manawatu farming lifestyles, february 2014

ManawatuManawatu

FARMINGLifestylesManawatu

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More than 500 million family farms span the globe

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Central Districts Field Days2014 Feature Issue Pages 12–20

2 February 2014 MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

The Manawatu Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately ownedNew Zealand company.

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Upgrade work continues since big � oods of 2004

by Denise Gunn

This month marks the 10th anniversary of the 2004 floods — the biggest in the region since 1902.

As more than 250mm of rain fell in the Ruahine Ranges, the Manawatu, Rangitikei, Oroua and Pohangina rivers flooded simultaneously. In the lower Manawatu catchment, rain had fallen for more than 30 hours. Stopbanks were breached and water burst through them in several areas. The devastation was widespread throughout the region. The flood was dubbed a one-in-a-hundred-year event.

Entire farms were submerged, homes flooded and livestock swept away by raging floodwaters.

Communities were left isolated with road closures, loss of power and telephone connections.

Over the past decade, Horizons Regional Council has completed several flood protection projects and upgrade work.

“After the 2004 flood event, it was said storms of similar intensity will hit the Horizons region again and the storm of that year should be viewed as a catalyst for fundamental change,” said Horizons chief executive Michael McCartney.

“Ten years on, it is fair to say those changes have taken place in many forms at Horizons Regional Council, in particular, with the Sustainable Land Use Initiative (SLUI), the river heights and rainfall monitoring system and region-wide capital flood protection upgrades.”

Flood protection upgrade works in nine of Horizons region’s river and drainage schemes have cost approximately $72.5 million. To date, around $42 million has been spent on flood protection improvements and all outstanding upgrade work is expected to be completed by June 2018.

Horizons has increased the number of physical sites that measure either rain, water or climate levels, from 60 to 167, with 297 sensors feeding information back to staff.

Flood action plans have been prepared for the most vulnerable locations in the region to protect communities. The council has also digitally mapped 1,000 square kilometres of flood plain.

Information stands about the floods, protection projects and upgrade works will be displayed by Horizons at the Central Districts Field Days in March.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES February 2014 3

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More than 500 million family farms span the globe

by Denise Gunn

The United Nations has designated 2014 as the International Year of the Family Farming (IYFF), and Rural Women New Zealand plan to celebrate.

There are more than 500 million family farms around the globe, ranging from smallholders to large scale farmers, traditional communities and indigenous people. The goal of the IYFF is to highlight the role farming families play in producing food, managing natural resources, protecting the environment and sustainability.

There are also plans to promote discussions at various levels to raise awareness of the challenges farming families face.

Rural Women NZ will be leading several events around the country with a series of roadshows, beginning in Oamaru on March 27. Similar events to follow include Carterton on April 6 and Stratford on April 9. Registrations for roadshows, which will be held at local A&P showgrounds, will start at 9.30am with the programme beginning at 10am. Roadshows will include seminars on succession planning, safety on the farm, investing in your farming future and sustainability.

Market stalls, crafts and displays by local businesses will also be on-

site, along with Kiwi performers — The Bitches Box, and Mel Parsons from 4pm.

Marlborough drylands farmer, Doug Avery, will co-host the events, giving an inspirational talk on the transformation of his drought-stricken farm into a sustainable venture through visionary changes to his farming system.

Mr Avery was the 2013 Landcorp Communicator of the Year and predicts farming families will continue to excel in New Zealand.

“There is one reason they will do that, which is because you can’t replace passion in anything, and people that are working for themselves with their own vision have that element that is called passion, which will lead and beat pretty much anything else that corporate structures will throw at us.”

Rural Women NZ national president Wendy McGowan said every family needs a farmer, and every farmer needs a community.

“Our organisation is focussed on growing dynamic communities, so celebrating the UN International Year of Family Farming is the perfect fit for us.”

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Nicky was playing rugby for Massey University and commuting between Stratford to Palmerston North for training and games.

“I wanted to get a part-time job in Palmerston North, so that I could work down there Thursdays and Fridays and

World-champion tree climber, Nicky Ward-Allen’s

introduction to the sport came in a roundabout way.

BY DENISE GUNN

Competing in an aerial rescue section

World-champion tree climber Nicky Ward-Allen

World-champion tree climber, Nicky Ward-Allen’s

introduction to the sport came in a roundabout way.

BY DENISE GUNN

not have to return between Wednesday trainings and Saturday games,” said Nicky.

“The company that interviewed me for the part-time job asked if I did climbing competitions, and I answered yes.

“Once having said that I did, I thought that I’d better carry through on this fib, and actually have a go.”

Nine years later she secured the world title in the 2013 International Tree Climbing Championships in Toronto. Nicky also holds the current foot-lock world record with a time of 13.26 seconds — a feat she accomplished in Chicago in 2010.


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Nicky was raised on a property in the Kaimai Ranges area where her father owned a piggery. The family also had avocado and kiwifruit orchards on the property.

With three older brothers, Nicky always wanted to take part in whatever they were doing. This often involved climbing willow trees and building tree huts.

On completing her secondary education, Nicky began a Bachelor of Science degree at Waikato University. However, part way through her degree, Nicky noticed an advertisement for an arboriculture course at the Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec).

“It dawned on me that I didn’t want to work in a laboratory or an office.”

Nicky quit her studies, started the course at Wintec and loved it

“I was the only woman on my course and the men all took care of me.”

She later returned to Waikato University to finish her degree.

On completing the arboriculture course, Nicky’s fiancé (now husband)

secured a position at Thomson O’Neil and Co. and the couple moved from Hamilton to central Taranaki.

“There were no employers in my region, so I started my own company, Taranaki Tree Services Ltd,” said Nicky.

Taranaki Tree Services Ltd is based in Eltham. Nicky enjoys being able to exercise both mind and body with her work as an arborist.

“You really need to think hard in a lot of situations to avoid damaging structures around you when doing tree work,” said Nicky.

“There is a large bag of tricks that need to be thoroughly learned to be able to cope.”

Nicky said she also gets a great work-out and stays fit without having to go to the gym.

“I also like working in the outdoors, and a lot of my clients have really beautiful gardens and trees that I get to enjoy working with.”

Nicky’s first regional competition was in 2004 at the Wellington Botanical Gardens. There were no other women in the competition and she finished 10th out of a field of close to 30 men. This placing qualified her to compete at the national championships in Queenstown the following month.

“There, I got an absolute hiding from Gisborne’s Chrissy Spence,” said Nicky. Chrissy went onto dominate the world stage, winning three international titles.

“But I was lucky to have met her as she has helped me a lot with my climbing.”

Aerobic exercise through running, cycling and rowing feature in Nicky’s training routine. Nicky also recreationally climbs and practises foot-locking most days.

Four regional competitions are held in New Zealand each year, as well as the nationals. Top-placing New Zealanders also qualify for the Asia-Pacific Tree Climbing Championships and the International Tree Climbing Championships.

Each climbing competition consists of five events in the preliminary round — the work climb, aerial rescue, foot-lock, speed climb and throw-line.

“From there, the top men and women advance to the Masters Climb and complete what is basically a big work climb.”

The first placegetter of the Masters Climb is the overall winner.

“Everyone has their own style but the techniques must be approved by the International Society of Arboriculture,” said Nicky. Safety is paramount.

Nicky busy at work

Nicky said she enjoys the camaraderie of the competitions and hanging out with like-minded people.

Learning from the world’s best, both in new techniques and equipment, is also a highlight for the international champion.

“I enjoy having something to strive towards, in trying to improve and become the best I can be.”

The Taranaki Open Tree Climbing Championships will be held at King Edward Park in Stratford on January 25–26, 2014.

“Anyone is welcome to come and watch,” said Nicky.

