Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Arrives in New Zealand
While hybrids and PHEVs have not usually been the focus of farmers and rural dwellers, the current Iranian-driven fuel crisis has pushed up fuel costs and created a new interest in the genres.
This new year might just be the time to buy a new vehicle.
That’s because Toyota has announced a limited TRD (Toyota Racing Development) Special Edition Hilux which went on sale on January 1.
Based on the company’s Hilux SR5 double cab diesel, the 2017 Hilux TRD will be a limited run of 300 examples in 2WD or 4WD, manual or auto transmission and a pick of seven different colours.
Creating a bold visual difference from the base models, the matt black TRD detailing has standard features such as sports bars, TRD fender flares, honeycomb TRD front grille, front alloy nudge bars and matt black bonnet detailing.
Its 18-inch black alloy wheels are shod with 265-60R18 Maxxis rubber to cut a dash in town and turn a few heads at the beach.
And at the rear of this classy ute is a remote controlled, motorised ABS plastic, hard lid system that will get people talking. Underneath is an anti-slip deck liner, LED interior lighting and anti-jamming technology.
www.toyota.co.nzA Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.