Two new Irish machines set for Fieldays debut
Released in Europe in 2024 and having just arrived in time for National Fieldays, Giltrap Agrizone will be exhibiting two new machines from Irish manufacturer Malone Farm Machinery.
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.
Australian dairy farmers supplying Fonterra are getting an opening weighted average milk price of A$8.60/kgMS for the new season or around NZ$9.26/kgMS - NZ74c less than New Zealand suppliers, based on the current exchange rate.
Taranaki veterinarian Dr Rob Mills is the new president of New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA).
Input costs can make or break a season for farmers and electricity is one of the largest expenses.
Zespri says global sales for the 2024-25 season topped $5 billion on the back of strong demand and market returns.
Massey University is returning to the Fieldays with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity.
Newly appointed National Fieldays chief executive Richard Lindroos says his team is ready, excited and looking forward to delivering the four-day event next month.
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