Govt Commits $4m to Rural Wellbeing Initiatives
While the District Field Days brought with it a welcome dose of sunshine, it also attracted a significant cohort of sitting members from the Beehive – as one might expect in an election year.
Speed and manoeuvrability are two areas where operators will see the biggest benefits of the SmartTrax system.
The 2025 New Holland T9 SmartTrax with PLM Intelligence includes advanced oscillating roller wheels and vibration dampening suspension mounts to elevate ride quality and prevent uneven wear during field-to-field transportation.
Available for agricultural use with a five model range for 2025 – the T9.520, T9.580, T9.615, T9.655 and T9.700 – it offers power outputs of 475 to 645 rated horsepower.
To ensure ease of daily maintenance, clear track system hubcaps provide straightforward access to critical components, while automatic track tensioning optimises tension by eliminating manual adjustments –an update said to extend the lifespan of the track belt.
Speed and manoeuvrability are two areas where operators will see the biggest benefits of the SmartTrax system, with an improvement in road speed, up to 40km/h to ensure quicker field-to-field transportation.
The T9 SmartTrax includes belt widths of 30-inch and 36-inch, with the choice of three different belt brands.
Other upgrades include a 47% increase in fuel capacity for model year 2025 T9 SmartTrax tractors, which has increased due to the lower profile on the tractor in comparison to the fuel tank.
Fuel capacity stands now at 1700 litres, meaning extended run times and reduced refuelling stops.
Further features include swinging cab entry steps that automatically pivot as the tractor is articulated, keeping the ladder from extending beyond the tracks and allowing for easier entry and exit from the cab.
New import standards could put New Zealand’s blueberry industry and the wider horticulture industry at risk.
The Sustainable Vegetable Systems (SVS) Project has been named a finalist in the Technology & Innovation Project Award at the Primary Industries New Zealand (PINZ) Awards.
Amber Davy has won the 2026 Canterbury Young Grower regional title.
Carey Pawson-Edwards, a South Canterbury stock manager, has been named the winner of the 2026 Rabobank Management Project Award.
Nominations are now open for two directorships on the Ravensdown Board and will close at 5pm, Friday 24 July 2026.
AMINZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have partnered to develop a new Farm Debt Mediation video series aimed at farmers, creditors, and advisors.

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