NZ Dairy Expo Gains Momentum in Matamata
The third edition of the NZ Dairy Expo, held in mid-February in Matamata, has shown that the KISS principle (keep it simple stupid) was getting a positive response from exhibitors and visitors alike.
GeoSmart Eco Silage covers reduced the wastage from 10% to 3% by just preventing holes that let water in.
Waikato farmer Dave Muggeridge was fed up with water seeping in through his maize silage cover and spoiling feed.
About 17.5ha of maize is planted on the farm and around 350 tonnes of maize harvested and stored in a bunker as feed for 330 Friesian cross cows.
He came across an article on GeoSmart Eco Silage covers and decided to attend an environment field day where the product was being exhibited. He liked what he saw and started using GeoSmart Eco Silage covers in March last year.
He told Dairy News that the covers have reduced the wastage from 10% to 3% by just preventing holes that let water and air in.
“They are much easier to cover the stack with,” he says.
“We don’t need to put tyres all over the stack: you do not need as much labour to put the covers on.
“By investing in GeoSmart silage covers we have ensured that every bit of maize silage is utilised and of good quality. We have less wastage, the covers are easy to use and good for the environment as they are reusable for many years.”
“By investing in GeoSmart silage covers we have ensured that every bit of maize silage is utilised and of good quality. We have less wastage, the covers are easy to use and good for the environment as they are reusable for many years.”
Muggeridge is building a new silage bunker and will be using GeoSmart Silage covers.
Also a Tatua shareholder and director, Muggeridge owns 141ha (135ha eff) that produces around 137,000 kgMS. It is run by contract milkers.
The farm also grows 11ha of chicory, used to feed cows from late December until May 1.
Robust, Durable
GeoSmart silage covers are reusable, robust, durable and environment friendly.
GeoSmart is 1mm thick making it highly puncture resistant. It has a factory backed 10-year UV degradation warranty meaning it will last for longer, reducing plastic going into landfill.
Very low oxygen permeability of Geosmart EPDM ensures excellent quality silage with less spoilage.
Farmer-owned fertiliser company, Ballance Agri Nutrients is welcoming National’s plan to negotiate security agreements with key supplier countries to protect New Zealand-bound products from export restrictions and greater supply chain certainty.
Carrfields has announced the appointment of Stu Hall to the newly created role of chief operating officer, Carrfields Ltd, reflecting the continued growth of their agribusinesses and the need to ensure the company has the leadership capacity and support in place as it pursues the emerging opportunities ahead.
New Zealand's role is not to compete with Indian growers, according to NZ Apples and Pears.
The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.
Twenty-eight emerging leaders from across the horticulture sector spent two days last month learning valuable skills and connecting with industry experts.
There are five entrants in this year’s Young Horticulturist of the Year, competing in a series of technical, practical, business and leadership challenges.
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.