Archive: 2024

Amidst the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand’s agriculture, Dr. Gordon Rajendram stands as a beacon of expertise and commitment in the realm of soil health. Armed with a Ph.D. from Waikato University and a wealth of experience garnered during his 22 years at AgResearch’s Ruakura Research Centre, Dr. Rajendram is a distinguished figure in the field of soil science.

A Pioneer in Soil Fertility:

Dr. Rajendram, with over 70 publications and six patents to his name, has been at the forefront of soil fertility research in New Zealand. His extensive contributions have been pivotal in advancing the agricultural industry. Notably, during his tenure at AgResearch, he developed two field-calibrated soil tests for Nitrogen and Sulphur, both integral components of the Overseer nutrient model used for agronomic advice nationwide.

Personalised Approach:

What sets Dr. Rajendram apart is his commitment to a personalised approach in his interactions with farmers. Believing in the importance of face-to-face communication, he continues to visit farms across New Zealand. This personal touch allows him to understand the specific challenges faced by each farmer, ensuring that his recommendations are tailored to their unique needs.

Independent Fertiliser Consultant:

Dr. Rajendram’s independence is a cornerstone of his consultancy services, bringing over 35 years of experience in analytical testing development, applied research, and consulting to farmers and fertiliser companies. Unlinked to any fertiliser company, he provides farmers with unbiased and expert advice. His dedication to offering the most accurate guidance aligns with his mission to help farmers enhance the quality of their soil and achieve sustainable success.

Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture:

Dr. Rajendram’s commitment to sustainable farming practices is evident in his research on nutrient leaching, which has been incorporated into the Overseer nutrient model. This dedication extends beyond the laboratory, as he actively works towards helping New Zealand farmers maximise their soil potential for increased efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.

Conclusion:

In the dynamic landscape of New Zealand agriculture, Dr. Gordon Rajendram’s journey from pioneering soil fertility research to independent consulting showcases a lifelong commitment to the betterment of farming practices. His invaluable contributions, personalised approach, and unwavering dedication to sustainability make him a trusted advisor for farmers seeking to unlock the full potential of their soil for a more efficient, sustainable, and profitable future.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

By Fiona Stephen
Embark on a transformative journey just a scenic 40-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD by booking
the Bethells Beach Cottages Pavilion for your lectures, wellness events, and a variety of special
occasions. Nestled on the iconic West Coast, this 9 sq.mtr pavilion offers a natural luxury space that
promises to enhance and inspire the essence of your gathering.
Venue Highlights:
The Pavilion is not only a haven for wellness events but also a versatile space for birthdays, reunions, celebrations, and more. With a capacity to accommodate up to 70 seated guests, the pavilion is suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger events. It also serves as an ideal space for smaller conference groups, offering a unique iconic setting.

Wellness Offerings:
Immerse your participants in an atmosphere of serenity, breathe fresh salt air, listen to birdsong and waves and visions of natural beauty. The pavilion is the perfect setting for a range of wellness activities, ensuring a transformative experience for all. From yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Quong, meditation, shamanic, silent retreats and more. What would you as a practitioner like to bring to these surrounds?

Dining and Accommodation:
Enjoy various dining options for your group from our menu selection.
The Pavilion boasts a large commercial pizza oven, providing a unique handcrafted dining experience
that adds to the charm of your event. Accommodations are also available at the cottages, allowing
guests to extend their stay and truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this iconic West Coast beach while being true to yourself in relaxation and pampering.

Te Koinga Cottage, Turehu Cottage, Wairua Apartment and Wedding & Events Pavilion

Bethells Beach                Waitakere                  Auckland                     New Zealand

Contact Bethells Beach Cottages

+64 9 810 9581

info@bethellsbeach.com

www.bethellsbeach.com

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

In the pursuit of sustainable agricultural practices, Dr. Gordon Rajendram, a Hamilton-based soil scientist, in collaboration with Agraforum of Ashburton, introduces EL-I Tech’s Biodynamic Nitrogen (Bio N) as a groundbreaking biological approach to address nitrogen deficiency in New Zealand soils. This innovative approach to nitrogen fixation, pioneered in South Africa by Gerhard Vermaak and dubbed EL-I Tech involves the application of microbes and substrate through foliar spraying, facilitating the biological fixation of nitrogen from the atmosphere for plant utilisation.

The trials, conducted in collaboration with Agraforum, took place on three dairy farms in mid-Canterbury from early November 2023 to the end of January 2024, spanning a 12-week period. The comprehensive study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Bio N in comparison to traditional synthetic nitrogen (urea), focusing on pasture growth, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.

