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NZ tractor sales saw a record-breaking September 2021.
NZ tractor sales saw a record-breaking September 2021, mirroring a rising market that has been experienced throughout the year.
However, supply chain disruptions are causing havoc with delivery lead times, with distributors looking at three-month averages to smooth out peaks and troughs.
This was key findings of the recent Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) online 2021 AGM, after its in-person annual meeting was cancelled because of Covid restrictions.
The industry body also reported it is monitoring the 'Right to Repair' momentum that is playing out in Australia, regarding the direction of legislation permitting customers the right to repair. This is likely to affect the New Zealand market in the coming years. TAMA is encouraging distributors and dealers to ensure their customers continue to receive the exceptionally high level of service they have become familiar with.
Looking to the future, the organisation is working on a Code of Practice for autonomous vehicles, to ensure the sector is ready for the next generation of semi and fully autonomous vehicles that will start to be available in NZ in the coming months.
Responding to a survey of its members, TAMA is undertaking a recruitment campaign to attract heavy machinery/diesel technician from overseas to address a desperate labour shortage in the industry. This is on top of a local campaign that sets out to attract more NZ youngsters and apprentices into the sector.
TAMA says it is also committed to presenting its Emerging Talent 2021 Awards to the three recipients in sales, parts and service - who missed out in August because of the AGM cancellation - by the end of the year.
It also announced the Ron Gall Scholarship for Industry Leadership, in memory of the industry stalwart and his considerable contribution to TAMA and the industry. The one-off scholarship of $2,000 sponsored by Tulloch Farm Machines will be awarded to an inspiring industry leader so they can contribute to a course, conference or workshop to enhance his or her leadership capability.
The arrival of new F8 and F9 designations for its 8000 and 9000 series forage harvesters, signals a swag of upgrades from John Deere, highlighted by topping the 1000hp mark for the first time.
Waikato-Bay of Plenty farmer Hugh Jackson recently secured this year’s FMG Young Farmer of the Year title in Invercargill.
Ashburton-based Carrfields has signed an agreement with Manitou to take over the distribution and retail rights for Manitou Agricultural Equipment covering the lower North Island and the South Island, effective August 1, 2025.
With June ending and following the most upbeat National Fieldays for several years, tractor dealers are reporting a lift in sales.
Samasz distributor FarmShop has introduced the new XDF Series Front Mowers, said to be refined for local conditions and to improve cutting precision and wear resistance.
Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.
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