John Deere launches Harvest Profit in NZ & Australia
Recently released in Australia and New Zealand by John Deere, a unique new software platform offers near real time profitability monitoring across crops and individual paddocks.
John Deere's updated line-up of 6R Series tractors (110-250hp) includes the 6110R, 6120R, 6130R, 6145R, 6155R, 6175R, 6195R, 6215R, 6230R and 6250R.
All models are available in either two- or four-wheel drive configurations with cab.
Three new options, said to enhance tractor performance and control, include the all-new CommandPro Control multi-function joystick with IVT transmissions (as seen on the 6230R and 6250R), variable ratio steering and a 155L/minute hydraulic pump.
CommandPro is a customisable, ergonomic joystick that enables the control of tractor speed, direction and implement functions with a single control lever. Configurable buttons offer the best fit for a job or operator preference and these can then be saved as profiles, such as ‘baling’ or ‘mowing’.
Tighter turns can be made easier by adding the new variable ratio steering option to the tractor. When travelling at speeds less than 14km/h, steering wheel rotations are reduced by one-third. In operation, one revolution of the steering wheel makes front wheels turn faster and further, making the set-up particularly suited to frontloader work or repetitive headland turns.
The option requires a John Deere AutoTrac Ready equipped tractor with activation via the Generation 4 CommandCenter Display.
To further boost output in loader operations on the 6145R to 6215 tractors, an optional hydraulic pump delivering 155L/min can be added to the specification of the 6145R–6215R, to reduce frontloader cycle times.
Additionally, a small door has been added for access to the engine oil service area without opening the tractor hood. Particularly useful if the tractor is equipped with a frontloader and loader hood guard that would impede regular checks.
Applications have now opened for the 2026 Meat Industry Association scholarships.
Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) says it is backing aspiring dairy farmers through a new initiative designed to make the first step to farm ownership or sharemilking easier.
OPINION: While farmers are busy and diligently doing their best to deal with unwanted gasses, the opponents of farming - namely the Greens and their mates - are busy polluting the atmosphere with tirades of hot air about what farmers supposedly aren't doing.
OPINION: For close to eight years now, I have found myself talking about methane quite a lot.
The Royal A&P Show of New Zealand, hosted by the Canterbury A&P Association, is back next month, bigger and better after the uncertainty of last year.
Claims that farmers are polluters of waterways and aquifers and 'don't care' still ring out from environmental groups and individuals. The phrase 'dirty dairying' continues to surface from time to time. But as reporter Peter Burke points out, quite the opposite is the case. He says, quietly and behind the scenes, farmers are embracing new ideas and technologies to make their farms sustainable, resilient, environmentally friendly and profitable.