Manawatu Farming Lifestyles, March 2014

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FARMINGLifestylesMarch 2014 Edition13,350 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Manawatu

Pioneering spirit at Otiwhiti StationPage 4–5

Local farmers dominate

Gap year scholarship enriches industry knowledge

Top building and renovation tips

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2 March 2014 MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

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

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Advertising: Kelvin Green -– 021 431 090 Editorial: Denise Gunn — 06 329 7701

Email: [email protected] Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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AUDITED CIRCULATION Print run 15,060 ABC audited circulation 14,760 audited Jan–Dec 2013.

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Nominations for Green Ribbon Awards sought

by Denise Gunn

Nominations are now being sought for the Ministry for the Environment’s Green Ribbon Awards.

The awards, which began in 1990, recognise outstanding contributions and dedicated efforts made by individuals, businesses, organisations and communities to protect and enhance New Zealand’s environment.

Environment Minister Amy Adams said there are so many people, communities and businesses who work hard to improve our environment in their own quiet way, but it is often without thanks.

“The awards are a fitting occasion to show the human face of environmental issues, and promote the fantastic work that is happening in our communities.”

Last year’s placegetters included both the Taranaki Regional Council for their Riparian Management Programme, and Horizons Regional Council’s Manawatu River Leaders’ Accord.

Two Taranaki businesses, Inglewood-based Fine Particle Application, and La Nuova Apparelmasters, were also recognised in last year’s awards.

Successful finalists will be notified and invited to attend the Green Ribbon Awards ceremony in June. The winners will be announced during the ceremony and the Minister for the Environment will present the awards.

“We all know that environmental problems are not easy to solve,” said Ms Adams.

“But with the combined dedication and outstanding contributions made by so many people in our communities, we can all be sure that we are on the right track.”

Nominations close at noon on Monday, March 24.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES March 2014 3

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Local farmers dominate by Denise Gunn

Manawatu dominated the top placings at this year’s Taranaki/Manawatu regional final of the ANZ Young Farmer Contest.

Brad Lewis, a dairy farm manager from Levin and representing the Opiki Club, won the event. Mr Lewis will now represent the region in this year’s Grand Final. Two years ago he also qualified for the Grand Final event. Mr Lewis holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and aims to work towards becoming a farm owner.

Runner-up was Marton Club’s Peter Fitz-Herbert. Mr Fitz-Herbert works on his family’s Rangitikei sheep and beef farm and has competed in four previous regional finals. He has plans to lease and develop his own farming business.

“The highlight of my day was winning overall, but my success in the technical aspects was very pleasing,” said Mr Lewis.

“I knew Pete would be stiff competition — he has been putting in a lot of work for this year’s contest and there were times throughout the evening that I thought second best was going to have to do.”

Midhirst’s Roger Dettling came third, followed by Liam Richardson from Waverley.

The contest, which was held at Yarrow Stadium in New Plymouth, saw eight contenders completing a variety of practical, physical and theoretical challenges. The event moved to The Mayfair for the evening show and quiz round.

AgriKidsNZ and TeenAg Regional Finals were held alongside the Young

Farmer competition with Manawatu also taking out the top placings in this event.

Nick Minnis, Tom Tukington and Angus Grant of Manly Maks from South Makirikiri School near Marton took out the top honour in the AgriKidsNZ competition. The Mararua team of Harrison Martin and David Corpe from Feilding High School won the TeenAg event.

The AgriKidsNZ and TeenAg competitions were structured into eight farm-related modules. The top seven teams continued through to a Race-Off challenge to complete a series of tasks as fast as possible. “It was great to get the first North Island Regional Final ticked off and to see how excited competitors were to test their skills against the challenging modules and Race-Off setup,” said AgriKids NZ and TeenAg project leader Josie Hampton.

The top three teams from each regional final are also invited to attend the Grand Final to battle it out for the national champion’s title. This year’s Grand Final will be held in Christchurch from July 3–5.

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Originally part of the much larger Otairi block, the property was initially bought from Ngati Hauiti

by John Duncan and his brother Andrew. Once cleared of bush, John intended to

Otiwhiti Station in the Turakina Valley

Otiwhiti Station’s hill country

Snowfall at Otiwhiti

Charles Duncan (on right) congratulates a graduating cadet

divide Otairi between his sons, Bill, John and Thomas. In 1897, John also bought a 1,200 hectare block adjoining Otairi and sublet it to his son Bill.