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With a keen interest in showing, Andrea was soon taking the donkey, Hector, to shows

where he performed well winning several championships. Andrea’s thoughts then turned to using Hector for breeding and shortly afterwards she bought her first jenny, Holly of Pemberton. When her neighbour called in to show Andrea an advertisement for four jennies in Taumarunui, she and husband David set off with the horse float in tow to view them.

“They were really lovely donkeys so we came home with all four,” said Andrea.

Hector and those four jennies went on to produce quality stock becoming the foundation of Andrea’s Pemberton Stud.

“What a pleasure those donkeys have given me,” said Andrea.

“Two of the original jennies are still happily munching hay and calling out for their bucket each night in their ‘retirement’ paddock, no longer able to cope with the push and shove of the younger donkeys.”

Pemberton Stud is situated in Kiwitea on a home block of 50 acres. Half of the property is leased to Andrea’s brother-in-law who runs stud Romney and Suffolk sheep as well as fattening cattle.

Andrea said her focus is on breeding the large Australian Teamster type donkey which is ideal for carriage driving.

In 2004 she imported two pure Teamsters from the Blithe Moon Stud

Donkeys’delight

BY DENISE GUNN

Andrea Thomson began her equine career 57 years ago showing, hunting and breeding sporthorses in Canterbury. All that changed when she moved to Kiwitea and

borrowed a neighbour’s donkey to keep her Thoroughbred gelding company.

in South Australia with one, Blithe Moon Southern, in foal with a jenny.

Along with Hector, also a pure Teamster jack, these donkeys provided Andrea with the nucleus of four pure Teamsters for the stud.

“These donkeys are larger than the usual donkey, athletic and particularly suited to harness,” said Andrea.

“They are also fast, athletic and more highly strung which makes them harder to handle, but they are great for competition.”

Andrea shows her stock at all the A&P shows offering donkey sections throughout the lower North Island. These donkey sections cover classes for conformation, in-hand performance and harness.

Carriage driving competitions and trials give Andrea and her donkeys the

opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities.

“I also compete in driven dressage with the ponies and horses, travelling as far north as Te Awamutu, Taupo and Reporoa.”

Andrea particularly enjoys competing in precision obstacle driving events and has competed at the National Carriage Driving Championships in Taupo on six occasions, completing the course each year and winning the donkey class.

“They are the greatest fun one can imagine and donkeys are very suited to harness work.”

Pemberton donkeys have featured in the winner’s circle taking home some of New Zealand’s top awards, including ‘Donkey of the Year’ at the Horse of the Year show and the Pearl Wilson Trophy. This trophy is awarded by the Donkey


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and Mule Society of New Zealand for the donkey winning the most showing championships over the year.

Pemberton Briar has won this trophy twice, whilst Pemberton Angelotti and Pemberton Violetta have twice been runner-up. “I have been very fortunate and had success in the show-ring with the donkeys I have bred,” said Andrea.

“There is a very special thrill winning with stock one has bred oneself.

“I like the challenge of improving my stock.”

Hector also won the society’s trophy for the jack with the progeny winning the most showing championships seven times. Another of Andrea’s jacks by Hector, Kairangi Victor, has won it twice. Andrea said donkeys have a wonderful temperament. “They are very interactive,

intelligent and always interested and curious in what is going on.”

She has found donkeys bond strongly with their owners but find it traumatic if they are sold on. “Donkeys also need the company of another donkey — it is not kind to have a donkey on its own.”

For this reason, Andrea never sells a donkey that would end up living a solitary life.

Wheelchair-bound children sometimes visit Pemberton Stud and are able to go amongst the donkeys in safety.

“They are very good with children and seem to know when to be calm,” she

said. “If you go into the paddock, the donkeys will immediately come over to see what you are doing and stay with

you and help.“They have strong

personalities, are very charming, and in some ways like big dogs.”

Currently 24 donkeys, including retired stud jennies and Andrea’s show donkeys, are at Pemberton Stud.

“They have given me a lot of fun and pleasure

and I see it as my responsibility to look after them in return.”

Andrea has bought back donkeys she has bred if they were in danger of being passed on from home to home.

The welfare and long-term care of the donkey is paramount to Andrea. “I am more concerned that the donkey is going to a suitable home than just selling it.” Taking this a step further, Andrea and another donkey enthusiast, Nancy Neal, established the Ikaoroa Rehoming Centre in 2007, rescuing donkeys in the lower half of the North Island and rehabilitating them.

Andrea is also busy as a trustee of the Donkey and Mule Protection Trust New Zealand, and is on the executive and show secretary for the Donkey and Mule Society of New Zealand.

“There is always a lot to do training for the shows, training of rescues or re-homing donkeys that I might have,” said Andrea. “A lot of my day is spent looking after the donkeys.”

Andrea competing in a pairs class with her donkeys Andrea competing in-hand with Portia

“I have been very fortunate and had success in the show-ring

with the donkeys I have bred,”


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Pastoral farmers have no guarantee of rain on an as and when required basis and they enter the industry knowing that for best results they must work with the weather and develop strategies and skills that enable them to cope with fluctuations in pasture growth that occur every year.

The Waikato and Bay of Plenty are areas of intensive pastoral farming because weather conditions and soil type favour the activity. Rainfall of around 1,250mm a year spread evenly throughout the year compared to other regions provides farmers with a relatively low risk occupation.

Healthy well-structured soils provide a buffer when growth conditions are unfavourable with humus, which builds rapidly under pastoral farming, providing

moisture for plants to draw on over summer. Because the effect of last summer’s ‘drought’ was confined largely to February and March pasture recovery has been rapid. With winter temperatures higher than normal and little heavy rain during the period cows were behind wires, pasture growth from early April until mid January has been well above usual.

On well managed properties there is now more conserved feed than is usually required for winter. For most areas there is also more pasture cover than normal at this time of the year so production is higher and animal condition better than usual.

With the first autumn rain likely to arrive by mid-March the period during which pasture growth is less than required to maintain covers is likely to be no longer than 60 days, or two grazings where a genuine 30-day interval between grazings was established by the end of December.

For most it is not until the second grazing in February that there is likely to be a genuine requirement for supplement to be fed, and with plant roots capable of extracting moisture from below half a metre growth in excess of 30kg of dry matter per hectare per day can be expected.

Pastures changing colour in summer can lead people to believe that the

amount of feed has diminished and the pasture that is available is low quality. Where a strong dense clover base has been established there is more total feed than may initially be apparent and the quality is high enough for well-fed animals to maintain production without significant weight loss.

Dry looking summer grown pasture is likely to contain between 25 and 30%DM — almost double that of spring grown grass so regular and careful observation is important.

The comment that production is remarkably good based on what appeared to be ‘not a lot’ is common during this period.

However it’s not OK to put animals in paddocks where there is insufficient feed. Apart from the welfare issues it is far more efficient to maintain the condition of animals than allowing them to lose weight and then feed extra in autumn to regain what was lost in the previous two months. Where there is insufficient feed for animals, silage made from rapidly growing spring grass is the ideal complement. This contains protein that allows best use of the high energy

and fibre rich feed still in the paddock.Hay or balage made in December and early January is the ideal supplement in autumn to complement short green rapidly growing pasture. As one farmer remarked, ‘feed green when the paddock is brown and brown when the pasture is green’.

Ruminants have a requirement for a balance of energy (carbohydrate) protein and fibre and well managed pastures will contain all three but seldom is the balance ideal, which is why making supplement available throughout the year for animals to eat as they require is a sound policy.

The pasture on properties where DoloZest/CalciZest based total nutrient programmes are in place are largely untouched by beetle or grub so strong even growth can be expected soon after rain arrives.

And with negligible damage by flea or weevil the exceptional clover growth over spring and early summer will have fixed sufficient nitrogen for maximum growth during winter and spring.

