Farm safety has always been a paramount concern in the agricultural sector, and as 2024 unfolds, it’s crucial for farmers to take a moment and reassess their safety protocols. Frustration often mounts when accidents or incidents occur, prompting the question: Is it time to review your farm policies? That’s what AgSafe NZ is here for! […]
The post Navigating Farm Safety in 2024: AgSafe NZ Calls For a Time of Review and Preparedness first appeared on MediaPA.
In an exciting development for agricultural enthusiasts, Agraforum makes its debut as a first-time exhibitor at the Waimumu, Gore, Southern Field Days on the 14th to the 16th of February 2024, bringing forth a wealth of innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology to the heart of the farming community. The Southern Field Days, renowned for showcasing […]
The post Ashburton-based Agraforum: Unveiling Agricultural Excellence For the First Time at the Waimumu, Gore, Southern Field Days – One of NZs Largest Agricultural Events first appeared on MediaPA.
New Zealand, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, is on a journey to restore the health of its afforested landscapes. Afforestation, the process of establishing forests on previously unforested land, has been a critical strategy for combating climate change and protecting the environment. However, the long-term health of these newly established forests relies […]
The post Restoring Soil Health in New Zealand’s Afforested Landscapes: Challenges and Opportunities by Hamilton-based leading soil scientist Dr. Gordon Rajendram first appeared on MediaPA.
It’s been a long-awaited moment for exhibitors and enthusiasts alike as the Southern Field Days site in Waimumu gears up for a spectacular event after a four-year hiatus. With anticipation building, Agraforum NZ is ready to make its mark as a first-time exhibitor at one of Southland’s biggest gatherings. Southern Field Days President Steve Henderson […]
The post Agraforum NZ from Ashburton Are Set to Make Waves as First-Time Exhibitors at Waimumu Southern Field Days first appeared on MediaPA.
In the heart of New Zealand’s scenic Hill Country, where lush pastures meet rolling landscapes, lies a crucial yet often overlooked factor in farm management—liming. Dr. Gordon Rajendram, a prominent Hamilton-based Soil Scientist, emphasises the pivotal role of lime application in transforming agricultural outcomes. This article explores the multifaceted benefits of liming, drawing on Dr. […]
The post Hamilton-based Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram States The Importance of Liming Your Land first appeared on MediaPA.
In the world of agriculture, Agraforum stands out as a beacon of innovation, offering a suite of groundbreaking products designed to transform the way we nurture our crops. With a focus on enhancing soil health and plant metabolism, Agraforum’s offerings are ushering in a new era of sustainable and high-yield farming. EnviroCal, a key player […]
The post Ashburton’s Agraforum’s Revolutionary Products: Cultivating Prosperity from the Ground Up first appeared on MediaPA.
In 2012, Graham Roberts embarked on a pivotal journey when he joined Craigs Investment Partners, bringing with him a wealth of experience in Estate planning, Trust Management, and Employee Share Ownership Schemes from his diverse background in New Zealand and Jersey. The inspiration behind his move was rooted in a commitment to guiding clients through the complexities of equity investments and helping them achieve their financial goals.
Craigs Investment Partners, with almost 40 years of history, has evolved into New Zealand’s premier personal wealth investment advisory firm. As a locally-owned entity, the firm takes pride in assisting Kiwis in navigating the intricacies of investing, offering services that span KiwiSaver, Broking, and Managed Portfolios for private clients, family trusts, estates, and charitable organizations.
The firm’s key products and services revolve around managing investment portfolios for a diverse clientele. Whether through KiwiSaver, UK Pensions transfers, or tailored managed portfolios, Craigs Investment Partners caters to individuals seeking to diversify their wealth, with a focus on both growing and supporting it into retirement.
Beyond financial endeavours, Graham Roberts reveals a more personal side through his interests and hobbies, which include golf, badminton, and football. These activities provide a balance to his professional life, showcasing a well-rounded individual dedicated to both work and leisure.
Social giving is a core value embraced by Craigs Investment Partners, exemplified by their generous donation of $150,000 to charities nationwide during Christmas. This philanthropic effort extends beyond mere financial support, as the firm actively engages with charities connected to its employees throughout the year, fostering a sense of community involvement and shared responsibility.
