Archive: April 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, adapting to new methods and maintaining best practices is vital for the prosperity of farming in New Zealand. Here are seven key points that Agraforum New Zealand recommends for farmers seeking to thrive in today’s competitive environment:

1. Sustainable Practices: Embrace sustainable farming methods that conserve resources and minimise environmental impact. Techniques such as crop rotation, soil testing, and the integration of renewable energy sources are essential. Sustainable practices not only contribute to environmental preservation but also enhance soil health, leading to better crop yields and long-term farm viability.

2. Technological Advancement: Adopt modern technologies like precision agriculture, which utilises GPS and connected sensory devices to optimise the application of water, fertilisers, and pesticides. These technologies can lead to increased efficiency and reduced costs over time.

3. Biosecurity Measures: Protecting livestock and crops from pests, diseases, and invasive species is paramount. Implementing strict biosecurity measures can prevent significant losses and safeguard New Zealand’s unique biodiversity.

4. Market Analysis and Diversification: Understanding market trends and diversifying products can mitigate risks associated with price fluctuations. Exploring niche markets or organic products can also offer higher profit margins.

5. Water Management: Efficient water use through systems like drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting is crucial in times of drought. Good water management practices ensure that farms can sustain crop and livestock needs without depleting local water resources.

6. Education and Training: Continuous learning and skill development for farm staff through workshops, courses, and seminars in modern farming techniques can significantly enhance farm productivity.

7. Community and Network Building: Engaging with local and national farming communities provides opportunities for knowledge exchange and support. Collaborations can lead to shared resources, innovative solutions to common problems, and a stronger voice in policy discussions.

By focusing on these key points, farmers in New Zealand can navigate the challenges of modern agriculture and pave the way for a future that is both productive and sustainable. Get in touch with Agraforum New Zealand to learn more about what you can do for your land.

Contact Agraforum New Zealand

Mobile: 0274 485 159
Email: allan@agraforum.co.nz

www.agraforum.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
P: 0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

In the realm of modern agriculture, the importance of using fertilisers judiciously cannot be overstated. As a leading entity, Profile Fertilisers stands at the forefront of advocating for sustainable farming practices, ensuring that agricultural productivity is enhanced while environmental integrity is preserved. Here, we elucidate seven key points underpinning our philosophy towards farming that resonates with the ethos of Profile Fertilisers.

1. Soil Health is Paramount: The foundation of successful farming begins with the soil. Profile Fertilisers champions the use of products that enrich the soil’s organic matter, improving its structure, water retention, and fertility. Healthy soil is the bedrock of high-yield, sustainable agriculture.

2. Tailored Nutrient Management: Recognising that each field has its unique nutrient requirements, Profile Fertilisers emphasises the importance of tailored nutrient management plans. By conducting soil tests and analysing results meticulously, we ensure that fertiliser applications meet the precise needs of crops, thus optimising growth and reducing waste.

3. Embracing Technology: The integration of technology in farming practices, such as precision agriculture, enables farmers to apply fertilisers at the right place, the right time, and in the right quantities. Profile Fertilisers advocates for the use of advanced tools and techniques to make farming more efficient and environmentally friendly.

4. Environmental Stewardship: A commitment to protecting the environment is at the heart of sustainable farming. Profile Fertilisers promotes practices that minimise runoff, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance biodiversity. By doing so, we ensure that farming contributes positively to the ecological balance.

5. Economic Viability: Sustainable farming must also be economically viable for farmers. Profile Fertilisers’ solutions are designed to increase crop yields and quality, thereby boosting farmers’ incomes and ensuring the long-term sustainability of their operations.

6. Educating and Empowering Farmers: Knowledge is power. Profile Fertilisers is dedicated to educating farmers about the latest agricultural practices, soil health, and nutrient management techniques. Empowered farmers are better equipped to make informed decisions that benefit both their crops and the environment.

7. Partnerships and Collaboration: Finally, achieving sustainable farming practices requires collective action. Profile Fertilisers believes in the power of partnerships and collaboration with agricultural experts, research institutions, and local communities to drive innovation and share knowledge.

In conclusion, Profile Fertilisers is deeply committed to advancing farming practices that are sustainable, efficient, and beneficial for both the environment and the farming community. By adhering to these seven key points, we strive to contribute significantly to the future of agriculture.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

As the winter months approach, maintaining a robust immune system becomes paramount to safeguarding our health against the common cold, flu, and other seasonal ailments. Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy offers invaluable advice on seven effective ways to bolster your immunity during this chilly season:

1. Prioritise Sleep: Quality sleep is a cornerstone of immune health. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to allow your body to repair and regenerate. A well-rested body is better equipped to fend off infections.

2. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Nutrient-rich foods are essential for supporting a healthy immune system. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your daily diet. Foods high in vitamins C and D, zinc, and antioxidants can particularly enhance immune response.

3. Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, including immune function. Water helps in the production of lymph, which carries white blood cells and other immune system cells. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

4. Exercise Regularly: Moderate, regular exercise can boost the immune system by promoting good circulation, which allows immune cells to move through the body more efficiently. Around 30 minutes of daily moderate exercise is recommended.

5. Manage Stress: High levels of stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage stress levels.

6. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair immune function. For a healthy immune system, it’s best to quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.

