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2 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING
1016 Weedons Ross Road, West Melton, RD1, Christchurch Ph 03 347
2314 Email [email protected]
Canterbury Farming prints material contributed by freelance
journalists, contributing columnists and letters from readers.
The information and opinions published are not necessarily those
of Canterbury Farming or its staff. Canterbury Farming takes no
responsibility for claims made by advertisers.
Canterbury Farming is published byNorthSouth Multi Media Ltd
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Vets welcome animal welfare bill
New Zealand vets are rejoicing in the news of the passing of the
Animal Welfare Amendment Bill which will mean greater transparency
and enforceability of animal welfare laws, creating a stronger
national reputation for animal welfare.
The New Zealand Veterinary Association was an important part in
shaping the bill and they say the key changes legally recognise
animal sentience which is sensation and feeling in animals for the
first time in New Zealand law.
NZVA president Dr Steve Merchant says: Veterinarians are at the
vanguard of animal welfare advocacy, and public support is behind
us in the call for greater clarity on issues concerning animal
welfare and increased sanctions for animal cruelty.
An ima l we l f a r e expectations have been rapidly changing,
and practices that were once commonplace for pets and farm stock
are no longer acceptable or tolerated. The bill brings legislation
in line with our nations changing attitude on the status of animals
in society.
He believes the inclusion of sentience shows that people are
obliged to meet all aspects of their animals physical health and
behavioural needs, and New Zealand is at the forefront of
progressive animal welfare legislation.
The New Zealand Veterinary Association president Dr Steve
Merchant
The bill provides a clearer definition of surgical procedures
and the policy has been retained that these procedures must be
performed by veterinarians or veterinary students under qualified
supervision.
Veterinarians will play a key role in developing regulations
around these procedures which will be enforceable by law.
The Codes will now provide a clearer benchmark for compliance,
rather than just being guidelines.
Dr Merchant says mandatory standards for the export of live
animals are also strongly supported and was a central issue in the
NZVAs submission on the bill. Standards now take into account the
treatment and environment the animals are in at their
destination.
There will be more certainty for exporters and overseas markets
about animal welfare requirements. Veterinarians will also have a
more substantial role in the assessment and monitoring of the
export process, accompanying expor ted animals to ensure their
welfare is being met.
Vets will continue to work with the Ministry for Primary
Industries and other organisations to develop regulations and
strengthen animal welfare legislation.
Regulations will need to be very precise and clearly defined to
ensure high compliance with animal welfare standards as defined
by the Animal Welfare Act. This will ultimately benefit animals
as well as New Zealands economy and international reputation.
The bill is the result of the first major review of New Zealands
Animal Welfare Act 1999 in 15 years, which defines animal welfare
standards.
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New Zealand farm opened in ColombiaDairy Solutionz Ltds 117
hectare, 300-cow demonstration dairy farm has been opened by
Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos in the Narino region of
South Colombia.
Dairy Solutionz chief executive Derek Fairweather, explains, Our
organisation has been working in Colombia since 2012 and has
actively been developing the demonstration dairy farm for the past
18 months.
The project will benefit Colombian farmers as 400,000 families
rely on the dairy industry to live on. European free trade deals
threaten the local dairy sector by making it harder for them to
compete with imported products once the current 33 per cent tariffs
are lifted over the next 10 years.
This will ensure there are major downstream benefits in terms of
reducing poverty in the region and improving the local populations
health and welfare status. For the farmers we are working with in
Colombia, dairying is how they support their families, he said.
Their livelihood is under threat by globalisation and free
trade. Working with the Government of Colombia, this demonstration
farm is a tangible message of hope and sets a clear pathway as to
how they can be competitive.
By transferring Kiwi technology into their local dairy economy,
we are literally providing an economic lifeline to one of the
most
important yet impoverished dairy regions.
The two million dollar development was funded by the Colombian
government and Corpoica, which is the equivalent of our crown
research institutes here in New Zealand.
Having President Santos officially open our farm is a huge
honour. Its a great endorsement for the Kiwis and Colombians
working on the farm and others back here in New Zealand who have
played a part in the establishment of this unique project.
The farm is 2,800 metres above sea level and the weather is
similar to the Waikato where ryegrass and clover do well. It is the
first demonstration farm in the tropics that uses New Zealand
technology.
It is managed by Dairy Solutionz Kiwi farm manager Paul Gibson,
and is New Zealand in design. The project directly benefits 14 New
Zealand businesses through exports and establishes proof of
profitability, which will lead to increased technology exports in
the future as these create value for Colombian farmers.
Corpoica chief executive Juan Lucas Restrepo attended the
opening and
said he believed the farm is a step in the right direction
regarding the competitiveness of the Narino region.
We recognise New Zealand leadership in dairy technologies,
breeding, pasture species and pasture management systems, and we
need to prove that here in Narino. We look forward to, and invite
the partnership with New Zealand companies in supporting and
adapting their intellectual property to the Colombian context.
Mr Fairweather says the Narino demonstration farm and similar
farms provide a partial solution to the issue of global food
security.
Securing enough food to nourish growing populations around the
world is one of the top priorities for many governments, and we
believe one of the answers to the food security issue is harnessing
the untapped benefits of the worlds tropical environments. It just
so happens that New Zealand cows and pasture thrive in the high
tropics. Were using Kiwi ingenuity to take tropical land and create
rich food bowls which will benefit largely
From left to right: President of Colombia Juan Manuel Santos,
CEO of Corpoica Juan Lucas Restrepo, Researcher for Corpoica Edwin
Castro, Farm Conversion Manager for
Dairy Solutionz (NZ) Ltd Paul Gibson and Farm Engineer for Dairy
Solutionz (NZ) Ltd Nelson Medina
poor rural economies, he says. At Dairy Solutionz we see our
role as adapting New
Zealands dairying expertise on a global scale, and to help
Colombia and other similar
nations to be competitive in a fast-changing, competitive
international food market.
-
4 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING
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For Free Info PackPH 0800 628 356www.naturalflow.co.nz
Climate changeWage issueThe Government is seeking
feedback on what New Zealands climate target should be, and I
went to Nelson to one of their hastily arranged public meetings
(six days notice) to hear what those attending had to say, and to
put a vision of how New Zealand might make curbing emissions an
economic opportunity.