As John’s middle son had assed away a few years earlier, this left Bill and Thomas to work Otairi together.

When his brother died and John received his share of Otairi, he decided to sell the property to Bill and Thomas. They split the property between them.

In 1908 Bill sold his portion of Otairi, which had become known as Otiwhiti. Although Thomas bought some of the block, the Morton brothers bought the remaining 1,600 hectares. Thomas repurchased the land in 1929.

on agriculture. In 1997, Charles Duncan and his older brother, John (known as Joe) leased Otiwhiti from the Trust. Charles took over as station manager.

Although Otiwhiti was a valuable asset, the Trust required more cash to continue funding charitable activities. A decision was made to sell Otiwhiti with the property put up for auction in 2006. Several members of the Duncan family were collectively successful in buying back the farm from the Trust.

Since the auction, Charles Duncan has established an agricultural training school on the station. The academy, which runs in conjunction with Land Based Training Limited of Wanganui, took its first intake of cadets in February 2007. Cadets are offered the opportunity to gain knowledge, develop skills, and achieve New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) qualifications.

“It is a one-year course, then we make opportunities for the students into a managed second-year with approved outside employers, keeping them enrolled for their theory training,” said Charles.

“We only make opportunities, they have to prove themselves and gain the position.”

Cadets study towards Level Three Agriculture in year one, and Level Four in their second year. But more importantly, they need the key practical skills expected of a junior hill country shepherd.

Thomas and his wife, Jeannie, continued to farm the property and also became known for their charitable works. The couple established the Duncan Hospital for polio victims with the first facility located in Silverstream and later relocated to Wanganui. Otiwhiti Station was placed into the Sir Thomas and Lady Duncan Trust to provide funds from the property for polio patients to receive free treatment.

As generations of the Duncan family continued to farm Otiwhiti, the Trust carried on funding charitable purposes with Otiwhiti’s profits. The Trust, however, was considering investing in a wider range of assets, and not relying solely

OTIWHITI STATIONBY DENISE GUNN

at

OTIWHITI STATION, IN THE TURAKINA VALLEY, HAS BEEN FARMED BY THE DUNCAN

FAMILY SINCE THE 1880s.

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“They can then enrol in a regional Diploma of Agriculture from Lincoln and then if they want, go on to complete a degree in agriculture,” said Charles.

“To date we have a 100 per cent success rate of cadets into employment, and course and qualification completion.”

As the training school is now a not-for-profit charitable company, it is proposed to grow the academy to be sustainable without any further contribution from Land Based Training and the Duncan family.

The former Otairi School, located on the front of Otiwhiti Station, is now leased by the Agricultural School from

“We only make opportunities, they have to prove themselves and

gain the position”

Shearing instruction for cadetsLloyd Smith gives dog training pointers to cadets

the Office of Treaty Settlement as a base for teaching and community activities.

Charles said although plans include growing the cadet school in numbers, he needs to ensure there is no compromise on the quality of students graduating.

The cadet school’s focus is on turning out 10 well-rounded, practical and

academically educated students ready to become industry leaders.

“This is made possible by support from our sponsors — Masterpet and Eukanuba dog food, PGG Wrightsons, Tru-Test, Beef and Lamb NZ, and NZX Agri.”

Otiwhiti is currently running 8,000 mixed-aged ewes, 3,400 hoggets, 400 mixed-aged cows, and 320 15 month-old steers and heifers on its 2,000 hectares.

As with all sheep and beef farms, the aim at Otiwhiti is to drive up profitability

and keep the cost of production down. Charles would like to see a 50 per cent lift in kilograms of product per hectare produced.

He also places importance on achieving these targets while simultaneously working with local authorities to ensure there is no risk of unsustainability or having a negative environmental impact.

Charles said long term plans for Otiwhiti include putting a viable succession plan in place for the Duncan family.

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DairyNZ Gap Year Scholarship recipient Jason Payne has returned to New Zealand after 10 months working on a Canadian dairy farm, furthering his knowledge of overseas dairy systems.

rowing up on a Horowhenua dairy farm provided Jason with opportunities to learn day-to-

day farm management, how to run machinery, calve a cow, and milking. His father, Gavin, has managed a

small Landcorp farm in Moutoa for several years.

“I learned everything I know from my Dad,” said Jason.

It was through a careers advisor at Palmerston North Boys’ High School

that Jason first heard about DairyNZ Gap Year Scholarships.

“He had a pamphlet on the scholarship and information on it,” said Jason.

