| 99 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE CANTERBURY » Ruapuna Farms Nick Giera’s farming team. The 400ha (375 effective) also has a 250ha support block. The couple milk 1400 crossbred cows and for the past four years production has ranged from 660,000 – 682,000kgMS, or around 480kgMS per cow. Six full time permanent staff are employed with extra staff brought in to assist with calving which will get underway on August 9. The farm is well set up with a 80 bail rotary Waikato plant. Nick and Tina have four children, aged 9 – 15, who are all interested in farming. Nick joined MC Federated Farmers 18 months ago and was elected Dairy Chair in May last year. He has also taken on a part time general manager’s role for another farming group on a xed term contract. Nick and Tina’s plans are to eventually gain farm ownership. “The pathway to this is tougher than it used to be, but we believe there are still opportunities,” says Nick. Asked what advice he would offer those considering a farming career Nick says “Technology will having a greater role in day to day management which is creating opportunities in itself. I think be prepared to start at the bottom. Don’t rush into equity partnerships and do your due diligence. A career outside of farming and an education is a good idea.” He believes it’s a great industry to be part of with lots of good people.
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