South Island expansion & our capabilities

Over the last 12 months we have seen continued increases in demand for our testing services in the South Island.

This laboratory is expanding in volumes and types of testing all the time.

For instance, we are now about to process meat samples from our South Island laboratory for the analysis of using a form of DNA testing called PCR testing. It's a requirement that all meat exported to the US is tested for using this technology.

We also have introduced a new test for Mineral N.

Mineral N is the amount of ammonium-N and nitrate-N present in the soil. The concentration of Mineral N in the soil is related to the level of microbal activity. It is therefore important to send a frozen (or at least chilled to <4°C) sample to the laboratory. This ensures the result reflects the amount of Mineral N present in the soil at the time of sampling and reduces the potential for mineralisation occurring while in transit.
To test for Mineral N the laboratory requires a minimum of 150g of soil, where other testing is also required a minimum of 500g is necessary. Samples should be transferred immediately to a freezer once sampled. The frozen samples can then be sent to the Laboratory in a chilly bin with frozen slicker pads.
From August South Island clients will be able to send their Mineral N samples to the Christchurch Laboratory for extraction. Once extracted the samples are stable and can be sent on to the Hamilton Laboratory for further analysis. Offering Mineral N extraction in both North and South Island reduces the risk of transport delays and will help to ensure that samples arrive in a suitable condition for testing.

If you are a South Island client planning to submit Mineral N samples this season please contact Craig at our Christchurch Laboratory to discuss the new transport arrangements.

We are pleased with the expansion of this laboratory's facilities and the delivery of better turnaround times, improved customer support and additional technology to expand our services.

To find out more about our services offered in the South Island call 03 377 7176.

South Island Client Services Manager:

Craig Radford