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John Deere has recently launched its new 5GL low profile series tractor.
Designed for use where headroom is restricted, these tractors will suit greenhouses, low hanging vineyards and orchards with restricted canopies. As well as a low overall height, the centre of gravity is lowered, making the tractors suitable for working in hilly conditions.
Overall height to the hood is 1234mm, and to the fenders 1089mm when fitted with 20 inch rear tyres.
A Tier 3a 4-cyl engine gives the choice of 75 or 85hp and the transmission offers 24 forward and 24 reverse speed, with directional changes made through a shuttle lever and a synchro shuttle/dry clutch set-up. 4WD is part of the package and should ensure the tractor keeps moving in all conditions underfoot.
The PTO has two speeds, with the choice of 540/540E or 540/1000 rpm.
The rear end has an open-centred hydraulic system with tandem pumps to deliver up to 94L/min via up to three remotes; the three point linkage offers an impressive 2600kg lift capacity.
The open platform layout allows easy access by the operator, and the fold-down ROPS structure allows easy access when height is limited under restrictive crops.
The bodywork and fenders are profiled for clean lines, and should offer no hook-up points for low hanging branches or vines.
With agriculture in New Zealand coming out of the doldrums over the last few months and the recent announcement of a 20% tax write-off for capital purchases, it likely that farmers will be spending on tractors.
Recent results from its 2024 financial year has seen global farm machinery player John Deere record a significant slump in the profits of its agricultural division over the last year, with a 64% drop in the last quarter of the year, compared to that of 2023.
Farmers across New Zealand are renowned for their productivity and efficiency, always wanting to do more with less, while getting the most from each pass of the paddock.
John Deere has announced new automation and efficiency updates on its 2026 model combine harvesters that provide more capabilities and boost productivity by up to 20%.
Twelve months after its release, the all-new John Deere S7 combine harvester has been put through its paces across a range of grain-growing regions, so producers can see first-hand its potential productivity and efficiency benefits.
Six industry organisations, including DairyNZ and the Dairy Companies Association (DCANZ) have signed an agreement with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to prepare the country for a potential foot and mouth outbreak.
The 2026 Red Dairy Cow conference will be hosted by New Zealand in March.
While global dairy commodity prices continue to climb in most key exporting countries, the second half of the year is expected to bring increased downside risks.
In a surprise move, Federated Farmers meat and wool group has dumped its chair Toby Williams.
Former MP and Southland farmer Eric Roy has received the Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand’s Primary Industries Award.
OPINION: Good times are coming back for the primary industries. From sentiment expressed at Fieldays to the latest rural confidence survey results, all indicate farmer confidence at a near-record high.