The Nelson meeting was a bit of a shambles. The Government
officials clearly werent expecting the 80 people who turned up,
although a conspicuous absence was Nick Smith, the local MP and
Minister for the Environment.
The Minister for Environment officials told the meeting that the
formal Q&A section would be followed by open discussion in
smaller groups.
But with the crowd clearly sceptical of the Governments
lacklustre approach to climate policy, the officials changed the
structure of the meeting halfway through to shut down opportunities
for more discussion. The well informed public overwhelmingly wanted
emissions reductions of at least 40% by 2030.
Several people asked why the Governments discussion document had
focussed on
the supposed economic costs of climate action and hadnt
contained more discussion of the economic benefits and
opportunities of a cleaner economy.
The officials generally brushed these concerns off, saying
predictions are too hard to make accurately, although that hadnt
stopped them making predictions of the hypothetical costs of
climate action.
It is worth noting that Treasury has predicted that without
action to curb New Zealands emissions growth, the potential costs
from only having a small emissions reduction target could be up to
$52 billion for the period 20212030. This could severely constrain
the Governments ability to fund core government services in the
future.
New Zealand can achieve better economic performance and cut
carbon emissions at the same time, yet the Government discussion
document goes to considerable length on alleged costs of cutting
carbon emissions and provides no mention, let alone analysis, of
the economic benefits of cutting emissions.
Bloomberg New Energy Finance say that new funds for wind, solar,
biofuels and other low-carbon energy technologies gained 16 per
cent in value to US$310 billion, last year alone. This shows that
the economic upside to reducing carbon emissions could be greater
than any downside.
In New Zealand we have the possibility of a major shift to
agro-ecological farming systems, which could cut agricultural
emissions significantly while increasing returns, but the officials
apparently arent checking meaningful options. Remember, organic
milk powder is currently selling for $10,000 per tonne.
With a decent price share to farmers, herd sizes (and emissions)
could be reduced, while export returns are increased.
Tourism has reignited the 100% Pure New Zealand brand. Primary
production could also focus on that aspirational brand, reducing
emissions and securing the best value returns for New Zealand. Tell
the officials. Submissions close 5pm Wednesday 3rd June
http://bit.ly/1GQ4z26.
So too has the drop in Global Dairy Trade (GDT) which indicates
further downward pressure on dairy farm income. The summary by an
observer might be that the dairy industry is the last place to
start a career which is the worst possible outcome from the
challenges that the dairy industry faces.
There have been many studies and reports into agriculture that
identify people as the biggest asset and threat to the long term
success of our primary industries. If we cant attract the best we
wont be the best. And the advice at almost every forum on food is
that we must produce the best to ensure demand and payment for New
Zealand produce delivers returns that allow our farmers to farm
profitably.
Any farmer who thinks squeezing their workers
through longer hours or lower pay should leave farming
immediately. We dont need a reputation of being unkind and mean
employers.
While there will always be the good and the bad it is essential
that agriculture builds a reputation where skills and initiative
are rewarded well.
The growing reliance on migrant workers and their families to
milk and manage our cows is a two edged sword. We have identified
the energy and enthusiasm they bring to difficult tasks.
But if we take this opportunity to employ these visitors to our
country for granted or the conditions for Kiwis are undermined as a
result, then the inevitable political response will be swift,
effective and not necessarily helpful for farmers.
The dairy industry has been built on cooperation. We have shared
the risks and rewards but if we exploit workers and think they
should contribute their labour for less than a fair days pay then
we have our collective heads in the sand.
Underpaying and working staff excessive hours without reward
cannot be tolerated in agriculture or we will chase away the very
people we need; the motivated, intelligent and energetic young
Kiwis who are the future of agriculture. Industry leaders have a
responsibility to identify the rogue employers and shame them into
an immediate change of their ways. We are a small country made up
of strong rural communities. Being fair to each and every member of
our communities is the hallmark of a good country.
A Green Perspectivewith Ste an Browning, Green Party
spokesperson on Agriculture
OConnor Commentswith Damien OConnor Opposition Spokesman on
Agriculture
The issue of wage and pay rates on dairy farms has been raised
in the media recently.
To advertise in the Canterbury Farming Please call 03 347
2314
-
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The Indian summer causes havoc
The city folk are loving the Indian summer that continues as I
write this, but it continues to cause havoc for the farming
industry.
Many parts of the North Canterbury district are being crippled
by a lack of pasture, and reserves are already exhausted.
Other areas appear to be green but closer inspection shows
theres no growth.
Winter feed crops have taken on that purple colour that screams
messages of drought, and poisoning of animals if eaten.
Reports are coming in of people selling all or most of their
capital stock and in one case the family are literally closing the
gate and working in town until the grass starts to grow again.
What is most worrying is the effect on those who are
farming.
Sheep and beef farmers are buckling under the conditions and the
financial stress, and are selling off stock.
Cropping farmers are being told prices are coming back malting
barley for
example is well back on last year, and aphid pressure is coming
onto autumn sown crops.
Horticultural producers have just been through a brilliant year
only to face very deflated world prices because of political goings
on in the Northern Hemisphere.
Dairy farmers problems are very well known and the national
media are totally on to that which only makes the dairy farmers
feel worse. All this leads to bankers and accountants becoming very
important in farmers lives.
The banks are still hanging in there at the moment, but are
watching debt levels very closely. It is all about servicing the
debt not just taking it on. All the accountants and bankers I know
tell me they are desperately wanting their clients to talk to them.
There is help, and farmers are not expected to trade out on their
own.
Having been in a situation myself when I thought there was no
point to carry on, and yes I was that low, I was saved by my
doctor.
I found that when I was in the black hole I didnt think I was in
I hid it from others and certainly didnt want to talk about it,
even to my closest mates. Therefore I want you to promise me, if
you ever get a twinge of everything getting too bad and there being
no way out, go to your GP and tell them you think you may need
help.
Depression is not a disease, its an imbalance of things that can
be fixed. Doctors are trained to help and they are probably helping
most of your mates, not that youll ever know that.
Since I have admitted Ive been there, I am totally astounded how
many others wear the same badge. The drought will break, it always
does, but remember you arent alone!
Animal welfareOne of the most important issues I look after in
my role as Primary Industries Minister is animal welfare,
especially on farms.