“It was an opportunity that arose that I hadn’t considered.”

Jason considered a gap year scholarship would be an ideal experience to learn more about different dairy farm systems on a global scale.

“Comparing them to New Zealand, seeing where we could improve, or see how much further ahead we are than the rest of the world.”

He was ecstatic to be given the opportunity.

“It never really sunk in until I got on the plane to leave the country.”

Jason’s host family, Neale and Margaret Ronald, milk 150 cows on 1,000 acres in Alberta’s prairie province.

The family have seven adult children of their own and twenty grandchildren. With their oldest son Ryan taking

over the family farm, the property has now been in the Ronald family for three generations.

For the past 30 years, Neale and Margaret have hosted trainees on the farm from a wide range of countries.

“One quarter section of their land, 160 acres, is the home quarter where all the stock, barns, houses and sheds are,” said Jason.

The remaining land is used for cultivation and producing supplement to feed the stock year-round.

Jason worked with the Ronald’s purebred Holstein Friesian herd, milking approximately 150 cows in a 12-aside parallel parlour. Each cow produced an average of 40 litres per day. Top-producing cows were giving between 60–70 litres per day.

He said the cows were always kept indoors and fed grass silage, corn silage, hay, ground barley, protein and lactating supplements.

Calving was year-round with calves kept indoors until weaning. “All of the non-lactating cows and young stock are

GAP YEAR SCHOLARSHIPEnriches

INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE

BY DENISE GUNN


Jason worked with a purebred Holstein Friesian herd

The home quarter on the Ronald family’s 1,000 acre farm

kept on farm.” Feed supplements were fed to milking cows all year round and to dry and youngstock during winter.

Jason found New Zealand to be further ahead in the dairy industry compared to Canada with a huge variation in farming methods between the two countries.

“For example, the way we herd test and examine milk quality is very technologically advanced, whereas the way the Canadians do it is very old school.”

“I was in a very new style milking operation where everything is very automated,” said Jason. “Their milking system and milking plant/machinery

cows are tied in stalls and the milkers are brought to the cow and you have to fork out the feed to the cows.”

During his gap year in Canada, Jason was able to pass on knowledge about the New Zealand dairy industry.

“I have come home with more farming knowledge and know-how than what I went there with.

“I think there are definitely ways of improving the way we farm and we can learn from Canadians, as they could learn from us.”

Jason will study towards a Bachelor in Agricultural Science, majoring in Agriculture at Massey University this year. The DairyNZ Gap Year Scholarship is aimed at attracting and recruiting talented young people who want to experience an overseas adventure

before they commence their tertiary studies and careers.

Jason recommends other like-minded people should apply for the scholarship.

“The people you meet, the new experiences and connections you will create are exciting and the things you will learn are something that you can apply to your future studies and life.”

A DairyNZ spokesperson said Jason’s experience in Canada epitomises the Gap Year Scholarship philosophy.

“Jason has returned to New Zealand enriched by his time in another country and ready to get into his studies at Massey before going on to contribute to the dairy industry once he graduates.

“He was awarded a DairyNZ Scholarship to study at Massey University in 2014.”

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set up was extremely sophisticated and easy, where back here in New Zealand, I find that our milking systems are a lot more basic and manual.

“But then there are the extremes of older style farming in Canada where the

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It’s an engineering argument which Polaris have been listening to closely. Their Sportsman quad bikes and Ranger UTVs both sell well here, and recent visits by Polaris designers to these shores have given rise to the Ranger 570 HD — a tougher side-by-side for agricultural use. But the boys in the Polaris backroom haven’t stopped there. They have developed new machines to bridge the gap, starting with the single-seater, fully roll caged Ace, and now

following this up with the first quad bike designed from the ground up for New Zealand and Australian demands.

Like our other unique antipodean auto it’s called the Ute. But this is no big flat decked truck. The Polaris Ute begins with the template of a Sportsman ATV quad, then beefs it up to handle the hard knocks of farming life. Independent suspension all round improves handling, while a wide, balanced stance keeps the centre of gravity manageable, even with the addition of a large tipping rear tray.

The Ute features advanced engine and gearbox management systems which kick into all-wheel drive when it’s needed, and also allow for a hill descent mode like that seen on bigger ‘cousins’ like the Land Rover Discovery. Even fully laden (with an impressive 550kg towing weight and 180kg in the tipper) the Ute

and emergency items which rely on a lead-acid ‘heart’ to keep pumping.

