Disc mower range gets upgrade
Kuhn has announced an expansion of its range of disc mowers, distributed by Norwood in New Zealand, with the addition of two new vertically folding rear mounted models, the GMD 3515 and GMD 4015.
The new Kuhn Performer 3000, with a 3m working width, extends the existing Performer 4, 5, 6 and 7m tine/disc deep cultivator range that will cut, mix, loosen soil and consolidation it in one pass.
The Performer 3000 is among the first farm machines to get the new European road certification that guarantees a road speed of up to 40km/h.
The Performer can, when an ‘opportunity window’ is short, deal with all types of crop residues thanks to its ability to use individual or the combined elements of discs, tines or roller assembly (the latter is removeable for autumn cultivation).
As part of the standard equipment, a new hydraulic non-stop safety tine adjustable up to 900kg helps penetration in tough conditions, with the benefit of overload protection against immovable obstacles; slippage is avoided even under the most difficult conditions.
At the rear, a choice of two roller assemblies sees the HD-Liner 700 roller designed for firm consolidation deeper into the soil profile, or a new U-double roller that has a lighter firming effect but still maintains a high degree of soil crumbling.
Elsewhere in its range, Kuhn has added to the 3m to 7.5m wide Optimer+ range with 510mm diameter discs; it has introduced the Optimer XL 100 and 1000 series, with larger 620mm diameter discs, said to provide a 5cm to 15cm deeper working capacity.
It achieves excellent penetration via its independent Elastomer safety device and wide flange; soil slippage is avoided, making this a machine for all soil conditions. A single disc on each support arm gives greater underframe clearance that in turn helps to reduce blockages.
Available in 3m, 3.5m and 4m mounted and 4m and 5m trailed versions, the new Optimer XL range adapts well to tractors from 100hp to 300hp.
A wide range of rollers, including the new U double roller, allows adaptation to all types of terrain, with hydraulic adjustment from the cab.
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.
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