FARM SYSTEMS

What can New Zealand farmers learn from Academy award-winner Matthew McConaughey? We uncover the perfect fit between the aspirations of higher-value, sustainable tourism and the opportunity for New Zealand farmers to leverage agritourism for diversification of income. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

The challenging times livestock farmers and supporting businesses are facing has been a catalyst for exploring diversification opportunities from an agri-consulting perspective. Words Renée Hogg.

The Whitiwhiti Ora: Land Use Opportunities research project brought farmers and researchers together in Canterbury’s Waimakariri catchment to assess potential farmland diversification use. Mixed arable operation, Taggart Farms, was one of three case studies, with options identified including carbon, edible fungi and hops. Words Rebecca Greaves.

Lincoln University has unveiled plans for an energy farm, which will demonstrate how productive land can be optimised to grow high-value horticulture crops while generating commercial-scale solar energy. Words Rebecca Greaves.

Solar farming is a fast-growing part of New Zealand’s energy sector and could be an opportunity for farmers to diversify their income. A Massey University presentation at AgInnovation explored the possibilities for solar farming to co-exist with sheep grazing, providing two sources of income per unit of land area, and crunched the numbers on the returns. Words Rebecca Greaves.

The concept of horticultural options, particularly for pastoral farmers, is a minefield and there are plenty of factors to consider, from soil type to access to labour and proximity to markets. A recent webinar walked industry professionals through key considerations for clients looking at horticulture. Words Rebecca Greaves.

Goats get a bad rap as feral pests and are often remembered as a fledgling industry that went bust in the 80s. But the tide has turned and New Zealand Cashmere believes there has never been a better time to diversify into cashmere and integrate goats into farming systems in New Zealand. Words Rebecca Greaves.

Motukawa Station is the engine room at the centre of the 5000 hectare Plimmer & Co farming operation. New manager Rimu Wipaki is looking to make changes that will harness its Taihape hill country power and lift productivity in both the sheep and beef operations.
Words & Photos Sarah Horrocks

Marlborough farmer Rosie Dowling was determined to continue developing the farm she and her late husband Gavin dreamed of. Joanna Grigg reports.