Slippery slope
OPINION: It used to be that the National Fieldays attracted brickbats for being officious clipboard carriers, while the regional, farmer-run field days enjoyed the bouquets for being easier to deal with.
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.
Dairy prices have jumped in the overnight Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction, breaking a five-month negative streak.
Alliance Group chief executive Willie Wiese is leaving the company after three years in the role.
A booklet produced in 2025 by the Rotoiti 15 trust, Department of Conservation and Scion – now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – aims to help people identify insect pests and diseases.
A Taranaki farmer and livestock agent who illegally swapped NAIT tags from cows infected with a bovine disease in an attempt to sell the cows has been fined $15,000.
Bill and Michelle Burgess had an eye-opening realisation when they produced the same with fewer cows.
It was love that first led Leah Prankerd to dairying. Decades later, it's her passion for the industry keeping her there, supporting, and inspiring farmers across the region.

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