Stihl Launches BT140, Its First Battery-Powered Auger
With battery tools becoming more widespread and more importantly, productive and reliable, it was only time before we saw augers or post-hole borers.
Most rural properties wouldn’t be without a chainsaw, so it’s fitting to celebrate the centenary of Andreas Stihl inventing the first portable chainsaw in a Stuttgart workshop in 1926.
To mark such a significant date, the family-owned company will pay tribute by launching a centennial edition of the world’s first mass-produced petrol chainsaw with electronically controlled fuel injection –the MS 500i.
The special edition model will be available to buy later in the year from selected dealers, sporting a black design and centenary detailing, with a power-to-weight ratio of 1.24kg/kW.
Having started with chainsaws, the Stihl range has expanded to include hedge and grass trimmers, multitools, pressure washers, construction tools, lawn mowers, lawn tractors and robotic mowers.
Based in Germany, the company employs over 19,000 people worldwide, selling its products in more than 160 countries globally.
“Any company that reaches the grand old age of 100 hasn’t got there by relying on tradition alone,” said Dr Nikolas Stihl, chairman of the Stihl supervisory board and advisory board.
“Our anniversary is not just a time to look back, but also a moment to recognise the strength that comes from our combination of heritage, engineering expertise, and the courage to innovate."
Waikato milk processor Tatua has again declared a record milk payout to farmer shareholders, leaving other processors in the dust.
A Labour-led Government won’t be bringing back the controversial freshwater rules of 2020.
National’s much-touted free trade deal with India featured in the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek, Hamilton on Wednesday night.
New Zealand's 2026-27 freshwater fishing season has opened, with anglers encouraged to head to rivers and lakes over the coming days as conditions look favourable across much of the country.
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.
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.