Fieldays’ sustainability credentials getting greener
The New Zealand National Fieldays Society has achieved a major sustainability milestone - reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and reaching the target five years early.
Longveld's Dairy Hot Water (pictured) – a gas water heating system – can save a farmer almost 50% of shed water heating costs.
Attention to the details of dairy shed infrastructure can improve a farm's bottom line.
For example, Longveld's Dairy Hot Water – a gas water heating system – can save a farmer almost 50% of shed water heating costs.
The system quickly heats the water just before it is required, removing the need for multiple water cylinders and dealing to the inconvenience of power shortages, but still providing any amount of hot water 24/7.
The firm's second generation gas system, called Longveld Stack, has all the benefits of gas water heating in a package that also addresses food security, safety and space-saving.
The Stack has a water cylinder and dump tank mounted one over the other in a compact footprint; sizes range from about 1m diameter for a 400L supply to 1.25m diameter for a 1000L supply.
Longveld managing director Pam Roa says the removal of pipework between the cylinder and dump tank, and the ability of the components to be independently rotated, mean the Stack suits any configuration of shed and takes up minimal space.
"Chemical dosing is through a lockable access-way which makes the unit tamper resistant, increasing food security, health and safety, and preventing entry of rodents and birds into the dump tank. The cylinder is fabricated from 2205 stainless which will last the lifetime of your shed."
Greenlea Premier Meats managing director Anthony (Tony) Egan says receiving the officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) honour has been humbling.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.
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