40 | Business spans 2,773 ha across six blocks Ewes and lambs. Karen Phelps A hybrid farming model blending family values with corporate discipline is proving its worth for Spring Farms Limited, a large-scale sheep and beef operation near Taihape that continues to evolve in response to environmental and market pressures. Formed in 2008 as a joint venture between the Chrystall and Collier families, the business spans 2,773 hectares across six blocks of varying terrain, from flat cultivatable land to steep hill country. Its structure is distinctive: it owns stock and plant while leasing land from associated entities, enabling flexibility and scale without the capital burden of land ownership. “From the outset we wanted a business that reduced costs, improved productivity and gave us the scale to compete,” says Mark Chrystall. “The hybrid model lets us keep the strengths of a family farm while adopting the discipline and reporting of a corporate.” The operation runs a 60 : 40 sheep-to-cattle ratio, with lamb production the primary income stream. It follows a breeder-finisher system, aiming to finish most stock on farm, with approximately 95 per cent of lambs sold prime. Early weaning onto specialist crops such as chicory and clover has lifted carcass yields and improved overall efficiency. “We try to match the policy to the resource, not force the land to fit a system,” explains Mark. “That’s been key to both performance and sustainability.” This philosophy is evident in how the business manages its diverse land classes. Flat and cultivatable areas are used intensively for finishing while hill country is farmed with a focus on resilience and lower stocking pressure. Since its early years stock numbers have been deliberately reduced to improve flexibility during drought conditions. “Those early droughts forced us to rethink everything,” says Mark. RURAL PEOPLE » Spring Farms “We lowered stocking rates and built a system that could handle the tough years, not just the good ones.” Drought-proofing has also been supported by a structured cropping programme, including brassicas for wintering cattle and specialist pastures for finishing lambs. Combined with detailed feed budgeting, this ensures supply and demand are carefully aligned. Technology plays a central role across the business. Software platforms are used to track stock movements, fertiliser use, cropping and animal health while GPS and telemetry systems improve accuracy and efficiency in day-to-day operations. “Good data underpins everything we do,” explains Mark. “It helps with decision-making, compliance and ultimately profitability.” Environmental performance is another cornerstone. The business holds NZFAP Plus Gold accreditation and has undertaken extensive work in fencing waterways, planting trees and managing native bush. It is also actively involved in catchment groups and water quality monitoring across the region. “We see sustainability as a long-term investment,” says Mark. “It’s about leaving the land in a better state and ensuring we can keep farming here for generations.” Efforts to reduce environmental impact include lowering nitrogen use, investing in solar-powered water systems and exploring methane reduction strategies. Equally important is the emphasis on people. Staff operate within a flat management structure, each responsible for individual blocks, with regular meetings to review performance and plan ahead. “Communication is vital,” says Mark. “We want everyone involved, contributing ideas and understanding where the business is heading.” Strong relationships underpin the wider operation, from processors and advisors to community groups. Long-standing ties with key partners ensure reliable market access and alignment with evolving consumer expectations. We share business journeys. AllanMcNeill has over 50 years of experience partnering with businesses of all shapes and sizes. Proudly supporting Spring Farms. For trusted advice that supports your business growth contact us today. info@allanmcneill.co.nz 06 356 4808 (Palmerston North) 06 323 6114 (Feilding) 06 928 6622 (Dannevirke) www.allanmcneill.co.nz Emergency Contact: 06 388 0863 • 24-hour service Proud to be supporting Spring Farms 06 388 0863 / Fax 06 388 0657 taihapevets@xtra.co.nz Enough Veterinary Excellence to Fill our Gumboots! 24hours a day, 7 days aweek! PADDOCK BY PADDOCK. CORNER BY CORNER. Using our in-depth knowledge of customers’ land, businesses and objectives, we tailor highly specific solutions that differ from farm to farm, even paddock to paddock. To ensure these agronomy-led solutions stay on track for success, we also regularly walk the crops corner to corner to make recommendations along the way. To find out more go to catalystag.co.nz Proudly Supporting Spring Farms With a fourth generation now returning to the farm, the business is firmly focused on the future. “We’ve always believed you need to enjoy what you do,” says Mark. “If you get the people, the systems and the environment right, the results will follow.”
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