The battery may very well have been invented in ancient Mesopotamia, but its modern form goes back over 100 years. Electrical pioneers like Edison would easily recognise even the most modern car battery of today — and they’d be able to tell you about their biggest problem, too.

All lead acid batteries suffer from sulphation — the build up of the element sulphur inside from regular use. It’s unavoidable, and in fact batteries new off the shelf already have the beginnings of sulphation. In fact, this is the process which will finally finish off many batteries at the end of their lifespan.

There is an answer, however, and it can extend your battery life up to ten years! Recharge battery technology is designed to dissolve the sulphur ions back into the electrolyte, stopping the corrosion of the battery’s lead plate and allowing it to hold a charge again. The results have to be seen to be believed — Recharge literally breathes new life back into ailing batteries. Even sealed batteries can be treated and restored with this easy-to — use method.

Built for a hard day’s workThere’s a war on for the attention of Kiwi farmers, and it’s one which takes no prisoners.

can handle steep surfaces safely. Even better, this new breed of ATV comes with the popular, powerful engine from the Ranger 570 HD, transplanted in to offer serious grunt.

The Ranger itself is no slouch, so expect torque and pickup aplenty when the Ute’s throttle is given a nudge! If the Ace was Polaris Industry’s way of bridging the gap from UTVs like their powerful RZR down to the size of a quad, the Ute is their way of pushing the tried and true quad bike formula up

into the middle ground — a great option for farmers who want the safety and power of a side-by-side but who don’t necessarily have passengers to take with them on every job.

With heightened awareness of safety on farms, the addition of SUV-style traction and hill descent systems, combined with the added functionality of a tipping deck and maximum towing power may make the Ute a potent combination for farm owners looking to gear up their sharemilkers as well.


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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.

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National Field Days

Site PE31

Top building and renovation tips

1. Painting and Outdoors Maintenance

With the sun shining it’s a great time to tackle those outdoor tasks. Remember — disconnect your water tank before waterblasting or chemically washing gunk off your roof or out of your gutters. Good, stable ladders and scaffolds will save you an unwanted trip to the emergency room! Wash and de-mould your outdoor walls before it’s time to paint, and make sure that the paint you have is still up to snuff — stuff left in tins for several years won’t give you great results.

With the high UV we experience here in New Zealand, make sure that your paint has a high SPF factor — and that you have bit of the same for your own skin. Nothing makes chores worse like a tender red sunburn!2. Bathrooms, Showers and Toilets

Sometimes the ‘smallest room’ can seem the biggest task when it comes time to renovate. The best advice from a whole lot of plumbers is — ‘leave the wet stuff to the experts!’ Unless you’re super confident and qualified, the septic, sewerage and waste water systems of your home should not be

The sun is out, the year is still fresh and new, and it’s time to tackle those building projects. We asked the pros for top tips:

messed with, as they are a real mess when they go wrong.

A top tip for bathrooms is to choose a style that’s contemporary and bright, but also easy to clean.

High art is one thing, but having the kids troop through after junior rugby is another, after all.

If a big renovation is on the cards, or especially if you’re doing the popular thing and adding an en suite, you may want to think about upgrading to an eco-friendly greywater or complete septic-tank-free waste water system at the same time.

And don’t forget that vinyl or tiles in the bathroom are going to take a soaking — extra care is definitely needed.3. Keeping out Unwanted Pests

These come in many varieties — the little ones with wings, and the more dangerous types with crowbars and swag bags. Both may be easily hindered with the application of a little forethought and technology. First up,

plan for the installation of screen doors and insect screens when you plan your build or renovation. There are styles to suit all forms of decor these days, and they’ll let a cool breeze in, while keeping mozzies and flies out.

Security doors and deadbolt locks will increase your defences against human ‘pests’, while there are so many options these days for security lights and cameras that homeowners are spoiled for choice.

A neat trick is the new style of camera systems which can send real-time images to a smartphone — images


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which can then be sent direct to the Police if necessary.4. Future Proof your Build

With new building laws in place, choosing the right builder to oversee your job is more important than ever. Demand the best — check references, insist on seeing a portfolio and your chosen tradeperson’s qualifications, and look into the guarantees offered by your builder which will protect you through the years.

Organisations such as the Certified Builders have well written and easy to understand contracts which protect their customers, even in the unlikely event that their chosen builder is injured and can’t complete the job.

