Irrigation

How can farmers get the most from irrigation without wasting water or damaging equipment? IrrigationNZ Principal Technical Advisor Stephen McNally explains how preparation, planning, and smart decisions make all the difference as the season begins.

In this episode, Sarah speaks with Stephen about practical steps from anchoring and mechanical checks to developing a wind plan and understanding consent conditions. They discuss a “just-in-time” approach, record-keeping, maintenance, and long-term water storage for more efficient and resilient irrigation.

Spring can be a mixed bag of weather but ideal for preparation to reset, rethink, and retool your irrigation strategy. Words Kathryn Healy.

Water has always been a precious resource for Central Otago farmers Tim and Camilla Rutherford, and they’re keen to ensure they utilise every drop that falls from the sky. Words Rebecca Greaves

Is it possible to truly forecast a drought? Country-Wide editor, Rebecca Greaves speaks to three passionate industry experts working to support New Zealand farmers to avoid being caught out by drought by staying one step ahead of mother nature. Guests include Ben Noll from NIWA, Kristin Kirkpatrick of B+LNZ and Vanessa Winning, chief executive of Irrigation NZ.

Pipes replacing an open canal have transformed water supply to a Waitaki Valley irrigation scheme. Story: Terry Brosnahan. Photos: Chris Sullivan.