An anonymous Hamilton-based farmer has supported the call for more competition in the fertiliser industry from renowned Hamilton soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram.
Dr Gordon Rajendram
“Improving soil biology with less environmental impact is a significant step forward. Improving productivity is one of the most important things any nation can do to help its people, so I think competition and new ways are great,” the farmer said.
“Furthermore, with increasing restrictions and tighter compliance standards being put on farmers, you are providing them with a choice and making it sustainable over the long term,” he said.
Dr Gordon Rajendram has been vocal about the critical need for increased competition in the New Zealand fertiliser market. According to Dr Rajendram, the current market dynamics stifle innovation and result in higher costs for farmers, ultimately impacting the agricultural sector’s sustainability and productivity.
The farmer emphasised the intense pressure faced by those in the dairy sector, where compliance with stringent environmental standards is a constant challenge. “Being in dairy, I am aware of how much pressure farmers are under from all sorts of things, so innovation and alternative choices are great for this sector.”
Dr Rajendram’s research underscores the importance of soil biology in enhancing productivity while minimising environmental impact. “By focusing on improving soil health through innovative fertilisers, we can achieve higher yields with less environmental degradation,” he explains.
“More competition in the fertiliser market would lead to lower prices and better products for farmers,” Dr Rajendram asserts. “This is crucial not only for improving soil health but also for meeting the stringent environmental standards imposed on the farming community.”
One of the key issues Dr Rajendram highlights is the limited number of players in the fertiliser industry, which leads to a lack of incentive for companies to innovate and offer environmentally friendly products. With New Zealand’s farmers facing increasing pressures from both regulatory bodies and market forces, the need for cost-effective and sustainable fertiliser options has never been greater.
In conclusion, Dr Rajendram’s call for more competition in the fertiliser market is not just about reducing costs; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation that benefits both farmers and the environment. As New Zealand continues to strive for more sustainable farming practices, embracing competition and encouraging innovation in the fertiliser sector will be key to achieving these goals.
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.
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Hamilton, New Zealand – August 6, 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.”
Left (Agraforum Managing Director Allan Piercy and Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram
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.
Graph 3: Shows the accumulated grass growth across all four farms over the trial period. The treated farms clearly grew significantly more pasture compared to the Untreated farms. Error bars show the 95% confidence interval at each cut, calculated from the ten replicate plots within each farm.
Raw Data
Agraforum- Treated -Farm 1
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Temperature
Cut 1
1958 ± 230
27
73 ± 9
14
Cut 2
1226 ± 90
35
35 ± 3
10
Cut 3
388 ± 23
43
9 ± 1
5
3572 ±294
105
34 ± 3
Agraforum Treated -Farm 2
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1827 ± 129
29
63 ± 4
Cut 2
1180 ± 108
40
30 ±3
Cut 3
307 ± 30
36
9 ±1
3314 ± 241
105
32 ±2
Non Treated Farm-3
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1127 ±121
40
28 ± 3
Cut 2
1173 ±111
53
22 ± 2
Cut 3
2300 ±219
93 (105)
25 (22) ±2
Non Treated Farm – 4
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
429 ± 94
30
14 ± 3
Cut 2
262 ± 65
34
8 ± 2
Cut 3
691 ± 157
64(105)
(7) ± 1
The 95% confidence intervals have been calculated from ten replicate plots for each cut within each farm.
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
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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).
Since childhood, Haley Watts knew she wanted to be a tradie. Initially envisioning a career as a builder, Haley’s path took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic. When the opportunity arose, she picked up a trowel and found her calling in plastering. After completing her apprenticeship and becoming qualified in November 2022, Haley took a leap of faith in January 2024, going self-employed and later establishing her business, Watts Stops, in June 2024.
Watts Stops specialises in providing high-quality plastering services, including Level 3/4/5 finishes, cove installation, and small GIB repairs. Utilising premium GIB products, Haley ensures each job is executed with precision and excellence. Her systematic approach guarantees a flawless finish, while her commitment to offering free measures and quotes, along with valuable advice and referrals to trusted tradespeople, sets her apart in the industry.
