Country Life for Friday 27 May 2011

09:05 Intro and Guest

Bob Thompson reports on good stock health, prices and pasture conditions in Northland, but says structural change is needed in the industry in order to maintain top prices.

09:09 Regional Wrap

There has been a lot of rain in both islands but temperatures remain extremely mild.

09:16 Pernel Fruitworld

This Hawkes Bay pip and stone fruit orchard has been in the Mardon family for four generations. Growing apples commercially has been a tough road in recent years, but Philip, David and Ian Mardon all hope new apple varieties and the opening up of the Australian market will improve returns.

Pernel Fruitworld - David, Philip and Ian Mardon.

09:28 Winter feeding in Waimahaka

Southland farmers Ian and Heather Smith run sheep and beef on their coastal farm near Waimahaka. Ian is the third generation of Smiths to farm the rolling land and even though the farm is not organic, they pride themselves in using minimal amounts of chemicals or fertiliser on farm. Recently Cosmo Kentish-Barnes talked to Ian about his agricultural practices, while break fencing and stock feeding at the back of this scenic property.

Heather Smith with giant carrot.

Ian Smith feeding out bailage.