Community
Dairy graduate programme puts up to eight graduates on farms
Up to 70 unpaid presenters take part each year, with Rabobank as gold sponsor.
Roaring for farmers
New Zealand fills stadiums for its rugby players but stays quiet about the farmers doing world-class work in its own paddocks. Michelle and Tony Roberts took home the country’s highest honour in sustainable farming and they think it is time the sector learned to cheer louder. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Photos Alan Gibson.
Boarding at Whanganui Collegiate for rural students
At Whanganui Collegiate, boarding delivers an academic advantage, providing students with 24/7 pastoral care, tech-integrated facilities and a vibrant community that builds future-ready independence. Words Lucinda Diack.
Warkworth hunter turns wild meat into pet food
A love of the bush, conservation and hunting has led Warkworth man, Wilson Hobbs, to start a wild meat pet food business, also feeding the big cats at North Island zoos. Words Delwyn Dickey, Photos Jason Hosking.
Audrey Cowie reflects on 100 years in Central Otago
As she marks her 100th birthday this month, Audrey Cowie reflects on a life shaped by dairy cows, gold-mining and the resourcefulness of rural Central Otago. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp
Intergenerational annual pilgrimage
A special horse trek each year teaches young people more than just how to ride a horse. Members of the Stephenson family gather and ride across the whenua that binds them. Words Rebecca Greaves, Photos Vicky Simpson.
Reaching for the stars
In Graeme Murray’s world, things are extraordinary, remarkable, amazing. In Graeme’s world, miracles happen. Words Carly Thomas, Photos Francine Boer.
Saving the old girl
For two rural communities, the lyrics of an iconic Slim Dusty song, A Pub with no Beer, came mighty close without their loud cry to avoid last call. Renowned as heartland New Zealand in both islands, the Waikaka and Hunterville locals dug deep to ensure their towns mainstay would remain. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Celebrating 100 Years of Rural Women New Zealand
As 2025 marks 100 years of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ), Margaret Vickers reflects on a life of service through sisterhood as a member and leadership roles within the organisation. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.