Electric telehandler for agriculture
French handling specialists Manitou has developed its first all-electric telehandler concept aimed at the agricultural market.
Manitou, the French materials handling specialist, has expanded its range of industrial forklifts with eight new models of 5-10 tonnes lift capacity.
The 50, 60 and 70 models, offering nominal lift capacities of 5, 6 and 7t, are available with either a Cummins QSB 3.3L diesel engine or a PSI 4.3L LPG engine (100hp). The larger 80 and 100 models with 8 and 10t capacities are diesel only and powered by a Cummins 4.5L engine producing 110hp.
All units have a power-shift transmission with 30km/h maximum speed, oil immersed brakes for a long service life and an inching pedal as standard for jerk-free approach. These models also have an end of stroke function for safety.
Particular care has been taken over the cabin design, which offers non-slip access steps, a flat floor offering more space and improved visibility through the wide fork frame, hi-vis roof and ‘sculpted’ rear pillars. A contoured seat with seat belt completes the package.
Manitou says the design brief for the new models was based on users’ needs for simplicity, comfort, reliability and efficiency, and low operating costs.
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) has released its 2026 election manifesto, outlining priorities to support the sector’s growth, resilience, and contribution to New Zealand’s food security and export revenue.
Farmers have voted to continue the Milksolids Levy that funds DairyNZ.
Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell has resigned after eight years in the role.
Matt McRae, a farmer from Mokoreta in Southland who runs a sheep, beef and dairy support business alongside a sheep stud, has been elected to the Beef +Lamb NZ Board as a farmer director.
Ravensdown's next evolution in smart farming technology, HawkEye Pro, was awarded the Technology Section Award at the Southern Field Days Farm Innovation Awards in February 2026.
While mariners may recognise a “dog watch” as a two-hour shift on a ship, the Good Dog Work Watch is quite a different concept and the clever creation of Southland siblings Grace (9) and Archer Brown (7), both pupils at Riverton Primary School.

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