Rural

Social media new ‘world power’

On-line social networks are giving rise to a new power in the world, and it's in the hands of millions, believes Dr Desmond O'Rourke, CEO of world fruit market analyst... Read More

Medal recognises career dedicated to kiwifruit

Thirty-one years ago when Russell Lowe was asked to help establish a research orchard in Te Puke, the focus was to be citrus and subtropical fruits, not kiwifruit. However,... Read More

Web-based ‘diary’ for orchardists

Grownote, a brand-new software package tailor-made for New Zealand orchardists, was launched recently at the Zespri Momentum Conference. Grownote, developed over... Read More

Bio-char and nutrition help citrus survive bacteria

Bio-char and an advanced nutrient formula appear to be helping some citrus trees in Florida overcome the impacts of the bacterial disease Citrus Greening Disease... Read More

Avo Fest ‘must’ for summer

The Katikati Avocado Wine and Food Festival has become an annual `must' for locals and holiday makers - a respite from the beach to enjoy fine food, wine and entertainment... Read More

Plant and machinery auction fundraiser

An opportunity to convert surplus plant and machinery into cash, or donate it for sale, is being offering to farmers and orchardists by Katikati Rotary Club, which... Read More

Tolerance to Psa is not enough

Identifying the gene which makes some kiwifruit more resistant to Pas-V is just one of the Plant & Food research projects underway in the battle against the disease. Dr... Read More

Truck sanitiser reduces Psa spread risk

Installing a high tech vehicle biosecurity system to reduce the risk of spreading the disease Psa-V has been a worthwhile investment for Birchwood Packhouse, says... Read More

Cherry: the perfect Christmas tree

The perfect Christmas tree isn't a pine or a pohutukawa - it's a cherry tree laden with bright red fruit according to David Bateman of Katikati. 'What could be more... Read More

Accurate weighing for heavy loads

A Te Puke agricultural contracting company has designed and is manufacturing a new 50 tonne weighbridge for the trucking industry. Neville Marsh of Neville Marsh... Read More

A&P show that’s in ‘middle of everywhere'

Taumarunui's 2013 A&P Show on February 9 promises all the fun of the fair and traditional show events says society president Ken Harrison. 'The A&P Show Committee... Read More

Killer and the flaming lance

When the horse galloping towards you is called Killer and his rider is brandishing a burning lance, it would appear wise to get out of the way quick. Phil Tenberge,... Read More