For more information contact Peter on 0800 843 809.

Soil Matterswith Peter Burton

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As one of just two such remaining services in New Zealand, the association’s Hunterville

Mobile Kindergarten currently covers small communities in the Rangitikei, Hunterville and Kiwitea areas, visiting several venues.

Waimate Mobile Kindergarten in Canterbury operates a similar service in the South Island.

Staffed by a head teacher and a teacher aide, Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten travels 450 kilometres each week over back country roads. In one particular venue, a second teacher supports the staff. The teaching team is supported by a fundraising committee.

Established in 1979 in recognition of the unique needs of young children within rural communities, Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten ran sessions

out of woolsheds in its early days.Ruahine Kindergarten Association’s general manager Alison Rudzki said the kindergarten now delivers eight sessions in six different locations.

“Operating out of community halls and schools in Moawhango, Papanui, Hunterville, Mataroa, Rangiwahia and Kiwitea, the mobile kindergarten recognises the unique needs of rural families and often works with other services such as Plunket to ensure a holistic approach to children’s needs are met.”

Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten is on the road five days a week and the length of each session varies according to travel times between venues. The busiest sessions are at Kiwitea and Hunterville where up to 12 children attend. Other venues are struggling for

Delivering kindy sessions TO COUNTRY KIDS

BY DENISE GUNN

For 34 years the Ruahine Kindergarten Association’s mobile kindergarten has travelled thousands of kilometres to deliver educational sessions to children living in isolated areas.

numbers. Mrs Rudzki said the mobile kindergarten is well-resourced to inspire young minds.

Fully equipped with a variety of resources including play dough, paint, collage, books, puzzles, construction equipment, dress-up props, trucks and cars, family play equipment, sand pit toys and climbing structures, the mobile kindergarten’s equipment is updated and interchanged on a regular basis.

“Children enjoy playing, exploring and discovering together or individually as they grow into confident, competent learners,” said Mrs Rudzki “Their learning experiences are documented

through individual portfolios, which are shared with parents and whanau.”

She said Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten promotes children to develop skills to be lifelong learners, alongside suppor tive teachers and whanau.

“Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten recognises Te Whariki as New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum.”

Children are eligible for kindergarten enrolment from two and a half years of age. Siblings, accompanied by their parents, are welcome at mobile kindergarten sessions. The number of children attending sessions operated by

The mobile kindergarten recognises the needs of young children in rural communities


Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten can range from three or four and up to 12.

Head teacher, Jodi Currie was recently placed runner-up in the New Zealand Most Inspiring Teachers awards, promoted through Warehouse Stationery. A parent in the community nominated Jodi and other families showed their support through online voting.

The mobile kindergarten not only provides an educational service but is also often the only link children of some isolated farming families have to mix with other children.

Mrs Rudzki said the quality Early Childhood Education (ECE) experiences provided ensure that children’s transition into school is seamless.

Originally nine mobile kindergartens operated around New Zealand. However, over time kindergarten associations have found they were further subsidising the cost of these services. For many areas this meant the mobile kindergarten service was no longer viable.

The Waimate and Hunterville mobile kindergartens are similar as they both operate out of community halls or from school buildings.

“In reviewing these venues against the Ministry of Education (MOE) 2008 ECE regulations, under which the mobiles operate, it is challenging for us to comply with some criteria because we are working in spaces not specifically designed to be kindergartens,” said Mrs Rudzki.

“As a result, we incur additional expenditure in our ongoing attempts to comply with these regulations.”

The Ruahine Kindergarten Association is working with New Zealand Kindergartens and the Ministry of Education for a change in the licencing criteria that could potentially reduce some compliance costs, and is also in discussions regarding the funding of mobile services. As part of this process, the Association will be consulting with the community on the existing mobile service.

“A survey will be distributed during term one of 2014, to ascertain the needs of our community in regard to mobile ECE education,” said Mrs Rudzki.

“If we can secure sufficient guaranteed enrolments, the association aims to embark on a fundraising drive to secure significant long-term financial support for the mobile kindergarten service.”

Hunterville Mobile Kindergarten is well-resourced There are only two mobile kindergartens in New Zealand

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Countdown to Central Districts Field Daysby Denise Gunn

The list of exhibitors and events is growing daily with the countdown on to the Central Districts Field Days.

Recognised as one of the largest regional agricultural field days in New Zealand, the event’s central location at Manfeild Park makes it an ideal location to cater for the lower North Island.

This year marks the field days’ 21st anniversary and there are plenty of special events planned to entertain the crowd.

“We have a fantastic line-up of regulars returning along with some new attractions which are certain to provide plenty of entertainment to ensure this is the best day off the farm all year,” said Central Districts Field Days event manager Cheryl Riddell.

Aviation enthusiasts will be in for a treat as the Royal New Zealand Air Force performs an aerial display over the field days’ venue on Saturday afternoon.

Also onsite will be Griffin Ag-Air Ltd with what is thought to be New Zealand’s original aerial topdressing loader. The 1924 Hupmobile car, converted to a truck, was used in 1949 to load the first Tiger Moth used for topdressing. Regular features set to the return to the field days include chainsaw carving, the National Excavator Operator competition, tractor-pulling and the Central Districts Double Power Fencing competition.

The Taste of Central Districts marquee, introduced a couple of years ago, will also return showcasing a variety of food and beverages to tempt the taste buds.

Ms Riddell said there are a number of exhibitors who have attended Central Districts Field Days since the first year the event was held.

The Central Districts Field Days will be held at Manfeild Park in Feilding from March 13–15

“Many of them have some fantastic stories to tell of the early years.”

“While the exhibitors and punters attending the Central Districts Field Days are integral to its success, just as important are those companies who generously sponsor the three-

day event,” she said. “We are very grateful these people come on board to sponsor the various pavilionsand activities.”

The Central Districts Field Days will be held at Manfeild Park in Feilding from March 13-15.


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Long-standing association with the � eld days

As an independently owned farm merchandise store, Turton Farm Supplies has had a long association with the rural community. And the team pride themselves on providing superior quality products combined with personal, knowledgeable, friendly service.

Dick Turton established the business 25 years ago. Formerly a fencing contractor, he was becoming increasingly frustrated at the poor quality of round wood that was available so began to source his own supply. Farmers then suggested that gates, wire and hardware should be added to the range.

From Turton Farm Supplies main operation base in Dannevirke, the business has continued to expand with branches now in Waipukurau and Masterton. Turton Farm Supplies also service Hawke’s Bay and the lower North Island.

“We have grown through the loyalty of our many valued clients,” said Ross Turton.

Turton Farm Supplies focusses on supplying a diverse array of farm

merchandise and materials to a wide range of farming clients, at the best price possible.

“We now stock an extensive range of product for farmers, lifestylers and DIYers, including farm buildings, woolsheds, and covered yards.”

“And we are able to offer a design and build service,” said Ross.

A fleet of vehicles enables deliveries to be made to client’s requirements.

Turton Farm Supplies has had a trade stand at the Central Districts Field Days since the event originally began and will be there again this year with plenty of show specials.

Ross said the field days offer an opportunity for staff to talk with their valued clients, meet new people, discuss their requirements and enjoy the relaxed rural atmosphere.

The Turton Farm Supplies team

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Gearing up for fi eld daysEstablished amongst the vast cropping and farmland of the Canterbury Plains in 1989, Robertson Manufacturing initially began building silage wagons and silage grabs as well as performing general engineering work.

“We grew to the stage where the repairs and local sales were moved across the road to Robertson Farm Equipment, so Robertson Manufacturing could concentrate all its efforts on manufacturing a strong and reliable range of agricultural equipment,” said managing directorDon Robertson.

