Fieldays hold out the begging bowl
OPINION: When someone says “we don’t want a handout, we need a hand up” it usually means they have both palms out and they want your money.
New Holland has expanded its tractor offering with two new models, the T7.290 and T7.315.
The models are designed to match growers' needs for increased power and with the versatility to do, say, primary and secondary cultivation, drilling, baling, mowing and haulage.
A fundamental design criterion of the T7.290 and T7.315 was to improve efficiency to new levels.
The engine uses New Holland's ECOBlue Hi-eSCR (high-efficiency selective catalytic reduction) technology to meet Tier 4B emissions standards. This after-treatment system, which has no CEGR or DPF, allows the engine to optimise combustion, torque and fuel efficiency, maximising power output from each cylinder. An electronically controlled variable geometry turbocharger delivers the torque required to operate at low engine speed and react quickly to load changes.
The new T7 models also have New Holland's award-winning Auto Command continuously variable transmission (CVT) with four direct drive points with 100% mechanical efficiency.
For PTO work a four speed rear PTO and a two speed front PTO allow the engine to be operated at maximum efficiency. If mowing in light crop conditions the operator simply uses the in-cab speed shift to select 1000rpm (economy) for the front and rear mowers and then starts counting the fuel savings.
Hydraulic circuits have been redesigned so no oil moves on these tractors unless it is required, and with a 220L/min pump, significant oil flow can be obtained at low engine speeds, again saving fuel.
The Horizon cab offers the premium comfort levels of T7 models with extremely quiet operation at just 69 dB(A), the new generation Auto Comfort ventilated seat and the standard SideWinder II armrest. The new seat, together with the standard Comfort Ride suspension and new generation heavy-duty suspended front axle give an exceptionally smooth, cushioned ride.
Combining this comfort with the commercial vehicle systems of ABS and an exhaust brake, the T7 becomes a benchmark for haulage work. At night all becomes clear with up to 20 LED work lights; the 360° packages leaves nothing in the dark.
The T7.290 and T7.315 automation features, such as the latest generation headland turn sequencing, IntelliSteer auto guidance and PLM Connect telematics, put the driver in full control of the tractor.
The new models also have New Holland's IntelliCruise ISOBUS Class 3 tractor-baler automation technology that enables the baler to control the tractor's speed to optimise feed rate and produce consistent flake thickness.
Metallica's charitable foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH), teamed up with Meet the Need this week for a food packing event held at the New Zealand Food Network warehouse in Auckland.
After two years, Alliance Group has returned to profit.
According to Zespri's November forecast for the 2025/26 season, returns are likely to be up for all fruit groups compared to the last forecast in August.
Next month, wool training will reach one of New Zealand's most remote communities, the Chatham Islands - bringing hands-on skills and industry connection to locals eager to step into the wool harvesting sector.
Farmers' health and wellbeing will take centre stage with a new hub at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo.
Dannevirke farmer Dan Billing has been announced as the new national chair of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's (B+LNZ) Farmer Council.

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