Targeting builders, homeowners, new house builders, renovators, and rental agencies, Watts Stops has quickly gained recognition in the Bay of Plenty. Despite being just 21 years old, Haley’s expertise and dedication have earned her repeat business from satisfied clients, notably builders impressed by her work quality. Notably, Haley stands out as the only female-owned and operated plastering business in the region, a testament to her resilience in a male-dominated field.
Driven by core values of equality, respect, honesty, and authenticity, Haley aims to foster a positive and inclusive work environment. Her vision for the future includes training apprentices and expanding her team, reflecting her passion for mentoring and sharing knowledge. In five years, Haley aspires to have a thriving business with a dedicated team and solid contracts, making a lasting impact on the industry. Outside of work, Haley enjoys playing football for Te Puke Football Club and spending time at the beach, embracing a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Experience the enchanting winter landscape with The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs. As the cold snap brings frosty mornings, our well-loved, shaggy horses gather around the big meadow hay bales, their manes and tails adorned with icicles. This season transforms the valley into a picturesque wonderland, perfect for adventurous exploration, whether you’re on horseback or maneuvering through the snow on ATVs and 4×4 motorbikes.
Warm up by the roaring fire in our cosy reception before heading out. The thrill of crunching through fresh snow and the unique challenge of navigating icy trails provide an exhilarating experience. With frozen troughs to tackle and the occasional fun of getting stuck in the snow, each ride promises excitement and adventure. Prepare for playful moments making snow angels and snowball fights, and don’t forget to wrap up warmly, with hand warmers at the ready!
Our High Country Pub Trail horse trek offers a delightful twist to your adventure. Enjoy a stopover at the iconic Cardrona Hotel, renowned for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can indulge in a glass of mulled wine, savouring the warmth and the breathtaking snow-covered vistas. The hotel’s cosy pub and restaurant provide a perfect setting to relax and recharge, offering hearty meals and a selection of fine beverages. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the local charm and hospitality.
For those craving a bit more speed, our fleet of 4×4 motorbikes and ATVs offers a thrilling ride through the snowy terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to these machines, our expert guides ensure a safe and exhilarating journey. The unique combination of stunning landscapes, winter sports, and the rustic charm of the Cardrona Hotel creates an unforgettable experience.
At The Cardrona, winter is not just a season; it’s a celebration of adventure and nature’s beauty. So, bundle up and join us for a day filled with frosty fun, breathtaking views, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re trotting along a snowy trail on horseback or revving through the snow on a motorbike or ATV, the magic of The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs will leave you enchanted and eager for more.
Anna Veale’s journey into the wellness industry began at 25 after working in Human Resources and Training. Driven by a passion for helping others, she boldly left her corporate job to retrain as a personal trainer and sports massage therapist. Despite the concerns of well-meaning friends and family, Anna pursued her new path with determination, eventually working with Premiership Rugby Team Saracens, grassroots football, corporate wellness, and individual clients. Her experiences highlighted the critical role of mindset and goal-setting in achieving success, prompting her transition into Life Coaching. Anna’s holistic approach integrates mental and physical well-being, emphasising the connection between body and mind.
Fresh Coaching, established in 2003, offers a range of services including mental fitness workshops, motivational speaking, coaching, and corporate massage in Tauranga and nearby areas. Anna also provides Ayur soul Breathwork Instructor Facilitator Training and an Athlete Development Series for young athletes aged 14-21. Her target markets include small to medium-sized businesses seeking to enhance employee well-being, high-stress individuals aged 40-55, and sports teams looking to develop their youth athletes.
Anna’s core values of connection, authenticity, learning, compassion, hard work, and courage underpin her work. Her commitment to these values and her extensive experience, including her time with Saracens RFC and her role as an MC for events, distinguish her in the industry. A published author, Anna’s book *Only Human* guides readers towards self-improvement and purposeful living.