Robertson Manufacturing then expanded into designing and building the Comby range of feed-out equipment capable of handling all types of feed including maize, round and square bales of hay and silage, as well aspit silage.

Robertson Transpread trailed spreaders, available in both agricultural

Robertson Manufacturing has a strong dealer network

and horticultural models, and built with stainless steel bins, have proved to be a very popular Robertson Manufacturing product. The business also constructs a full range of side and centre feed wagons of differing sizes in both tandem and single axle.

Using the latest technology to design their machinery, Robertson Manufacturing then utilise the skills of an experienced engineering team in the construction of its products.

Robertson Manufacturing has steadily built up a strong dealer network around New Zealand. Robertson machines are also sold into Australia, South Africa and Chile.

For the past 15 years Robertson Manufacturing has made the journey north to have a stand at the Central Districts Field Days.

“We feel it is a very well run field days and very beneficial to our products,” said Mr Robertson.



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According to statistics released for the Central Districts on the police.govt.nz website, crime should be of concern to us.

Record 2012/2013: Robbery 101Unlawful entry 4,365Theft 8,460Country folk have long had a trusting

attitude. This peaceful frame of mind has too often been shattered by thieves and intruders.

The police will often ask questions that are near impossible to answer.

What did you see? Was your shed locked? Can you positively identify your stuff? Is there anything else missing? This you will only know six months later when you need it. To lock everything drastically changes our life style!

Many people now have peace of mind by installing a good quality security camera that captures excellent pictures. The I-SPY automatic ‘High Resolution’ stand alone cameras have been used in successful police prosecutions due to the clarity and details of the photos.

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Visit us at Central Districts Field Days Site 069

Returning to this year’s Central Districts Field Days

From its small beginnings in 1980 with an organic fish liquid fertiliser, Plasma Biotec Solutions has grown rapidly.

Managing director Kath Burdett said farmers achieved good results with this fertiliser and were soon asking for various minerals to be added to correct deficiencies.

“With ongoing improvements, and upgraded processing, the product was soon transformed into the range of highly concentrated, high analysis products that we have available today.”

The Auckland-based company has since added several more products to its range to enhance the choice for rural business people.

“This means the Plasma Biotec product range provides options for farmers with pastures growing a wide range of animals and includes a soil conditioner,” said Kath.

“The range includes products that are also very useful for horticulture and are used effectively on a wide range of crops.” A range of animal nutrition supplements (Megimmune), which can

be used as either a drench, added to water troughs or to calf milk, are also available.

A Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) audited registered Risk Management Programme (RMP) is in place which ensures Plasma Biotec Solutions products have full traceability and consistent manufacturing standards.

“This is unique in our industry,” said Kath.

For the past 19 years, Plasma Biotec has attended the Central Districts Field Days and will return to this year’s event at site D28, opposite the deer farmers’ venison burgers stand.

“The most enjoyable thing for us is to be able to have customers visit us at our site and offer them a place to relax.

“We see many of them over a couple of days.”

Plasma Biotec Solutions have recently updated their website. Visit http://www.plasmabiotec.co.nz for further information.

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If you suffer from Back or Neck Pain then come along to our stands at the Central District Field Days, site number L46 on 13th to 15th March.

Inversion NZ Ltd0800 62 62 83www.inversionnz.co.nzwww.inversionnz.co.nz

In 2006, a three and a half year medical study using the Teeter Hang-Ups was completed in the Regional Neuroscience Centre at Newcastle General Hospital. It was conducted by one of the UK’s leading Neurosurgeons and authorities on back care and it was found that on back care and it was found that Inversion Therapy reduced the need Inversion Therapy reduced the need for spinal surgery for Sciatica by 77% for spinal surgery for Sciatica by 77% compared to 22% with traditional compared to 22% with traditional methods of treatment.

We will set the table to the relaxing angle We will set the table to the relaxing angle of 20 degrees, which gently relieves the of 20 degrees, which gently relieves the pressure on your spine and leaves you pressure on your spine and leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

After over six years in NZ there are now After over six years in NZ there are now enough people using the Teeter Hang-enough people using the Teeter Hang-Ups to dispel the last of any doubts Ups to dispel the last of any doubts that these really do work if you suffer from if you suffer from these really do work if you suffer from these really do workBack or Neck Pain or simply just Back or Neck Pain or simply just want to age healthily, bring this want to age healthily, bring this ad along for a free 10 minute treatment. “I promise that you “I promise that you will be pleasantly surprised!”

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Inversion helps to:

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Effects of Aging Effects of Aging caused by Gravity

Strong demand for Taratahi graduates continuesby Denise Gunn

Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre is widely recognised for its long-standing reputation in agricultural learning.

Programmes offered are carefully researched and developed to ensure that graduates have the skills necessary to meet the changing needs of the agricultural industry.

The centre was initially established in 1919 in the central Wairarapa as a training farm for men returning from World War One.

Following the Second World War, the centre was again made available to returned servicemen. Eighty men passed through the farm under the Rehabilitation Department’s scheme between 1944 and 1950, prior to settling onto their own farms.

In 1951, trustees carried out extensive improvements and enlarged the activities of the farm, then known as the Wairarapa Cadet Training Farm, to provide training for young people between the ages of 16–20 years. It was renamed Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre in theearly 1980s.

Today Taratahi has campuses in Manawatu, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rodney and Northland. More than 2500 students are trained through Taratahi in a range of programmes each year.

Taratahi’s vision is to be New Zealand’s first choice for vocational learning from foundation to sub-degree level and their philosophy is ‘real training on real farms’.

Taratahi’s own assets, or assets they manage on behalf of others, now equate to over $100m. Taratahi has 50,000 stock units of sheep, beef and deer, and milk 3250 cows per year.

For the past 20 years Taratahi has had a stand at the Central Districts Field Days, sharing information about

programmes available in New Zealand.Marketing and Communications manager Yvonne Way said Taratahi staff enjoy attending the field days as it gives them the opportunity to catch up with graduates and to listen to some of the wonderful stories about what they are doing throughout New Zealand and internationally.

“Staff are also able to encourage potential students to get involved with the exciting and diverse industry that is agriculture.”

For enquiries about Taratahi’s extensive agricultural training programme call 0800 TARATAHI. Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre offers a range of programmes



• We service all brands

• Full chandlery service

• Re-powering options with Evinrude, Mercury and Yamaha

• Professional and friendly advice

See us at Central Districts

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and clothing

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it pays to havea wrangler

Cow handling made easyKiwi farm ingenuity is famous the world over and The Wrangler is a great example.

Awarded ‘Most Innovative or Quirkiest Business’ by NZ Business Magazine’s David Awards, the Wrangler was invented by a farmer who thought ‘there must be a better way’. Many years on the Wrangler has become standard farm equipment and made cow handling safer and easier along the way. Wilco Klein Ovink, farmer turned developer of the Wrangler, explains

that by giving staff equipment to do the job properly will reduce the cost of lameness. “Good equipment encourages staff to look at hooves. Lameness can be reduced by examining a hoof at the � rst sign of lameness rather than leaving her in the hope she will come right”.

The Wrangler has winches and a backleg support which holds the leg

securely for examination. Belly girths prevent the cow from falling during treatment. The front hoof can likewise be winched onto a support and held in place with webbing. With two feet up, the cows head in the headbail, and two belly girths under her she can’t move at all and examination can be conducted quickly, easily, and safely. Calving, caesareans, or other procedures can also be performed in the Wrangler. “All new sheds should include hoof facilities,” explained Wilco.

“Many shed designers are now putting Wrangler’s into every yard layout which is great because they can have a great set-up and be in place before the concrete is poured”.

The Wrangler range can be seen at Central Districts site O41.

