Business as usual, with key discussions ahead
OPINION: It will take some time before we get any specific detail about how the policy changes signaled by the new Government will impact us here in Canterbury.
THE MASSEY Ferguson 5400 series tractors released in 2011 have proved to be a popular choice among New Zealand farmers, says New Zealand manager for Massey Ferguson, Peter Scott.
The range has strengthened Massey Ferguson's position in the livestock and mixed farming tractor sectors with the addition of four, 82hp to 107hp models that join the best-selling MF 5400 Series.
"When we released the range, the inquiry was great with many customers wanting to know more about the new workhorse tractors," says Scott.
"We have consistently been taking orders for the new models as customers become aware of how well suited the new MF5400 series is to their requirements."
The four MF 5400 Series tractors have taken successful features, such as the Dyna-4 transmission, and re-engineered them to suit precisely the specific customer requirements for this size and type of tractor.
This means MF 5400 Series models offer the combination of manoeuvrability, stability, visibility and access linked to agile performance in the yard, on the road and in the field.
The MF 5400 Series has set the benchmark as the best mixed farming, loader and livestock tractors on the market. The four models, build on this success by introducing the highest levels of technology to this important sector, he says.
The new MF 5400 Series features four models from 82hp to 107hp (max. power), compact, versatile with uncompromising features designed specifically for this sector.
It boasts the latest Perkins 4.4 litre, four cylinder 1104D-44T mechanical injection engine with high visibility bonnet with no compromise cooling performance.
New transaxle specifically developed for these tractors offer optimised and flexible Dyna-4 transmission perfected for use in sub 110hp tractors, unique front axle support housing, optional 1.8t integrated front linkage system (IFLS) , rear axle, designed exclusively for these tractors and rear linkage optimised for tractor size with Electronic Linkage Control.
The MF 5400 has high performance front axle, electro-hydraulic PTO speed selection with 540/540E/1,000 speeds and a spacious cab with suspension option.
The Perkins 4.4 L engines are renowned for their reliability and economy. The modern design allows maximum power at just 2,000rpm, reducing fuel consumption as well as cutting noise and wear. The punchy engines develop impressive torque figures at just 1,400rpm, which means the tractors can operate at lower engine speeds, which cuts fuel consumption and lowers noise.
The engines are encased in a sleek, new high visibility bonnet, again designed especially for these tractors. This provides an unrivalled view forward and to the sides and its shape does not compromise the cooling efficiency in any way. The one piece unit pivots open, providing excellent access for fuss-free servicing.
Independent Waikato milk processor Tatua has set another new record for conventional farmgate milk price paid to New Zealand farmers.
OPINION: Environment Canterbury's (ECan) decision recently to declare a so-called “nitrate emergency” is laughable.
An early adopter of a 10-in-7 variable milking regime, the Lincoln University Demonstration Dairy Farm (LUDF) is tweaking the system this season in search of further boosting farm performance and profitability.
The dairy sector is in a relatively stable position, with strong milk price payout forecasts continuing to offset ongoing high farm costs, according to DairyNZ.
A shameless political stunt is how Federated Farmers is describing the Canterbury Regional Council decision to declare “a nitrate emergency” on the back of its latest annual groundwater quality survey.
Fonterra has delivered a fifth straight year of record organic milk price for farmer suppliers.
OPINION: Dairy industry players are also falling by the wayside as the economic downturn bites around the country.
OPINION: Methane Science Accord, a farmer-led organisation advocating for zero tax on ruminant methane, will be quietly celebrating its first…