you hit the busy part of the year, but please always keep your own and your workers’ safety top of mind. • Wellsford-based agricultural contractor Steve Levet is the president of the Rural Contractors New Zealand (RCNZ).
• Lightweight, easy to install • Made from polyethylene
McKee Plastics Mahinui Street, Feilding Ph 06 323 4181 Fax 06 323 4183
sales@mckeeplastics.co.nz | www.mckeeplastics.co.nz
Phone
0800 625 826
for your nearest stockist
Joiners supplied FREE with culvert pipes
RURAL NEWS // FEBRUARY 7, 2017
RURAL TRADER 39 CRAIGCO SENSOR JET
Check out the latest news and information at www.ruralnews.co.nz Rubber Safety Matting • ATV Carrier Mats • Exit/Entry Areas • Calf Trailers • Horse Floats & Trucks • Weigh Platforms • Bale Mats • Comfort Mats for Wet & Dry Areas • Utility Deck Matting
Phone: 0800 80 8570
POLY SILOS Fast Easy Assembly No Blockages
Minimal Sweating Longer Lasting No Rust
Polyethylene
DEAL TO FLY AND LICE • Cost Effective • Complete Package
DOLOMITE
NZ’s finest BioGro certified Mg fertiliser For a delivered price call... 0800 436 566
• Unbeatable pricing • Performance Guaranteed
P 06 835 6863 - www.craigcojetters.com
Full Range of Sizes: From 1,600 L (1 tonne)
FOOTWEAR LTD
to
www.burgessmatting.co.nz
40,000 L (30 tonne)
NZ MADE BOOTS
FLY OR LICE PROBLEMS?
Visit www.lastrite.co.nz for more quality products
The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989
Quality construction and options • Get the contractors choice
HUNTER BOOTS Comfortable, durable and stylish.
The heavy duty sole construction makes this a robust boot designed for climbing over rugged ground. This boot has a soft toe and is made from a thick Mad Dog Nubuck Leather, stitched and screwed construction with a rubber, replaceable sole, that is glued and screwed. Soft padding for ankle support and D-Rings for your laces are an added advantage. Great fitting boots full of comfort, ideal for those long hunting and tramping trips.
Featuring...
• Incredible chemical economy • Amazing ease 1500+ per hour • Unique self adjusting sides • Environmentally and user friendly • Automatically activated • Proven effective on lice as well as fly • Compatible with all dip chemicals • Accurate, effective application
Call: 0800 668 534
Rangiora
www.advantageplastics.co.nz
07 573 8512 | dipping@electrodip.co.nz – www.electrodip.com
FARMER BOOTS Lastrite’s Farmer boots are made
PO Box 73 Tuakau 1892 Tel: (09) 236 8414 Stainless Structure PO Box 73 Tuakau PO Box 1892 73 Tuakau 1892 construction KEEP YOUR Fax: (09) 236 9321 WORKING dustries Ltd Tel: (09) 236 8414 Tel: (09)DOGS 236 8414 1,000 + Email: sheep/hr ON THE JOB PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Fax: (09) 236 Fax: 9321(09) 236 9321 Fantastic Ltd stries LtdEmail: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Up to 6 rechargeable waterproof collar units & remotes Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Penetration • Model SD-1825 – 1.6 Kms range (1 mile) Automatic Super Jetter
Innovative Agriculture Equipment
$7,500 plus GST
With Davey Pump & Honda Motor
PO Box 73 Tuakau 1892 Tel: (09) 236 8414 Fax: (09) 236 9321 Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz
for comfort. Constructed from Reverse kip leather they are an ideal farmers, fencers and builders boot. Very sturdy and made to last this boot is robust with a heavy duty construction. It has a leather insole and midsole that is stitched and screwed construction with a rubber, replaceable sole, that is glued and screwed. Update your old boots now and you will never look back.
