Virtual fencing sparks discussion in Northland

// B+LNZ // Business management // Extension

More than 100 Northland farmers gathered in Kaingaroa recently to explore how virtual fencing technology is helping improve farm management, productivity and flexibility on-farm.

Northland

Hosted by Katie Waters and Jordan Waters at Greenhill Farming, the Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Virtual Fencing – Farming Beyond Boundaries field day provided an opportunity to see Halter's virtual fencing technology in action and hear firsthand about the practical benefits it can deliver.  

Alison Whiteford, B+LNZ’s Extension Manager for Northern North Island, says the event was organised by B+LNZ as part of its Technology and Innovation Focus Group work. 

“Kaingaroa Focus Group are a bunch of future focused farmers embracing the opportunities that technology offers,” she says. 

One of the key themes of the day was the role technology can play in supporting better decision-making. Discussions focused on pasture measurement, using data to guide management decisions, and opportunities to increase kilograms of liveweight produced per hectare. 

Farmers were particularly interested in how virtual fencing can simplify the management of multiple mobs and provide greater flexibility when working both on and off the farm. Attendees heard how access to real-time data is helping farmers focus on what is happening across their business and make more informed management decisions. 

The field day attracted strong interest from farmers across the region, highlighting the growing appetite for technology solutions that can help improve productivity and make farm management more efficient. 

Kaipara Flats NNI Technology and Innovation Focus Group event 

A separate focus group in Kaipara Flats is holding an open day on 8 October for those interested in joining them. Learn more on B+LNZ’s website. 

Thank you 

B+LNZ would like to thank event supporters Halter, Sloane Livestock, Greenlea and Kaitaia Motorcycles for helping make the day possible. Special thanks to Leo Sloane from Sloane Livestock and Greg from Greenlea for their support of the event. The BBQ lunch was sponsored by Sloane Livestock, Greenlea and B+LNZ, while Kaitaia Motorcycles provided refreshments and showcased a range of farm bikes and equipment. 

Events near you 

B+LNZ delivers events across the country to help sheep and beef farmers improve productivity, profitability and resilience through practical, farmer-led learning. 

View upcoming events near you.