New Zealand’s ploughing team’s World Ploughing Championships bid is at risk, as the shipping container containing their gear missed its connection in Sydney. It has now been turned back towards New Zealand instead of Croatia, with no guarantee it can be unloaded when it arrives.

Team member Mark Dillon says the delay leaves him facing the event without his own tractor and plough.

“It’s like playing golf with someone else’s clubs, or going to a rowing event with someone else’s boat,” he says.

Official rules require scrutineered equipment for practice before competition begins. Packed and loaded on 20 May, the container was due in Croatia by 18 July; it is now not expected to arrive at the port until 24 August. The team may end up borrowing gear from another country.

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