Amazone unveils flagship spreader
With the price of fertiliser still significantly higher than 2024, there is an increased onus on ensuring its spread accurately at the correct rate.
With many European manufacturers releasing mechanical weeding systems to counter the backlash around the use and possible banning of agrochemicals, Amazone has added a new model to its Venterra mechanical hoe range.
Joining the existing 2K Series that offers working widths from 1-12 metres, the new 1K lightweight all-rounder is available in working widths up to 4.2m.
Designed for smaller operations and tractors from 60hp, the modular design allows the rearmounted hoe to be equipped with various parallelograms for row widths from 16cm to 90cm. Numerous tools can also be fitted, and the patented RapidoClip quick-change system allows blades to be changed without tools, while an optional kit also allows front mounting.
Easing the load on the operator, two row guidance options both control the side-shifting frame. The Horus camera system recognises the crop based on its position or, in 3D mode, on the height differences, while recognition can also be provided by colour selection.
No manual adjustments are needed with the in-house developed SmartVision camera system due to its automatic slope correction and the option of use with a row sensor.
The Venterra 1K can also be used with various Amazone machines to combine hoeing with other tasks, like the FTender front hopper that works in conjunction with a distribution head on the hoe, or the RowSpray band sprayer that can be used with the same front hopper. Other details include a GPS-Switch for automatic part-width section control, which raises and lowers the hoeing units hydraulically and individually.
Three New Zealand agritech companies are set to join forces to help unlock the full potential of technology.
As the sector heads into the traditional peak period for injuries and fatalities, farmers are being urged to "take a moment".
Federated Farmers says almost 2000 farmers have signed a petition launched this month to urge the Government to step in and provide certainty while the badly broken resource consent system is fixed.
Zespri’s counter-seasonal Zespri Global Supply (ZGS) programme is underway with approximately 33 million trays, or 118,800 tonnes, expected this year from orchards throughout France, Italy, Greece, Korea, and Japan.
Animal owners can help protect life-saving antibiotics from resistant bacteria by keeping their animals healthy, says the New Zealand Veterinary Association.
According to analysis by the Meat Industry Association (MIA), New Zealand red meat exports reached $827 million in October, a 27% increase on the same period last year.
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