On display will be the new Walk Thru Headbail and also the Ride Over Gate which is fantastic for centre pivot irrigators and for ease of driving.


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Our homeopathic products are of a high quality, organically certi� ed by BioGro and have Class Determination by MPI (ACVM).

HFS has developed Herbal AB for animals and people to help and strengthen the immune system, MA Udder Spray to enhance udder health, Herbal Digestive Drench to balance the natural worm life within the digestive system and a Natural Teat Conditioner. Also available are Homeopathic books for cows, horses and people, kit sets, laminated reference sheets and calendars for the cowshed.

Feedback received from a south Taranaki farmer regarding the Natural Teat Conditioner.

“After much anticipation we were very pleased to get our hands onto

the newly released Natural Teat Conditioner. We premix it in a 20 litre container and � ll a Cambrian sprayer at the end of each milking. The system and product work very well. After about a week all the cows’ teats had softened dramatically.

We have also received this recommendation for one of our Homeopathic Books.

“The ‘Homoeopathic Handbook for Dairy Farming’ is worth its weight in gold. Regularly referred to, it is our most used farming related text. We have notes from our experiences and successes recorded throughout as we are continually learning and extending our remedy repertoire and knowledge base — that’s the exciting part. We are ultimately in control and not reliant on others! And most importantly, it works.”

Homeopathic Farm Support Ltd is a small business to support dairy, dry stock, sheep, dairy goat, alpaca and lifestyle block farmers by natural means.


HomeopatHyThe complementary system of health

for all your farming livestock

TALK DIRECTLY TO THE EXPERTSphone 07 858 4233

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See us at Central Districts Field Days site 038

Protect your farm assets long term• Stops corrosion by preventing air and moisture attack.• 9-12months of lasting protection saving time on multiple reapplication.• Bike service life can be doubled.

PROLAN LANOLIN LUBRICANTSPROLAN LANOLIN LUBRICANTSProlan is an all-purpose natural lanolin lubricant and corrosion inhibitor. Its unique properties surpass other petrochemical products in performance, reliability, longevity, protection, safety and asset maintenance.AVAILABLE FROM FARMLANDS STORES

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Keep your dogs warm and dryCome See Us At The Central Districts Field Days Site No. V40

COME AND SEE US AT THE CENTRAL DISTRICTS

FIELD DAYS

Ph 0800 888 323www.prescotttrailers.co.nz

Check us out at Site #059. The Field Days is an opportunity where you can see all the manufacturers in one place at the same time.

Come and see our trailers, talk to our staff and ask them what makes a Prescott Trailer better than all the others.

Homeopathic farming solutions

Providing long-lasting protection

Prolan’s unique, versatile products are exported around the world and used in some of the toughest and coldest environments, protecting machinery, vehicles and even wind turbines.

Using New Zealand-produced lanolin, selectively chosen from quality suppliers, the Prolan team have combined strong practical engineering and science backgrounds to create an environmentally friendly, high performance corrosion inhibitor, industrial lubricant and anti-seize greases for use in a multitude of areas.

Established in 2003 by directors Murray and Julie Shaw, the Tauranga-based company has continued to grow both in New Zealand and internationally.

Prolan’s unique, versatile products are exported around the world and used in some of the toughest and coldest environments, protecting machinery, vehicles and even wind turbines.

“Prolan products are replacing traditional petro-chemical lubricants in Europe and one company alone has replaced 15 products with ours,” said Julie.

In New Zealand, corrosion inhibitors sprayed on the underside of quad bikes have proven to slow down deterioration.

“Bikes used on dairy farms probably need an application every nine to 12 months but for those on sheep and beef farms, one application can last up to two years.”

The Prolan team are committed to understanding the needs of their customers and are willing to help solve corrosion, lubrication and anti-seize problems.At this year’s � eld days, the new Prolan Enduro range — a corrosion inhibitor — will be available.

“This product dries off to a less tacky � nish, attracting less dust and sand, stays on for a long period of time, resists cold water blasting, and maintains machinery, tools etc in excellent condition.”

Also the new Prolan Degreaser — developed in conjunction with Ag Research Christchurch will be available. This excellent degreaser will remove all existing lanolin coatings bringing machinery back to its original condition and improving resale value. Julie said the � eld days provide an


ideal opportunity for staff to have one-to-one contact with customers. Site S43 Central District Fieldays. Ph: 0800 PROLAN (0800 776 526) Web:www.prolan.co.nz.


The Audi A3 now comes as feature-packed sedan. For the �rst time ever� the Audi A3 is now available as a sporty compact sedan.

Its outstanding performance coupled with a remarkable array of features makes this vehicle a truly impressive package.

Only $62,000 + on road costs

or $199 p/w view at our stand S18-20 at Field DaysSite S18-20

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Visit our website www.runoff.co.nz for more details and use the CONTACT US page to touch base with Steve

Our website is designed to be a starting point

to gather and share information on all aspects of

rural and farming life.

I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia I invite you to help build this into an encyclopaedia

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lifestyle.of NZ farming and rural lifestyle.of NZ farming and rural lifestyle.of NZ farming and rural lifestyle.of NZ farming and rural lifestyle.of NZ farming and rural lifestyle. - - - - - - - - - SteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteveSteve

runoff.co.nz

Tapping into rural knowledge

Within the farming community there is an untapped knowledge bank that could serve as a valuable resource. New website runoff.co.nz recognises this and is seeking your help to collect and collate this information.

Founder of runoff.co.nz, Steve Karl, has had a long association with rural New Zealand and says there is a wealth of information in the community that can be shared.

“The website is designed to be a starting point to gather and share information on all aspects of rural and farming life and eventually build runoff.co.nz into an encyclopaedia for our farming and rural lifestyle sector,” says Steve.

“There are many challenges to keeping rural business and lifestyles prosperous — climatic, environmental, physical, � nancial and political — but there is also a vast knowledge bank.”

As a resource for posting and seeking information on subjects relating to the rural sector, runoff.co.nz can be used freely. It also provides a venue to buy, sell, and advertise services and vacancies for a fee or commission.

“In the past, when I want farming information, I’ve found very little I can hook into and when it comes to trading farm items, the current websites are not speci� c

and they certainly don’t give people a lot of options. With runoff.co.nz, people can talk to each other via email and shake handsover a deal.

“Right now, I’m looking for farmers who can contribute ideas, information and handy hints and also for specialists who can share their knowledge in specialist areas. There seems to be a reasonable amount of information for dairy farmers but there is very little available for dry stock farmers, so I am hoping that this website acts as a vehicle to get that information out there.”

Steve Karl, founder of runoff.co.nz

How you can save money by keeping your septic system effective and healthy

SEPTIC TANK OWNERS

Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them. Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good and best economical practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained.

A malfunctioning septic system can become a health hazard. When a system is not maintained or operated as a delicately balanced environment, problems occur. These problems include nasty odours, leach line blockages, untreated liquid rising to the surface, toilets gurgling and taking time to empty. At this stage your septic system is a serious health hazard to you and your children. Human waste produces faecal coliform bacteria, a source of viral and bacterial gastroenteritis as well as Hepatitis A and other diseases. Hepatitis can be a debilitating condition and cause long-term harm to children.

There are only three remedies. One: stop using the septic system until it recovers. This can take over a month and is not normally practical. Two: excavate your septic system and relocate it. This is very costly and time consuming, sometimes requiring new resource consents and different systems. Three: treat your septic system with Septi-Cure™ every six months.

Septi-Cure is Cost effective. By far the most cost effective solution is to pour one litre of Septi-Cure™ down each toilet bowl every six months. This simple action will help keep your system working at top efficiency by reducing solids and scum. Instead of emptying your tank frequently, the reduction in solids and scum saves you expensive pump out costs. Your irrigation field and leach lines will become clear of slimes and blockages so nature can handle the gradual seepage and evaporation for you. When this is happening your system will be

Problematic septic tanks – treat with Septi-Cure™. Prevent septic system problems – treat with Septi-Cure™.