Graham Roberts is not only a financial advisor but also a networker, actively participating in groups like The Networking Group. Through his involvement, he builds connections, shares insights, and contributes to the collective growth of the professional community.
In essence, Graham Roberts and Craigs Investment Partners embody a holistic approach to success, combining financial acumen with a commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and a passion for personal interests.
Contact Graham Roberts
021 187 5577
https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-roberts-81006367/
Contact Phillip Quay
027 458 7724
In the world of agriculture, Agraforum stands out as a beacon of innovation, offering a suite of groundbreaking products designed to transform the way we nurture our crops. With a focus on enhancing soil health and plant metabolism, Agraforum’s offerings are ushering in a new era of sustainable and high-yield farming.
EnviroCal, a key player in Agraforum’s arsenal, introduces ionised calcium to the soil, triggering swift transformations in both soil structure and plant metabolism. Thus deepening the the aerobic zone and improving water holding capacity. The result is a cascade of benefits, including stimulated growth of soil microbes, and improved overall plant health. This, in turn, translates to higher-quality feed and less irrigation needed.
ComCat takes a natural approach by activating growth and defense mechanisms within plants. Boosting the communication of genetic messages, and bolstering resistance to diseases and pests as well as accelerating root and leaf growth. Meanwhile, ZumSil provides a shield against insects, diseases, and water stress, improving mineral uptake and soil texture.
Peptonic steps in with concentrated minerals, fortifying plants against extreme weather conditions and optimizing photosynthesis and flowering.
ReSTORE, another gem in the Agraforum collection, is the remedy for plants damaged by herbicides, ensuring optimal growth and reducing susceptibility to alternative yields. Crop Candy, with its focus on photosynthesis, even flowering, and metabolism, minimises stress in plants.
ERGO CALF Shed Spray addresses respiratory health in calves, reducing mortality and ammonia levels without disrupting livestock.
ECO Flush targets pond health, reducing solids and unpleasant odors, ensuring efficient nutrient absorption when irrigated back onto the farm. Due to the break down nature, cleaning of effluent ponds will be unecessary.
MSR plays a pivotal role in increasing mineral content, revitalise depleted soil, supply phosphates to enhance yields, and reduce reliance on conventional chemicals. Containing 74 of the 121 available minerals in the world, this product takes care of mineral deficiency in the soil.
AnnGro serves as a water soluble uptake enhancer, aiding in the affect of substances like pesticides and liquid nutrients. This innovative solution empowers farmers to efficiently boost their mineral uptake and effectiveness of sprays.
Agraforum’s commitment to sustainable agriculture is evident in its comprehensive product lineup, promising not just increased yields but a healthier and more resilient farming ecosystem. As we navigate the challenges of modern agriculture, Agraforum’s revolutionary products serve as a beacon, pointing the way to a greener, more prosperous future.
Contact Agraforum
Mobile: 0274 485 159
Email: allan@agraforum.co.nz
Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
P: 0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz
John Field, the founder of Fieldworx, has a rich history that intertwines his passion for construction with a deep desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. His journey began with “Hire A Hubby” in the early 2000s, a venture that stemmed from his love for building homes, while teaching before 2000. The transition from education to entrepreneurship was driven by a practical mindset and a genuine desire to assist others.
The initial focus on Hire A Hubby allowed John to leverage his skills and passion for woodworking. With a well-equipped workshop and a knack for crafting recycled Rimu furniture, John’s business flourished. The team expanded with the addition of his son-in-law, a qualified joiner and Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP). After years under the Hire A Hubby franchise, John decided to break free and establish Fieldworx, a move that allowed him to exercise greater independence and flexibility.
Fieldworx specializes in renovations and alterations, offering a comprehensive service package that includes plumbing, electrical work, gib stopping, painting, tiling, and flooring. The business’s tagline, “We love doing your homework,” reflects their commitment to providing solutions for clients’ needs.
The target market for Fieldworx encompasses a diverse range, including individuals seeking home additions, exterior projects like decks and fences, property maintenance for both commercial and domestic landlords, and retirees in need of reliable and trustworthy services.
What sets Fieldworx apart is its commitment to communication, organization, and innovation in every project. With a skilled team and a hands-on approach to project management, John ensures that clients’ expectations are not only met but exceeded.
Beyond business, John is deeply involved in social giving, supporting local community initiatives, churches, and special needs groups. His commitment to charity extends to various causes on platforms like Givealittle.