New Zealanders care deeply about how animals are treated. Sixty
eight per cent of households have at least one pet, and we earn
around $25 billion a year by exporting animal products such as
meat, milk and wool.
How we treat animals matters not just to animals, but to
ourselves and overseas markets. Increasingly consumers are
demanding higher standards on things like our environmental
footprint and how animals are treated.
In general I think we have a strong system but we can do more,
which is why Parliament recently passed the Animal Welfare
Amendment Bill.
For good farmers and animal keepers they will notice very little
difference. But for those who are not meeting current minimum
standards in codes of welfare, there will be clearer rules and
these will be easier to enforce.
Country Matterswith Rob Cope-Williams
From the MinisterNathan Guy, Minister for Primary Industries
C o m p l i a n c e notices will allow inspectors to handle
lower-level offending without going to the courts, and there will
be real focus on educating people to treat animals properly.
The Ministry for Primary Industries will continue to take a
tough line on the very small number of people who dont treat
animals properly, and there have been a number of convictions this
year already.
Much of the detail of the Bill will be in new regulations yet to
be developed. MPI is now talking to industry groups as part of this
process, and will consult with the wider public as well.
Another important feature of the new law is that it bans the use
of animals to test finished cosmetic products, or ingredients that
are
intended for use exclusively in cosmetics.
To the best of our knowledge there never has been any animal
testing for cosmetics in New Zealand, but this amendment will send
an important message that this kind of testing is unacceptable to
New Zealanders and will never happen here.
-
6 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING RURAL PROFESSIONALS
Directors John H Falloon B.Ag.Com, B.Com, F.C.A.
Aaron B Allred B.Com, C.A.
Call us for all your farm accounting requirements
208 Havelock St P.O. Box 103 Asburton Ph 03 308 9194Fax 03 308
3519 [email protected] www.falloons.co.nz
Personalised investment adviceForsyth Barrs portfolio management
Forsyth Barrs portfolio management service provides you with a
complete service provides you with a complete service, including
day-to-day management and administration of management and
administration of your investment portfolio along with your
investment portfolio along with year end tax reporting.
To find out more, call Forsyth BarrAuthorised Financial Adviser
Andrew Wyllie, 03 365 4244 [email protected]
FBCH
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Disclosure Statements are available on request and free of
charge. Ronald W. Angland & SonLAWYERS
www.anglands.co.nz
John Angland Leeston
(03) 324 3033 [email protected]
Craig Wakelin Leeston
(03) 324 3033 [email protected]
Offering the bestin legal advice
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GRAIN STORAGE AND HANDLING SYSTEMS SPECIALIST
Country Lawwith Ronald W. Angland & Son
Money Talkwith Andrew Wyllie
Bad apples and civil claimsEvery now and again youll strike one
in life the bad debtor.
The bad debtor is a particular kind of human that has no qualms
about pocketing others money and promptly forgetting about their
debt. Whats theirs is theirs and whats yours is theirs. It is a
depressingly common matter for the courts.
Theres a specific body of law covering bad debtors in
construction contracts those situations where theres a shonky
contractor not paying his subbies or a tradesman that shows up to a
worksite once in a blue moon and then disappears and is harder to
communicate with than a Mumbai call centre.
We will focus more on the standard civil situation where a debt
is owed directly with no grey areas were talking the kind of debtor
that is profoundly incontinent when it comes to spending habits one
minute tearfully on the brink of pawning their last tatty shawl to
put a bowl
of lukewarm rice before their twelve starving children and the
next minute drinking cocktails at the casino. These con artists
would be best to move into acting, where their skills might better
fund their habits. Your first option in dealing with the bad debtor
is to test your patience and be flabbergasted by the colourful
array of creative excuses that blossom as your debt gets
prioritised well behind a brand new jet-ski and other such crucial
matters.
Given the nature of the bad debtor, the second option of calling
the debt in is the only effective approach. Claims under the value
of $15,000 can be heard in the Disputes Tribunal, where no lawyers
can be used by either side and you will argue it out yourself.
However, the Tribunal is a bit more touchy-feely than the court
system, so if the debtor still doesnt pay you might end up having
to go to
court eventually anyway. Filing a civil claim in the District
Court has been streamlined with changes made mid last year. Your
lawyer can help you file a claim.
The claim must be filed and served on the debtor. If the debtor
responds and raises any valid legal points the courts will give
opportunity for the matter to be resolved privately or by way of a
settlement conference with a judge, failing which the matter would
proceed to a trial. If there is no response from the debtor your
lawyer can seek judgement by default (the debtor cant just play
dead). If their response doesnt disclose a legal defence then you
may seek summary judgement (the debtor cant make empty excuses).
The options are all intended to prevent the waste of a courts
valuable time on straightforward, cut and dried matters.
If you have any bad debtors driving you to distraction you might
want to drop in and have a word with your lawyer.
This article has been prepared by Craig Wakelin, a Solicitor
with Ronald Angland & Son, Solicitors, who may be contacted on
Tel: 03 324-3033 or e-mail [email protected].
Investment Markets UpdateCovering the quarter ended 30 April
2015.
The global economic outlook remains positive. Europe is
beginning to surprise, with industrial production the strongest in
10 months and household consumption and i nv es tmen t activity
growing.
In the United States, while recent economic growth has been
weaker than expected, consumer confidence remains at a record level
with employment growth expected to result in an activity pick-up in
the second half of the year.
China is an area of weakness but, as has occurred elsewhere,
authorities are relaxing monetary policies to boost the economy.
Latest measures include a reduction in required bank reserve asset
ratios.
At 18%, Chinese bank reserve ratios are still well above the
lows of 7.5% during the Global Financial Crisis, so there remains
ample room to lower ratio requirements as a means of boosting money
supply.Global Equity Markets
Equity returns for the April quarter were positive across all
the
major markets we follow. However, the bulk of the positive
returns were enjoyed in February, with United States and
Australasian markets in particular being weaker in March and April.
The strongest local currency returns were delivered by European and
Japanese equities (helped by a lower Euro and Japanese Yen). Both
regions have undertaken significant monetary policy stimuli and
indicated that this will continue for some time yet.
