West Coast / Top of the South Dairy Trainee of the Year winner Ros McCann is glad she made the switch to farming - Page 38 Former vet tech’s regional win www.waterfordpress.co.nz WINTER 2025
2 | nzdairy Contents #nzdairy #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz 26 | Thankful for the support 54 | Massive award achievement for Smith 86 | An Egyptian’s journey in NZ’s dairy heartland 11 | Special moment for Eva Wooller OUR PARTNERS: Christchurch Office 112 Wrights Road, Addington, Christchurch Phone 03-983 5500 PO Box 37 346 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown 9300 PO Box 2581, Wakatipu MANAGING DIRECTOR James Lynch james@waterfordpress.co.nz BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Chris Pearce chris.pearce@waterfordpress.co.nz EDITORIAL Editor Randall Johnston randall@waterfordpress.co.nz WRITERS Anne Boswell, Kelly Deeks, Hugh de Lacy, Randall Johnston, Russell Fredric, Kim Newth, Karen Phelps, Sue Russell, Rosa Watson, Virginia Wright, Lindy Andrews, Bernadette Cooney, Nicki Woodlock, Emma Bailey, Kim Bowden. 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Braebid Farms ................................................................................ 04 Cameron Dairy Farms Ltd ............................................................... 06 Courtney West and Greg Partington................................................. 07 B&T Hopson Partnership ................................................................. 08 Edwards Dairies.............................................................................. 10 Eva Wooler - Longburn.................................................................... 11 Green Grass Farming Ltd ................................................................ 12 Hillier - Wadham............................................................................. 13 Isla Pringle and Hayden Smith......................................................... 14 Kiffs Agventures Ltd........................................................................ 16 Leah Murray ................................................................................... 18 O’Neill’s Fine Farms ........................................................................ 20 Omana Farms ................................................................................. 21 Park Hill Farms Ltd ......................................................................... 22 Puketiro Farm................................................................................. 23 Ruru Dairy Ltd ................................................................................ 24 Rushaven ....................................................................................... 26 Suffolk Farm................................................................................... 28 Te Kahika - Stephenson .................................................................. 30 Warric and Rachel Johnson............................................................. 31 Waka Dairies .................................................................................. 32 White Horizons................................................................................ 35 Wilfred and Pieter Van Beek ............................................................ 36 Andrew Verway and Ros McCann.................................................... 38 Pratt Brothers 2000 ....................................................................... 39 Richard Grabham And Nikita Baker ................................................. 39 Basil Dairies ................................................................................... 40 Jesse and Sharon Bagley................................................................ 40 Hermanus Farm.............................................................................. 41 Clydesdale Dairy............................................................................. 42 McCarty Farms ............................................................................... 44 Pukatea Dairy Farms....................................................................... 47 Maulen Partnership......................................................................... 49 Ashgrove Dairy Farms..................................................................... 50 GFJ Farms .................................................................................... 51 J&M Fisher Trust............................................................................. 51 Cawte Farms .................................................................................. 52 Legendairies 2 and Real Pastorals .................................................. 54 Aquila Farms .................................................................................. 55 Bryan Hayward ............................................................................... 56 Bryce McKenzie.............................................................................. 57 Array Holsteins ............................................................................... 58 Camden Group................................................................................ 60 Dan Cosgrove .................................................................................... 64 Donalds Farm .................................................................................... 65 Geoff Read Builders and Joiners ........................................................ 66 Kemra Farms ..................................................................................... 67 Hudson and Brown ............................................................................ 68 Kuljeet Singh ..................................................................................... 70 Lynwood Dairies ................................................................................ 72 Adam and Becs Giddens .................................................................... 73 Rob Little and Georgie Sinclair ........................................................... 74 Manaia View Farms............................................................................ 76 Nic and Kirsty Verhoek ....................................................................... 78 MKJ Farms Ltd .................................................................................. 80 Rakaia Island ..................................................................................... 81 LandVision Tauranga.......................................................................... 84 Owl Farm: St Peters School ................................................................ 