8 | Building on the work of multiple generations Part of the wetland on Mahana Farm. Karen Phelps Ballance Farm Environment Awards » Mahana Farm 2024 New Zealand Farm Environment Trust East Coast Finalists Caroline and Duncan Kirk are building on the work of multiple generations as custodians of the land. “It’s good to be recognised in the awards,” says Caroline. “We don’t like the limelight but lots of people talked us into putting our names forward. We prefer to truck on and do our thing but it’s nice for people to see what we’re doing as well.” The couple are third-generation farmers and operate Mahana Farm of which they own 195ha of the 642ha (580ha effective) property, with the remainder leased from neighbours. Caroline’s grandfather Jim Nelson purchased the initial land in 1932 and her mother grew up on the farm with her parents eventually purchasing the property in 1995. Caroline and Duncan bought 90ha next door in 2002 and took over the running of the whole property in 2005, progressively purchasing and leasing the land. The farm today is predominantly a finishing sheep and beef business with around 7000 stock units, supported with dairy grazing they’re also developing a small block of oak and hazelnut trees. The farm has a 35ha QEII National Trust Covenant block that has been progressively fenced off over the past two decades and now boasts some large native trees including matai and totara. “We’ve planted thousands of trees,” says Caroline. “My parents started fencing this area off and undertaking possum control. Working for farmers, providing uncomplicated Independent Parasitology Advice using the latest technology. www.parascope.co.nz | admin@parascope.co.nz | 027 351 8575 Congratulations Duncan and Caroline Kirk on being finalists in the East Coast Ballance Farm Environmental Awards. SAVE TIME • INCREASE PROFITABILITY Congratulations to all the finalists. We are proud to support Kiwi Farmers with all their Animal Health needs. 06 873 3611 www.ahdltd.co.nz sales@ahdltd.co.nz
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