This has boosted the competitiveness of their local industries
as well as their regions exporters. While United States equity
market quarterly returns were largely flat in New Zealand dollar
terms, they have retained their out-performance relative to global
markets, measured over a 12-month period.Australian and New Zealand
Equity Markets
Australian equities under-performed most markets. The Healthcare
and Financial sectors weakened during March and April, with
Healthcares weakness largely a function of share price fundamentals
becoming a little stretched. Meanwhile banks came under pressure as
regulators continued to signal the need for higher capital
requirements.
Resources were the best performers, recovering on the back of a
bounce in commodity prices. New Zealand equity market returns also
lagged over the quarter, particularly the electricity generators,
with the market needing to absorb a significant placement of
Trustpower shares and the second instalment payable by Meridian
shareholders.
Fixed Interest MarketWith global inflation lower
than expected and many central banks either cutting rates or
implementing quant i ta t i ve eas ing measures, it is difficult to
see short or longer-term interest rates moving significantly from
current levels. A change in the global savings glut is a necessary
pre-condition to shift this outlook, most likely requiring a
widespread consumer boom in the United States.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealands monetary policy statement has
provided more scope for the New Zealand official cash rate to be
cut; certainly the possibility of near-term increases has been
curtailed. Even the United States normalisation of monetary policy
is expected to be slower. The United States authorities are still
indicating increases in short-term interest rates later this year,
but expectations are that increases should be staged with
authorities likely to take a breath after each, to gauge impacts
before successive moves are made.
If youre new to investing please see Forsyth Barrs Introduction
to Investing guide available at
www.forsythbarr.co.nz/investing-with-us/new-to-investing/ or
contact Andrew Wyllie, an Authorised Financial Adviser with Forsyth
Barr in Christchurch. He can be contacted regarding portfolio
management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or
[email protected]. This column is general in nature
and should not be regarded as personalised investment advice.
Disclosure Statements are available on request and free of
charge.
-
CANTERBURY FARMING May 2015 7
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Tool upgrade welcomedEnvironment Canterbury has welcomed a
recent upgrade to the nutrient loss measurement tool, OVERSEER.
OVERSEER is a management tool used for estimating nutrient
losses from a farming activity under the proposed Canterbury Land
and Water Regional Plan.
The current model requires users to enter information about
their farming system, such as production, location and soil types
and based on this information, a nutrient budget is prepared which
estimates the long-term average nitrogen loss from a property.
When updates are made, the most recent version must be used to
calculate the nitrogen baseline and loss.
Chief executive Bill Bayfield said improvements to the
irrigation component of OVERSEER would demonstrate the beneficial
nature of enhancements made to irrigation efficiency.
It is important to note that while the improvements introduced
by OVERSEER 6.2 will change estimated nutrient loss numbers,
they
will not change the reality with regard to actual nutrient
losses, Mr Bayfield said.
Environment Canterbury will help to ensure users are provided
with options for dealing with OVERSEER version changes. We are
committed to working with other councils, the owners of OVERSEER
and industry in seeking solutions to these challenges. A plan
change later in 2015 will be held to help address these.
Environment Canterbury wishes to ensure that the focus is on
good management practices by farmers and nutrient outputs. OVERSEER
provides a method of benchmarking against good management
practices. Its strength is the way it can be used in a relative,
rather than an absolute way. Our challenge is to develop policy
that allows for this.
Environment Canterbury assures farmers who have made investment
decisions based on previous versions
of OVERSEER they will not be disadvantaged as a result of these
changes.
The planning framework for land use and water quality
interactions is based on management of nutrient outputs rather than
inputs, he said.
Landowners have maximum freedom to decide how best to manage
their land to minimise nutrient losses. This approach, which is of
benefit both to farmers and to water quality outcomes, will not
change with a new version of the measurement tool.
It is not Environment Canterburys intention to immediately
require more farmers to get a consent to farm just because of an
OVERSEER upgrade. We will work with individual farmers, industry
bodies and zone committees to focus on achieving the outcomes
anticipated when the proposed Canterbury Land and Water Regional
Plan was drafted. Environment Canterbury chief executive Bill
Bayfield
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WOMEN
BY ANN MORGANPHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOTT FOWLER PHOTOGRAPHY
DEIDRE HIRA GREW UP AMONGST WOMEN WHO WERE INVOLVED IN THE
SHEARING INDUSTRY FOR MANY GENERATIONS AND HER AUNT JUNE KARA IS
STILL A ROUSIE TODAY AGED 73.
Its natural to me to work in the sheds. My mum was a wool
handler and cook, my dad, a shearer, and my grandma also a wool
handler. I started learning the trade of wool handling when I was
14-years-old, and I went on my first course in 1988 to get
certified, said Deidre who is known as Aunty or Nanny Dre in the
industry.
I work for a contractor, moving around the country from property
to property. I enjoy the challenge dealing with the animals and
time frames.
Wool handlers prepare the wool to go to the scourers to be
processed, taking the fleece from the shearers as
they finish each animal to sort. Every run is monitored through
a wool classer. Our job is to get the best price possible for our
clients.
The gang consists of eight or nine girls and six or seven
shearers who have a routine they work to which keeps the system
going. The contractor generally puts teams together with
personality and skill levels spreading out evenly with experience,
confidence and character.
When we first arrive on a site we usually shear the main flock,
starting with the ewes, then we move on to others such as hoggets
and two tooths, the wethers and the rams.
Often shearing is broken up and the gang will move to another
client after the main flock is taken care of, allowing the farmer
time to bring in the next mob. This can be a week apart, especially
on big stations, because of the thousands of sheep in some
places.
Deidre retrieves the fleece off the board after the sheep is
shorn and places it on a table where oddments are removed and it is
ready for the classer to check. It is then pressed into an average
of 175-185 kilogram bales. The bales are then branded, pulled out
and stacked.
They sweep the board for the shearers and keep every
COLLECTING THE FLEECE FROM THE SHEARER
-
CANTERBURY FARMING May 2015 9
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fleece separate to avoid any cross contamination.
Different prices are paid for oddments according to length and
colour. Each section of wool has a different quality. She explains
the lower the micron, the finer the wool the better quality, which
gives the best price and makes better clothing and products.
The work is seasonal, although some workers are full time and
stay on to help with crutching and other necessary jobs.
Some of the families we work for have been on these farms for
many generations with properties passed down since the 1800s. They
are really hard workers, and are always checking we are ok and that
we have our needs
met. It is a family atmosphere and we all look out for and
support each other, she says.