For Septi-Cure™ - Call: 0800-109-202 Website: www.ecoworld.co.nz Also Available at

operating effectively and not endangering you or your family’s health.

What is Septi-Cure™ Septi-Cure™ is a concentrated mixture of selected naturally occurring microorganisms. These harmless tiny organisms live and multiply by feeding on waste material. When introduced to your septic tank system, they go to work straight away digesting waste material, reducing solids and scum, allowing your septic system to start operating to its maximum efficiency. As they progress through

to your irrigation field they feed on the slimes that prevent seepage and evaporation. When seepage and evaporation return to normal, you have reduced the risk of contaminating groundwater and the environment as well as reducing the chances of infection for you and your family. Eventually, they get washed out of the system and have to be replaced to continue their work. This is why you introduce Septi-Cure™ to your septic system every six months for maximum efficiency.

A satisfied customer in Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for three years. He says this allows them to have an odour-free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well Septi-Cure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition.




buSeS


L I V E S T O C K

For all your livestock needs, contact your

Freephone 0800 233 2669

Freefax 0800 329 225

Email [email protected]

local buyer

competitive prices | top service | premium markets

AreA Buyer MoBile After hours

regional manager Brett Innes 0274 743 041 09 423 8176

northern northland Gary May 021 971 502 09 408 0469

kaikohe north Brad nattrass 021 332 979 09 945 7293

southern Whangarei Brady collinson 021 984 815 09 437 6663

dargaville terry north 0274 841 823 09 439 5902

northern auckland Kelly Graham 021 341 817 0800 600 222

northern Whangarei russell collinson 021 726 153 09 437 6613

kaikohe Murdoch Phillips 021 954 282 09 402 6944

Contact the Johne’s Consultant Network and JML on 0800 456 453 for a tailor-made Risk Management Plan

to suit your deer unit and a comparison of your productivity figures with local and national averages

Roaring mad about Johne’s disease in your deer?

So are we!

Andrew Anderson Feilding/Taihape 027 7029 496

Tony Cox Wanganui 027 5965 144

Eric Constable Wanganui/Taranaki 027 4409 784

Want to find the best way to market your wool?Expertise is only a phone call awayPGG Wrightson Wool Ltd handles in excess of 350,000 bales annually through its wool store network strategically positioned around New Zealand and its export company Bloch and Behrens.

Meet Your Local Wool Representative at PGG Wrightson Wool

Immediate realisation of the limited supply of wool in the South Island was evidenced by the cancellation of the first scheduled January 9, South Island sale and the rather small offering of less than 8,000 bales catalogued for the second scheduled sale on January 16.

Whilst competitors vie for business at the farm gate, the open cry auction platform continues to be regarded as the most reliable market setting mechanism, on a week to week basis however, with restricted availability, consistency of price and meaningful market signalling can become somewhat distorted.

The market for the 2014 calendar year opened in Napier on January 9 on a slightly firmer note compared to the close there on December 19. A large variety of types were offered including a quantity of hogget wools and new season’s lamb’s wool. The first

Christchurch auction, held on January 16, also contained a variety of types from throughout the South Island with a good quantity of crossbred fleece wool shorn in December on offer. The majority of the fleece wool was of good washing colour and although many were showing a weakness in tensile strength, most were reasonably sound and free grown.

Buyers bid eagerly for the better wools however poorer washing colour fleece lines displaying considerable yellowness were discounted severely with around a 100 cents per clean kilogram

South Island wool dearer

difference from the best to the worst fleece types.

A good quantity of crossbred hogget wool types were offered with again a queue of buyers bidding vigorously for those. The crossbred market was quoted as being between 2% and 4% dearer than the previous auction held on December 19 last. The relatively small quantities of lamb’s wool offered also drew good support with the most competition aimed towards softer crossbred types measuring finer than around 30 microns.

A few coarser lines of lamb’s wool however also sold extremely well. A handful of Corriedale and Halfbred wools were on offer and most sold well with good competition evident. Prices in the main were on a par to those ruling in December. A small quantity of Corriedale lamb’s wool was keenly sought.

Australian auctions resumed on January 7 and after a cautious market opening gradually strengthened (to date of writing) although much depended on style and micron. All centres reported extra-fine and tender merino wool types as being more difficult to place than sound, well prepared, fine to medium types. The over-supply of extra-fine wools appears to be an on-going problem for the time being.

From this early point of the year it is difficult to predict what turns the

Wool Perspective From Rob Cochrane GM, Procurement, PGG Wrightson Wool

wool market will make before the end of the season on June 30 but it is certain that quantities will continue to be limited. Weather will always play a part in controlling shearing to an extent but the number of sheep to be shorn is perhaps nowadays more easily managed than it was in the past, however the beginning to 2014 in southern areas of the South Island has to date been rather frustrating with a very much stop, start approach to shearing due to warm wet conditions.

Expected wool quality from hereon will definitely be poorer than desired with yellowness and cotts more than likely dominating over the next few weeks. With 2014 being the Chinese ‘Year of the Horse’ let’s hope the wool market can ‘gallop’ ahead and ‘hurdle’ any obstacles, whilst growers enjoy the ‘ride’ as wool exporters take the ‘bit’ between their teeth and processors continue their ‘hunt’ for the best wools in the world.

That’s my view.


L I V E S T O C K

“So that darn kingmaker gonna briten up the ‘lections campaign agin this yeer,’ seda Boss, as we wotcht ta news ona widescreen Tv ina woolshed.

Boss had bin wotchin the crikit reelly, but then it rained ona pitch. Still, we wun tha game ‘ganist them Indian fellas. Sekind time ina row too, an’ Sharlene, tha Boss’ gerlfrend an muther of young Sophy, their dorter, sed ‘them Blak Kaps finally dun something; right’.

But back ter Boss. He tole me it’s a lection yeer, and its gunna be rill intristing.

“Ya see Dog, we got that Kim Dotkomic formin’ a new party. ‘Party!’. I prickt up me ears cos wen Boss has a party, I gets sum bloody good leftovers froma barbecue.

“Nah Dog. It’s a political party, wot trys to get people to vote it inta the guvmint,” Boss sed.

“That Jon Ki not doing to well, and he’s tellin’ that Winstin Peeters that he mite hava cuppa tee an discus them getting’ a bit cosier. An’ all this wen a cupla yeers ago, he didn’t wanta no ole Winstin. Hah! An I tell yer wot Dog, ole Winnie wood want a case o’ skotch, not a cuppa tee if he wuz gonna get friendly wiv Jon.

“So it gonna be a reel intristing yeer comin up. That new Laba leeder, David Cunningliffe is goin’ up an’ down like a yoyo. Wun minite he’s gunna knock of gee es tea frum froot

and vegies, then he says nah. Then he sed Laba wood cut taxis on tha first bit of munny people earn, an’ then sez nah. Bit like that Vikar of Dribley ona TV, were the old bloke sez Yep, yep yep,

then Nah, nah, nah.But I dunno about this Dotkomic party.

He has this Intanet thing goin;, wear everyone can get in tuch wiv eech other ona computas. Sum ofa blokes ina pub reckin that’s gunna result ina rilly weerd

lection result. Ya see Dog, ther’s millyns of people out there wot spends alla time ona

computa. They got things corled Twitta, probly cos its for twits, an’ facebook, wear they tells

there secrits ta tha werld.“Well, I asks yer. Wot sorta ‘lection

candidate they gonna come up with? Sumthink like Sharlene’s Mum?. She spinds alla time ona computa getting’ her fortune told by sum

Indian cheef in Merica eh! We might git her ina guvmint if ole Dotkomic gets lucky.

