FARMING
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.
Arable farming family tilts more to livestock
Like many mixed arable farmers, tight cropping margins have led the Worsfold family of Central Canterbury to increase the livestock component of their farming operation.Words Heather Chalmers.
A Home of Opportunity
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.
Kiwi Heights integrates kiwifruit, drystock and native bush
Kiwi Heights in Te Puke integrates kiwifruit orchards, drystock grazing and native forest to balance profit and sustainability. Words Helena O’Neill, Photos Alan Gibson.
Canterbury farm adds 800-cow composting barn dairy unit
A Canterbury farming business has allowed their land to play to its strengths by investing in infrastructure to finetune their operation. Words Anne Lee, Photos Hamish Hobbs.
Wye Hills diversifies to win Marlborough Farmer of the Year
Three years ago, Jason Rentoul and Chelsea Hudson drew up a farm plan for Wye Hills in Marlborough based around their life goals. Words Joanna Grigg, Photos Jim Tannock.
Gardyne family’s century of oat growing in Southland
Oat growing and the Gardyne family of eastern Southland have been closely linked for more than 100 years. Words Heather Chalmers.
Hunting for the pets
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.
Rural champ
Wairarapa sheep and beef farmer, Roger Barton, has recently been appointed one of three Safer Farms’ Regional Champions. As part of this he will be sharing the Farm Without Harm message directly into rural communities.
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.