Imagine this: the ski fields are bustling with people, and your legs are tired from all the excitement on the slopes. But you’re not ready for the fun to end! So, why not spend your time riding along the hills of Cardrona on horseback or a 4×4 motorbike?
The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs offers the perfect family-friendly activities to make your school holidays unforgettable. Nestled in the stunning Cardrona Valley, this destination isn’t just about skiing; it’s also a haven for those seeking thrilling outdoor experiences like horse trekking and quad biking.
Horse trekking with The Cardrona is a fantastic way to explore the breathtaking alpine scenery. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, our guided treks take you through picturesque landscapes, offering panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and pristine valleys. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-timer, their gentle and well-trained horses ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for everyone. Kids will love the opportunity to connect with these majestic animals while learning about the local flora and fauna from their knowledgeable guides.
For families seeking a bit more adrenaline, quad biking is the ultimate thrill. Their quad biking adventures cater to both beginners and experienced riders, providing an exhilarating way to navigate the rugged terrain. With top-notch safety gear and expert instruction, you and your family can confidently tackle the trails, splash through streams, and ascend to scenic viewpoints. It’s a heart-pounding experience that will have everyone grinning from ear to ear.
Combining these activities with a day off from skiing offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. Start your morning with a serene horse trek, soaking in the tranquillity of the mountains. After lunch, rev up for an afternoon of quad biking, where the action and adventure ramp up. These activities are designed to create lasting memories, giving your family a taste of everything Cardrona has to offer beyond the slopes.
So, this school holiday, trade your ski boots for riding boots and helmets, and discover why horse trekking and quad biking at with The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs are the best family activities to enjoy on a day off from skiing. Adventure awaits!
Left to right: Agraforum Managing Director Allan Piercy and Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hamilton, New Zealand – July 8, 2024 – Recent trials conducted by Dr Gordon Rajendram, a distinguished soil scientist and consultant, have revealed significant improvements in pasture production on Canterbury dairy farms through the use of soil compaction treatments. Dr Rajendram, formerly of AgResearch and MAF, led these trials to assess the impact of soil compaction on pasture growth and to demonstrate the effectiveness of Agraforum’s soil treatments. Dr Rajendram stated that “The trials have shown that addressing soil compaction through targeted treatments can significantly enhance pasture production, providing a sustainable solution for farmers to boost their productivity.”
Pasture production is influenced by five primary factors (1):
1. Soil Moisture: Adequate rainfall or irrigation is crucial, with less than 25% soil moisture negatively impacting growth.
2. Soil Temperature: Grass growth ceases when the soil temperature at 10 cm depth falls to 5-6 degrees Celsius.
3. Soil pH and Nutrients: Thirteen essential elements for plant growth, along with Co, Se, and I for animal health, are vital.
5. Soil Air Space (Air-Filled Porosity or Macroporosity): Compacted soil, with less than 10% air-filled porosity (AFP), significantly reduces pasture production. Each percentage drop below this threshold results in a 10% reduction in yield (based on AgResearch trials)(2).
Since 1995, the Waikato Regional Council has been monitoring soil quality at 150 sites across the Waikato region, focusing on volcanic ash and pumice soils used for dairying, beef, cropping, and forestry. Seven soil quality tests are conducted at each site, including air-filled porosity. The 2019 data revealed that 94% of dairy farming sites had concerning soil quality, with excessively high fertility and soil compaction affecting approximately 85% of the sites. (Waikato Regional Council)(3).
Aim and Methodology
The aim of the trials was to demonstrate that Agraforum’s soil compaction treatment can improve soil aeration and pasture growth. The trials involved:
– Four irrigated Canterbury dairy farms, with two using Agraforum’s treatments for several years and two untreated.
– Monthly pasture measurements using a ride-on mower and digital scales.
– Soil temperature monitoring, starting at 14 degrees Celsius and dropping to 5 degrees Celsius by the third cut.
Each farm had ten plots (2m x 10m), and the trials commenced in the last week of February 2024, with pasture cuts taken over a 105-day autumn period.
Findings
The results were conclusive:
– The two treated farms produced approximately 1,000 kg DM/ha (33%) more dry matter than the best untreated farm.
– Compared to the second untreated and most compacted farm, the treated farms yielded over 2,000 kg DM/ha (80%) more pasture.