“Nah, come ta think of it, I hopes Jon Ki sends ole Winnie a

cupla or three cases of skotch.”Hopes yer rite Boss. I’d hate Mum ter go ter Wullingtin.

She tops up me tucka bole win yer not lookin!See ya readas.Billy

The dog’s tail ...

Boss (an me) goes fer Winnie“So that darn kingmaker gonna briten up the

‘lections campaign agin this yeer,’ seda Boss, as we wotcht ta news ona widescreen Tv

Boss had bin wotchin the crikit reelly, but then it rained ona pitch. Still, we wun tha game ‘ganist them Indian fellas. Sekind time ina row too, an’ Sharlene, tha Boss’ gerlfrend an muther of young Sophy, their dorter, sed ‘them Blak Kaps finally dun

But back ter Boss. He tole me it’s a lection yeer, and its gunna be rill intristing.

“Ya see Dog, we got that Kim Dotkomic formin’ a new party. ‘Party!’. I prickt up me ears cos wen Boss has a party, I gets sum bloody good leftovers

“Nah Dog. It’s a political party, wot trys to get people to vote it inta the guvmint,”

discus them getting’ a bit cosier. An’ all this wen a cupla yeers ago,

and vegies, then he says nah. Then he sed Laba wood cut taxis on tha first bit of munny people earn, an’ then sez nah. Bit like that Vikar of Dribley ona TV, were the old bloke sez Yep, yep yep,

then Nah, nah, nah.But I dunno about this Dotkomic party.

He has this Intanet thing goin;, wear everyone can get in tuch wiv eech other ona computas. Sum ofa blokes ina pub reckin that’s gunna result ina rilly weerd

lection result. Ya see Dog, ther’s millyns of people out there wot spends alla time ona

computa. They got things corled Twitta, probly cos its for twits, an’ facebook, wear they tells

there secrits ta tha werld.“Well, I asks yer. Wot sorta ‘lection

candidate they gonna come up with? Sumthink like Sharlene’s Mum?. She spinds alla time ona computa getting’ her fortune told by sum

Indian cheef in Merica eh! We might git her ina guvmint if ole

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the winning formula since 1869

by Andy Bryenton

Working harder for Kiwi farmersJapanese auto makers Suzuki have picked up on the engineering cues of the Willys Jeep and the Land Rover Defender with a machine called the Farm Worker — and it has proven to be real niche-filler for the makers of the Kizashi, Swift and Hayabusa.

Lighter than the ‘Disco’ or Toyota’s Land Cruiser but just as tough, the little 4x4 sets a solid benchmark for off-road, on-paddock performance.

Its predecessor, the Suzuki Samurai of-roader, is still used by hunters on the back blocks to this day, and a smartened-up street model called the Jimny was for some time the sponsor vehicle for 4x4 enduro events on Kiwi television.

Suzuki’s Farmworker is based on tried and tested off road principles, and packs in a host of features which a traditional side-by-side simply can’t — such as a

heater and stereo system

Like the best automotive designs, the little Samurai’s ruggedness has stuck around, evolving into a specialised range of farm vehicles that are up to any task.

The Suzuki Farm Worker family contains a range of variations on the robust, short-wheel-base off-roader, utilising tried and true engineering and some neat ideas to boost versatility around the farm.

The rural customer whom the Farm Worker is aimed at is likely to already ride an ATV — or one of Suzuki’s hard-as-nails farm bikes. But this machine is above and beyond a quad, or even its beefier big brother the UTV. The Farm Worker is a no-nonsense small truck, with the carrying capacity to match — either in wellside or flat deck configuration.

Its 1.3 litre Suzuki engine provides ample power through a hi/lo ratio 4WD transmission system, with enough ground clearance and suspension to handle the rough stuff.

It’s simple too, with old-fashioned manual levers, window winders and shifter, a real military level of build toughness, and a design that’s easy to hosedown clean.

As an added bonus, even the base model (a steal at under 17k) comes with a proper roof, a fully enclosed cab, a heater, radio and wipers for when the weather packs in. You don’t get luxuries like these on aquad bike!


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SIX MODELS TO CHOOSE FROM

With major improvements in power, handling, styling and durability developed right here in New Zealand, it’s a true evolution of the brand. Recently top engineers and management from the US based manufacturer came to see just how rugged our countryside can be.

They witnessed first hand the kind of day’s work Kiwi farmers expect from a UTV or quad, and after taking on board some vital tips and pointers from our men of the land, they set to work making the already popular ranger even beefier — cattle pun intended.

The recipe begins with a new ProStar 567cc, 40hp EFI engine with 25%

more power. Add in a 1.5cm longer wheelbase for an even smoother ride (small changes, as Lotus boss Colin Chapman would tell you, providing big results).

Then mix in some fresh new HD features — this doesn’t stand for High Definition, it means Heavy Duty. Boy, they’re not kidding, either. A look at the size and reinforcement of the Ranger’s new sway bar, upgraded rear driveshaft and grease fittings is enough to tell you that Polaris mean business.

The impression here is that mere rocks, ruts and mud won’t make any significant impact. “The visit by senior Polaris managers and engineers shows

not only their commitment to understanding our market, but also to delivering products that are specifically designed for our quite unique conditions, climate and usage,”says Polaris Industries Australia and New Zealand Country Manager, Brad Wolstenholme.

Combine these smooth riding, Kiwi-focussed features with best-in-class power, 567kg of towing capacity and 226kg box capacity, no matter the task the Ranger 570 HD will work hard for you.

HD sees the bigger pictureby Andy Bryenton

The new Ranger 570 HD carries all the tried and true features of the Ranger 500 which it replaces and more.

Owners Bryce Marshall and Jan Wyllie began importing Drift Go Karts into New Zealand nine years ago and now supply karts to buyers all over the country.

The latest 2014 addition is the Xtreme Drifta (photo), an awesome go kart ideal for teenagers and adults.

These are designed from their Drifta ll model featuring a longer wheelbase giving added legroom, foot operated accelerator and brake, padded seat with safety harness, racing steering wheel and a 9.0HP 270cc wet clutch engine.

Having established a reputation for quality drift go karts, suitable for children and adults, Bryce says the Drift Go Karts are extremely safe to use, having a low centre of gravity while still maintaining a good ground clearance.

“They are designed to travel on � at, even terrain and because of their design they drift rather than roll. It’s a great way for children to learn driving techniques and control out in the open spaces, and it’s something we can do safely with our kids” Fun for the whole family, these go karts are ideal for lifestyle


blocks, orchards, farms, paddocks and � elds — any large open space.

The go karts come pre-assembled in the box so are very easy to put together. The go karts arrive basically in three pre-assembled parts. Final assembly involves putting these three parts together — running the cables to brake, throttle, and kill switch/stop button, and attaching seat and seatbelt. For the roll cage models, the roll cage is simply bolted on at the end of assembly.

Two new models of Go Karts availableGo Karts Direct is an exclusive importer and distributor of Drift Go Karts and now have a selection of models to choose from.


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Pasture renovationA D V E RT O R I A L

New trial work by AgResearch shows that routine regrassing of older paddocks on high performing irrigated farms may not always be cost effective. (Keene, Howard. Regrassing no certain silver bullet. Straight Furrow. 22 October 2013) Regrassing is costly, so it’s important to farmers that it pays off. In the trials the farmers chose a paddock they considered “runout”. This was divided into two; one half was renewed with a novel endophyte rye grass (new grass) and the other half remained with the old pasture (the control).