7. Consider Supplements: In some cases, dietary supplements may be beneficial in supporting immune health, especially if you’re not able to get enough nutrients from your diet alone. Vitamins C and D, as well as zinc supplements, can be particularly beneficial. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.

By following these tips from Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy, you can strengthen your immune system and enjoy a healthier winter season. Pop into the store to see what winter essentials they have for you.

Contact Devonport 7-Day Pharmacy

09 445 4000

www.devonport7daypharmacy.co.nz 

www.facebook.com/247pharmacy.co.nz

www.youtube.com/@AsktheAlchemist

Contact Phillip Quay

Phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Nutrient leaching from soil is a significant concern for farmers and environmentalists alike, as it represents both a loss of valuable fertilisers and a potential source of environmental pollution. Dr Gordon Rajendram has provided critical insights into this issue, demonstrating that the amount of nutrients lost via subsurface flow is closely related to the amount of rainfall and drainage.

In areas where rainfall and drainage range from 500 to 7000 mm per year, particularly from April to October, nutrients can be washed beyond the root zone, where plants are unable to utilise them. This process is especially problematic for anions like nitrates (NO3-) which are highly mobile and tend to leach easily. Anions also carry cations with them, such as calcium (Ca2+), exacerbating the loss of nutrients.

For instance, Dr Rajendram’s research indicates that sulphur leaching can be between 40 to 70 kg/ha/year, costing approximately $28 to $49 per hectare annually. When it comes to nitrogen (N), a critical element for plant growth, the figures are even more striking. Without any nitrogen applied, between 21 to 26 kg/ha/year can leach, amounting to around $43 per hectare each year. However, when 200 kg of nitrogen per hectare is applied, the leached amount can increase to about 60 kg/ha/year, with the cost rising to around $125 per hectare annually. And with a higher application rate of 400N, up to 100 kg N/ha/year may leach, costing approximately $209 per hectare each year.

Calcium leaching, which equates to the loss of half a ton of lime, is around 150 kg Ca/ha/year, resulting in a cost of about $13 per hectare per year. Other nutrients like magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), and potassium (K) also experience significant leaching, with costs of $30, $50, and $19 per hectare per year, respectively, for losses of 30 kg Mg, 50 kg Na, and 10 kg K.

Dr Rajendram asserts that to mitigate nutrient leaching, farmers need to employ strategic fertiliser management. This includes soil testing to determine the existing nutrient levels, timing fertiliser applications to match plant needs, and using technologies such as controlled-release fertilisers, nitrification inhibitors and management practices such as using standoff pads/herd homes

“Effective nutrient management is key to both economic efficiency and environmental stewardship,” Dr Rajendram advises. “By optimising fertiliser use, we can reduce leaching losses, saving both our resources and our rivers.” This holistic approach to agriculture is essential for sustainable farming practices that protect both the productivity of the land and the health of the environment.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Leading Hamilton-based digital marketing and PR company, MediaPA, and Bethells Beach Cottages have joined forces to launch a fundraising campaign aimed at supporting the vital community asset of the Bethells Beach Surf Lifesaving Patrol. Following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle one year ago on the 14^th of February, which significantly impacted the volunteer club’s clubhouse and facilities, this collaborative effort underscores a unified commitment to revitalise and enhance the essential services provided by the Surf Lifesaving Patrol.

Bethells Beach Cottages, renowned for its serene hospitality, emerges not only as a supporter of local initiatives but also as a pivotal advocate for the Surf Lifesaving Patrol. Recognising the critical role the patrol plays in ensuring the safety and well-being of beachgoers, a focused gathering was convened to address the urgent needs for restoration and support.

This assembly, characterised by productive discussions and a spirit of collaboration, illuminated various avenues for funding, including the creation of compelling sponsorship proposals and the implementation of innovative public relations strategies. The dialogue extended beyond mere recovery, envisioning a robust framework for future resilience and community engagement. The participation and support of Auckland Tourism were particularly encouraging, highlighting the potential for broader support through strategic promotion and visibility.

The action plan developed is two-pronged: Firstly, itinvolves drafting and disseminating targeted sponsorship proposals thatresonate with potential benefactors’ values and community spirit. Secondly, itincludes executing a comprehensive PR strategy that not only underscores the club’svital role but also aligns with the collective aspirations for a stronger,united community front.

Once again, thanks are extended to everyone involved for being an indispensable part of this endeavour. There is keen anticipation to further the partnership and make a tangible difference in the lives of many, safeguarding the spirit and beauty of Bethells Beach for future generations.

Support the year-round volunteer lifesavers of Bethells Beach: Your donation can make a difference! In the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle’s impact on the Bethells Beach Surf Lifesaving Patrol, your contribution is more crucial than ever. The patrol, crucial for the safety of beachgoers on the West Coast, known for its hazardous tidal shifts and currents, faces an enormous administrative and operational burden. Your contribution is more vital than ever in aiding these brave lifeguards who ensure our beaches remain safe. By opening your wallet, you’re not just offering financial support; you’re saving lives and sustaining a crucial community asset. We encourage you to share this urgent call for support with others, amplifying the reach of your generosity and ensuring the patrol’s continued success in safeguarding the beauty and safety of Bethells Beach.

Makea donation through their website today! www.bethellsbeach.org

Contact Bethells BeachCottages

+64 9 810 9581

info@bethellsbeach.com

www.bethellsbeach.com

Contact Phillip Quay

Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz