UK Politician Alistair Carmichael Praises "Positive Spirit" of NZ Farmers
A leading British farming politician says he's impressed with the positive attitude of New Zealand farmers that he met during his recent trip here.
This Fieldays will see the arrival of a much awaited tractor from Case IH -- the new Puma 4B series.
Existing Puma models already having a good reputation with larger farmers and contractors for delivering efficient power, reliability and operator comfort.
The new 4B series will offer significant improvements and refinements, and "will set the benchmark for other manufacturers to follow," says NZ operations manager Case IH, Tim Fanning.
The most noticeable visual difference is the new roof cap which sports 360 degree LED surround lights and the overall family look of the Magnum and Optum ranges. At the front of the cab a single-piece front screen gives unhindered forward visibility which should prove a favourite with operators.
Inside the cabin greater comfort is offered with a new Grammar Maximo Evolution semi-active leather clad seat, with a novel sideways-sliding backrest for added support, which cleverly moves out of the users' way when he looks over the shoulder to inspect work or hook up implements.
For easier control of repetitive field tasks, the headland management control (HMC II) can be used to record or edit sequences during work or while stationary, and offers 12 'triggers' to start the next step in a sequence such as time, distance, hitch position, PTO or shuttle movement. Control is via the PRO700 touch screen which is ISOBUS 3 compatible and allows control of all the tractor's key functions.
As the name suggests, a key change to the machine centres on the 6.75L FPT engine, upgraded to meet Tier 4B /Final emission regulations. This is achieved by using the Hi-SCR system (DEF only) which removes the need for any energy sapping exhaust gas recirculation or diesel particulate filters (DPF). The company claims the set-up results in a cleaner burning and more powerful engine, with lower fuel consumption and an industry leading 600 hour service interval.
NZ customers will be able to choose a Classic or Ultimate level of specification, and full powershift or CVT transmissions according to operating requirements or personal preference.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.

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