increase font size
Dual mower combinations offer increased output and better utilisation of tractors.
Triple 'butterfly' or dual mower combinations have become increasingly popular, offering increased output and better utilisation of tractors that keep gaining horsepower.
Working in straight runs and sufficient overlap between the front and rear mowing units, missed crop is not usually a problem, but during turns and depending on the length of the combination, strips can often be missed, leaving what is often described as a Mohican finish.
Seeking to deliver optimum tracking on turns, reduce losses and offer precision without time-consuming adjustments, Pottinger has launched new automatic curved side shifting on the Novacat F 3100 mower.
This side shift system on the front mower guarantees a perfect overlap with the rear mower and ensures the tractor drives along a clear track free of forage when cornering and working on steep ground. The curved arc of movement means that the entire working width of the cutter bars can be used at all times, offering maximum productivity, unlike competitive solutions that use straightline side shift solutions, which can still leave several centimetres of crop remaining uncut.
In operation, should the tractor drift sideways when cornering or on steep terrain, the rear tyre of the tractor does not run over uncut grass because the mower shifts towards the inner radius of the curve, ensuring that no forage is left uncut, as the front mower overlaps perfectly with the rear unit.
The system works via its ability to detect the changing degrees of overlap between the front mower and the tractor or rear mower(s) and respond automatically. Automatic mode allows the operator to concentrate on their surroundings and driving the tractor, with the added advantage of fewer turning manoeuvres to “tidy up”, meaning there is less damage to the sward and the ground.
An optional ISOBUS automation package controls the side shift of the mower automatically, depending on the turning angle of the tractor or the inclination of the slope to the left or right. This means that the driver’s workload is significantly reduced because no intervention is required.
Twin rotor swathers have become the ‘go-to’ for forming swaths to feed hungry harvesters and balers, however, the design layout often means that crop located between the two rotors is not picked up, turned over or incorporated into the swath formed for subsequent harvesting.
Operating large tractors became more expensive back in March due to the ongoing Strait of Hormuz conflict, meaning contractors had to introduce fuel surcharges and farmers had to adjust their budget forecasts.
Close to the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, Motueka is known for apples, pear and kiwifruit orchards, alongside specialised crops such as hops. Indeed, that specialisation, saw the area being the New Zealand centre of the tobacco growing, until the early 1980s.
Can-Am has introduced its 2027 range of side-by-side vehicles (SSV) and all-terrain vehicles (ATV), including the industry leading Defender, the Maverick R and the hugely capable Outlander ATV, incorporating a host of advancements designed to deliver an exceptional riding experience.
OPINION: Succession and long-term planning are perennial topics because it is perpetually sidelined on busy farms.
National’s much-touted free trade deal with India featured in the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek, Hamilton on Wednesday night.
New Zealand's 2026-27 freshwater fishing season has opened, with anglers encouraged to head to rivers and lakes over the coming days as conditions look favourable across much of the country.
Central Otago District Council (CODC) has voted against a plan to spread treated sewage sludge from Cromwell and Alexandra on farmland near Lauder, a decision Federated Farmers says reflects strong opposition from rural residents.
Pāmu has released its FY26 Integrated Annual Report, reporting a Net Operating Profit of $113 million, more than double the $49 million recorded in FY25.
Meat Industry Association data, released alongside the Red Meat Sector conference in Wellington, shows export value climbing across the US, China, UK and Canada.
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.
OPINION: It seems Canterbury processor Synlait is still in the doldrums.
OPINION: Get offside with New Zealand First leader Winston Peters at your own peril.
