Amazone extends hoe range
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.
With the price of fertiliser still significantly higher than 2024, there is an increased onus on ensuring its spread accurately at the correct rate.
German manufacturer Amazone looks to have amalgamated all its previously released accuracy enhancing features to introduce of a new high end, flagship spreader.
Developed over the last six years, the ZG-TS 01 AutoSpread, features additional technology alongside new software, meaning it can automatically self-adjust, which Amazone claims is an industry first.
Earlier bolt-on features such as the WindControl-the crosswind measuring system, the Border TS central border deflector and the ArgusTwin radar system that monitors the fertiliser prill trajectory, are joined by additional radar sensors at the rear of the machine. These serve to monitor the distance the fertiliser is travelling behind the machine, with the combined information used to alter the drop point, application rate and speed of each of the hydraulically powered disc to maintain accurate application and coverage.
As part of the standard specification of the AutoSpread machine, Curve Control alters the left- and right-hand side of the spread area as the tractor “tracks” corners on the headland tramline.
In addition to the upgrade in technology and accuracy, the 4,200- and 5,000-litre capacity spreaders also get a fresh look, incorporating mudguards that also double up as storage lockers for tools, fittings and the EasyCheck calibration mats.
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.