Five year warranty deal
Hustler Equipment, manufacturer of livestock feeding machinery, has announced the introduction of a new, five-year warranty scheme for all their products manufactured in 2023 and later.
Feeding specialists Hustler have recently introduced a three point linkage bale feeder that looks to take conventional design thinking on its head.
The new SL360X is the result of an extensive 12 month testing programme here in New Zealand, and sees a new machine with a rated capacity of 1.25 tonnes; it is said to be 8% heavier and 30% stronger than previous models.
Described as multi-purpose, the machine has another fence that allows it to contain up to 1m3 of feed. It can feed pit, loose and maize silage, as well as fodder beet and cut grass.
Improvements have been made to the auto connect and release system using the patented Snaplox coupler that ensures accurate connect and disconnect every time, and incorporates a double-latching setup said to be stronger and to eliminate stress on the loading spears.
Bale spears have forged points that make bale penetration easier, and counter the need to push bales along the ground, risking soil contamination which can be a major problem with blunt tines.
A new thermo-formed floor design sees an increase in height around the feed platform, and encloses the machine drive shafts to prevent any crop buildup and reduce maintenance downtime.
A redesign of the machine's headstock now sees it easily adapted to fit to high capacity frontloaders or telehandlers; this opens up the possibility of feeding over barriers or into mixer/feeder wagons. An optional side-shift system allows up to 180mm of offset to the left or right and helps ensure accurate placement of feed in all situations.
A further series of upgrades sees the use of bearing covers, motor protection on the head unit, and self-aligning bearings used extensively, which are said to require less greasing, extending the routine maintenance schedules.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.
Forest & Bird's Kiwi Conservation Club is inviting New Zealanders of all ages to embrace the outdoors with its Summer Adventure Challenges.