Ultimately the end result is rewarding and the travelling side
gives variety. Often the scenery is beautiful and we see places
people never get to see. We can be looking out over the snow capped
alps or a beautiful lake or up north we see the giant sand dunes
and gorgeous forests like a kauri kingdom. The jobs can also take
you overseas.
After hours there are still chores to be done and cleaning our
personal shearing equipment to keep it all up to scratch.
I would definitely recommend others look at this as a career
option.
This line of work it is never boring. Training happens on site
and there are also shearing and wool handling courses available. We
learn about back and body care and participate in stretching and
warm ups before starting work, which helps reduce injury.
When my children were young, my commitment to the job was
limited and I didnt travel so much. The nature of the job allowed
me to work part time which made things easier as in those days
there was no daycare. It is versatile and according to where you
are at and your ability to commit generally there are allowances if
pre arranged.
I love the job, all aspects of it, and the industry has
been good regarding my family and they also love it. Three of my
sons are in the trade now. Hura is in the United States, Michael is
in Australia, and Taare is in the South Island. My daughter Hutia
is a wool handler and cook.
My whole family love the work and lifestyle and the generations
before me did too. I guess future generations will as well.
ROUNDING UP THE FLOCK TO RETURN TO THE PADDOCKS
WORKING AS A TEAM IS IMPORTANT TO THE RUNNING OF THE GANG
To advertise in the Canterbury FarmingPlease call 03 347 2314 or
email [email protected]
-
10 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING
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The produce of our small boutique cheese makers is especially
prized, as it is inspired by the ancient traditions of Europe, but
infused with a verve and innovative spirit unique to our young
nation.
Today, gourmands in Paris or New York may very well enjoy a
slice of Kiwi cheese with their after-dinner vintage. But back in
the early 1990s the art of cheese making was somewhat arcane here,
and finding the tools, techniques and mentoring to establish a
cottage industry seemed like a far off dream.
It was in this environment that Rangiora cheese artisan
Elizabeth French began an odyssey which has come to fruition
with awards, accolades and a range of truly unique soft cheeses.
The owner of what would eventually grow to become Mount Grey
Cheeses looked into the hobby of home cheese making in 1993,
turning to a United States company for the necessary equipment to
turn pure Canterbury white gold into a tasty slice or two. A leaf
through the pages of United States cheese making periodicals
provided inspiration, and soon her goal of producing
self-sufficient cheese for the family was realised.
It was to be another ten years before the leap from home craft
to boutique artisan was made. Those busy years were spent running a
vineyard a very complementary trade, as wine and cheese go so well
together.
But the demands of the vines and press put paid to any time
spent on dairy pursuits, and it was not until later and another
four or five years of hobbyist cheese making that Mount Grey
cheeses was launched in 2012.
From the initial kitchen-c ra f ted Camember t , formulated with
the help of another local North
Canterbury cheese maker, Elizabeth took the big step of creating
a small factory adjacent to her home.
Its one thing to make ten cheeses in your kitchen, but to take
on a factory is quite daunting, she says.
And while that factory was a small affair by the yardstick of
some of New Zealands huge dairy concerns, it was the incubator for
some great ideas, and a place where Elizabeths family came together
in support of her art. Her son took the lead on construction, while
her youngest daughter stepped up to work on administration. Milk
was collected personally
by Andy Bryenton
New Zealands fine cheeses are renowned around the world -
sourced as they are from one of the planets most abundant and
verdant dairylands.
Elizabeth French is proudly open for business as a boutique
cheesemaker
Crafting a boutique industry
-
CANTERBURY FARMING May 2015 11
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from local dairy farms, and before long another of Elizabeths
daughters an ex-baker came on board to make production run smoothly
day to day.
The milk comes from healthy, happy Holstein-Friesian cows a
breed prized in Europe by cheese makers. Mount Greys cheeses are
universally of the soft varieties delicately flavoured Brie and
Camembert, richly marbled blue, and the inimitable Yorkshire styled
cheese
dubbed Mrs French in honour of Elizabeths mother. Even the salt
used in the cheese making process is sourced from nearby lake
Grassmere.
Recognition came quickly and not just from the people who bought
Elizabeths cheeses at local farmers markets. Soon after opening the
doors, two of Mount greys creations the creamy Barnes Blue and the
unique Mrs French were sent to the prestigious NZ Champions of
Cheese competition, both winning silver medals. With
such a good start, its no surprise that the little factory
tucked away in Rangiora is now so popular. And as to the name well,
one only has to look up above the North Canterbury skyline to see
the peak of Mount Grey catching the light. And the well-known
landmark has a connection to cheese, as well.
In colonial times, Mount Grey Station was a vast cattle farm,
stretching from the sea to the foot of the mountain. In 1852 Major
Edward Oconnell and his wife Sarah took
possession, but the Major died tragically early, leaving Sarah
to operate the large steading on her own.
She was known for her determination and savvy, taking on what
was, in those days, very much a mans job and succeeding.
She was also known for the fine quality of her home-made
cheeses. A fitting name, then, and a great touchstone from history
for this thriving boutique industry turning Canterbury milk into
gourmet gold.
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-
12 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING WATER
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Never a dull momentJust when one thinks youve seen it all one is
jolted back to reality. Sure it has been warm and dry, but really
irrigating in May! Will the warm dry continue and what does that
bring for the next irrigation season, potentially just three months
away.
Knew it three days of north-west weather May 5, 6, and 7, and
itchy fingers couldnt help themselves. We had been at a staff
planning meeting in Hanmer those days and there was a little
from El Nio this season and in the last week has gotten
stronger.
(See figure 1)The SOI has been strong
and over the last month or so has averaged 7.3, an indication of
a strong event (anything over 6 is considered strong). This would
suggest a prevalence of south-westerly to westerly weather, which
though might be cold are not traditionally big rainmakers for
Canterbury.
