increase font size
The problem centres around lithium-ion batteries that can get very hot if left exposed to sunlight.
While there is always the problem of security, the recent hot spell has also exposed safety risks.
With cordless power tools becoming more common for use off the grid, safety concerns are being raised about the fire risks of devices left unattended in tractors, utes and other vehicles.
The problem centres around lithium-ion batteries that can get very hot if left exposed to sunlight and, if temperatures get hot enough, could explode. Safety advisors suggest that with recent daily temperatures reaching the high 20’s, the internal temperature of parked vehicles can easily approach 40 degrees C when left in direct sunlight. As the lithium-ion battery is an essential part of devices such as mobile phones, laptops and power tools, they should always be stored correctly, preferably, in the case of power tool, with the battery removed from the tool.
Indeed, quite recently, this writer experienced the issue, when he left an i-Phone in the central cubby of an SUV, while he did a 15-minute dash around a supermarket. On his return, he found the phone, protected in a matt black case, was very hot to the touch and displayed a message that read, “This device is overheated, please allow to cool before use”.
In transport circles, lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods under the Dangerous Goods Code, so every effort should be taken to transport them safely and remove fire risks by storing them away from direct sunlight.
Twin rotor swathers have become the ‘go-to’ for forming swaths to feed hungry harvesters and balers, however, the design layout often means that crop located between the two rotors is not picked up, turned over or incorporated into the swath formed for subsequent harvesting.
Operating large tractors became more expensive back in March due to the ongoing Strait of Hormuz conflict, meaning contractors had to introduce fuel surcharges and farmers had to adjust their budget forecasts.
Close to the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, Motueka is known for apples, pear and kiwifruit orchards, alongside specialised crops such as hops. Indeed, that specialisation, saw the area being the New Zealand centre of the tobacco growing, until the early 1980s.
Can-Am has introduced its 2027 range of side-by-side vehicles (SSV) and all-terrain vehicles (ATV), including the industry leading Defender, the Maverick R and the hugely capable Outlander ATV, incorporating a host of advancements designed to deliver an exceptional riding experience.
With battery tools becoming more widespread and more importantly, productive and reliable, it was only time before we saw augers or post-hole borers.
Central Otago District Council (CODC) has voted against a plan to spread treated sewage sludge from Cromwell and Alexandra on farmland near Lauder, a decision Federated Farmers says reflects strong opposition from rural residents.
Pāmu has released its FY26 Integrated Annual Report, reporting a Net Operating Profit of $113 million, more than double the $49 million recorded in FY25.
Meat Industry Association data, released alongside the Red Meat Sector conference in Wellington, shows export value climbing across the US, China, UK and Canada.
Applications are set to open for the 2027 Zanda McDonald Award, a trans-Tasman award recognised for identifying and fast-tracking talented young leaders in agriculture and agribusiness.
The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (the College) and Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network are calling for investment in a proposed new training pathway for rural GPs, warning that many rural practices are struggling to recruit while a large share of the existing workforce nears retirement.
Synlait has swung to second-half profit as operations stabilise, but the dairy processor still posted a $75.4m annual loss.
OPINION: It seems Canterbury processor Synlait is still in the doldrums.
OPINION: Get offside with New Zealand First leader Winston Peters at your own peril.