Outside of her professional life, Anna enjoys spending time with her family, walking her dog, and engaging in activities such as Pilates, reading, and writing. Her passion for travel, particularly to visit her family in England, reflects her deep appreciation for connection and family.
Anna Veale’s Fresh Coaching offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, combining physical training, life coaching, and holistic health. Her commitment to mental and physical well-being, connection, and purposeful living has established her as a trusted guide for individuals and businesses seeking balance and growth. Through her workshops, coaching, and the insights shared in her book “Only Human,” Anna continues to inspire and empower others to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Recently, I stayed at Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites and was beyond impressed with the entire experience. My room was located in their brand new building and I found it to be both spacious and well-equipped with a plush King-sized bed, kitchenette, workspace, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and all of the essentials that you need for a first class stay.
A highlight for me was the buffet breakfast, which includes both cooked and continental options all for just $20 per person ($15 for children under the age of 12). The waffles and fresh fruit were divine and the complimentary coffee-to-go started my day off just right.
For both the business and leisure traveller, Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites is hard to beat when it comes to location. It is just a short drive from Auckland’s city centre, 13km from Auckland Airport and a brief 10-minute walk to the Newmarket shopping district. For the event and concert goer, ASB Showgrounds, Spark Arena and Eden Park are close by and for those visiting family in Greenlane Hospital, it is a mere 2.5km away. Other nearby hot spots include One Tree Hill, Stardome Observatory and The University of Auckland.
A rarity with Auckland accommodation these days is parking that is onsite and free of charge. Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites provides both of the aforementioned, with parking that is also easy to access and convenient to your room. Such a nice change from the pricey, offsite and/or difficult parking that you typically find in the Auckland city centre.
Last but not least are the onsite meeting facilities, which really stand out. Their conference room features a professional and contemporary style with plenty of seating, tables and a presentation screen. There is also the option to open up the doors to an outdoor area with more seating, tables and a gorgeous garden theme.
Overall, Best Western New Market Inn & Suites ticks all the right boxes and I will definitely book in with them again. Thank you to Andy, Amy and the team for an incredible stay.
Rosemary Quay
7+ Years’ Manager / Minder for Award-Winning Motels
Prepare for a journey like no other! Pacific Resort Hotel Group is excited to announce that the spellbinding children’s book Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga by the acclaimed author Karen McMillan is now available in audiobook, e-book and print-on-demand (POD) formats. This beloved story, which has already captured the hearts of readers since its initial release on July 1, 2023, is set to enchant even more fans with these new, exciting formats.
A Mesmerising Tale
Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga whisks young readers away to the stunning tropical paradise of Rarotonga. Written by the talented New Zealander Karen McMillan, this standalone adventure is brimming with mystery, friendship, and the mesmerising beauty of the South Pacific. Inspired by Karen’s own stay at Pacific Resort Rarotonga, the book promises an unforgettable journey filled with excitement and discovery.
New Formats for Every Adventure Seeker
Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga is now available in audiobook, e-book, and POD format, published by Duckling Publishing. The audiobook, narrated with lively and engaging tones by Cook Island actor Dominic Ona-Ariki, brings the adventure to life, perfect for young listeners and families to enjoy together. The e-book version offers the convenience of digital reading, along with a print-on-demand option for those who love the feel of a book in their hands.
Where to Find Them
Audiobook: Available now on Google Play, Chirp Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Libro.fm, Storytel, Audiobooks.com, and more platforms coming soon.
Pacific Resort Hotel Group’s collaboration with Karen McMillan, dating back to 2022, has been a remarkable journey. As part of this partnership, Pacific Resort Rarotonga shared McMillan’s incredible storytelling with local schools through chapter readings, which received an overwhelmingly positive response. Pacific Resort Rarotonga has donated copies of Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga to eleven primary schools across Rarotonga and Aitutaki, fostering a love for reading and igniting young imaginations.