Graphs from the study clearly illustrate the superior performance of treated farms in terms of total pasture grown and growth rates, particularly for the first cut.
Graph 1: Shows Total pasture grown for ~ 105 days for the 2 Agraforum Treated and Untreated Farms.
Graph 2: Shows the growth rates for the first cut for the farms. The Treated farms grew twice and 3 times the more pasture than the Untreated farms for the first cut.
Raw Data
Agraforum- Treated -Farm 1
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Temperature
Cut 1
1958
27
73
14
Cut 2
1226
35
35
10
Cut 3
388
43
9
5
3572
105
34
Agraforum Treated -Farm 2
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1827
29
63
Cut 2
1180
40
30
Cut 3
307
36
9
3314
105
32
Non Treated Farm-3
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1127
40
28
Cut 2
1173
53
22
Cut 3
2300
93(105)
25 (22)
Non Treated Farm – 4
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
429
30
14
Cut 2
262
34
8
Cut 3
691
64(105)
11 (7)
Conclusion
These findings highlight the importance of addressing soil compaction to improve pasture production. Agraforum’s soil aeration treatments have proven to be highly effective, offering a practical solution for farmers seeking to enhance productivity and sustainability.
It takes ~ 10 kg of Dry matter of good quality pasture to produce 1 kg milk solid.(4)
Four other field trials alongside Agraforum will be commencing this Spring in the Otago region, so watch this space.
“By improving soil aeration and reducing compaction, we can unlock the full potential of pasture growth, ensuring healthier soils and more productive farms.” – Dr Gordon Rajendram, PhD, Soil Scientist/Consultant
—
About Dr Gordon Rajendram
Dr Gordon Rajendram is a renowned soil scientist and independent consultant with extensive experience in soil fertility, agronomy, and farm environmental consultancy. His expertise has been instrumental in bringing scientific solutions to the agricultural sector, improving productivity and sustainability for farmers across New Zealand.
About Allan Pirecy
Allan Piercy is a seasoned vet who worked in a rural clinic in South Taranaki for 20 years before moving to Mid Canterbury, where he headed a large veterinary practice. His primary focus was on dairy cattle, preventive medicine, and ensuring economic returns for farmers. Recognising that many animal health and production issues stemmed from poor soil nutrition and structure, Allan founded Agraforum New Zealand in 2007, aimed at addressing animal health and production issues through improved soil and crop management. Allan’s guiding principle is, “Correct the cause of a problem, don’t continue to treat the symptoms.”
2. Betteridge K, Drewry J, Mackay A, Singleton P. (2003). Managing treading damage on dairy and beef farms in NZ. Booklet by CRI, AgResearch – Land and Environment Management Group. Research on dairy and beef cattle in Northland, Waikato, Manawatu, and Southland in the 1990s.
3. Waikato Regional Council. Soil quality monitoring data (2019).
As the southern hemisphere braces for winter, escape to the tropical warmth of the Cook Islands with Pacific Resort Hotel Group. Our stunning locations across Rarotonga and Aitutaki offer the perfect antidote to cure your winter blues, providing an idyllic retreat from the cold.
This winter, the Cook Islands are alive with vibrant cultural and community events that make them an exceptional destination. From July to September, the Cook Islands host a series of exciting events that showcase their unique culture and lively spirit.
In July, experience the Te Maeva Nui – 59th Constitution Celebrations from 26th July to 4th August. This grand festival celebrates the nation’s independence through traditional dance, music, and various cultural performances. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the vibrant community spirit.
Warm up this August with the Sunset Sessions by Coco House Bros on the 24th. This event promises an unforgettable evening with stunning sunset views and an electrifying party atmosphere. Coco House Bros, a DJ trio from the Cook Islands, have a long and successful trajectory in the electronic music scene, ensuring an incredible party experience. Be sure to experience this exceptional event that blends stunning scenery with captivating beats.
As September approaches, don’t miss the Round Rarotonga Road Race from 19th to 25th September. This week-long festival of running events attracts athletes from around the
world. The main event is a challenging 31-kilometre run around the island, but there are also shorter races and fun runs, making it accessible for participants of all levels. It’s a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the scenic beauty of Rarotonga.
