Bigfoot comes up trumps
Call them what you will, but UTV’s, side by sides or ROV’s have certainly found a place in much of New Zealand’s rural sector.
Kawasaki's recently introduced Pro-MX UTV sits between the larger, three-seater Mule Pro-FX and the compact Mule-SX.
The new machine’s vital statistics are 2795mm long and 1525mm wide with a wheelbase of 2005mm.
Power is from a single-cylinder engine of 700cc that pumps out 45hp and 58Nm torque, with electronic injection. CVT transmission offers smooth response and predictable engine braking. Electrically selected 2 or 4WD is complemented by a dual-mode rear differential to help in sticky condition or protect turf – dependent on the mode selected.
Its 25-inch tyres are mounted on 12-inch rims offering good ground clearance, with front and rear disc brakes bringing things to a halt.
Electric power steering offers excellent feedback and helps drivers achieve a tight 4.2m turning radius.
A bench seat, with obligatory seat belts, provides ample room and security for the driver and a passenger. Neat half doors keep limbs inside and dirt and mud out of the cabin area.
At the rear of the machine, a large cargo bed carries 317kg and gas struts assist tipping. Also, the Pro-MX offers a useful 680kg of towing capacity via a standard 2-inch receiver.
Watch out for an in-depth review and user opinions in the pre-Christmas issue of Rural News.
Alliance and Dawn Meats have completed their new strategic partnership.
Three New Zealand agritech companies are set to join forces to help unlock the full potential of technology.
As the sector heads into the traditional peak period for injuries and fatalities, farmers are being urged to "take a moment".
Federated Farmers says almost 2000 farmers have signed a petition launched this month to urge the Government to step in and provide certainty while the badly broken resource consent system is fixed.
Zespri’s counter-seasonal Zespri Global Supply (ZGS) programme is underway with approximately 33 million trays, or 118,800 tonnes, expected this year from orchards throughout France, Italy, Greece, Korea, and Japan.
Animal owners can help protect life-saving antibiotics from resistant bacteria by keeping their animals healthy, says the New Zealand Veterinary Association.

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