In conclusion, Fieldworx is more than a construction business; it’s a testament to John Field’s dedication to craftsmanship, community, and compassion. The legacy he’s building extends beyond bricks and mortar, reaching into the hearts and homes of those he serves and supports.
Contact Fieldworx
+64 21 801 555
fieldwrx@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/Fieldwrx/
Contact Phillip Quay
027 458 7724
In the heart of New Zealand’s scenic Hill Country, where lush pastures meet rolling landscapes, lies a crucial yet often overlooked factor in farm management—liming. Dr. Gordon Rajendram, a prominent Hamilton-based Soil Scientist, emphasises the pivotal role of lime application in transforming agricultural outcomes. This article explores the multifaceted benefits of liming, drawing on Dr. Rajendram’s expertise and insights garnered over years of scientific research.
Increased Pasture Production
The primary objective of lime application in agriculture is to boost pasture production. By elevating soil pH, lime catalyses a cascade of effects on major and trace elements, including nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, molybdenum, manganese, boron, zinc, and aluminium. Dr. Rajendram notes that lime has a ‘phosphate sparing effect’ under specific conditions, enhancing the availability of essential nutrients. Furthermore, liming improves soil physical structure and moisture retention. The positive impact extends to soil fauna, particularly earthworms and nitrogen-fixing bacteria, working synergistically to significantly increase pasture production.
Scientific Trials Proving the Power of Lime
Over the last six decades, extensive scientific research, including trials by M.A.F., D.S.I.R., and universities such as Massey and Lincoln, has underscored the profound impact of lime on pasture production. Trials in Northland, such as the Kamo, Waiotira-Gunson, and Lovegrove trials, revealed substantial increases in production ranging from 15% to an impressive 31% through liming. These trials, conducted on diverse pasture types, showcase lime’s versatility in enhancing productivity across varied farming conditions.
The trials in Northland have enabled the prediction of pasture responses based on initial soil pH and lime application quantity. Dr. Rajendram emphasises the importance of reaching an optimum pH level (6.0-6.2) promptly for enhanced pasture responses. Figures derived from the Lovegrove trials provide a visual representation of pasture responses across a pH range, offering farmers insights into expected outcomes based on their specific conditions.
Improving Soil Moisture and Structure
Liming, as Dr. Rajendram explains, plays a crucial role in increasing soil moisture levels, particularly after rainfall in March-April. The Whatawhata Hill Research Centre showcased a tripling of herbage yield within two years through lime application, emphasising the significant impact on soil moisture content. Farmers have long acknowledged the positive influence of lime on heavy soils, as it reduces stickiness, lightens cultivation, and facilitates the breakdown of clods. Dr. Rajendram attributes these improvements to increased bacterial activity, promoting organic matter decomposition and soil crumb formation, with a notable indirect benefit being the substantial increase in earthworm numbers and activity.
Earthworm Activity and Beneficial Effects
Casting earthworms, vital for soil health, respond favourably to liming as it supplies essential calcium, leading to increased earthworm production and activity. Trials indicate significant increases in earthworm numbers, with the potential to double or even triple infiltration rates of rainwater. Earthworms, integral to nutrient recycling and improved soil structure, contribute to a 72% increase in spring pasture production. Their activities enhance water infiltration, reduce runoff, erosion, and flooding, and increase nutrient availability in the soil. Liming emerges as a catalyst for the proliferation of beneficial earthworm species.
Financial Challenge
While the benefits of liming are unequivocal, Dr. Rajendram acknowledges the challenges faced by New Zealand farmers. Many Hill Country farms grapple with alarmingly low soil pH levels, impacting pasture production and clover growth. The cost of lime application, especially through aerial methods, poses a financial barrier. Dr. Rajendram urges farmers to adopt a long-term plan, combining lime and fertiliser application within budget constraints.
Soil and Pasture Testing
The solution, Dr. Rajendram asserts, lies in comprehensive soil and pasture testing. Understanding the specific mineral needs of the soil enables informed decision-making, ensuring optimal lime and fertilizer application. Expert advice, aligned with a strategic plan, becomes paramount in addressing soil acidity and fostering sustainable farming practices.
Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram
021 466077
rajendram@xtra.co.nz
www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz
Contact Phillip Quay
027 458 7724