Beyond these events, the Cook Islands provide an unparalleled setting for relaxation and adventure. You can explore lush interiors with guided nature walks, embark on lagoon cruises, or simply unwind on pristine beaches under the warm sun. The combination of cultural richness and natural beauty makes the Cook Islands an ideal winter escape.
Booking now ensures your winter holiday next year is filled with sunshine, luxury, and unforgettable experiences.
So why wait? Envision yourself in the tropical paradise of the Cook Islands, surrounded by clear waters and vibrant culture. Make your reservations today with Pacific Resort Hotel Group and look forward to a winter warm-up like no other.
Bethells Beach Cottages is thrilled to announce that despite recent roadworks, this beautiful paradise remains as accessible as ever. Although Bethells and or Te Henga roads are temporarily reduced to one lane, they are otherwise open to normal traffic, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted journey to this stunning location. Check Waka Kotahi Journey Planner for any updates. Or just arrive by helicopter!
The beautiful beaches, Bethells and O’Neil’s, along with the tranquil Lake Wainamu, are open as usual, ready to offer visitors the serene escape they deserve. These natural wonders provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation, making Bethells Beach Cottages the ideal destination for the next getaway.
Bethells Beach Cottages offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s needs. Whether seeking a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a solo adventure, the three are each unique. The cottages are designed to provide comfort and tranquillity, while breathing in the healing salt sea air, ensuring a memorable and restful stay.
The cottages are not just a place to stay but an experience with the breathtaking beauty of Auckland’s west coast – 40 minutes drive directly west of Aucklands CBD and airport. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted with the warmth and hospitality that Bethells Beach Cottages is renowned for. Hosts, Trude and John are committed to making each stay as enjoyable as possible, offering personalised service and local insights to enhance the visit.
Experience the magic of Bethells Beach and create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Book on their website now and let the adventure begin!
As winter descends in the Southern Hemisphere, there’s no better time to escape to the tropical paradise of the Cook Islands. With average temperatures hovering around a balmy 26°C during the day and a comfortable 19°C at night, the Cook Islands offer a perfect antidote to the winter blues. Visitors can picture themselves basking in the warmth, surrounded by lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters, a stark contrast to the chilly winter weather back home.
The warm and sunny climate of the Cook Islands makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, hiking, and exploring the island. The comfortable temperatures of the winter months allow visitors to enjoy the full range of activities without the intense heat of summer.
One of the highlights of visiting the Cook Islands during the winter months is the opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales. Whale watching season, which runs from July to October, provides an unforgettable experience as these gentle giants migrate through the Cook Islands’ pristine waters. The thrill of spotting a breaching whale against the backdrop of a stunning sunset is a memory to cherish.
To make the most of your winter getaway, we highly recommend booking in advance, so that you too can enjoy and fully embrace the island’s offerings during this popular time. Checking the [Cook Islands’ event calendar] for upcoming events and experiences that align with travel dates adds another layer of excitement to your holiday.
Pacific Resort Hotel Group embraces the Kia Orana spirit of hospitality, ensuring that every stay is both comfortable and memorable. More about this commitment to hospitality can be found in the [Kia Orana spirit blog].
Whether exploring the vibrant marine life, indulging in exquisite dining, or simply relaxing on the beach, Pacific Resort Hotel Group offers an unparalleled winter escape. For more reasons to choose the Cook Islands as your winter destination, check out this [guide].
A large turnout of Waikato business owners from diverse industries gathered for the NZ Business Connect event in Hamilton last week with the topic being artificial intelligence.
Sponsored by iCLAW and hosted at their premises in Hamilton, the seminar left business owners in no doubt that they need to at least be aware of artificial intelligence and the impact it can have on all aspects of life in the future.
The function’s guest speaker was Professor Albert Bifet, an expert in AI and data science from the University Of Waikato, and Owen Culliney Partner of iCLAW.
left to right: Richard Briggs, iCLAW Chief Executive, Professor Albert Bifet, NZ Business Connect Founder Phillip Quay and iCLAW Partner Owen Culliney
Setting the Stage for AI Innovation
The seminar commenced with an introduction by the MC for the evening, Richard Briggs, Chief Executive at iCLAW.
Phillip Quay, founder of NZ Business Connect, then took the stage to emphasise the seminar’s aim to bridge the gap between technological advancement and legal preparedness, setting the scene for an eye-opening forum.
