increase font size
Rural residents with unwanted agricultural chemicals or other hazardous waste are being encouraged by Auckland Council to sign-up for an onsite collection this month.
During the 'agricultural chemicals amnesty' from February 20-24, the council will collect a range of agricultural chemicals for safe disposal, along with other hazardous waste by prior approval.
Registrations for the free service must be made prior to February 13 by calling 0800 426 5169.
"We know many farmers, growers and lifestyle block owners have stockpiles of unwanted or old agricultural chemicals. With this service we are making it easy for them to ensure this hazardous waste is disposed of safely," says Auckland Council solid waste business unit manager Jon Roscoe.
The council will accept agricultural chemicals including herbicides, pesticides, fungicides and drenches, but not fertilisers. Persistent organic pollutants such as such as PCBs, PCP, DDT, 2,4,5T and a range of out-of-manufacture chemicals will also be accepted. Non-agricultural chemicals, such as used engine oil, and other hazardous items may also be accepted by prior arrangement.
While the vehicle industry is addressing the future by developing engines that run on waste oil, hydrogen, or indeed electricity, one Christchurch-based company is looking at things in a different direction with the use of steam.
Kumeu River's 2024 harvet was done and dusted by mid-March, with light crops ripening quickly in the dry and warm conditions.
A very wet winter and spring in Auckland vineyards was relieved by a spell of fine weather at Christmas, drying everything out.
ASB is rolling out more community bankers across New Zealand, providing targeted coaching and seminars to help customers with their personal finance needs.
The health of agricultural workers exposed to harmful airborne chemicals is in the spotlight, with one company introducing New Zealand-first technology to limit exposure and help meet the need for increased protection.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.
Forest & Bird's Kiwi Conservation Club is inviting New Zealanders of all ages to embrace the outdoors with its Summer Adventure Challenges.
OPINION: The release of the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill to replace the Resource Management Act is a red-letter day…
OPINION: Federated Farmers has launched a new campaign, swapping ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ for ‘The Twelve Pests of Christmas’ to…
