Kuhn Group Sales Dip 9% in 2025 but Orders Signal Recovery
Kuhn Group recorded net sales of NZ$2.27 billion in 2025, finishing around 9% lower than in 2024.
Harvesting specialist Kuhn has introduced a new disc mower/conditioner with swath grouper, the FC 9330 RA.
Ensuring development focused on limiting the weight and stress on tractor components, engineers achieved these objectives by introducing a new frame and support arm concept for the grouper units. This resulted in less weight, a more compact layout and a centre of gravity reduced by 15cm. Much of the weight saving was achieved by manufacturing the conveyor belt frames from aluminium.
The Lift Control suspension, adjustable in the cab, is combined with the non-stop release device for effective machine protection.
Designed to suit a variety of pick-up sizes found on various harvesting equipment: to adapt the swath delivery width between 1.80m and 3.60m, from the cab. This allows swath delivery to suit narrower round balers, wider large square balers and the largest harvesters.
Each of two rear mowing units uses the 8-disc / 3.5 metre Optidisc Elite cutter bar that for optimal overlap, particularly in bends or on slopes, is suited to combine with a FC 3125 F front mower conditioner, delivering a 42cm overlap.
Conditioning is easily adjusted to suit forage and weather conditions using two lever-controlled speeds, while a transfer plate, placed between the mowing unit and the belts, prevents any crop loss.
The groupers’ conveyor belts are driven by twin pumps supplied from a hydraulic reservoir tank integrated into the central frame. Other hydraulic functions, including lifting, lowering, conveyor positioning and folding use a hydraulic connection from the tractor. The design eliminates overheating and increases the responsiveness of machine functions.
Forage can be delivered in a swath, flat or with a single conveyor belt in use, for example, when mowing the paddocks headland.
Machine functions can be monitored and controlled using a tractor’s ISOBUS terminal or the CCI 800 or 1200 control boxes, with most common actions controlled by the CCI A3 joystick handle. An integrated inclinometer can automatically control the belt speed according to the slopes. LED work lights are part of the basic equipment of the machine, while for increased space and easier access to the rear of the tractor, the machine’s front guards automatically retract rearward when placed in the folded position.
www.kuhn.co.nz
Cyclone Vaianu is continuing its track south towards the Bay of Plenty, bringing with it destructive winds, heavy rain, and large swells, says Metservice.
While Cyclone Vaianu remains off the East Coast of New Zealand, the Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group says impacts have been felt overnight.
A Local State of Emergency has been declared for the Waikato for a period of seven days as the region prepares for Cyclone Vaianu to hit the area.
Farmers will get an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in sheep genetics at the Sheep Breeder Forum this May.
Specialist horticulture and viticulture weather forecasters Metris says the incoming Cyclone Vaianu is likely to impact growers across the country.
A group of old Otago uni mates with a love of South Island back-country have gone the lengths of Waiau Toa Clarence from source to sea. Tim Fulton, who joined the group in the final fun to the river mouth, tells their story.