Professor Albert Bifet: Understanding the Risks and Benefits of AI
Professor Albert Bifet, a globally recognised authority in artificial intelligence, delivered the first keynote address. He began by explaining the fundamentals of AI, discussing what AI is, how it functions, and the mechanics behind ChatGPT.
“There are many ways to talk about AI, but I’d really like to talk about data- driven intelligence. Basically, everything is based on data, so if we don’t have data, we don’t have intelligence,” Professor Bifet said.
Professor Bifet elaborated on how AI can improve efficiency, enhance products and encourage innovation. He highlighted the concept of a “virtual cycle” where better products attract more users, generating more data and leading to even better products. By presenting real-world examples. He demonstrated how businesses could leverage AI to enhance efficiency, make data-driven decisions and create innovative products and services.
Additionally, Professor Bifet addressed the ethical considerations of AI, stressing the need for transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems. He underlined the importance of developing AI technologies that are not only advanced but also ethically sound and beneficial to society as a whole.
Owen Culliney: Navigating the Legal Landscape
Following Professor Bifet’s inspiring presentation, Owen Culliney took the stage to provide a legal perspective on AI. Culliney’s presentation focused on the impact of AI on the legal profession and all businesses. He covered three main topics: how the legal industry has adapted to AI, the legal aspects of AI, and ownership of AI-generated material.
Mr Culliney emphasised the significant opportunities AI presents to the law profession, despite initial resistance to technological change. He discussed how iCLAW has implemented AI tools, with strict guidelines to protect client confidentiality. Regarding the ownership of AI-generated material, Culliney noted that New Zealand’s approach allows the person who inputs the prompt into the AI system to own the generated work. He acknowledged that this area of law is still evolving and will likely be tested and refined in the future.
Photo Credit: Maruchel Snyman, shootographyza
A Dynamic Q&A Session
The seminar concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where attendees engaged directly with the speakers. Questions ranged from the practical implementation of AI in small businesses to the ethical dilemmas posed by autonomous systems. Both Professor Bifet and Mr Culliney provided insightful answers, offering practical advice and thoughtful perspectives.
Networking and Future Collaborations
As the event drew to a close, attendees mingled and networked, discussing potential collaborations and sharing their experiences. The seminar not only provided valuable knowledge but also fostered a sense of community among professionals passionate about AI and its implications.
Business Card Draw
The winner of the business card draw was IP Strategist, Kate Wilson. She won a ‘Meet Thy Neighbour’ $500 voucher to spend locally.
Conclusion
The NZ Business Connect AI Seminar, sponsored by iCLAW, was a resounding success. It equipped attendees with a deeper understanding of AI technologies and the legal frameworks necessary to navigate this rapidly evolving field. With keynote speeches from Professor Albert Bifet and Owen Culliney, the event underscored the critical interplay between technological innovation and legal compliance, paving the way for a future where businesses can harness the full potential of AI responsibly and ethically.
Experts have warned for years that a crucial technology at the center of global communications is dangerously exposed. Recent evidence shows this technology has been used to spy on individuals both globally and in New Zealand. Merge Communications with Samsung Knox provides a robust solution to help protect against these threats.
Kevin Briggs, an official at America’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, reported numerous incidents of unauthorised attempts to steal location data, monitor voice and text messages, and deliver spyware. This technology, known as Signalling System 7 (SS7) and its newer counterpart, Diameter, were developed decades ago for call management but are now widely exploited due to security weaknesses.
SS7 has been exploited for various malicious activities, such as spying on political figures and intercepting SMS authentication codes to steal money. More recently, hackers have eavesdropped on dissidents and stolen sensitive data for commercial gain through SS7 anomalies, further exposing the level of threat.
While some mobile operators are phasing out SS7, the protocol remains prevalent globally, including in New Zealand, where operators still use it for international roaming. Merge Communications with Samsung Knox offers a level of protection for mobile devices, providing enhanced security measures against these vulnerabilities. Samsung Knox is a multi-layered security platform, offering protection for mobile devices against a wide range of cyber threats. It creates containers and safe areas to protect data, significantly reducing the chances of successful attacks.
Users can protect themselves to some extent with end-to-end encrypted apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or iMessage, though these can also be compromised by sophisticated spyware. In some cases, devices can be infected without the user even realising it. The threat is real and pervasive; agencies worldwide have been equipped with advanced spyware by a network of surveillance suppliers.
