| 47 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » O&H Milking The key has been empowering their farm manager Reno Moses at the 260-hectare Galatea property. “The technology is great because it means that we can keep our finger on the pulse when we are not there as well,” says Rebecca. At the Pamu farm, where the couple now live, Rebecca and Scott manage a team of four full-time staff. Early results have been encouraging with production currently sitting 65 per cent up on the previous season. “We’ve been put here to pretty much boost production,” explains Rebecca. “Key strategies include grass management, feed management and maximising milk production before Christmas.” The farm boasts excellent infrastructure and the O’Briens have already made Improvements. “We have put automatic cup removers in the shed off our own back just to drive further towards that working smarter, not harder mentality,” says Rebecca. However she identifies people and communication as the cornerstone of the operation’s success. “We work for a culture of mutual respect. It’s that cliché of communication, but honestly, it’s key,” explains Rebecca. “If we have a lack of communication with even one staff member then that translates to a lack of communication for the whole team.” The approach includes regular toolbox meetings, an active group chat and formal one-onone sessions. The couple’s division of labour sees Rebecca handling chief calf rearing duties - a significant undertaking with 1,000 cows - alongside the majority of administration work. Scott takes a more hands-on role with day-today farm operations. Their three children - Hunter, 16, Summer, 14, For more than 20 years, Kelly Cowan has been immersed in New Zealand’s dairy industry — not from the sidelines, but right in the thick of it. As a farmer, wife, and mum of ive, she has lived the early starts, the mud, the pressure, and the pride that comes with rural life. Alongside her husband, Kelly spent over two decades raising a family while helping run their dairy and now water-blasting business, a combination that has kept the pair grounded, hardworking, and deeply connected to the land. Now in their seventh season with Onuku Māori Lands Trust, they remain hands-on in the shed, committed to producing quality milk and supporting their farming community. Because Kelly is still actively dairying, she brings something rare to rural real estate — current, practical, lived experience. She understands farm systems, infrastructure, compliance, and seasonal pressures because she faces them every day. For her clients, that means genuine insight, real conversations, and a level of credibility that can’t be taught in a classroom. Three and a half years ago, Kelly took on a new challenge, stepping into her role as a Rural and Lifestyle Salesperson. Her transition from gumboots to rural property has been a natural it. With her background, she knows what matters: good land, good people, and honest advice. “I’m not just selling lifestyle blocks, I’m helping families start the next chapter of their own rural story.” Kelly is also open about the realities of being a woman in two male-dominated spaces — farming and rural real estate. “It’s not always easy competing with the blokes, but rural women are tough. Years of juggling kids, calves, and careers teaches you how to work hard and get things done.” Her approachable, hardworking, and down-to-earth style has quickly earned her trust across the Taupō, South Waikato, and Reporoa regions. Beyond the farm and the for-sale sign, Kelly serves her community in other ways. Now in her second term on the Reporoa College Board, she is proud to help develop an agriculture-focused academy to give local youth clear pathways into dairying, agribusiness, and new rural technologies. As Ray White Rural continues to grow its presence in New Zealand, Kelly is proud to be part of that momentum. And despite her success, her roots remain irmly planted. Between appraisals and open homes, she’s still in the shed helping milk, feeding calves, or pitching in where needed. “At the end of the day, I’m just a farm girl who loves people — and I love helping others succeed, whether that’s on farm or in inding their dream rural property. From Dairy Days to Rural Deals: Kelly Cowan’s Journey From the Shed to Real Estate Helping You Buy, Sell, Rent, and Invest in Taupo At Ray White Taupo, we pride ourselves on providing honest, friendly, and professional service. Our team of dedicated salespeople understands Taupo’s neighbourhoods, suburbs, and local market trends inside and out. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, looking to sell your property, or seeking rural or lifestyle investments, we’re here to guide you. CONTACT KELLY 027 2067800 kelly.cowan@raywhite.com and Piper, 11 - are increasingly involved in the family business. “Hunter and Summer are on the payroll and been really good for them to learn work ethic and learn a lot about the business,” says Rebecca. “When they are home on weekends and holidays, they are certainly at work.” The Galatea farm also continues to chase its ambitious target. “We’ve always got a target of reaching 300,000 milk solids on that farm,” explains Rebecca. “Some years its very ambitious and we haven’t quite got there, but it’s always a goal.”
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