Interested in developing new farming technology?

13 November 2023

Farming is the backbone of New Zealand and our farms have some of the best, visionary, hard-working people. If you’re looking to take the next step with your beef or lamb farm, Beef+Lamb New Zealand’s Innovation Farm Programme helps farmers identify tools and practices to unlock financial improvements. The programme develops new farming technology by bringing both science and farming experts together for a period of about three years. With up to eight farmers at a time, the focus is on developing new knowledge and delivering results to benefit the wider farming industry. The projects chosen tend to involve new-to-market technologies. 


The Ballance Farm Environment Awards celebrate farmer and grower achievement and showcase good practice. Among 2023's Regional Supreme winners, Steven and Kellie Nichol, were celebrated for their forward-thinking approach. 


Their farm, Auldamor, specialises in sheep breeding and finishing, with 4,500 ewes, 1,500 hoggets, 80 rams, and nearly 300 beef cows grazed each year. The couple were recognised for diversifying their business and considering the environmental impact of their work. By modifying farming practices and emphasising on-farm measuring and monitoring, stock productivity and profitability increased. 


They introduced initiatives including a no-till drilling programme to improve soil health, improving pasture resilience, yields, stock performance, and animal health. They enhanced the farm's biodiversity, planting shelterbelts and forestry stands and fencing native shrubland and waterways. Steven and Kellie won Regional Supreme Award at the Otago Ballance Farm Environment Awards, with the judges commending their high level of knowledge about all aspects of their farm, their farming business and their guardianship of it. 



If you or someone on your farm is an innovator, it might be worthwhile applying to some of the programmes available. 


Payroll Tips for a Hassle-Free Summer Break

4 December 2025
The Christmas season can create payroll challenges, but understanding the rules can help you stay compliant. Annual Leave: By law, employees are entitled to four weeks of paid leave per year. To avoid last-minute staffing problems, set clear deadlines for leave requests. Holiday Pay : Employees must be paid for public holidays that fall on their regular workdays. Keeping up-to-date employee records and rosters ensures accurate payment. Christmas Closures : Plan ahead for any business shutdowns. You must provide at least 14 days' notice before a closure. If an employee doesn’t have enough leave, they must be paid 8% of their gross earnings since their start date or their last leave entitlement, minus any leave paid in advance if agreed upon. Cashing Up Leave : If it’s part of the agreement or you choose to allow it, employees may cash up to one week of annual leave each year. However, you cannot pressure them into doing so. Casual Workers : Casual employees should receive an additional 8% on top of their earnings instead of accruing leave, and this must be clearly shown on their pay slips. With careful planning, you can keep payroll running smoothly, allowing both you and your team to enjoy a stress-free holiday season. Feel free to reach out if you need any assistance or clarification.

Holiday cashflow for your small business

3 December 2025
This time of year can be hard on small businesses. With a bit of pre-planning and being proactive, you can set yourself up for a financially stress-free holiday. Talk to us. We can help.

Promoting your business in the digital age

13 November 2025
Is your digital marketing strategy still fit for purpose? We outline four key elements your business should be using to advertise your brand and engage with new customers.
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To discuss all your account matters please call us on 09 438 1001