80 | Quality ‘key reason’ for kudos in market The plant’s modernisation has included a new monogastric mill in 2006, and in 2020 a state-of-the-art silo complex was built. Richard Loader An unwavering focus on quality has positioned North Canterbury’s Weston Animal Nutrition (WAN NZ) very well within New Zealand’s highly competitive stock feed industry, says Tony Hearn, New Zealand Manager WAN. “Quality is the key reason that our feed has the kudos within the market, and that is achieved because we are essentially a boutique operation. We have one single press, and that enables us to provide a greater focus on the finished product. “There is a high standard of quality control which is ongoing and continually monitored and improved, ensuring our product is always of the highest quality meeting the specifications and performance expected of top quality stock feed. All our team members have that same focus on producing a high-quality product. Some have been with the business for twenty years and know the business thoroughly.” With a history dating back more than 140 years through different ownerships and operations, WAN now specialises in the manufacture of pelletised monogastric stock feed from its mill located in Southbrook, Rangiora. The plant’s modernisation has included a new monogastric mill in 2006, and in 2020 a state-ofthe-art silo complex was built adding another 5000 tonne of grain storage, increasing its capacity to nearly 7000 tonnes. An MPI approved grain importation system was also added. The only monogastric mill north of Christchurch, WAN is a division of George Weston Foods Limited RURAL SERVICES » Weston Animal Nutrition (GWF), which owns and operates flour mills and feed mills in Australia and New Zealand. WAN produces approximately 700 tonnes of monogastric stock feeds each week, comprised of 80% pig feeds and the balance poultry. 90% of feeds made are sent out on bulk deliveries to local pig and poultry farmers, with the balance packaged in 10kg and 25kg retail bags and despatched to independent retailers all over New Zealand. Tony says that WAN’s preference is to use wheat sourced locally from North Canterbury and Mid Canterbury growers, but in 2022 had to import from Australia when the locally sourced product ran out. “Currently we are using 100% New Zealand grain, and we have bought sufficient New Zealand grain to take us through to about September 2025.” Tony acknowledged that having the ability to import also provides flexibility if New Zealand grain is dearer than Australian grain, and ensures the finished stock feed prices remain competitive for its customers. “A wide range of products are available, and can be tailored to meet the unique requirements of any farmer. “Ruminant protein (meat and bone meal) is used as a key stockfeed ingredient as it is a great protein source for monogastric animals. “The animal’s diets are typically determined by the farmers’ nutritionists, who then work directly with us to create a bespoke stockfeed product. “We also work closely with our sister companies in Australia who can also provide specialist advice from our technical nutritionist, veterinarian and quality assurance team, when needed.” As well as employing 14 local staff, WAN uses a range of local contractors for plant maintenance, along with a many local businesses who provide services and support to keep the mill operating and producing its high quality product.
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