So how do we stack up for groundwater given irrigation is
possibly just one season away. Once again I have a favourite site I
like to follow in this case bore M36/1926 (an ECan observation
bore) in the mid plains. There are a couple of features that stand
out: The droughts of
201213 and 201415 and subsequent water use (comprising
environmental flow and pumping) resulting in water levels falling
to about the same level (56.695mbgl and 56.366mbgl
respectively);
Much more water was used in 201415 given water level started
from a much higher level following the very wet autumn and early
winter of 2014; and
Groundwater recharge, including the immediate kick-back
(consistently about 2m) when everyone turns off, has followed a
similar pattern recovering to 51.651.7mbgl in May of both
years.What is required this
year are large rainfall events in autumn (doesnt look promising
with 15 days of autumn to go), and early winter (as occurred in
June 2013) to rapidly recharge groundwater. With El Nio predicted
to strengthen for 2015 likely bringing more south-westerly and
westerly
Irrigation Issues with Dr Tony Daveron
wager whether we would see irrigators going on the way back to
Christchurch. Sure enough, in an area where irrigation has not been
restricted there they were at least three centre pivots
and a couple in the distance that couldnt be confirmed (pivot or
otherwise because water was certainly being applied). Beggars
belief in May when soil moisture levels under irrigation were not
sufficiently low to warrant irrigation there they were for all to
see.
However, if for no other reason than it is a good lead line, it
made me think we could be in spring and irrigation needs to be
close to the forefront of thinking. Climate scientists are again
warning of pending El Nio for spring and summer 201516. On top of
an El Nio this season a second stronger event might not be that
welcome.
The thought of El Nio generates two immediate concerns: When
will irrigation
start, and What about water supply?
In the first instance, how good is the evidence. Well the
Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) that I watch from Weatherzone has
not waned
weather, these are very different conditions to the strong La
Nina conditions of 2013 (more easterly weather).
(See figure 2)Time will tell, but with El
Nio predicted, low water levels are not a palatable thought for
such a spring or summer. Lets rain dance for a couple of
trend-breaking easterly or south-easterly storms.
Figure 1: Weekly SOI trend 4 (from Weatherzone)
Figure 2: Water level record in M36/1926
Vicki Bailey
+64 9 215 9247
+64 9 929 3396
+64 21 963 960
[email protected]
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SMOKE ALARMSSave LivesBE FIRE SAFE THIS WINTER
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CANTERBURY FARMING May 2015 13 WATER
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Blue Skies Weather
Weather Watch by Tony TrewinnardLike March, April saw frequent
fronts and low pressure systems moving over the country, and more
so the North Island, bringing periods of northerly or northeasterly
airflow to Canterbury but also a few southerly or southeasterly
spells.
One such cold outbreak mid-month brought snow to low levels on
the foothills and upper plains.
As in March, temperatures in Canterbury were above normal in
April, generally by +0.5 to +1.0deg, but by up to +1.5deg along the
coast and eastern Plains. This was due to both warmer daytime and
night-time temperatures. Sunshine hours were below normal by 1020%,
reflecting increased cloudiness from humid northerly airflows.
Rainfall was again mixed, with most inland areas and mid Canterbury
experiencing near normal rainfall for the month, but south
Canterbury above normal by 3070%, and much of North Canterbury
below normal by 2050%. This was the fifth below normal month for
many North Canterbury locations.
By near the end of May this month was shaping up to again be
drier than usual in North Canterbury, but with near or above normal
rainfall elsewhere. Temperatures are tracking a little cooler than
usual due to an increasing frequency of southwesterly airflow,
while sunshine hours are a little above normal.
In the tropical Pacific, ocean temperatures are increasingly
moving towards El Nino conditions. By some measures a weak El Nino
has already developed and is getting stronger. The current pattern
is similar in many ways to the same time last year, when a
developing El Nino seemed likely, but never
fully eventuated. Ocean temperatures around the New Zealand
coast remain warmer than usual. The Southern Oscillation Index
(SOI) continues to move steadily towards moderate to strong El Nino
conditions this month.
The latest computer models are now favouring the development of
a strong El Nino over the next three to six months, but it must be
noted that this is the time of year the computer models have least
accuracy. In particular, a similar prediction was made at this time
last year, but only some of the factors needed for a full El Nino
were in place, and the prediction foundered. Again this year we
have not all of the necessary factors working together, so it
remains to be seen how successful the current
computer model forecasts will be. Our current expectation is to
see a moderate strength event or fairly short duration, peaking in
the spring time, and decaying by early next summer. A strong La
Nina event often follows short-lived El Ninos of this type and this
looks increasingly likely. The change from El Nino to La Nina often
brings prolonged dryness to Canterbury.
Looking at previous years with similarly developing El Nino
patterns, we find that most were characterised by increased
frequency of cool southwesterly airflow over New Zealand, and as we
move through autumn and into winter, we confidently expect to see
this trend continue.
From June right through to August we expect to see anticyclones
dominant in the
Forecast Canterbury
Rainfall Temperature Sunshine Airflow
June Near normal A little colder than normal
A little sunnier than normal
More southwesterlies
JulyA little wetter than than normal
A little colder than normal
Near normalMore southwesterlies
August Drier than normal
Near normal Near normalMore anticyclones
September Drier than normal
Warmer than normal
A little sunnier than normal
More northwesterlies
Tasman Sea with some low pressure systems over or near New
Zealand, and frequent periods of southwesterly airflow. Inevitably,
being the winter season, some of these southwesterly airflows will
tilt southerly and bring cold outbreaks.
Therefore we expect Canterbury to see mostly near normal
rainfall for the next few months, with sunshine hours possibly a
little above normal, and mean temperatures a little cooler than
usual. Come September, we may start to experience an enhanced
period of spring westerly or northwesterly airflow, which may
herald the start of a prolonged period of drier than normal months.
There is some risk this dry period could last through next
summer.
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14 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING WATER
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The Know to make it Flow Andrew Curtis, Irrigation New Zealand
CEO
Structuring irrigation development Last month I wrote about the
need for large scale water storage and the problems the irrigation
industry faces financing and structuring these developments.
sound and affordable if there is full uptake from day one, but
the issues arise when there are 200 to 300 potential shareholders
that all need to commit upfront to cover the significant
construction costs.
This is challenging and a unique feature for irrigation water
supply infrastructure.
There are two options to address this either construct the
scheme only for those in from the beginning and foreclose future
opportunity, or build the infrastructure which will allow for
optimal future potential.
Typically, the gap is between the initial capital cost and the
510 years that it takes to reach full uptake by shareholders. For
new schemes, those that get in first have to fund those that come
in later.
