Amazone extends hoe range
With many European manufacturers releasing mechanical weeding systems to counter the backlash around the use and possible banning of agrochemicals, Amazone has added a new model to its Venterra mechanical hoe range.
With the price of fertiliser still significantly higher than 2024, there is an increased onus on ensuring its spread accurately at the correct rate.
German manufacturer Amazone looks to have amalgamated all its previously released accuracy enhancing features to introduce of a new high end, flagship spreader.
Developed over the last six years, the ZG-TS 01 AutoSpread, features additional technology alongside new software, meaning it can automatically self-adjust, which Amazone claims is an industry first.
Earlier bolt-on features such as the WindControl-the crosswind measuring system, the Border TS central border deflector and the ArgusTwin radar system that monitors the fertiliser prill trajectory, are joined by additional radar sensors at the rear of the machine. These serve to monitor the distance the fertiliser is travelling behind the machine, with the combined information used to alter the drop point, application rate and speed of each of the hydraulically powered disc to maintain accurate application and coverage.
As part of the standard specification of the AutoSpread machine, Curve Control alters the left- and right-hand side of the spread area as the tractor “tracks” corners on the headland tramline.
In addition to the upgrade in technology and accuracy, the 4,200- and 5,000-litre capacity spreaders also get a fresh look, incorporating mudguards that also double up as storage lockers for tools, fittings and the EasyCheck calibration mats.
According to Zespri's November forecast for the 2025/26 season, returns are likely to be up for all fruit groups compared to the last forecast in August.
Next month, wool training will reach one of New Zealand's most remote communities, the Chatham Islands - bringing hands-on skills and industry connection to locals eager to step into the wool harvesting sector.
Farmers' health and wellbeing will take centre stage with a new hub at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo.
Dannevirke farmer Dan Billing has been announced as the new national chair of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's (B+LNZ) Farmer Council.
A Mid Canterbury beef farm has unlocked a new market for its products thanks to its unusual beef breed, and an award-winning pie taking the district by storm.
The number of beef straws going into dairy cows is on the increase, according to LIC beef genetics product lead Paul Charteris.