Claas Balers Turn 30
Claas built its first variable chamber round baler - the Variant 100 - in 1996, so 2026 marks 30 years and the fifth generation of the Variant name, recently complemented by the new Cerex Series introduced in 2025.
For the same period in 2022, tractor deliveries were greatly inflated from the combined effects of manufacturing delays and global supply chain constraints. That means a large numbers of tractors were delivered 3 to 6 months later than originally intended.
Geographically, the North and South Islands have seen a marked difference in deliveries. The North has been affected by an extremely unsettled summer and the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle, resulting in a reduction of 32% in tractor deliveries. It has also seen the typically higher volumes of orchard and horticulture tractors included in the yearly numbers severely constrained.
In the South, the overall reduction in deliveries has tracked to a more modest 18%. Most southern regions have experienced favourable summer weather patterns, delivering good crop growth and yields.
Overall, most ag dealerships are currently reporting strong demand for spring deliveries of tractors and equipment. This means that despite the year-to-date reduction, the market is tracking above average and the overall result for the year is still looking favourable.
TAMA president Kyle Baxter reports that imports of ag equipment are still sitting at 8 to 12 months lead times. He says many member companies are planning beyond 2023 and striving to confirm production slots, for arrivals to NZ landing in early-mid 2024, whichever way the market trends.
“I’m seeing and hearing first-hand that the flow of equipment into New Zealand has increased, which in turns provides customers with product from dealer stock,” Baxter explains. “This offers a welcome relief for customers who are requiring new equipment to go to work straight away.”