On Eiffleton farm, where both Bio N and Urea were applied, Dr. Gordon Rajendram observed that Bio N exhibited comparable daily growth rates to Urea over a 9-week period. Moreover, the total pasture produced using Bio N slightly surpassed that of Urea, demonstrating its effectiveness in sustaining pasture growth.

Farm 1: Eiffleton farm

• Area: 210 hectares
• Peak Cows: ~750
• Bio N and Urea applied on 8 November 2023
• Grass growth measured by GrassCo. over 63-day period (9 weeks)

Table 1c: Total pasture produced over a 63-day period (kg dry matter/hectare)

Bio N (kg DM/hectare)	Urea (kg DM/hectare)
5103	4977

Similarly, on Farm 2 Maronan farm, Bio N, applied only once on 8th November 2023, demonstrated competitive growth rates with Urea over an 11-week period. The total pasture produced with Bio N exceeded that of Urea, showcasing its potential for cost-effective pasture management.

Farm 2: Maronan Farm

• Area: 125 hectares
• Peak Cows: 485
• Biodynamic N applied only once on 8 Nov 2023 and grass growth measured for 11 weeks, till 22 January 2024).  Cost is $80 per hectare.
• Urea applied at a rate of 18 kg N in granular form every round for ~ 21 days. Four rounds of urea applied, therefore 72 kg N applied within 11 weeks. Cost of urea N is $140 hectare.

Table 2c: Total pasture produced over a 77-day period (kg dry matter/hectare)

Time	Bio N (kg DM/hectare)	Urea (kg DM/hectare)
77 days	6160	5698

On the Alford Forest Area farm, where Bio N was applied only once on 27th November 2023, the results were consistent. Bio N offered comparable growth rates and kept a consistent total pasture production alongside Urea over 8 weeks.

Farm 3: Alford Forest Area

• Area: 125 hectares
• Peak Cows: 485
• Biodynamic N applied only once on 27 Nov 2023 and grass growth measured for 8 weeks, until 22 January 2024. Bio N cost is $80 per hectare.
• Urea applied at a rate of 18.4 kg N in granular form every round for ~ 21 days. Three rounds of urea applied, therefore 55 kg N applied within 8 weeks. Cost of urea N is $108 hectare.

Table 3c: Total pasture produced over a 64-day period (kg dry matter/hectare)

Time	Bio N (kg DM/hectare)	Urea (kg DM/hectare)
64 days	3712	3968

The collaborative efforts of Dr. Gordon Rajendram and Agraforum underscore that Bio N not only matches Urea in pasture growth but also requires only one application compared to multiple rounds of Urea. Additionally, the cost of producing pasture with Bio N is lower than that of Urea, making it an economically viable alternative. The potential environmental benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint, are acknowledged, although further research is needed for a comprehensive evaluation.

In conclusion, EL-I Tech, presented by Dr. Gordon Rajendram and Agraforum, Biodynamic Nitrogen emerges as a promising biological solution for overcoming nitrogen deficiency in New Zealand soils, providing sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional synthetic nitrogen applications.

Photo: “Bio N applied on this pasture.  Visually, Where Bio N is applied in paddocks, I found the pasture cover over the paddock is very uniform. i.e. urine patches did not stick out.” – Dr Gordon Rajendram

Contact Agraforum

0800 488 118

allan@agraforum.co.nz

www.agraforum.co.nz/contact-us

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

An opinion piece by Hamilton-based soil scientist Dr. Gordon Rajendram

In New Zealand, where agriculture and gardening are vital components of the economy and lifestyle, understanding and optimizing soil health, including soil fertility in New Zealand, is crucial for successful crop production and gardening. Soil testing and analysis are powerful tools that provide valuable insights into soil composition, nutrient levels, and other critical factors that influence plant growth. Here, we explore some key techniques for soil testing and analysis that benefit New Zealand’s farmers and gardeners while addressing the importance of soil health, farm profitability, and farming practices in New Zealand.

Soil Sampling: The process begins with soil sampling, where small samples are collected from various locations in the garden or field. Sampling should be representative of the entire area and consider variations in soil types.

Soil pH Testing: Soil pH is a fundamental parameter that determines nutrient availability. In New Zealand, the optimal pH range varies depending on the crop or plant, but most prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils. Soil pH can be measured using pH testing kits or digital pH meters.

Nutrient Analysis and Fertilisation: New Zealand soils can be nutrient deficient, and nutrient analysis is essential to understand what fertilizers or soil amendments are needed. Standard soil tests assess essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, but micronutrients like copper, boron and zinc should also be considered.

Organic Matter and Texture: Determining the organic matter content of the soil and its texture (sandy, loamy, clayey) provides insights into soil structure and water retention. Organic matter content is crucial for fertility, and the right texture is essential for root development.

Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): CEC reflects the soil’s ability to retain and exchange cations (positively charged ions). Understanding CEC helps in optimizing nutrient management and reducing leaching.

Soil Microbiology and Soil Health: Assessing the soil’s microbial activity, including the presence of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi, can provide insights into the biological health of the soil.

Soil Contaminant Testing: In urban or industrial areas, soil contamination can be a concern, and testing for heavy metals or other contaminants is essential for ensuring food safety and environmental health.

Comprehensive Analysis and Inflation in New Zealand: Many soil laboratories in New Zealand offer comprehensive soil analysis services, providing a full picture of soil health and recommendations for soil amendments. Addressing inflation in New Zealand’s agriculture sector is vital for maintaining farm profitability.

Once the soil analysis is complete, farmers and gardeners can make informed decisions about soil amendments, organic matter additions, and nutrient management strategies. Regular testing and analysis are essential to monitor changes in soil health over time and make necessary adjustments to optimize plant growth and crop yields.

In conclusion, soil testing and analysis techniques, as advocated by soil scientist Gordon Rajendram, are invaluable tools for New Zealand farmers and gardeners. By understanding the unique characteristics of their soil, they can implement sustainable and productive agricultural and gardening practices, contributing to the success of New Zealand’s vital agricultural sector and the beauty of its gardens.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz 

Website: https://mediapa.co.nz/ 

Facebook: facebook.com/mediapa

Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy is delighted to introduce two new members to their expert team – Cherry and Simon. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and a passion for healthcare that will undoubtedly enhance the quality of service provided at the pharmacy.

Meet Cherry, whose full name is Xiaopin He. With a master’s degree in Chinese Traditional Medicine and over seven years of experience in the nutrition field, Cherry is a dedicated professional committed to helping individuals achieve a healthier life through the use of natural supplements. Her expertise extends to Mandarin and English, allowing her to effectively communicate with a diverse range of people.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cherry finds solace in the world of literature, particularly novels, and enjoys the soothing melodies of classical music in her spare time. These pursuits not only enrich her personal life but also contribute to her ability to approach health and wellness with a holistic perspective.

Expressing her excitement about joining the Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy team, Cherry emphasises her eagerness to contribute her expertise and passion to guide others on their journey to better health. Her arrival signifies a commitment to providing customers with knowledgeable guidance on natural supplements and traditional medicine.

Now, introducing Simon Whittington, who brings an impressive 20 years of experience in the pharmacy field. Simon hails from the esteemed Helen Scott Pharmacy, where he has honed his skills in managing staff, dispensing medication, and selling over-the-counter products.

Known for his quiet yet reliable demeanour and a good sense of humour, Simon’s punctuality, efficiency, and ability to build warm relationships with customers have made him a sought-after figure in the pharmacy community. His commitment to accuracy in record-keeping and high standards in all aspects of his work reflect his dedication to excellence.

As Cherry and Simon join the Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy family, their combined expertise promises to elevate the pharmacy’s commitment to providing top-notch healthcare services. Customers can look forward to a blend of traditional wisdom and modern pharmaceutical knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive and personalised approach to health and wellness.

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

In the nascent stages of his business, John Price, founder of a budding handyman enterprise, draws inspiration from his longstanding satisfaction in wielding power tools. With a background rich in diverse experiences and skills acquired in different fields, John decided to channel his knowledge and expertise into a venture that serves the community. His motivation lies in aiding others in turning their property visions into tangible realities.

The key products and services offered by John’s business are sourced primarily through ITM Oregon, covering an array of offerings, including kitchens, fencing, decking, gates, painting (interior/exterior), landscaping, light arborist work, water blasting, and garden maintenance.

Targeting real estate establishments, property managers, retirement homes, holiday campgrounds, and community homeowners, John aims to cater to a broad spectrum of clients. His three key messages include the provision of free, no-obligation quotes, the availability of property care packages spanning three months, six months, and yearly durations, and a commitment to evaluating even the smallest jobs.

Beyond his business endeavours, John’s personal interests and hobbies showcase a multifaceted individual. From playing various musical instruments to gym workouts, rock climbing, drawing, and indulging in literature, John finds joy in a diverse range of activities. His passion for chess, love for cooking, and the desire to share these experiences with others further highlight the depth of his personality.

While John is still exploring the concept of social giving, he expresses interest in its potential impact, having heard about it during his initial NZ Business Connect event. In terms of charity support, John aligns himself with KidsCan, emphasising a commitment to giving back to the community.

Participating in his first networking group, John looks forward to the personal and professional development that can arise from being part of a community greater than himself. As his handyman business takes its initial steps, John Price envisions a future where he not only builds structures but also lasting connections within the community.

Contact John Price

0204 1265 847

rightpricemaintenance2023@gmail.com

Facebook Page

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz