Carrfields expands South Island footprint with Agricentre South Kubota dealership acquisition
Two of the South Island’s agricultural machinery dealers are undertaking strategic changes designed to deliver even greater specialist support to farmers.
The new U10-5 features hydraulic control levers, positioned to the sides of the seat for a better and more relaxed operator working experience.
Kubota New Zealand has recently added to its product line the new U10-5 excavator that will replace the existing K008-3.
The new machine has been updated with a range of new features, particularly on the operator platform. A zero-tail swing machine designed to operate safely in the tightest of spaces, complemented by hydraulic controls and variable track width, means there’s not many jobs the U10-5 can’t get to.
The U10-5 features hydraulic control levers, positioned to the sides of the seat for a better, more relaxed operator working experience. This ensures operator comfort and reduced operator fatigue.
With a focus on safety, it has an engine safety start system that prevents starting when the levers are lowered. This means there is no unexpected excavator or attachment movement at start-up.
Hydraulically adjustable track width from 750mm to 990mm allows navigation in tight spaces, using a simple singlelever operation.
For operating in areas with restricted height, a newly designed front foldable Roll-Over-Protection- System (ROPS) allows the U10-5 to fit under doorways or low-hanging branches. Returning the ROPS back to the working position is simple and provides protection for the operator.
Weighing in at 1.2 tonnes, the machine has 10.3hp maximum output, a bucket breakout force of 1,060kg and is easy to tow behind suitable vehicles.
Carrying over features from the K008-3, the U10-5 still includes the TPSS Track Pattern Selection System and twospeed travel pedal. This allows users to switch between high and low speeds.
Servicing is achieved via a fully opening engine cover, while the hydraulic service port pipes are conveniently located for easy maintenance.
The new ultra-compact excavator features a modern exterior design as in the current range as well as a new LED boom work light to extend the working day.
Legal controls on the movement of fruits and vegetables are now in place in Auckland’s Mt Roskill suburb, says Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North Mike Inglis.
Arable growers worried that some weeds in their crops may have developed herbicide resistance can now get the suspected plants tested for free.
Fruit growers and exporters are worried following the discovery of a male Queensland fruit fly in Auckland this week.
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.

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