To mitigate these risks, New Zealand’s telecom operators are continually enhancing network security, updating software, and conducting regular penetration tests. Merge Communications, through Samsung Knox, is leading the charge against spyware on mobile devices. Although no mobile device management (MDM) solution can fully prevent a cyber-attack, Samsung Knox reduces the likelihood of such attacks and can safeguard critical data.
Spyware and similar surveillance software frequently targets high-value individuals, but will start extending into the wider population, and the implications for privacy and security are profound and affect everyone in society.
It is imperative to address these vulnerabilities to ensure a safer communication network for all, providing peace of mind in an increasingly interconnected world. With the right measures, we can significantly reduce these threats and protect our communications infrastructure. Remember, the device you have may already be infected without your knowledge, making it crucial to implement robust security solutions like Samsung Knox.
Disclaimer: Samsung has developed a security solution called Knox that is built into their mobile devices. Data that you store in Knox is protected by military-grade encryption. For more details please visit: https://www.samsungknox.com/en/knox-platform/knox-certifications.
Great Spice Otumoetai is a locally owned and operated gem in the heart of Tauranga, New Zealand. Chef Khem Chandra Aryal, alongside his wife Ganga Aryal, brings over 20 years of experience in Indian cuisine to create a dining experience that combines tradition, passion, and community spirit. The journey to establishing Great Spice Otumoetai is one of dedication, hard work, and a deep-seated desire to make people happy through food and exceptional service.
History and Inspiration
The inspiration behind Great Spice Otumoetai stems from Khem’s lifelong dream of owning his own restaurant. After years of honing his skills in various Indian cuisine restaurants, Khem wanted to bring his vision to life, focusing on creating a place where guests could experience authentic Indian flavours in a welcoming environment. His passion for cooking and his joy in seeing satisfied smiles on his customers’ faces drive the heart of the restaurant.
Business Beginnings
Khem’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2012 when he opened his first restaurant under a different brand in Palmerston North. This venture provided invaluable experience and insights into the restaurant business. Building on this foundation, Khem and Ganga rebranded to Great Spice in 2015. Their commitment to quality food and excellent service quickly earned them a loyal customer base and numerous accolades.
Key Products and Services
Great Spice Otumoetai prides itself on offering a diverse menu of authentic Indian dishes at reasonable prices, all in a great location. The restaurant’s success is attributed to several factors:
Guest Experience: A focus on continuously improving the dining experience for all guests.
Owner Involvement: Khem and Ganga’s active participation ensures high standards.
Dedicated Staff: A team committed to maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, and quality service.
Positive Reviews: Excellent customer feedback highlights their success.
Convenient Services: Easy online takeaway delivery, a user-friendly website, and efficient restaurant systems enhance customer convenience.
Target Markets
Great Spice Otumoetai serves a diverse clientele, including:
Local Residents: Aged 20-70, seeking regular, authentic Indian dining and takeaway options.
Business and Corporate Groups: Offering a perfect setting for business lunches and corporate events.
Tourists and Visitors: Providing a taste of authentic Indian cuisine to travellers.
Rest Home Groups: Catering to group lunches with a focus on quality and accessibility.
From its humble beginnings to becoming a beloved local favourite, Great Spice Otumoetai continues to thrive on Khem and Ganga Aryal’s unwavering dedication to bringing joy through food and service. Visit Great Spice Otumoetai to experience the passion and tradition that define their culinary journey.
Lot 1 on Monument Road is an exceptional lifestyle property in Mangatangi, offering 8000m² of prime rural land. This vacant residential section is ideally situated to provide a peaceful retreat while still being accessible to necessary amenities. The property is set in a picturesque rural landscape, characterised by its proximity to productive dairy farms and lifestyle blocks, ensuring a balance of seclusion and community. With one building site already consented, this property presents a great development opportunity. The flat contour and manageable size make it an excellent choice for building a bespoke rural home. The potential to create a unique and personalised living space in a tranquil environment is immense.