In this case (as just one example) another fully qualified Certified Builder will finish up for you! Look into the

meanings behind Licensed Building Practitioner, Certified Builder and Master Builder insignias, and choose a trusted professional who can not only bring your build together on budget and looking great, but who can also supervise subcontractors as they finish specialist tasks such as fireplace installation, tiling or drainlaying.5. Fresh Air, Breathe Easy

Many people wonder if they should adopt a ventilation system or heat pump technology in their home — especially if it’s a new home just being built. This is a hard question to answer, as both systems work well together and can compliment each other to provide a better living environment. As a general rule, the first thing to do is install steam extractors in laundries, bathrooms, and kitchens. If your home

suffers from condensation or damp, a full, ducted vent system in the roof will work wonders.

For temperature changes, however, a heat pump system is perfect. Don’t forget that a heat transfer tube can be piped in from above your fireplace to your bedrooms for even warmth during winter!6. Get Roofless this Summer

If your roof was leaky last winter, get ready for the rainy season now! That’s the message from local roofers,

who also note that when the roof is off it’s also a great chance to upgrade your insulation.

Install piping for the aforementioned heat trans and vent units, and perhaps even get rid of those 1970s Christmas decorations.

With guaranteed rain-free days, your roofing crew can get stuck in, with no tarps required.

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Democracy at its best?Why good governance matters in local government reform. Are the present problems with local government performance and service delivery the result of the system, or of those who govern the system?

Councils are required under the Local Government Act to ensure that all decisions enhance the economic and social wellbeing of their ratepayers.

Any consideration of local government reorganisation should not be limited to proposals floated by the units of local government nor limited to one or two proposals.

Other proposals and alternatives should also be considered. Options should not be limited to those that adhere to the current legislation but be determined by what actually best fits a region’s needs.

The key questions are how meaningful representation is achieved, how we can ensure good governance, how greater vision and leadership can be fostered, the improvement of delivery of services and the cost reductions that can be achieved.

Any reorganisation must be predicated on the basic requirement to meet the tenets of Section 10 of the Local Government Act 2002 with the emphasis on ‘local’.

Purpose of local governmentThe purpose of local government is:(a) to enable democratic local

decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities; and

(b) to meet the current and future needs of communities for good-quality local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses.

(2) In this Act, good-quality, (in relation to local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions), means infrastructure, services, and performance that are:

(a) efficient; and(b) effective; and(c) appropriate to present and

anticipated future circumstancesA starting point must be consideration

of a modified status quo and any changes must be decided by a binding referendum giving the people of a region the right to make the final decision. This would be democracy at its best.

Much of the difficulties faced within the current system are the state of governance and leadership elected within the current system. A classic example of this is the huge financial problems faced by Northland’s Kaipara District Council. Poor governance leading to poor oversight on the management function was a key driver of their financial crisis.

Our current democratic system allows for councillors or a Community Board member to be elected by their community. While many bring passion, enthusiasm and commitment, many will also have limited, or no governance experience or knowledge of a council’s specific regulatory or legislative requirements.

There needs to be a major change to the Local Government Act that would require councillors and senior staff to be more accountable and liable where there has been a clear breach of fiduciary duty to the wellbeing of ratepayers.

We see an opportunity to strengthen corporate governance with the inclusion of professional directors appointed by central government working alongside elected representatives. Growing attention has been placed on changes to Local Government and how it should be organised.

There has been much criticism of local government performance and central government seem to have the notion that the only answer is to amalgamate on the basis that bigger is better.

Right of centre politics believe that large provides efficiency and economies of scale while left of centre believe greater power delivers effective decision making.

Few analyse and identify the problems within local government and fewer still determine with any real clarity what the appropriate role and function of local government should be.

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D A I R Y

I can’t take risks here.. Our pump sets come standard with the following features and benefits, for our farming clients:

• Stainless Steel Baseplate - gives long-term protection against corrosion, unlike galvanised baseplates.

• Silicon Carbide Mechanical Seals - prevent self-priming issues common with gland packed pumps offered by others as standard. Provide long term sealing against effluent leakage to maintain a safe pumping environment.

• Pump Life Expectancy based on our 35+ years of Progressing Cavity (PC) pump engineering by the only PC pump manufacturer directly serving New Zealand farmers - gives us the unique ability to ensure our pumps operate at the most effective speeds for pumping animal effluent, which impacts directly on the maximum pump life expectancy.

www.monopumps.com... that’s why I choose dairy farming’s most reliable and efficient effluent pump solution

For information on your nearest Mono dealer, contact:Nationwide Toll Free: 0800 659 012 Auckland: 09 829 0333Christchurch: 03 341 8379 Dunedin: 03 476 7264

Irrigate effluent further at lower cost

When irrigating effluent, consistent pressure and volume over greater distances are crucial – a case for progressing cavity (PC) pumps, says noted pump maker Mono Pumps New Zealand.

“Mono PC pumps allow farmers to spread effluent further without costly upgrades to power supply,” says the company’s general manager Shazad Ibnul.

“So, based on comparisons with centrifugal effluent pumps that deliver a similar performance, a Mono option will cost less to operate.”

Mono has supplied water pumps to New Zealand farmers for more than 40 years and has 15 dealers nationwide providing service and support direct to New Zealand farmers.

With a range of flows and standard discharge heads of up to 120m, Mono

eliminates the need for a series of pumps when irrigating paddocks further away from the pond. Mr Ibnul says no one knows PC technology better than Mono.

“This is what Mono is known for. We’re one of the first PC pump manufacturers in the world with pumps powered by diesel, electricity and solar.” He says Mono dairy effluent pumps use up to 75% less power than a centrifugal pump.

“The pumps are surface mounted, easier to clean and less hazardous to maintain and operate.” Contact: 0800 659 012, www.monopumps.com.au/NZ/effluent pump.

Dairying’s giant marketplaceby Paul Campbell

Despite scares and alarms around milk products in China, the fact remains that demand for New Zealand protein imports has been rising fast and a recent visit by a Chinese government official has given some indications as to why.

China’s Deputy Head of the Central Rural Work Leading Group, Chen Xiwen, met with Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy to discuss the background in which New Zealand dairy exports to China rose 79% to NZ$4.7 billion in 2013 and milk powder exports doubled to NZ$4 billion.

Mr Chen attributed the huge growth to a wealthier Chinese marketplace that has outstripped the production of food in the country — despite the fact that has doubled in the last 35 years.

With the county’s population increasing by seven million births a years, imports are expected to be a basic necessity for at least the next decade.

China’s population was not only growing, but getting richer and more urban, which meant demand for animal protein was growing quickly.

“We don’t have the ability to match that demand,” Mr Chen said through an interpreter, adding that China imported two million tonnes of dairy products last year “and a significant proportion of that is milk powder, and the majority of that is from New Zealand.”

In 2013, 46 per cent, of New Zealand’s milk powder exports went to China.

New Zealand ran a trade surplus of $523 million in December, according to Statistics NZ figures.


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The recent Southern Field Days, held at Waimumu this February, has been a huge success for drainage specialists Pipe and Fittings.

Their new product — the Milford Euroflow range of culvert pipes — has proven a real drawcard, with farmers flocking to the Contractors’ Federation tent at the yearly agricultural event to get a closer look.

And with good reason, drainage has always been a big issue on farms, as it is a huge factor in protecting the health of the soil and the roots of the crops and pasture grasses which grow in it. From the old days of digging ditches by hand, to the modern methods of the present, drainage has remained a key factor.

The Milford Euroflow series of pipes comes complete with junctions and connectors, allowing a whole drainage system to be snapped into place almost as easily children’s building blocks.

The super-tough ribbed pipes have a glassy smooth surface on the inside to promote ‘slippery’ water throughput, and the ability to easily feed smaller

channels into large culverts without full-size fittings.

Euroflow piping means less fencing, no more stock falling into drains and ditches, no contamination and no time consuming cleanups and clearances. A slotted-pipe design does away with open culverts while still allowing moisture from the soil to naturally find its way into the drainage system.

Small wonder that so many Field Days patrons have decided to ‘ditch the ditch’ and switch to a better solution!

Be water wise this summer

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Following on from my earlier articles on tools, this month I would like to talk about angle grinders and discs.

The angle grinder is becoming increasingly popular for hoof trimming and I am often asked for my opinion about it. If it wasn’t for the angle grinder we would walk around with RSI. It does make the job easier and quicker, but there are a few things to be aware of.

There are still people who use normal grinding discs meant for steel on hooves instead of the correct specialised discs. I am sure you wouldn’t use a hoof disc on steel — therefore you shouldn’t use a steel cutting disc on a hoof. The cutting disc will clog up very quickly and overheat the hoof (this is where the burning smell comes from), which causes damage to the live tissue of the hoof, and that is not our aim.

