John Deere launches Harvest Profit in NZ & Australia
Recently released in Australia and New Zealand by John Deere, a unique new software platform offers near real time profitability monitoring across crops and individual paddocks.
John Deere claims its 6R tractor series will deliver more power, precision agriculture technology and manoeuvrability to NZ farmers.
The John Deere 6R will deliver more power, precision agriculture technology and manoeuverability to New Zealand farmers, according to the company’s Australia/New Zealand production system manager, Steph Gersekowski.
She says the complete 6R stable is fitted with John Deere’s data collection network, JDLink, that is available to farmers with no ongoing costs and will help to power a new wave of precision across the industry.
“With JDLink now readily available, more businesses will have access to data and insights to drive productivity and efficiency improvements,” Gersekowski explains. “While users can also monitor a machine’s location is and gain insights to its performance from any location.”
A further benefit is the suite of online tools delivered through Connected Support to allow remote diagnostics and back up support from local dealerships.
In November last year, four new models were added to the 6R series, including the 6R 140, 6R 150, 6R 165 and 6R 185. The lineup features increased power capacity on the smaller frame models, while the Hydraulic IPM feature provides an extra 20 to 40 horsepower for hydraulic applications.
All 6R tractors can be enhanced with the addition of an optional loader technology package specifically developed to do more work in less time. The package includes a reconfigurable loader joystick with an integrated F/R shuttle, to set preferences and easily manage the direction of the tractor at the touch of a button.
“When equipped with the optional large hydraulic pump, cycle times are improved compared to previous models and help time-poor operators,” Gersekowski adds.
The loader package also includes a dynamic weighing system (DWS), level to horizon (LTH) and return to position (RTP) features. DWS can weigh loads on the go, so removes the need to stop the tractor, as required with static weighing systems, while also removing the need for weigh systems on feeder wagons.
The new majority owner of meat company Alliance has no plans to close any processing plants. Instead, Dawn Meats plans to extract more value from Alliance's existing footprint.
Westpac NZ has announced new initiatives that aim to give customers more options to do their banking in person.
New Zealand red meat exports experienced a 29% increase year-on-year in September, according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
The head of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) biosecurity operation, Stuart Anderson, has defended the cost and the need for a Plant Healht and Environment Laboratory (PHEL) being built in Auckland.
BNZ says its new initiative, helping make the first step to farm ownership or sharemilking a little easier, is being well received by customers and rural professionals.
The head of Fonterra's R&D facility in Palmerston North is set to literally cross the road and become the new vice chancellor at Massey University.

OPINION: The Greens have taken the high moral ground on the Palestine issue and been leading political agitators in related…
One of the most galling aspects of the tariffs whacked on our farm exports to the US is the fact…