NZ Technicians Honoured at 2026 John Deere Awards in Brisbane
Leading John Deere technicians and apprentices from New Zealand and Australians were recognised at the recent sixth annual JD Technician of the Year Awards, held in Brisbane.
John Deere has introduced the new diesel Z994R Commercial ZTrak zero-turn mower, said to offer more performance and efficiency, and available in New Zealand from early 2019.
Customers asked for more options in diesel ZTRs, hence the Z994R diesel ZTrak mower has more power and comfort, allowing operators to be more productive during long days. Its 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine — gross 24.7hp rated power at 3200rpm — meets Final Tier 4 emission standards. The high-torque, low-emission engine is low in vibration and noise.
To increase productivity, the Z994R has a single 43.5L diesel tank holding enough for long mowing days with an easy-to-read fuel gauge.
Operator comfort is a focus, with three available seat options, each with adjustable armrests. All seat options also have ComfortGlide fore/aft suspension that provides up to 51mm fore and aft travel to absorb bumps for a good ride. Also, a large open operator station and foot platform with plenty of legroom gives plenty of foot room and comfort.
Three mower deck options offer 54 inch or 60 inch 7-Iron Pro side-discharge mower decks, while the 60 inch 7-Iron Pro Mulch On Demand mower deck can easily switch from side-discharge mode to mulching mode with a single-move lever.
Ravensdown shareholders have elected Jane Montgomery and Kate Acland to the Ravensdown Board for three-year terms, following a closely contested director election.
Federated Farmers says new legislation replacing the Resource Management Act will cut red tape, unlock investment and help grow New Zealand's export-led economy, after the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill passed their third reading in Parliament yesterday.
Leading figures from the major political parties will be questioned on their primary sector policies at the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, on 30 September.
OPINION: Have a plan in place now!
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) says it welcomes the passage of the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill, calling the bills a positive step for sheep and beef farmers.
A spate of southerly winds bringing cold temperatures has presented challenges for Taranaki dairy farmers.