This approach used to be achievable as low cost low efficiency
irrigation systems could be installed and then upgraded over time
as debt was paid down. But new
limit based environmental requirements mean that more investment
is now required in efficient systems from day one. The gap is also
being compounded by the uncertainty the new limits setting
legislation has created.
Given these increased demands and costs, local and national
government need to play a bigger role in helping to plug this
uptake gap. One simple solution is the Government funds the
dry-shares and is then paid out as new shareholders come on board
and turn them into wet-shares much like the Crown Fibre Holdings
initiative.
There is yet to be a scheme built in New Zealand where 100 per
cent uptake has not occurred in under 10 years, and concerns over
government providing subsidies to individuals have no substance as
each individual shareholder pays their cost (in the context of full
uptake in getting water to the farm gate).
New irrigation schemes in New Zealand provide significant public
good, but these benefits are not being fully reported or
recognised.
All the irrigation schemes currently under development p rov ide
s i gn i f i can t environmental benefits such as river
augmentation, aquifer recharge and flushing flows that cleanse the
river systems; and also social benefits like providing domestic
water supply and offering recreational opportunities on dams.
Under the current scenario, new irrigators are being asked to
fund new modern infrastructure to fix up yesterdays issues whilst
also providing for the next generations well-being.
This is not equitable and there needs to be a public good
contribution made towards such public good aspects.
It needs to be recognised that the new irrigators are not the
ones that have created the environmental legacy issues.
Long-established irrigation infrastructure has boosted many
regions in New Zealand
like Central and South Canterbury and North and Central Otago.
For every $1 an irrigator makes at least another $3 is created in
the local community.
The wealth of Ashburton, Timaru and Waitaki Districts owes much
to the availability of water. Similarly, the Ruataniwha Water
Storage Project has the potential to change the high unemployment
and faltering Central Hawkes Bay economy, while also significantly
benefitting the main centres of Napier and Hastings. And the same
applies for the Wairarapa.
So it is clear that this water supply infrastructure enables the
growth and regional development which is urgently needed. This
infrastructure is becoming less polarising politically as people
start to realise the pragmatic benefits for the country.
Water is a natural resource which if effectively and sustainably
managed can go a long way to future proofing our economy and
ensuring the country has surety of water supply for a range of
purposes.
I concluded by talking about the options that exist for
governance and management co-operatives, private capital and hybrid
models that use aspects of both.
Another signif icant challenge to getting new water
infrastructure off the ground in New Zealand is the uptake
challenge by new users. All current development proposals are
economically
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CANTERBURY FARMING May 2015 15
www.kiwifertiliser.co.nzP: Ron McLean 0800 549 433
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Six Principles of Sun Tzu and the Art of BusinessPress headlines
that
Fonterra is facing a supplier crisis of confidence and risks
haemorrhaging milk to private companies as fed-up farmer
shareholders react to its latest financial results, deserves some
comment. Loyalty can be fickle amongst farmers when they are hit
directly in their financial pockets and facing a financial slump
caused by low dairy returns worldwide.
New Zealand has an increasing number of propr ietar y dair y
companies and also the Chinese are undertaking major investments in
dairy processing here, in competition to Fonterra.
At a Fonterra meeting I attended in Northland, Fonterra
representatives confirmed they were negotiating to supply milk to
the Chinese milk factory at Pokeno and that there was nothing to
stop the Chinese from building more of these plants throughout the
country.
If Fonterra is required to supply these establishing companies
with milk under the current legislation for a three year
period,
it will certainly I believe, alarm Fonterra suppliers who see
competitors using Fonterra milk to establish their businesses and
then competing for Fonterra suppliers.
I believe the current legislation should be changed and these
competitors should be made to stand alone from the beginning.
There are st rong indications that Chinese interests are
planning to buy a significant number of farms throughout Northland
and elsewhere and that these farms will supply processing plants
financed and built by the Chinese.
Open Countr y, New Zealands second largest milk processor, an
independently owned company, is looking at the options of building
a milk plant at their Affco Horotiu plant or expanding its Whareroa
site.
It is claimed over 500 Fonterra milk suppliers are waiting to
join their company, due to their extreme dissatisfaction with
Fonterras payout performance.
The Chinese have been traders for thousands of years. The famous
Chinese
military tactician Sun Tzu in 512BC wrote a book called The Art
of War. The theories of his book are still widely read throughout
the world today.
Many Chinese businesses and others throughout the world follow
the six major principles of Sun Tzu, being
capture your market without destroying it, avoid your
competitors strength and attack their weakness, use foreknowledge
and deception to maximise the power of business intelligence, use
speed and preparation to swiftly overcome the competition, use
alliances
and strategic control points in the industry to shape your
opponents and make them conform to your will, develop your
character as a leader to maximise the potential of your
employees.
Clearly they are a tenacious people. They never give up. We
would do
well to learn from them if we are going to survive in a
free-market open economy that invites overseas investment.
It is up to us to make sure that we dont become slaves in our
own country. We must retain 100% control from the farm gate to the
worlds markets.
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-
16 May 2015 CANTERBURY FARMING
INTERNATIONALYEAR OF THE SOILS
NEAL KINSEY INTRODUCTORY SOIL FERTILITY COURSE
PUTTING LIFE BACK INTO THE LAND
ASHBURTON 8 10 JULY 2015
DAY 3 10th JULY:DAY 3 COURSE: 8:00am 5:30pm// Working With
Micronutrients> Introducing Micronutrients For Soil Fertility
Needs> Baron Use and Cautions> Considering Iron and if its
Needed> Manganese for Soil and Crops> Copper Importance and
Uses> Zinc for Fertility and Crop Needs
VENUEHotel Ashburton | 11-35 Racecourse Rd | Ashburton
TIMELINEDAY 1 8th JULY:
REGISTRATION: 7:00am 8:30amDAY 1 COURSE: 8:00am 5:30pm// Working
With Soil Tests, pH and Liming> The Soil Audit Key
Information> Soil pH Neutralizing Extreme pH> Liming
Evaluation Liming Materials> How Calcium and Magnesium Affect
Soil and Crop Production> Soil Compaction and Solutions
COURSE PRICING// Full Registration> $690+GST Cost Includes: 3
Days Training, Morning & Afternoon Teas, Lunches and Course
Materials
// Day Registration> $350+GST Per Day
ACCOMMODATION// Note> Accommodation is not included in course
costs. It its is not included in course costs. It its is notthe
responsibility of the delegate to book their own accom-modation.
