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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.
Operating large tractors became more expensive back in March due to the ongoing Strait of Hormuz conflict, meaning contractors had to introduce fuel surcharges and farmers had to adjust their budget forecasts.
Close to the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, Motueka is known for apples, pear and kiwifruit orchards, alongside specialised crops such as hops. Indeed, that specialisation, saw the area being the New Zealand centre of the tobacco growing, until the early 1980s.
Can-Am has introduced its 2027 range of side-by-side vehicles (SSV) and all-terrain vehicles (ATV), including the industry leading Defender, the Maverick R and the hugely capable Outlander ATV, incorporating a host of advancements designed to deliver an exceptional riding experience.
With battery tools becoming more widespread and more importantly, productive and reliable, it was only time before we saw augers or post-hole borers.
Austrian manufacturer Pottinger has released details of a new compact, linkage-mounted compact twin rotor rake, without a chassis, that is said to deliver impressive manoeuvrability.
Leading figures from the major political parties will be questioned on their primary sector policies at the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, on 30 September.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) says it welcomes the passage of the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill, calling the bills a positive step for sheep and beef farmers.
A spate of southerly winds bringing cold temperatures has presented challenges for Taranaki dairy farmers.
Converting a longstanding cropping farm to dairy was the only way to ensure the land stayed in the family long term, says new dairy farmer Rod May.
As the election heats up, Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) has launched its election scorecard designed to help voters wanting to support policies that grow organic and New Zealand's organic sector.
