Crush Protection Device incentive programme launched
The launch of the new Safer Rides incentive programme will see farmers encouraged to install crush protection devices (CPDs) on their quad bikes to help reduce harm on farm.
Tainui Group Holdings manages the commercial assets of the Waikato-Tainui people. With a diverse portfolio that includes the likes of hotels in Hamilton and Auckland airport, to an involvement in healthcare, its vision extends out to 50 years.
Its locations in the central North Island range from northeast Hamilton to Taupo. With livestock of 1000 dairy cows, 1100 beef cattle including 300 purebred Hereford cows, and 3000 sheep, this large operation needs to move many staff efficiently.
Following a review of farm transport needs in early 2014 the company decided to switch from quads to side-by-side UTVs powered by diesel engines. This change was driven by the overriding need for safety, and for vehicles better suited to the typical farm tasks – moving people, dogs and general fetching and carrying. They retain one quad style machine for spraying in a forestry block.
Ian Mathieson, rural operations manager, says the change to side-by-sides brought several pluses – a substantial ROPS frame that gave protection in a rollover situation, better weather protection, seatbelts and no need for safety helmets.
The operation runs five units that seat three people, and one dual-seat version that accommodates six people, used for an increasing number of ‘show and tell’ events on the properties.
Each vehicle is specially modified for the company with the addition of high level snorkel air intakes, particularly for the farms in the Taupo area where pumice based tracks are prevalent and dusty; purpose built dog / stock boxes; and windscreens. Each has a lighting kit that includes a flashing beacon used whenever the vehicles are mobile, and an upgrade to give the tyres a more aggressive tread pattern.
Mathieson says the vehicles “have proven very popular with the staff who work long hours, and in inclement conditions. They give me peace of mind that the staff are a lot safer, and not having to store petrol on farm is a huge benefit.”
Fonterra says the US continues to be an important market for New Zealand dairy and the co-op.
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand's trade interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely.
New Zealand's red meat sector says it is disappointed by the United States' decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports.
OPINION: Farmers nationwide will be rubbing their hands with glee at the latest news from the Government about the RMA reforms.
Holstein Friesian NZ and Link Livestock have agreed on a strategic partnership to provide HFNZ members with comprehensive services from one of New Zealand's most respected dairy men.
Rural retailer Farmlands has launched a new casual clothing range available across 42 stores nationwide and through its online store.
OPINION: Is it the beginning of the end for Greenpeace?
OPINION: The good times felt across the dairy sector weren't lost at last week's Beef + Lamb NZ annual meeting.