Applications open for 2027 Zanda McDonald Award
Applications are set to open for the 2027 Zanda McDonald Award, a trans-Tasman award recognised for identifying and fast-tracking talented young leaders in agriculture and agribusiness.
Amazone feriliser spreaders, well respected for many years, have won their maker a Machine of the Year Award at the recent Agritechnica show.
The Amazone ZA-TS featured the new Argus Twin lateral technology where each disc uses radar sensors above each unit to monitor the spread pattern, automatically adjusting the delivery if any deviation is detected from the required setting.
Mounted rigidly and with no moving parts, the system is said to be robust and maintenance-free in what is typically a harsh environment. The system will compensate for changes in spread pattern that might be caused by fertiliser quality, start-off speeds or braking, travelling on slopes, or even when spreader vanes are worn.
The technology will operate during border spreading or section control and aims to ensure the most effective use of the fertilisers and easy operation.
Argus Twin can be optioned on all mechanically or hydraulically driven machines in the ZA-TS range and is said to complement other automated technologies such as auto-calibration and tilt-sensing, and inasmuch gives the operator the ability to set the rate and drive off.
The automated systems then check actual delivery rate against the set target. Tilt sensing detects any deviation from the centre of gravity and electric shutter control ensures an even three dimensional spread regardless of terrain.
A seasoned horticulturist has been appointed to deliver the Apple Action Plan, a key initiative of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.
New Zealand's citrus growers have been told to compete on the value built into their fruit rather than the volume they grow.
Hawke's Bay fruit growers are being reminded of the need to prepare for whatever the El Niño weather system may bring in the coming months.
Three and a half years on from when Cyclone Gabrielle hit Hawke's Bay, some orchardists in the region are still receiving counselling to help them deal with the trauma they suffered.
South of the central Hawke’s Bay town of Waipukurau is Taniwha Station – a highly successful 550ha bull beef farming operation.
Beef + Lamb NZ funded research has shown that some simple changes to pasture management could help farmers make better use of rainfall and build resilience before dry conditions hit.
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