| 3 Kaha Nui: A Waikato horse haven Kaha Nui’s stunning I Am Invincible filly out of Group 3 winning mare Shoko found a fantastic home with Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Racing - Kestrel Thoroughbreds. Anne Boswell True to its name, Kaha Nui Farm - meaning ‘great strength’- has built a reputation for exceptional horse spelling services and yearling preparation. Established five years ago by principals Nick and Nicky White, the farm reflects their passion for horses, renewed by a desire for a change in lifestyle. The Whites made the move from North Auckland to Waikato in 2020, seeking a lifestyle where Nick, who was part of the Chiefs Rugby coaching staff, could cease his long commute while Nicky, a real estate agent for the Rodney region, could take over the travelling. They found the perfect property at Mystery Creek: a 60-acre property formerly owned by the Clarkin family, prominent on the polo circuit. As a result, the farm was set up for horses, with a 700-metre sandtrack and sand-based soil ensuring excellent conditions for horses year-round. Although supplemented by an additional 30 acres nearby, the property wasn’t large enough for cattle – so horses it was. Nicky has a passion for horses, influenced by her father Dick Stevenson, a successful farmer-turnedrace trainer at Ruakaka. Having competed in shows, broken in horses, and trained racehorses herself, Nicky’s lifelong connection to the equestrian world made the transition a natural fit. The core of their business – established in 2023 - is ‘spelling’ - a crucial aspect of horse care that allows thoroughbreds to rest and recover between racing campaigns. The farm accommodates racehorses, broodmares, dry mares and even standardbred horses needing a break. Beyond spelling, Kaha Nui Farm has also ventured into pinhooking - a practice in the thoroughbred industry where weanlings are purchased and later resold as yearlings. From May to July, Nick and Nicky attend weanling sales across New Zealand and Australia, selecting a handful of promising young horses. These horses are then prepped from September to December, culminating in yearling sales in January. The farm has previously sold yearlings at Karaka and, more recently, the Magic Millions Sale. RURAL PEOPLE » Kaha Nui Farm “We don’t take big drafts - only 10 to 12 animals - but it keeps us busy enough,” Nick says. But while pinhooking is an exciting aspect of their business, spelling remains their primary focus. They are cautious about stretching their resources too thin, especially with the additional demands of their Matakana drystock farm. Kaha Nui Farm is a family affair, with Nick and Nicky’s son Toby and his partner Flo actively involved in day-to-day operations. They also assist Nicky in her real estate venture, making for a dynamic and busy lifestyle. High-Quality Feed Manufactured using only the best ingredients to meet the needs of your animals. Wide Range of Products From premium grains to supplements, we’ve got your farm covered. Reliable Services Nationwide delivery options Knowledgeable & friendly staff Consistent supply. Contact us today! P: 07 827 4453 E: sales@cambridgegrains.co.nz Cambridge, New Zealand YOUR TRUSTED FEED & GRAIN PARTNER Cambridge Grains Nurturing great strength K AHA NU I F A RM 2/359 Mystery Creek Rd, Ohaupo 021 754 667 | nickywhite@xtra.co.nz Nick speaks highly of the thoroughbred industry and the dedication it demands. “Everyone works so hard, up at 3:30 a.m. and going all day,” he says. “You just want to see people doing well.” The name Kaha Nui holds significant meaning for the farm. “The land here grows great grass and trees, and the animals do so well,” Nick says. “Our boundary is on the Waikato River, which is so strong and powerful, too. We are lucky to live in this part of the world. “We take great pride in looking after our animals and the land.”
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