54 | Taking diversity to the next level They are also kaitiakitanga of the ocean that borders the property. In 2009, Guy and Carolyn Parkinson came on board as farm managers. Anne Boswell Many farming businesses have incorporated diversity into their business strategy – but one of the country’s oldest properties has taken diversity to the next level. Terawhiti Station, located on the south coast of Wellington, was established around 170 years ago. Ownership of the land today is governed by a Board of Directors – all of whom are direct descendants of some of the first owners, James (‘Terawhiti Jack’) and Hannah McMenamen – and shareholders. Around 30 years ago, the 4,800ha sheep station had deteriorated almost to the point of no return, due to outdated farming practices, and the business was mothballed. In 2009, Guy and Carolyn Parkinson came on board as farm managers. They sat down and created a 10-year plan to ‘resurrect’ the property, with a strong focus on profitability. “We looked at diversity and complementarity,” Guy says. At that time, Meridian Energy was in the process of completing the 62-turbine Project West Wind over part of Terawhiti Station. “Since then, we have created a land-based business that is incredibly diverse, with nine different income streams – the wind farm, cattle, sheep, goats, carbon farming, beehives, tourism, rental residences and diving,” Guy says. When it comes to stock, 1,580 Wiltshire ewes have been put to the ram this season. There are also around 1,000 lambs on the property. They have also put 840 Angus cows to the bull this season. Angus cattle is ideal as it handles the steep, harsh country with ease. Two-and-a-half years ago they bought a 190ha finishing farm at Linton. “Luke Roberts is doing a wonderful job for us there, getting the lambs and steers to a great weight,” Guy says. Guy and Carolyn have been on the property 14 years now and, thanks to their dedication, the business focus has moved from resurrection to “resilience and sustainability”. “There is a big emphasis on conservation and the environment,” Guy says. “We have 1800ha registered for carbon under the ETS, and we’ve planted 10,000 trees on farm. “Biodiversity is achieved through a range of vegetation, including planting natives in areas not grazed.” They are also part of the Capital Kiwi Project, which aims to restore a large-scale wild kiwi population to Wellington’s backyard. RURAL PEOPLE » Terawhiti Farm They are also kaitiakitanga of the ocean that borders the property, managing access to ensure the health of the region. Despite the busy nature of the business, Guy says their ethos is to not put too much pressure on themselves. “At the heart of it all is animal health and welfare, and staff,” he says. “We live in a harsh, changeable climate, and we have had to adjust stock numbers accordingly. However, with the finishing farm we do have more options now.” Guys says the goals of the business is to “retire the last bit of debt floating around” and to start paying substantial dividends to shareholders. “Overall, we are pretty optimistic that it is now a profitable and stable business,” he says. “We are also a big part of our rural community; most people associated with the property appreciate the privilege of being able to access it. It is unique.” RANUI ANGUS Over 74 years breeding Angus Bulls 2-year Bull Sale – 6 June 2024 3rd Generation “Lindsay Johnstone” managing the Ranui stud Ranui are proud to support Terawhiti Farm Yearling Bull & Heifer Sale – 26 September 2024 Sales held at Ranui Sale Complex 662 Rangitatau East Rd, Kai Iwi, Wanganui Lindsay & Maria Johnstone | Ph: 027 445 3211 or 027 610 5348 | Email: ranui.w@farmside.co.nz | www: ranuiangus.co.nz
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