Milk Powder Prices Prop Up Farmgate Milk Price
Milk powder prices are keeping farmgate prices up, helping processors offset the dip in milk fat prices.
Polaris continues to grow its brand in New Zealand, its first quarter result exceeding that of 2014 by at least 38%, the company reports.
This places Polaris second in the off-road sector in New Zealand with a market share of 19.8%. The company says this was largely achieved by increasing sales of quads and side-x-sides by nearly 50% over the same period last year. In fact, in the side-x-side market Polaris says it has captured a booming 43% of all sales.
“This outstanding growth is driven in no small means by product development, not just for new models, but by variants specifically designed for NZ conditions,” says country manager Alan Collins.
“Models like the 2015 Ranger 570 HD and the 1000 Diesel HD have had a significant impact, with features such as engine braking, 4-wheel descent control and electronic power steering.”
He says that with safety always a major consideration, the company leads the way with 15 models offering ROPS protection, seat belt interlocks and speed key systems to limit top speeds.
“Polaris’ innovation is further [seen in] unique models such as the Sportsman ACE, the UTE 570 HD and the new flat-bed M1400,” Collins says.
He attributes the rise in sales to the service and after-sales support offered by the dealers nationwide.
DairyNZ deputy chair Cameron Henderson has been re-appointed unopposed for another term.
Farms across the upper North Island are trialling different pasture mixes as part of a research programme that aims to build greater resilience into farming systems.
Election years are always a concerning time for farmers, according to DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown.
The Ballance Farm Environment Awards are coming to the West Coast of the South Island.
Most dairy regions around the country have had a pretty good season so far says Tracy Brown.

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