| 65 A diverse & thriving farming business Kumara seed beds to grow seedlings. Karen Phelps HORTICULTURE » Williamson Kumara Situated in Dargaville, Williamson Kumara is a farming business that has been quietly making its mark. Under the guidance of the Williamson family, the company has flourished, specialising in kumara cultivation while also engaging in other ventures that have helped them create a diverse and sustainable business. The Williamson family’s farming journey began around 25 years ago when they purchased a property in Dargaville and embarked on kumara cultivation. Craig Williamson, now at the helm of the family kumara growing business, grew up on a dairy farm while his parents, Bronwyn and Phil, sharemilked across Northland before purchasing a dairy farm in Arapohue, Dargaville, in the 1980s. Over the years, they expanded their holdings, acquiring additional neighboring properties, which now total just over 400 hectares, supporting a herd of 650 cows. In 1995, the family decided to diversify their agricultural pursuits and ventured into kumara farming. Starting with a modest 24 hectares, they have now expanded the kumara growing operations to cover an impressive 161 hectares. The annual production reaches approximately 80 hectares of kumara, with 50 hectares dedicated to the popular orange variety Beauregard and 30 hectares to the vibrant Owairaka red variety. The kumaras are sent to the Delta packhouse, a cooperative in which the Williamsons hold shares. In addition to the kumara business, the family also engages in baling and selling silage. With approximately 2,500 bales sold each year, primarily to fellow farmers, the product has been in high demand due to the recent shortage of feed caused by adverse weather conditions. The Williamsons also buy in around 300 weaner calves during the summer months, nurturing them into yearlings to be sold in the spring. They have plans to increase this number to 350, further diversifying their farming operations. To ensure the sustainability of their land, the family owns and leases several other properties. These holdings serve as resting grounds for cropping activities and provide pasture for young livestock. With 75 hectares under their ownership and two leased blocks totaling 105 hectares, the Williamsons take a proactive approach to maintaining soil health and optimising crop yields. Williamson Kumara is always keen to try new varieties, says Craig. It is currently trialing a new red kumara variety, devoting 10 hectares to this promising crop. “This variety is expected to yield well, with an appealing shape to meet the market’s demands for ease of peeling,” says Craig. During the planting and harvesting seasons, the Williamsons welcome around 40-45 seasonal staff to assist with the demanding tasks, creating a harmonious work environment that combines the talents of both locals and international visitors. Craig says that over recent years, the kumara industry has been hit hard with product over-supply, then in February 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle had devastating effects on the kumara industry with a lot of crops partially or fully destroyed. Craig acknowledges the support they have received personally from their bank, Rabobank and packhouse Delta Produce, alongside the support given to all local growers by the NW Vege Growers Association and the Rural Support Trust through this trying time. Alongside their farming ventures, the family also owns West Coast Steelworx, a business that employs a team of three full-time engineers and three full-time mechanics. The company offers fabrication, repair and modification services, including a mechanical and hydraulic hose workshop. With the recent departure of Norwoods from the town, West Coast Steelworx has experienced growth to meet the rising demand, says Craig. Managing such a diverse enterprise requires a skilled team, and the Williamsons have appointed managers for their engineering, mechanical, and kumara businesses. They also employ two office staff members to support the operations. Craig, overseeing the day-to-day running of the business, NORTHLAND Spreading Northland The precise way to grow Call us today: Jason Williamson 027 499 2530 Ravensdown Customer Centre 0800 100 123 • We apply what you need, where you need it • Ravtrak advanced guidance • Proof of placement maps • Application history stored online • Experienced local operator • Options for all terrain is supported by his partner Rachael, who manages the book keeping duties. The Williamsons have recently made another significant investment by acquiring the old airstrip in Dargaville. Currently undergoing a zone change, the family plans to develop a residential subdivision called Moonlight Heights. By keeping the project local, they aim to stimulate the town’s growth, support local contractors and builders, and address the housing needs of the community.
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