Agritechnica 2025 sites sold out
While we've become used to National Fieldays telling us that their event is always a big one and nearly all sites have been sold, this years’ event was noticeable by empty sites, equipped with benches for resting.
The first production models of the Case IH Optum are now coming off the factory lines, the first examples expected to hit New Zealand in June.
This tractor, made in Austria, certainly turned heads at Agritechnica in November last year, where it won the coveted Machine of the Year 2016 Award. It fits between the Puma and Magnum ranges, compact in dimensions and lighter in weight.
It is powered by proven FPT 6.7L NEF engines to deliver 270 and 300hp at rated speed. This rises to a maximum of 313hp as the engine comes under load and is complemented by a maximum torque figure of 1282NM at 1400rpm. The engine meets the latest Tier4B emission regulations using SCR technology and is set up to carry 630L of diesel and 96L of Ad-Blue liquid.
The transmission is carried over from the LWB Puma range, upgraded with strengthened castings, a new rear axle and double planetary final drives to handle the increased power.
Speed is steplessly variable between 20m/sec and 53km/h and the Active Stop feature removes the need to hold the tractor on the brakes when stationary.
A load bearing sump assembly acts as a backbone for the tractor and keeps tare weight down; it allows operating weights up to 16,000kg, which helps get the additional power to the ground without compromising the agility of the tractor.
As part of the package a rear lift capacity of 11,058kg combines with the ability to lift 5821kg up front, and a CCLS hydraulic system gives up to 220L/min output. The steering and transmission systems are separate.
Completing the package, a new reactive steering system sees the steering wheel return to the straight ahead position after turns to make high speed work more comfortable; and a headland management function (HMC 2) takes care of repetitive tasks in the paddock, as well as offering a remote file transfer system. Connectivity with implements is by the Isobus 3 plug-and-play system.
Though this tractor is relatively high-spec, operators wanting high-speed transport ability might opt for the ABS or ABS Advanced option.
Brett Wotton, an Eastern Bay of Plenty kiwifruit grower and harvest contractor, has won the 2025 Kiwifruit Innovation Award for his work to support lifting fruit quality across the industry.
Academic Dr Mike Joy and his employer, Victoria University of Wellington have apologised for his comments suggesting that dairy industry CEOs should be hanged for contributing towards nitrate poisoning of waterways.
Environment Southland's catchment improvement funding is once again available for innovative landowners in need of a boost to get their project going.
The team meeting at the Culverden Hotel was relaxed and open, despite being in the middle of calving when stress levels are at peak levels, especially in bitterly cold and wet conditions like today.
A comment by outspoken academic Dr Mike Joy suggesting that dairy industry leaders should be hanged for nitrate contamination of drinking/groundwater has enraged farmers.
OPINION: The phasing out of copper network from communications is understandable.