Fieldays hold out the begging bowl
OPINION: When someone says “we don’t want a handout, we need a hand up” it usually means they have both palms out and they want your money.
A new, easy-to-use cover for utes that doesn't require holes drilled into the bodywork will be taking pride of place on the Toyota, Isuzu and Volkswagen vehicles at this year's National Fieldays.
Best Bars roll-up tonneau cover uses an alloy frame that is fixed to the top of the wellside tray with specially designed brackets to lock it into place, providing a smart and attractive appearance, and also keeping the weather at bay. Removable ribs inside the cover keep it taut over the tray.
As the name suggests, the cover simply rolls up when the ribs are removed and it can be stored right behind the cab when the driver needs to transport tall or bulky items. Elasticated straps are incorporated into the design to keep the rolled-up cover tightly in place while the Ute is underway.
The new cover has further advantages over ordinary fabric tonneau covers, which can stretch and tear more easily without the supporting and protective frame that is an integral part of the product. The material used is a heavy-duty vinyl, which still retains its soft feel even though it is very tough.
The Push-Up Challenge, an event which combines mental health and fitness, is set to launch in New Zealand in 2026.
Last month's Agritechnica event led to a wide group of manufacturers celebrating successes when the 2026 Tractor of the Year Competition winners, selected by a panel of European journalists, were announced in Hanover Germany.
According to the latest Federated Farmers banking survey, farmers are more satisfied with their bank and less under pressure, however, the sector is well short of confidence levels seen last decade.
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.

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