Applying fertiliser to New Zealand's hilly farming country takes a skilled pilot, some engineering expertise, and a sensible approach to heath, safety and the environment. You will find all three of these elements at Super Air, a fully-owned subsidiary of Ballance Agri-Nutrients.
Based in Rukuhia, near Hamilton, Super Air operates across the entire North Island. The company has a fleet of 18 aircraft - mainly Fletchers - and runs its own fully-equipped engineering workshop. As well as servicing the company's aircraft, the engineers in the workshop maintain the fleet of loaders, and build loaders and aircraft for the domestic and international market.
All Super Air planes are fitted with GPS - most with differential GPS AG-NAV2 technology. This system allows aircraft to receive 10 signals per second from up to 25 satellites, in order to validate its position. Using this technology, Super Air pilots can spread fertiliser to an accuracy of 1 metre, which helps farmers to comply with environmental regulations and helps them to get the most economic benefit from their fertiliser, by ensuring it is spread exactly where it is needed.
As well as applying solid fertiliser, Super Air pilots can spread liquid fertiliser, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides and bait for the control of noxious pests. Super Air also offers specialist services, such as the spreading of materials for oil spill dispersal and fire bombing.
More information on top-dressing services is available on the Super Air website.