Lot 2
10 Miller Road (Lot 2), Mangatangi
Nestled in the serene rural setting of Mangatangi, Lot 2 on Miller Road offers an expansive 1.33-hectare vacant section perfect for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle property. This rear lot, accessed off Miller Road, boasts a mainly flat, irregularly shaped terrain, providing multiple potential building sites. The property already has one building site consented, making it a great development opportunity. The rural residential zoning ensures a peaceful environment surrounded by economic dairy units and grazing properties, interspersed with rural lifestyle blocks. The large size and irregular shape of the lot offer numerous possibilities for creative landscaping and building, allowing you to craft a truly bespoke rural retreat.
The market value for both of these sections is estimated at $630,000, inclusive of GST, reflecting the area’s desirable location and the growing interest in lifestyle properties. No convenant.
Key Location Highlights
Both properties are well-connected with essential services, including electricity and rural mail delivery, making them convenient choices for future homes. Their strategic locations offer easy access to local attractions and amenities:
– Miranda: 8 minutes
– Local School: 1 minute
– Thames: 40 minutes
– Coromandel: 1 hour 36 minutes
– Auckland: 1 hour
– Hamilton: 1 hour 5 minutes
Market Insights and Opportunities
The rural lifestyle property market in the Waikato District has seen steady demand, with lifestyle property sales showing resilience. According to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), lifestyle property sales have increased by 4.3% in the past three months compared to the previous period. This trend highlights the growing appeal of rural living, driven by the desire for space, tranquillity, and a closer connection to nature.
Both sections, with their competitive pricing and prime locations, are expected to attract significant interest. Whether you are looking to build a family home or invest in a valuable piece of real estate, these properties in Mangatangi offer a unique blend of rural charm and modern convenience. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to secure a slice of the idyllic Waikato countryside and create a personalised haven tailored to your lifestyle needs.
[Hamilton, New Zealand] – One of New Zealand’s most renowned experts in soil fertility, Dr Gordon Rajendram, today issued an urgent call for greater competition and innovation within New Zealand’s fertiliser industry to bring product prices down.
Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram
Dr Rajendram, who is a prominent speaker at rural industry forums throughout New Zealand, says his observations highlight a severe lack of competition leading to ongoing high fertiliser prices, stifled innovation, and a worrying lack of change in the fertiliser sector.
“The fertiliser market in New Zealand is dominated by a few key players, resulting in limited choices for consumers and consistently high prices,” says Dr Rajendram. “This monopoly-like situation sharpens awareness but also makes companies lazy, relying on their established market positions rather than striving for improvement. Many of these companies are selling the same products they did in the 1950s, with little to no innovation. Super phosphate, has done more for New Zealand’s economy than any politician ever has, but it’s time for change.”
The current market shows fertiliser prices still above pre-COVID levels, with super phosphate approximately at $425 per tonne and urea at $795 per tonne. Farmers are now starting to look for alternatives due to these high prices and question marks over environmental aspects of traditional fertiliser products.
“In the past, it was more about growing as much pasture as possible. Now, it’s also important to ensure whatever you apply doesn’t run off and leach, causing environmental issues,” adds Dr Rajendram. This shift in focus from merely growing pasture or crops to keeping nutrients in the soil requires more efficient, low phosphate, and slow-release fertilisers that are less water soluble.
“A prime example of the benefits of competition can be seen in the dairy industry, where the presence of multiple companies has led to significant advancements in product quality and efficiency.
“The fertiliser industry could learn a lot from this. Innovation is essential for addressing the evolving needs of modern agriculture, particularly in a country like New Zealand, where farming is a cornerstone of the economy, Dr Rajendram said.
“Currently, the focus seems to be on maintaining the status quo but Rajendram says that the agricultural sector requires fertilisers that are not only effective but also environmentally sustainable. Without competition, there is little incentive for any company to move forward and innovate,” he said.
Dr Rajendram emphasises the need for urgent industry transformation to prevent it from becoming a sunset industry. “Competition sharpens everyone’s prices and forces companies to offer better products,” he says.
“In conclusion, the New Zealand fertiliser industry needs a shake-up. More competition will lead to better products, fairer prices, and ultimately, a stronger agricultural sector. It’s time for fertiliser companies to stop resting on their laurels and start driving the innovation that our farmers need,” Dr Rajendram says.
Dr Gordon Rajendram is a distinguished independent soil scientist with extensive experience in the agricultural sector. His work focuses on improving soil health and sustainability practices in farming, making him a respected voice in the industry.