85 Sandle 2 ............................................................................................ 86 Scott and Ann Henderson................................................................... 87 South Hughes Farms Ltd.................................................................... 88 Te Tawa Kaiti Lands Trust................................................................... 90 Zarnie Ferguson and Richard Willis .................................................... 91 Amorangi Farms ................................................................................ 92 Charlotte Montgomery and Caleb Smith ............................................. 92 Stock Ezy........................................................................................... 93 John Conen ....................................................................................... 94 Kevin and Kyla Freeman..................................................................... 94 Lachlan Jenkins and Jamie Sugden ................................................... 95 Matthew Bell ..................................................................................... 95 Advance Dairy & Pump ...................................................................... 96 Agvance Nutrition Ltd ........................................................................ 97 Corrigan Sowman .............................................................................. 98 Fabish and Jackson ........................................................................... 98 Canterbury Water Services................................................................. 99 Dairy Shed Hub................................................................................ 100 Dairycool Ltd ................................................................................... 101 Highline Dairy Otago Ltd .................................................................. 102 ProAg Products Ltd .......................................................................... 103 Hoof-it Waikato Hoof Trimming......................................................... 104 New Zealand Milking and Pumping Trade Association ...................... 106 Westland Dairy Sheds Ltd ................................................................ 108 Waikato Milking Systems ................................................................. 110 Moa Milking & Pumping................................................................... 111 The Wrangler Ltd ............................................................................. 112 Advanced Dairy Barns...................................................................... 116
| 3 nzdairy Excellence in farming recognised in 2025 The 2025 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards winners and finalists represent a group of people who are acutely aware of environmental issues and the dairy industry’s role in farming responsibly, with use of technology and data interpretation driving environmental benefits through improved systems. In front of more than 620 people at Mt Maunganui’s Baypark Stadium Thomas and Fiona Langford from Waikato were named the 2025 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year, Martin Keegan from Taranaki became the 2025 New Zealand Dairy Manager of the Year and Pieter Van Beek from Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa was announced the 2025 New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year. Tom and Fiona Langford also won the CowManager Experience cow monitoring system for two years, while Waka Dairies from Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa were the recipients of the Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award. This year, two new awards were introduced - the Fonterra & ASB First Farm Award and the ASB Alumni of the Year Award - to celebrate and reward those continuing to contribute to the dairy industry. Braden and Brigitte Barnes (Canterbury/North Otago), Cameron and Margaret Bierre (Waikato) and Reece and Natasha Cox (Central Plateau) each received the Fonterra First Farm Award, with Steve and Amy Gillies from Waikato winning the ASB Alumni of the Year award. All winners receive prizes from a pool worth over $900,000, which drives implementation of best practice and provides winners with the means to invest in the dairy industry and secure the pathway to farm ownership for some of our best farmers. Share Farmer category head judge, Steve Canton from DairyNZ says Tom and Fiona Langford impressed the judges with their overall excellence across the board. “Tom and Fiona are very focused on the detail,” he says. “They both come from corporate lives and they have brought that experience into a lot of their systems and processes.” The 2025 New Zealand Dairy Manager of the Year is Martin Keegan from Taranaki, who has been on a quick journey into the dairy industry and has committed to extensive learning and taking on every learning opportunity he can. Head judge Janine Swansson from DairyNZ noted Martin excelled across all aspects of the farm with high-level knowledge and excellent practical farming skills. “We were impressed with his attention-to-detail across animal welfare and how highly he values them – he was so detailed on every aspect and DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Thomas and Fiona Langford from Waikato were named the 2025 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year, Martin Keegan from Taranaki became the 2025 New Zealand Dairy Manager of the Year and Pieter Van Beek from Hawke’s Bay / Wairarapa was announced the 2025 New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year. learning about mastitis management, breeding and reproduction.” The first-time entrant won the DairyNZ People & Leadership Award, the CowManager Livestock Management Award, the Personal Planning & Financial Management Award and over $16,000 in prizes. The 2025 New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year was awarded to Pieter Van Beek from Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa who is described by the judges as an insightful young man who was able to clearly articulate his goals and ability to achieve them. The Dairy Trainee judges say Pieter has a good knowledge of the industry and looks to older farmers for career advice and mentorship. “He soaks up their advice like a sponge,” says judge Frank Portegys from DairyNZ. “He was able to communicate clearly around industry issues and the impact of some of those,” says head judge Johanna Wood from Manawatu. “He has a broad knowledge and he’s a hard worker.” The first-time entrant is farm assistant on Wilfred and Rachel Van Beek’s 120ha, 330-cow farm at Greytown. Waka Dairies, represented by Michael Phillips, Russell Phillips and Andrew ‘Bubbles’ Evans in Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa, were named the 2025 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award recipients and received the John Wilson Memorial Trophy. The prestigious award was created to recognise and celebrate dairy farmers who demonstrate leadership in their approach to sustainability and who are passionate about the four pillars of Responsible Dairying – people and community, finance, environment and animal welfare. “We had the privilege of visiting three exceptional national nominees for this year’s Award,” says head judge Pete Morgan. “Each demonstrated a strong connection to their community, a proactive approach to managing their environmental footprint, and a clear sense of purpose driving their farm operation.” “Waka Dairies operate a highly progressive, future-focused business that achieves outstanding performance across all areas of the farm. Their operation sets a benchmark for the sector - showcasing a broad, integrated approach to sustainability and excellence in dairying.” E RETRACTING ER SYSTEMS eed or fertiliser dry system for easy access or steel cladding options me and cut waste co.nz .co.nz COST EFFECTIVE RETRACTABLE ROOFS 0800 262 788 info@slidingroofs.co.nz www.slidingroofs.co.nz 100% NZ MADE COAST SLIDING ROOFS • Can be retro tted to existing concrete wood or block bins • Unique space saving sectional design • Canvas or steel cladding options • Winch system for easy access • Keeps feed or fertiliser dry • Kitset options available MAJOR WINNERS 2025 SHAREFARMER OF THE YEAR: Thomas & Fiona Langford – Waikato DAIRY MANAGER OF THE YEAR: Martin Keegan – Taranaki DAIRY TRAINEE OF THE YEAR: Pieter Van Beek – Hawke’s Bay / Wairarapa FONTERRA RESPONSIBLE DAIRYING AWARD: Waka Dairies – Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa (represented by Michael & Russell Phillips) ASB ALUMNI OF THE YEAR AWARD: Steve & Amy Gillies – Waikato FONTERRA & ASB FIRST FARM AWARD (three equal winners): Braden & Brigitte Barnes – Canterbury / North Otago Cameron & Margaret Bierre – Waikato Reece & Natasha Cox – Central Plateau
4 | nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Braebid Farms Past accolades include winning three categories in the 2021 Canterbury North Otago Sharemilker of the Year competition. Looking to take the next step on journey Randall Johnston Canterbury dairy farmers Brigitte and Braden Barnes have won the Fonterra & ASB First Farm Award at the 2025 NZ Dairy Industry Awards (DIA) held in May. The sharemilkers, who hold a 50-50 partnership on a farm with 1150 cows located 20 kilometers south-east of Oxford, have diligently worked and saved to advance their dairy farming enterprise. To say the DIA win was a surprise would be quite an understatement. “We didn’t really have any expectations and were surprised even when we got named in the top six really. We didn’t feel all that confident after meeting with the judges, or after the two days with the other finalists. We thought they were all really impressive people and that we were a bit out of our league. So when they called out name, we were just totally blown away,” Brigitte explains. They received very good feedback from the judges on how they manage their operation, especially on their forward financial planning. They also commented on their humble yet positive attitude and willingness to learn and experiment with different techniques on farm. Their sizable herd, spread across 351ha- effective, is set to reach 548,000 kgMS of milk solids this season, averaging about 475kg per cow. This marks the fourth share-milking season for the Barnes, with one more season left on the contract. The couple has just completed their first full season using Allflex cow collars, which they say has made life a lot easier. Their pasture-based system is supplemented with grain in the shed, canola added in spring, along with silage, with maize brought in during the transitional periods of the season. They are focusing on developing a herd of more compact-framed cows that produce well but have a smaller appetite. The herd, primarily Friesian but being bred into a Kiwi-cross base, is milked twice daily, switching to three times every two days starting in January, and then reducing to once a day as the season wraps up. They manage this all while raising their young children, Heidi, 6, Jock, 4, and Ginny, 2. When they first began, the herd was below the national average for Breeding Worth, but after four • Cattle Crushes • Glue & Blocks • Knives • Knife Sharpeners QualityHoof Trimming for Dairy Cows Top of the line Hoof Care Products: Operating through the Canterbury and North Otago regions 0800 4 26922 Cowcare NZ Limited Alpine Immigration and Recruitment NZ is pleased and proud to work alongside Braebid Farms in regards to meeting their employment needs and congratulate them on their well-deserved award. Need help with your employment needs? Get In Touch. Gerard Hansen Licensed Immigration Adviser 021770132 gerard@alpinenz.co.nz alpineirnz.co.nz Alexanders are proud to support Braebid Farms
| 5 nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Braebid Farms They are focusing on developing a herd of more compact-framed cows that produce well but have a smaller appetite. seasons, it’s in the top 10 per cent. They achieved this by focusing more on the younger animals, breeding replacements from them, and crossed the low BW cows with beef breeds. Having thoroughly searched the market for a ENABLING BETTER BUSINESS WE ARE AWAIKATO BASED CHARTERED ACCOUNTING FIRM WHODOESN’T JUST TICK BOXES, WE LOOK OUTSIDE THEM. 0800 888 055 diprosemiller.co.nz The preferred milking systems partner for Dairy Farmers Ph 0800 577 583 | www.morrisonagri.co.nz Proud to support Braebid Farms Milking Machines Rotary Platforms Engineering Pumping & Plumbing Chemical suitable dairy farm, ideally without the involvement of equity partners, they are now considering several farms. This search will be helped by the fact that part of the DIA prize is a loan of up to $1million fixed at a 1 per cent per year rate for three years. Included among the additional awards is a $20,000 credit for a Farm Source account, intended for investment in their initial farm, along with mentoring and assistance from Fonterra to facilitate the transition into farm ownership. Past accolades include winning three categories in the 2021 Canterbury North Otago Sharemilker of the Year competition and they are thrilled at adding such a prestigious national award this year.
