Carrfields expands South Island footprint with Agricentre South Kubota dealership acquisition
Two of the South Island’s agricultural machinery dealers are undertaking strategic changes designed to deliver even greater specialist support to farmers.
Kubota's new RTV 520 utility vehicle comes with a bold new look, increased suspension and an increase in engine capacity.
Kubota, which is gaining traction in the agricultural sector with an ever-broadening portfolio, has announced some additions for autumn.
The recently introduced M5-1 ROPS Series, available in standard or narrow configurations, should prove useful to those enterprises with height restrictions or a need to operate in enclosed spaces or on uneven surfaces.
It is powered by a 3.8 litre engine, offering 93 or 103hp, at an engine speed of 2,400rpm. The tractor has synchronised, six-speed transmission with three ranges and offering 36 speeds, which is said to offer a speed for any eventuality.
The operator station sees a flat floor layout, making access and dismounting easy. Meanwhile, the shorter stance of the tractor allows its driver to keep in close contact with colleagues who might be working close by, according to GM marketing for Australia and New Zealand, Malcolm Owens.
Another new addition to the Kubota range is the RTV 520 Utility vehicle. This machine draws on the tried and tested RTV 500, with a bold new look, increased suspension travel via a 5-link rear suspension package and an increase in engine capacity.
Featuring a hydrostatic transmission, the vehicle benefits from precise speed control and engine-braking while travelling on downhill inclines. Offering a choice of 2WD, 4WD and difflock, the new model uses a new water-cooled, twin cylinder engine. With output of 17.4hp, the new machine is as quiet as the previous model, with noise levels at the operator station kept to 83dBA.
Elsewhere in the range is the R540 compact wheeled loader, which replaces the Ro65 mode. The new model includes new features such as a redesigned cabin, multifunction joystick and increased load.
Its designers have paid special attention to operator comfort and machine stability and its 51hp engine meets Tier 4 final emission regulations.
"Additional space and a simple design helps to deliver better overall visibility in both the cabin and canopy formats," Owens adds. "While the new pilot-controlled joystick and its integrated auxiliary valve switch helps create a smoother operational experience."
New Zealand's new Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, Horowhenua dairy farmer, company director and former Minister of Agriculture, Nathan Guy says the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India is a good deal for the country.
New figures show dairy farmers are not only holding on to their international workforce, but are also supporting those staff to step into higher-skilled roles on farm.
New tractor deliveries for 2025 jumped 10% compared to the previous year, a reflection of the positive primary sector outlook, according to the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA).
Entries have opened for two awards in the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) programme, aimed at helping young farmers progress to farm ownership.
Federated Farmers has confirmed interim chief executive Mike Siermans to the role.
Registrations are now open for the 2026 Ruralco Golf Classic, with all proceeds from the event set to support the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust.

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