There is a range of discs available on the market made especially for hooves, yet I can appreciate that it may still seem like a daunting task to decide on the right one for you. Let’s have a look at some of

those discs and what their pro’s and con’s are. The cheapest disc that we stock is the Wopa grain disc. Obviously, the price is their biggest pro. It is an effective disc and will last for a good number of cows. Most people who use them tell me that they last for at least a year. The disc looks like a really coarse sand paper and many people think that it must be very aggressive. In this case looks are deceiving. It is not too aggressive but because of the way they are made it can lose some bits of grit as you work with it. This may unbalance the disc which will make it vibrate slightly. Another disc we stock is the one made by Demotec in Germany.

This is an aluminium disc with seven little carbon blades in it. I was very impressed with this disc when I tried it out. It would be too slow for us as professionals dealing daily with large numbers of cows, to work with, but for a farmer it is ideal. It is a very well-balanced disc which leaves a nice clean smooth surface on the hoof. This makes it easier for the trimmer to see what he or she is dealing with. This disc is about $80 dearer than the grain disc, but the great thing about them is that you can turn the blades around as they have two sharp sides to them. When both sides of all seven blades have been used you can replace the blades rather than the whole disc. This makes the disc more cost-effective in the long run.

Hoof Printwith Fred HoekstraHOOF TRIMMING SERVICES, EQUIPMENT & TRAINING

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The last disc I want to mention is the disc that we as full-time trimmers use. It is a professional disc that is available in aluminium and titanium. We would be very reluctant to recommend this disc to a farmer. It is very aggressive when the blades are sharp and I could almost guarantee that you would lose a cow if an inexperienced person were to use this disc.

That may be enough to turn you away from this disc, if not, the price probably will!

Discs are great tools for hoof trimming and it will still work even if you cut in to stones, however this will dull the blades quicker and therefore it is advised that you flick large stones out first. It is also very handy for preparing the hoof for claw blocks. You may be worried about staff using discs and the risk of damaging the cow.

That risk is always there, even with a sharp knife. We always need to be sensible when we trim cows’ feet, and a disc does not make a knife redundant.


According to Environment Canterbury’s Judith Earl-Goulet the plan does not tell farmers what they can or cannot do but does set limits on allowable nutrient losses.

The soluble nature of synthetic phosphate and artificial nitrogen are the two major nutrients that are at the core of nutrient loss into our environment and our waterways. If that’s the major problem then in a real world, rather than a synthetic or artificial world, the problem is easily solved and the change and rectification of the problem can begin tomorrow.

In his book ‘The Closing Circle’ Doctor Barry Commoner, USA, characterised the artificial nitrogen fertiliser industry in its dash for profits, as one of the ‘cleverest business operations of all time’ because evidence exists that in the presence of artificial nitrogen, the natural fixation of nitrogen from the air by soil micro-organisms STOPS and as a result it is increasingly difficult for farmers to give up the use of the artificial product. Doctor Arden Anderson, USA, calls it the ‘cocaine’ of the dairy industry.

Nitrogen is essential for plants, so where do all the natural forests (unfertilised) get their nitrogen requirements? Straight out of the atmosphere via the soil micro-organisms and that has been happening on our planet for the last 460 million years, when the first plants appeared.

Farmers on Agrissentials fertiliser programmes get all their nitrogen requirements for free! Planet earth’s atmosphere is saturated in nitrogen and this natural source of nitrogen

re-establishes clovers back to the soil, it is non-evasive to the environment and saves the farmer truckloads of money.

The heavy use of superphosphate over the past 60 years, according to Doctor Morgan Williams’ report to the New Zealand government in 2004, has left an average of 1.7 tonnes of locked up phosphate per hectare in our farming soils. The micro organisms in Agrissentials’ fertilisers can source this locked up phosphate and convert it to a plant available form.

The essential plant requirement for phosphate is 0.2 per cent which is well covered by Agrissentials’ natural fertilisers, together with all the other macro and micro elements which are converted by the soil micro organisms to a plant available form, the ultimate form for plant uptake, and the minerals remain stable within the soil.

This combination of minerals and microbes together with moisture and sunlight is the ultimate formula for plant growth and health ensuring the survival of life and sustainability on our planet. The closer you get to nature, the better everything operates.

So, the new rules, new plans, farm licences, new compliance etc are really not an issue, providing you have a strong positive attitude and the right products to make it all happen. Agrissentials was initially set up in 1992 to manufacture and market safe, certified, eco friendly, sustainable fertilisers to meet today’s new demands for food production — it all begins behind the farm gate, in the soil.

