'Good bugger' calls it a day
Much of the rural industry is made up of an army of characters who tend to be “good buggers” or rogues, while a small number might fall into the “you need to count your fingers after a handshake” category.
Keeping costs down is a priority for organisers of the Northland Field Days.
Event administrator Meagan Edmonds says the three-day event will be “a fantastic day out to enjoy with the whole family, and it won’t break the bank”.
“Northland Field Days is not only organised, managed and staffed by volunteers, but the community-focused event has also kept costs realistic to encourage more Northland families to attend,” Edmonds says.
Beginning life as an agricultural expo, the Northland Field Days is about to celebrate its 34th anniversary on March 1-3.
While it has grown in size and scope, the focus on the local community hasn’t changed at all, Edmonds says.
“Widely recognised as Northland’s largest annual agricultural event, it champions all things farming and agricultural, notably innovations in fencing and agriculture, cutting horse demonstrations and sheep dog trials.” There will be rural and lifestyle pavilions, housing exhibits and stuff for home and garden.
A family day pass will cost $30 for two adults and three children. Adult passes will remain at $12.00, and child (5-16years) passes at $5.00; children under five will get in free.
“Entertainment for kids will include bouncy castles and fairground rides, and the Dargaville Fire Brigade will run a free children’s mini combat challenge,” says Edmonds.
“Not often do families get to enjoy such an affordable local day out; many kids’ attractions will be free and there will be lots of delicious food and drink options onsite, and lots of seating.”
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is claiming “some real success” on the 12 policy priorities it placed before the Coalition Government.
Federated Farmers is throwing its support behind the Fast-track Approvals Bill introduced by the Coalition Government to enable a fast-track decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects.
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
Divine table grapes that herald the start of a brand-new industry in Hawke’s Bay have been coming off vines in Maraekakaho.
In what appears to be a casualty of the downturn in the agricultural sector, a well-known machinery brand is now in the hands of liquidators and owing creditors $6.6 million.
One of New Zealand’s deepest breeder Jersey herds – known for its enduring connection through cattle with the UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II – will host its 75th anniversary celebration sale on-farm on April 22.