Kubota to start field testing robotic tractor
Kubota has announced plans to start field testing the autonomous hydrogen powered fuel cell tractor it recently unveiled at Expo 25 in Osaka Japan.
There will be plenty to see, do and experience at this year's Northland Field Days on March 3-5, at Dargaville.
There will be plenty to see, do and experience at this year's Northland Field Days on March 3-5, at Dargaville.
With grounds almost booked to capacity and exhibitors coming from as far afield as Australia, the organisers predict something for everybody at Northland's biggest annual outdoor event.
About 90% of the sites were booked by last December, says event coordinator Meagan Edmonds. And there are lots of interesting products on offer.
North Auckland automotive dealership Winger motors will attend for the first time. General sales manager Jason MacDonald sees it is a great way to present buyers with never-before-seen 2016 Chrysler Jeeps and Dodge SUVs and commercial vehicles.
The event's reach made the decision to attend a no-brainer, he says. "We have just taken over New Zealand's northernmost franchise for Jeep and the field days will connect us with a wide range of customers."
Another company looking to re-enter the Northland market is Worldwide Sires.
General manager Hank Lina says the company has rebranded and is on target to offer farmers a source of genetic material free from the potential of inbreeding.
"We are able to draw on the widest range of genetic material in the world so there is no chance for any inbreeding with the herd," Lina explains "We're looking forward to getting into Northland."
Farmers looking for larger equipment will have plenty to choose from: new Massey Ferguson and Kubota tractors will be on show.
AGCO New Zealand manager Peter Scott plans to show the 90-100hp Massey Ferguson 5700 range of tractors. He expects the non-cab range to be popular due to its specifications and value for money.
"This combination will appeal to customers looking for a tractor loader package with good hydraulic performance, ample power and ease of use," he says.
Free parking is available close to the showground and regular public transport runs to and from.
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.

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