New rules – new opportunitiesUnder the new rules, farm environment plans will soon become compulsory in the Canterbury area and this is expected to be reflected throughout New Zealand.

A D V E RT O R I A L

There’s never been a better time to call with Agrissentials’ atmospheric nitrogen fixing program incorporating clovers and nature’s nitrogen fixing team PLUS the freight free deals on this month. For more information call us today on 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 find out how we can make your farm more successful.

ROK SOLID fertiliser ready to roll


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ELECTRONIC POWERSTEERING

FEATURES & BENEFITS:• Easy to get in & out of with Bench Seat & unobstructive foot wells• Comfortable on your back with the Seat upright to support your body weight against• Safe handling Long Travel Independent Front & Rear suspension• Turf Mode for easy manoeuvrability & reduced Turning circle• 3 Drive modes - AWD, 2WD, Turf• CVT Automatic transmission• Carry all your gear on the Tipping Rear Deck• ROPS - Roll Over Protection System• Seatbelts & Door nets

MODEL OPTIONS:• 400 - 570 - 800 - 900cc Petrol engines or 900cc Diesel engine • Bench seat - 2 Seater (400 & 570) / 3 Seater (800, 900 & Diesel)• Rear Deck capacity - 230kg (400 & 570) / 450kg (800, 900 & Diesel)• Towing capacity - 570kg (400 & 570) / 900kg (800, 900 & Diesel) • Power Steering - (Petrol 800 & 900 only)

ACCESSORY’S AVAILABLE:• Roof - Windscreen - Rear panel - Doors - Mirror - Radio - Seat cover - Mudfl aps &

much more.

+

* * ^

ADJUSTABLE SEAT& STEERING WHEEL

THE WORLD’S FIRST ATV WITH A CERTIFIED ROPS CAB FRAME

KG680

680KG TOWING CAPACITY

NEW CONCEPT

SPORTSMAAAN ACE

CAPACITY

NEW


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 Designs Kitchens Ltd

“Your dream kitchen but not a nightmare price”

Mauways NurseryNOW the largest nursery in the Rangitikei!

• Wholesale Prices• Direct to the Public

Shop Online and EARN FREE PLANTSor call at our nursery on SH1 10km NORTH of Hunterville

www.mauways.co.nzPhone 06 322 9863 for all your

• Perennials • Hostas • Grasses • Natives• Camellias • Ornamental Shrubs

Manawatu Rural MarketplaceMANAWATU FARMING

CLASSIFIEDSPhone 0800 466 793

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

Animal Health ProductsAPPLE CIDER VINEGAR, Garlic & Manuka honey 2L - $49.95, 200L - $450 or 1000L - $2000 + GST with free delivery. Black Type Minerals Ltd. Phone 021 185 1501. www.blacktypeminerals.co.nz

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.

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

New Zealand’s Best Rock Picker

NZ Importer and Operator

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]

Kivi-PeKKa

ROCK PICKING

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

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

• Septic Tanks & Filters.• Wastewater Treatment Plants.• Water Tanks, Pumps & Filters• Farm Tanks / Killing Sheds.• Residential & Commercial.

• Quality Products & Service.• We Design, Manufacture, Install and Service our own NZ Made Products.

T 06 353 6157 F 06 353 3020 FP 0800 253 273E [email protected] www.wrighttanks.co.nz

03 5

25 8

783

Adventurous Cycle Tours in Adventurous DestinationsAfrica, Asia &South Pacific

[email protected]

ON THE FARMSAFETY FIRSTLOOK OUT FOR

YOUR WORK MATES

Abundant Health

Welcome to 2014

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 benefit 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 practise 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 benefits 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 significant benefits 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.

Welcome to the second edition of Abundant Living in 2014. Over the past 10 years I have written over 400 columns covering many topics.


RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

SPECIALISTS

TROUGHS & TANKS • CULVERT PIPE • WATER RETICULATION • STOCK CONTROL & MORE

PALMERSTON NORTH 847 Tremaine AveP 06 357 2638 F 06 357 2142

EFFLUENT STORAGE (From 40,000 to 4 million litres volume capacty)

UNDERPASSES

STONETRAPS

BRIDGES

FDE EFFLUENT SYSTEMS

Dog Bowls $15EACH

Redeemable at Hynds Whangarei branch only. Not exchangeable for cash. Subject to availability.

($35 RRP)

www.hynds.co.nz0800 WE PIPE (93 7473)

Documents

Manawatu Farming Lifestyles, March 2014