Celebrate this new and thrilling chapter of Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga by diving into the audiobook, e-book and POD versions today. The adventure awaits!
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About Karen McMillan
Karen McMillan is a celebrated author based in New Zealand, known for her enchanting children’s books, captivating fiction, and award-winning non-fiction. She has written 22 books published in ten countries, showcasing her versatile storytelling skills. Her popular Elastic Island Adventures series is currently being developed into a series of animated movies. Karen’s work often draws inspiration from her personal experiences and travels, creating immersive tales that delight readers of all ages. Karen is available for interviews.
About Pacific Resort Hotel Group
Pacific Resort Hotel Group (PRHG) is a premier destination group in the Cook Islands, offering guests an authentic and luxurious South Pacific experience. The group’s stunning locations and exceptional hospitality make it the perfect setting for inspiring stories like Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga.
Earthworms are crucial to maintaining healthy soil, significantly enhancing soil structure and fertility. Their natural burrowing activity aerates the soil, improving water infiltration and root development. Fascinatingly, earthworms can consume up to 30 times their body weight in soil daily, which they excrete as nutrient-rich castings, helping to enrich the soil with essential nutrients. A vital component in supporting these beneficial organisms is calcium, a nutrient supplied by Profile Fertilisers’ products.
Profile Fertilisers offers Elevate, a premium calcium-based product designed to boost soil calcium levels. Calcium is vital not only for plant health but also for the well-being of earthworms. It helps neutralise soil acidity, creating a more favourable environment for earthworms to thrive. This, in turn, leads to improved soil structure and fertility, supporting the biological processes necessary for sustainable agriculture.
One of the critical roles of earthworms is their ability to combat soil compaction. Compacted soil can restrict root growth and water absorption, negatively impacting plant health. Earthworms alleviate this by creating channels that allow air and water to penetrate deeper into the soil, reducing compaction and promoting a healthier root environment. The use of Elevate by Profile Fertilisers increases the soil’s calcium content, fostering a robust earthworm population that helps mitigate soil compaction.
The beneficial relationship between earthworms and calcium-enriched soil enhances nutrient cycling, water retention, and soil aeration—key factors for healthy crop growth. Consequently, farmers and gardeners can achieve higher yields while reducing their dependence on chemical fertilisers, thus promoting a more sustainable approach to soil management.
Incorporating Profile Fertilisers’ Elevate into soil management strategies is a wise investment in soil health. By supporting the crucial role of earthworms and ensuring adequate calcium levels, Profile Fertilisers helps cultivate a thriving agricultural environment. This not only benefits the ecosystem but also enhances crop productivity, making it a valuable choice for those committed to sustainable farming practices.
Great Spice Otumoetai believes that dining out should be more than just a meal; it should be an experience. Nestled in the heart of Otumoetai, the restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere, where the rich aromas of authentic Indian cuisine welcome guests from the moment they step in.
The diverse menu, crafted by experienced chefs, showcases the best of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes. Whether patrons are fans of spicy curries, succulent tandoori meats, or flavourful vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Each dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients and a blend of hand-ground spices, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience.
Great Spice Otumoetai is the perfect setting for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. The spacious dining area can accommodate both small and large groups, making it an ideal venue for any event. Personalised service is offered to ensure that every detail of the celebration is perfect.
Work gatherings and business lunches are also well-catered for at Great Spice. The quiet, elegant environment is conducive to discussions and presentations, while the lunch specials offer a quick yet delicious option for busy professionals. With a variety of dishes that can be shared, the menu encourages a communal dining experience that’s perfect for team bonding.
Great Spice Otumoetai takes pride in its commitment to exceptional customer service. The friendly staff are always on hand to make recommendations and ensure a seamless dining experience from start to finish.
A selection of fine wines and traditional Indian beverages is available to complement the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For an unforgettable dining experience that combines the best of Indian cuisine with warm, attentive service, visit Great Spice Otumoetai. Book a table today and let them make your next meal special.