After three years the average production over all the farms, perhaps surprisingly, showed the new grass, the control and the good paddocks had all produced the same amount of grass — approx 50 tonnes of dry matter per hectare rendering no production advantage from regrassing a stable, old paddock. AgResearch Senior Scientist Tom Fraser was involved in the trials led by Lincoln based associate Anna Taylor.

When we look as nature’s farms like the Serengeti Plains in Africa, most probably the earth’s oldest farm which has been operating for thousands of years, we never question or think about how it operates, it just does. The only interference by man is the culling of exotic animals for money. There are no fertilisers spread upon the plains, no drenches or drench guns used, no veterinarians with chemical wands; it operates by itself, successfully producing hundreds of thousands of kilos of muscle, blood and skin and bone and newborns

every year in a very fertile and sustainable natural capital system. The grasslands provide food for the herbivores and meat for the predators whilst continually renewing themselves without interference. The annual � oods that erode the rockdust from the Ethiopian mountain range are providing mineral for the soil microbes living on the plains, who in turn convert that mineral to a plant available form and that’s the system that Agrissentials uses and promotes. It’s not the brand, species or variety of the plant that is important, it’s the mineral value within the plant that is the most critical factor for both animals and people.

The formula for growing pasture is minerals, microbes, moisture and sunlight. Agrissentials multi mineral, microbial rich fertilisers are providing the � rst two parts of the formula; mineral and microbes put these together with rain and sunshine and your animals will do the rest.

If you want to get more of that free natural capital to drive your farm forward hook into Agrissentials natural, certi� ed, sustainable fertilisers. To � nd out more about Agrissentials best on fertilisers phone 0800 THE KEY that’s 0800 843 539 today for a FREE INFO PACK or you can contact your friendly representative Ben Tippins (North Manawatu) 021 738 601 or Lyn Woodcock (South Manawatu/Wairarapa) 021 0204 3028 to � nd out how we can make your farm more successful.

QUARRY ROCKCow Race, face rock,40mm/20mm crushedgrades available

FERTILISER SPREADINGCartage and Application

CARTAGEBulk Units, Curtainsiders,Flat Deck UnitsHay and Baleage cartageLime and FertiliserRockLinehaul

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Experienced Operators‘Your rural specialists’

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Manawatu Rural Marketplace

Wreckers of all Road, Trail, Farm Bikes and Quads.Full Service and Repairs on all makes of Farm Bikes.

Frame Repairs, Plastic Welding, RebuildsNew and Used Parts for most Models FOR SALE.

Also FOR SALE Secondhand Two Wheeler and Four Wheeler Bikes and Quads

Big AlsMOTORCYCLES

• ROAD • ATV • Wreckers

25a Bisley Street Palmerston North.Ph: 06 355 4852Mob: 027 297 8034

Big Al’s has expanded and has shifted from Tweed St to 25a Bisley Street

We Buy Old and Used Motor Bikes and Quads

Country LifestyleBlock Services

David - MOB 027COUNTRYE-mail: [email protected] - MOB 021 720778WEB www.clbs.co.nz

TOKOMARUPALMERSTON NORTH

COUNTRY LIFESTYLEBLOCK SERVICES

Based in Tokomaru south of Palmerston North we have over 60 Based in Tokomaru south of Palmerston North we have over 60 years combined farming/contracting experience, so we can offer a complete range of services and advice. Please visit our web site to see a full list of services we offer.

08006453 33MIKE DD

Web: www.ddkitchens.co.nz Email: [email protected]

KITCHENS – SAVE $1000’sFrom a single door facing to a complete kitchen.

we also do replacement benchtops

Dream Doors Kitchens Ltd

“Your dream kitchen but not a nightmare price” Available from CRT, PGG Wrightson, FarmlandsUV Protected Polycarbonate. Fits on any container with a flat surface. Instructions supplied with the fitting.$20 plus p&pGORDYS FLYTRAP FITTING21 LITCHFIELD ST, BLENHEIM

GORDYS FLYTRAP FITTING®

Email: [email protected] in New Zealand/Australia

LAWN MOWING & GARDEN CARE •STOCK CARE & DRENCHING •ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION •

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WEED SPRAYING •WATER MAINTENANCE •

TRUCK & 4WD DISMANTLERSEND OF MAYNE STREET, WAITARA Phone Joe, Dave or Bruce

Ph 06 754 9006 or 0800 878 251Email [email protected] Fax 06 754 8966www.taranakitruckdismantlers.co.nz

TARANAKI TRUCK DISMANTLERS LTD

New Zealand’s Best Rock Picker

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We are looking for work Book now for this season – Buyers WelcomeCall Now Dean 027 550 7986 Office 06 329 3900

A/h 06 323 1279 Email [email protected]

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Phone 0800 466 793

Energy EfficientDO YOU LIVE IN A WINDY SPOT? 3 phase wind turbines starting at $2,200 includes 450 wattturbine, 6m pole, charge controller and inverter, Batteries not included. Ring Colin at Windpower Waikato Phone 0274 831 041 A/H 07 843 7983Email [email protected]

Rural ServicesSINCE 1919 we have served Manawatu Farmers in the time honoured traditions that remain today. From Red Band Jandals (Bandals) to Fencing Materials, Water Troughs, Stockfeed, and General Hardware we do it all. Amey & Co Rongotea. Phone 06 324 8859.

FARM BRIDGESPhone Pat now 0800 222 189

Visit www.bridgeitnz.co.nz

BRIDGE IT NZ LTD

For SaleSTOLEN QUAD-BIKES? You won’t find any listed here, but you can pre-empt this kind of thing happening and protect your fuel too. Visit www.parabeam.co.nz or call 0508 727 223 for more information.

WE DON’T stock fur-lined underpants — but we do have everything else a Manawatu Farmer could need! Ask us about our “Bandals” — Red Band Jandals. Amey & Co, Rongotea. Phone 06 324 8859.

Use fast acting CRAMP-STOP at any time – at any time – during the night, during or after sport.Spray once under the tongue and repeat in 30–60 seconds if necessary.

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Abundant Health

Welcome to 2014Welcome to the second edition of Abundant

Living in 2014. Over the past 10 years I have written over 400 columns covering many topics. Most of these are related in some way to the role of nutrients in protecting and reclaiming our health. In the process I have spoken by phone to thousands of readers and offered personalised advice where appropriate. I trust you will bene� t from the comments and advice. I also write a longer weekly email column. To subscribe to this column just follow the instructions below.

By way of introduction to new readers, I am the founder of my Company Abundant Health established in 1998. I work with various international experts to formulate what I think are a very special group of nutritional supplements. I also practice as a nutritional medicine practitioner providing personalised advice in a structured way. This column brings together my thoughts as a both a nutritional therapist and supplement formulator and researcher.

The next few months will be a very special time for me as we introduce a product I am sure will have a profoundly positive affect on cardiovascular health. This is a completely natural product that research shows is the most effective natural cholesterol support product available. Many people have genetically high cholesterol which causes an

imbalance in the series of liver enzymes responsible for new cholesterol production. This US patented product will help balance these enzymes. This will be excellent for people who cannot tolerate cholesterol medicines or for those who prefer not to take them. People on cholesterol medication will also be able to take it safely as it will have many heart health bene� ts not just cholesterol balance.

I will be writing a new series on heart health which will focus on the types of diet and supplements that can offer signi� cant bene� ts for those concerned about their heart and circulatory health.

We will be looking at most aspects of cardiovascular health with everything from cholesterol to the actual processes which cause arteries to block. We will look at hypertension and in particular the types of diet proven to help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. In the meantime feel free to call me for personalised advice.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. Contact John on 0800 423559 or email [email protected]. Join his weekly newsletter at www.johnarts.co.nz. For product information visit www.abundant.co.nz.


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manawatu farming lifestyles, february 2014

Documents

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audited circulation

abc audited circulation

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