| 97 The stud represents a personal passion for Hamish, who works alongside a full-time shepherd. “The line-up this year includes calving ease bulls suitable for heifer mating and some bulls by an American sire O’Connell Sunpower that have a good NFI (net feed intake) EBV,” says Hamish. “They are very good type and some bulls from this sire sold very well at the Te Mania sale back in June.” The emphasis on feed efficiency reflects Hamish’s forward-thinking approach to cattle breeding. “Those scores and NFI, which indicate feed efficiency and positive attributes for greenhouse gases, will be the next big thing I think when farmers select their bulls,” predicts Hamish. “They are reasonably new scores and another tool farmers can use and will be a game changer.” Hamish’s breeding programme focuses on artificial insemination, which he personally undertakes. “I let them cycle naturally and we get a good success rate doing that. It gives us access to exciting genetics from New Zealand and further afield.” The farm runs approximately 175 breeding cows alongside 2,500 crossbred ewes on country heavily dependent on seasonal rainfall. With 150 hectares under irrigation through centre pivots and hard hose gun systems, the property typically carries 7,500 stock units, though numbers fluctuate significantly based on seasonal conditions. With mother Mavis still living on the farm and children Madeleine, 21 and Angus, 18, the farm spans three generations on the property. The stud represents a personal passion for Hamish, who works alongside full-time shepherd Logan Smith while Hamish’s wife Sheree operates an events management business from home. “I get a real kick out of seeing the cattle I’m producing hit the ground and start to perform,” says Hamish. “My father was very passionate about breeding and I’m keen to keep that legacy going.” info@matakanui.co.nz ON FARM » Hamish Haugh The farm runs approximately 175 breeding cows alongside 2,500 crossbred ewes on country heavily dependent on seasonal rainfall.
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