Below is suggested option only.// Hotel Ashburton>Ph: 0800 330
880 or>Email: [email protected]> Standard Room from $125*
Rooms have been held for the conference, however bookings must be
made ASAP to guarantee availability
DAY 2 9th JULY:DAY 2 COURSE: 8:00am 5:30pm// Working With Major
Nutrients> Nitrogen, Sulphur Phosphate and Potassium Sodium>
Composts and Manure
// For more information on the course please contact:Gameplan
[email protected] or 0274500472.
All across the world 2015 is being promoted as the The year of
the soils with the focus on breathing life back into our land.
Massive amounts of chemical use, GMOs crops and high production
costs have seen agriculture change in many countries at the expense
of soil life and food quality.
Wikipedia states:Despite the increased popularity of the use
of
the term sustainability, the possibility that human societies
will achieve environmental sustainability has been, and continues
to be, questionedin light of environmental degradation, climate
change,overconsumption, population growth and societies pursuit of
indefiniteeconomic growthin aclosed system.
Scary stuff, but as time goes by - looks like being a fairly
accurate. If we are to turn the tide and be truly sustainable then
a lot of people will have to take a very hard look at their farming
practices, across all types of agriculture.
The over use of soluble plant feeding fertilisers developed by
man, and once seen as a better option to a more natural biological
approach, plus regular indiscriminate use of the herbicide Roundup
means soil quality has been degraded to a point that it now
desperately needs remedying.
Carbon loss, depleted humus content, tied up nutrients and
reduced moisture holding ability are just some of the problems
facing modern farming practices. High producing agricultural
industries export nutrient with their crops ie grapes, maize,
baylage etc but replacing this nutrient in a balanced way while
improving soil biology is largely misunderstood.
This is due in part to a lack of understanding around how
nutrients interact and the levels in which they should be found in
the soil.
Within New Zealand more and more people are looking at ways to
revitalise our rapidly depleted soils and return to producing high
quality, nutrient dense, disease resistant produce.
Cancer rates are skyrocketing and it doesnt take a genius to
work out why, but it does take conviction to change.
Unbeknown to many the soil fertility work, science and
calculation systems required to achieve this change has already
been pioneered; its called The Albrecht system.
Dr William A Albrecht (1888- 1974) worked on many areas of soil
fertility starting in the 1920s and went on to become the chairman
of the Department of soils and senior emeritus professor at the
university of Missouri.
He was widely recognised as the foremost authority on the
relation between soil quality, food quality and human health.
Albrecht once said; It is not the over powering invader we must
fear but the weakened condition of the victim.
This statement inspires a different way of thinking; rather than
buying a cure find out why the sickness is there in the first
place.
We are very lucky to have Neal Kinsey of Kinseyag services as a
regular visitor to New Zealand. Neal studied under Albrecht and is
the foremost authority on the Albrecht system in the world
today.
He wrote the very popular book Hands on Agronomy which is a must
for anyone interested in soil fertility.
He works in over 65 countries and is often referred to as the
consultants consultant.
People who attend Neals courses always leave with a very
enlightened view on soil fertility and I have yet to see any
unhappy attendees. The most common comment is it just all makes
sense.
New Zealand farming is at a crossroads and many people are
starting to choose the healthier option.
Remember; it is everyones responsibility to ensure that future
generations can farm the land in a healthy, truly sustainable way
without destroying our number one natural resource, the soil.
Neal Kinsey has a 3 daySoil Fertility Course In Ashburton
this
July 8th 9th & 10th .For information and registration
details
contact [email protected] phone 027 450 0472.
To contact theNeal Kinsey NZ Group
FREEPHONE0800 KINSEY0 8 0 0 5 4 6 7 3 9
REGISTER// TREVOR PEARCE> 027 230 9934 >
[email protected] // ROSS WRIGHT> 027 246 2114 >
[email protected] // GAME PLAN> 027 450 0472 >
[email protected]
-
CANTERBURY FARMING May 2015 17
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The rate of the rapid decline in export log prices in April and
May has been unprecedented. My records show wharf gate prices
expressed in New Zealand dollars per Japanese Agricultural Standard
cubic metre are now at their lowest point since September 2008.
The big drop in NZ wharf gate prices, equivalent to about 32% in
two months, is a reflection of reducing price settlements in China,
slight increases in shipping costs and a slightly firming exchange
rate. This almost perfect storm sees stumpage prices reflected as a
price per tonne or cubic metre to the NZ forest grower having
fallen close to 85% over the same period.
As would be expected, it is something close to carnage out
there. Logging crews and trucks are being parked, production is
dropping daily and many people are looking for work. This is bad
news for an industry desperately needing to hang on to skilled
labour, which includes continuing training and the emphasis on safe
work practices.
A further casualty rests with the consistently performing domest
ic sawmilling industry. Whilst log supply is variously ok right at
present, as harvest production slows, then supply is going to be a
problem unless there can be a rapid change in log diet.
One br ight l ight amidst the carnage of an industry
experiencing an unprecedented commodity price and demand swing, is
pruned log prices. These are continuing to sell well in China and
prices at the wharf gate, whilst under a little downward pressure,
are holding up well. Indeed the price margin between pruned logs
and the nearest value export log has crept out to over NZ$50 per
tonne. This reflects the margins we last saw in the 1990s. As
reported last month, all
marketing ears and eyes are focussed on China and what will
happen next. At time of writing, daily consumption across the
eastern seaboard is running at a not too shabby 70,000 cubic metres
per day, the equivalent of about two million cubic metres per
month.
However a staggering 50+ vessels delivered cargo from NZ and
Australia in April. With the addition of eight shipments from the
United States and Russian volume running at about 400,000 cubic
metres per month, port inventories have climbed quickly to 4.5
million cubic metres.
The more positive news is that most were expecting this and
therefore prices seem to have rounded out somewhere in the bottom
of the pit. Deliveries to NZ ports are slowing with about a 5% drop
in April and 2025% expected in May.
A 25% drop represents a production loss of about 300,000 cubic
metres. I suspect a further 510% drop will be seen in June w