Halter goes global, but NZ farmers remain core to innovation
Virtual fencing company Halter is going global but for founder Craig Piggott, New Zealand farmers will always remain their main partners.
A new energiser from Datamars Speedrite range claims to be the first “smart” electric fence unit, alongside an output of 46 joules.
The aptly named Speedrite 46R is said to be powerful enough to energise up to 460kms of electric fencing or “securing” a typical 260ha property. The unit gains its smart credentials by offering Wi-fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users out on the farm to switch the unit on or off remotely to deal with faults, or check status and output at any time via an app on a smart device or phone.
In the event of a power outage, the unit has a stored capacity of 68 joules, allowing security until power is restored. If and earthing issue should occur because of objects touching a live wire, output is automatically reduced to lower levels. Expect to pay a 5% premium over typical standard energisers in the range
Last month's Agritechnica event led to a wide group of manufacturers celebrating successes when the 2026 Tractor of the Year Competition winners, selected by a panel of European journalists, were announced in Hanover Germany.
According to the latest Federated Farmers banking survey, farmers are more satisfied with their bank and less under pressure, however, the sector is well short of confidence levels seen last decade.
Farmer confidence has taken a slight dip according to the final Rabobank rural confidence survey for the year.
Former Agriculture Minister and Otaki farmer Nathan Guy has been appointed New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy (SATE).
Alliance Group has commissioned a new heat pump system at its Mataura processing plant in Southland.
Fonterra has slashed another 50c off its milk price forecast as global milk flows shows no sign of easing.