| 85 Diverse agricultural and tourism enterprise The innovative Matahuru Valley Walk. Karen Phelps ON FARM » I&K Evans North Waikato farming operation Te Punga Farming has transformed itself into a diverse agricultural and tourism enterprise, showcasing how traditional farming can evolve to meet changing market demands. Owned by Ian and Kirsten Evans, Te Punga Farming has expanded from its original 390-hectare farm to encompass 1,130 hectares spread across three properties in the Matahuru Valley, running approximately 5,000 sheep and 1,000 cattle. The Evans’ journey began in 2019 when they returned to take over the 390 hectare family farm, Te Punga, from Ian’s parents after spending 10 years farming in the Wairarapa and Southern Hawkes Bay. Since then the business has expanded significantly, first with the purchase of Murvale, a 255-hectare property in 2020, followed by the 485-hectare Tui Ridge in 2022. “Murvale is 255 hectares and has been our development project over the last few years,” explains Kirsten. “As part of this, we have completed large amounts of retirement fencing around creeks and gullies. This is to keep our stock away from waterways and retire some of the steeper country that was non-productive for farming. We have also have embarked on a native tree planting programme through these areas.” In mid-2021 in a bid to diversify they couple established Te Punga Natives, a native tree nursery that not only supports the farm’s environmental goals but also sells direct to the public. The latest addition to the business portfolio is Tui Ridge Homestay, which has become part of the innovative Matahuru Valley Walk, a collaboration with two neighbouring farms. The fully catered walk, now in its third season, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience working farms while enjoying spectacular views of both the Waikato and Hauraki Gulf. The idea for the walk, located around an hour from Auckland, was hatched at a local catchment meeting with Sian Noble-Campbell and Mary Mickelson. Rural Women New Zealand provided guidance during the early planning stages. “We are all hands on and it’s been really popular,” says Kirsten. “Our pieces of paradise are pretty special and it’s been amazing to see how well it’s gone. Guests like to see what happens on real farms.” The Matahuru Valley Walk offers two packages - either a one or two night retreat with all meals provided. Tui Ridge is the four bedroom home that guests stay at located on the Evans’ farm. The Evans’ diversification has required careful management and strong support systems. The businesses are run by Kirsten, Ian and a senior shepherd Reuben Crawford. “We just juggle everything and have a great team around us,” says Kirsten. Along with their two children, Connor and Lucy, who can often be spotted pitching in with the day to day running of the farm, the Evans are excited about the future and the multiple income streams the family has managed to create. “Especially with the past year being so tough there are lots of farmers out there looking to diversify. We hope what we’ve achieved at Te Punga Farming can provide some ideas and inspiration.” Talk to us about how we can prepare your farm for the future Walking the talk with generations of expertise ANZ Bank New Zealand Limited Peter Glidden Honda proudly supporting I&K Evans 0800 HONDAS Huntly & Morrinsville Your local Honda & Husqvarna dealer +64 9 309 2040 bcca.co.nz Proudly supporting the Evans family for 3 generations
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=