Vapormatic joins JD's parts range
John Deere has expanded its repair and replacement part offerings, with the Vapormatic brand officially added to its range of ‘Alternative Parts’ in New Zealand.
While tractor deliveries for the year-to-date April 2023 showing a 28% reduction compared to the same period in 2022 seems dramatic, a closer look provides a clearer picture into the market dynamics.
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.”
More bull breeders are using genetic tools according to the latest research.
Females are dominating the veterinary profession worldwide and many farmers are welcoming this change in the composition of the profession, says Britain's Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Professor Christine Middlemiss.
A five-year randomised survey of herbicide resistance on New Zealand arable farms has found widespread high levels of resistance - with 71% of farms affected in the worst-hit region - South Canterbury.
OPINION: The recent Federated Farmers / Rabobank 2024 Farming Salaries Report revealed strong growth in farm salaries over the past two years.
The low unemployment environment is one of the key factors driving on-farm salaries higher over the past 24 months, says Rabobank general manager for country banking Bruce Weir.
Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.