NZW Fellows: Sir Sam Neill Remembered for His Deep Love of New Zealand Wine
Sir Sam Neill made an extraordinary mark on the world, and on the world of New Zealand wine.
Well-known Southland engineering identity Des James recently died after a long illness.
Des started James Engineering Ltd over 25 years ago, producing subsoilers and mole ploughs. The company, which he sold a few years ago though it retains his name, has gone on to become a leader in soil aeration equipment in New Zealand, producing a range of well-engineered, high quality machines.
Des was a stalwart of the field days circuit for many years, travelling to each show to display his latest engineering feat.
Located near Gore, James Engineering products are now sold throughout NZ. The company’s equipment is also exported to a number of countries, testimony to the quality of the machinery and to Des James’ visionary thinking.
An extensive profile of Des James, and his contribution to NZ agriculture, will appear soon in Rural News.
DairyNZ deputy chair Cameron Henderson has been re-appointed unopposed for another term.
Farms across the upper North Island are trialling different pasture mixes as part of a research programme that aims to build greater resilience into farming systems.
Election years are always a concerning time for farmers, according to DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown.
The Ballance Farm Environment Awards are coming to the West Coast of the South Island.
Most dairy regions around the country have had a pretty good season so far says Tracy Brown.

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