Fieldays’ sustainability credentials getting greener
The New Zealand National Fieldays Society has achieved a major sustainability milestone - reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and reaching the target five years early.
This Fieldays will see the arrival of a much awaited tractor from Case IH -- the new Puma 4B series.
Existing Puma models already having a good reputation with larger farmers and contractors for delivering efficient power, reliability and operator comfort.
The new 4B series will offer significant improvements and refinements, and "will set the benchmark for other manufacturers to follow," says NZ operations manager Case IH, Tim Fanning.
The most noticeable visual difference is the new roof cap which sports 360 degree LED surround lights and the overall family look of the Magnum and Optum ranges. At the front of the cab a single-piece front screen gives unhindered forward visibility which should prove a favourite with operators.
Inside the cabin greater comfort is offered with a new Grammar Maximo Evolution semi-active leather clad seat, with a novel sideways-sliding backrest for added support, which cleverly moves out of the users' way when he looks over the shoulder to inspect work or hook up implements.
For easier control of repetitive field tasks, the headland management control (HMC II) can be used to record or edit sequences during work or while stationary, and offers 12 'triggers' to start the next step in a sequence such as time, distance, hitch position, PTO or shuttle movement. Control is via the PRO700 touch screen which is ISOBUS 3 compatible and allows control of all the tractor's key functions.
As the name suggests, a key change to the machine centres on the 6.75L FPT engine, upgraded to meet Tier 4B /Final emission regulations. This is achieved by using the Hi-SCR system (DEF only) which removes the need for any energy sapping exhaust gas recirculation or diesel particulate filters (DPF). The company claims the set-up results in a cleaner burning and more powerful engine, with lower fuel consumption and an industry leading 600 hour service interval.
NZ customers will be able to choose a Classic or Ultimate level of specification, and full powershift or CVT transmissions according to operating requirements or personal preference.
Farmer confidence has taken a slight dip according to the final Rabobank rural confidence survey for the year.
Former Agriculture Minister and Otaki farmer Nathan Guy has been appointed New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy (SATE).
Alliance Group has commissioned a new heat pump system at its Mataura processing plant in Southland.
Fonterra has slashed another 50c off its milk price forecast as global milk flows shows no sign of easing.
Meat processors are hopeful that the additional 15% tariff on lamb exports to the US will also come off.
Fears of a serious early drought in Hawke’s Bay have been allayed – for the moment at least.