10 HALL ROAD, RD5, WHANGAREI Phone 09 438 8907
• Model SD-1225 – 1.2 Kms range • Model SD-825 – 800 Metre range All with Tone & Vibration options 24 levels of correction – 3 year warranty
PO Box 73 Tuakau 1892 Tel: (09) 236 8414 iry PO Box 73 Tuakau PO Box 1892 73 Tuakau 1892 Fax: (09) 236 9321 Free Range & Barn Eggs ed Systems SD-1825 with 1 collar ................$695.00 Tel: (09) 236 8414 Tel: (09) 236 8414 y Dairy Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Feed Systems SUPPLIERS OF: (09) 236 Fax: with 1 collar ................ $595.00 Fax: 9321SD-1225 (09) 236 9321 dms SystemsEmail: • Nest boxes - manual or PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz SD-825 with 1 collar ..................$495.00 automated Industries Ltd
sales@pppindustries.co.nz
0800 901 902
www.pppindustries.co.nz
GREAT VALUE
PO Box 73 Tuakau 1892 Tel: (09) 236 8414 Fax: (09) 236 9321 Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz
• Poultry Equipment
PO Box 73 Tuakau 1892
Tel: (09) 236 8414 Feed & Drinking Fax: (09) 236 9321 Email:trays PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz • Plastic egg
Extra collars $375.00 – PRICES INCLUDE GST
QUALITY PRODUCTS MADE IN EUROPE OR BY PPPPO Box 73 Tuakau 1892
A trusted name in Poultry Industry Tel: (09) 236 8414 ultry for over 50 years PO Box 73 Tuakau PO Box 1892 73 Tuakau 1892 Fax: (09) 236 9321 uipment Tel: (09) 236 8414 Tel: (09) 236 8414 try Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Fax: (09) 236 Fax: 9321(09) 236 9321 pment Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz Email: PPP.LTD@xtra.co.nz ❖
❖
MOBILE FEED TROUGHS 4.5M (3 Wheel) Jumbo Culvert PK Feeder $3695.00 inc
6M Culvert (mobile) $1450.00 inc
4M - 800L Budget Drawbar $2150.00 inc
6.0M (6 Wheel) Jumbo Culvert PK Feeder $5250.00 inc
1700 Litres
McKee Plastics, Mahinui Street, Feilding | Phone 06 323 4181 | Fax 06 323 4183 sales@mckeeplastics.co.nz | www.mckeeplastics.co.nz
2400 Litres
D N A R B D E T TRUS
! S T L U S E R N E V O PR BOOM SPRAYING
$4,383
12V LIGHTFOOT SPRAYER 300 LITRE
LT30-S8-2
Fully assembled, tested and ready for use for towing behind quad bikes or other vehicles with a 50mm tow ball hitch. • 20L/Min open flow Aquatec pump with pressure regulator • 30m of 10mm ID Ag hose with variable spray gun • 4m cross fold spray boom with low drift nozzles
50L, 100L & 200L SMOOTHFLO SPOTPAK SPRAYERS
270° SWIVEL
The professional grade Smoothflo Spotpak range delivers no pulsation and high pressure for effective spot and distance spraying. • 7L/min open flow pump or 120psi max • 6m hose, Spotjet gun and adjustable nozzle • Drain plug for easy clean and empty • Gun clips safely hold spray gun 100L $761 • Sprays up to 8m SP100-S7
200L
$913
SP200-S7
200L TRUKPAK SPRAYER WITH RETRACTABLE REEL Spray with ease with a 15m hose retractable reel for pest control, roadside or on-farm use. • Aquatec 7L/min or 120psi max, constant flow pump for no pulsation spraying • 15m of 3/8" I.D. Ag Hose and PA spray gun with adjustable nozzle
200L & 15M REEL
100L UTEPAK SPRAYER WITH RETRACTABLE REEL
NEW
Spray with ease with a 15m hose retractable reel for pest control, roadside or on-farm use. • Aquatec 7L/min or 120psi max, constant flow pump for no pulsation spraying • 15m of 3/8" I.D. Ag Hose and Spotjet spray gun with adjustable nozzle
50 LITRE
100L & 15M REEL
SP50-S7
UP100-S7-2
$574
270° SWIVEL
$946
200L TRUKPAK SPRAYER WITH ECONOMY REEL Spray with the increased flexibility of a 30m hose reel for pest control, roadside or on-farm use. • Aquatec 7L/min or 120psi max, constant flow pump for no pulsation spraying • 30m of 10mm I.D. Ag Hose and professional PA spray gun
$1,209
200L & 30M REEL
$1,400 TK200-S7-1
TK200-S7-2
Call: 0508 745 826 or visit www.silvannz.co.nz “ALL PRICES EXCLUDE GST”
Lifestyle Block Magazine A4 NZ.indd 1
15/11/2016 9:41 AM