6 | nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Cameron Dairy Farms Ltd Smart dairying rewarded with a big win Rosa Watson Ambitious determination and investment in technology has seen Bay of Plenty dairy farmers Andre and Natalie Meier take out top prize at the Dairy Industry Awards for the Bay of Plenty region. Reflecting on winning Share Farmer of the Year, Natalie told NZ Dairy the recognition was affirmation the hard work they were putting into the property and operation. “For us it positively reflects the farm systems and procedures we have implemented on farm and the hard work our staff put in. It is a great motivator for all of us to continue to strive towards our targets and goals and continue to do better every day.” While they didn’t take home an award at the national awards in May, Natalie said it was a great experience meeting other farmers and connecting with industry professionals. “We learnt a lot and can only grow being pushed out of your comfort zone.” Andrew had previously won Manager of the Year at the 2020 Dairy Industry Awards nationals, and this year they decided to enter the share farmer category. “Back in 2020 a big motivator to enter the manager category was for career progression as Andre wanted to move forward in the industry and go contract milking. “This year our motivator in the sharefarmer category was to continue to work on our business, get industry professionals feedback from judging and be in a positive environment and connect with other motivated and passionate farmers.” She said the awards offered personal and career growth, constructive feedback, great prizes, and a standout application for future opportunities. The couple have a 20 per cent equity partnership with Bruce and Gill Cameron and Anna and Rikki James, their sister and brother in-law, over two properties at Otamarakau and Otakiri covering 267ha. The Otamarakau operation has a 350 cow feedpad, 41-aside herring-bone shed, protract, CowManager technology and irrigation. At Grieve Rd there is a 500 cow self-composting herd home, 21-aside double up cow shed, Protract automation, CowManager ear tags and irrigation. It is the second year with once-a-day milking over a full season. “We used to go from twice-a-day to once-a-day around Christmas time but decided to change systems due to our high reproduction results being Andrew had previously won Manager of the Year at the 2020 Dairy Industry Awards nationals. in the high 20s, and after the first year we were back down at industry targets.” Production and animal health is improving, and there has been a great body score condition throughout season. The biggest challenge was the rainy season 22/23 season, Natalie said. Being located in a low-lying valley meant pasture quality was poor. “Our mating that year was well below industry standards and our production very low, it was a hard to pill to follow for us as it was not due to a lack of hard work or passion.” So, the couple did a deep dive into the business and farm systems and received support from local farmers Ann and Will Nettlingham, and industry professionals, and put together a strategy. This included going once-a-day following the Northland Kikuyu Management programme, as suggested by Kim Robinson, implementing Cow Manager which supports the herd nutrition, health and reproduction, and maintaining a low-cost system that could ride out weather events and changes in the milk payout. • Irrigation • Fertigation • Frost Protection • Water levels, usage and Council reporting RICADO is proudly associated with Cameron Dairy Farms Ltd. No stress, you have control. 0800 RICADO 07 575 4601 www.ricado.co.nz info@ricado.co.nz REMOTELY MONITOR AND CONTROL: These changes have paid off well with a drastic improvement in the reproduction results. “The future is exciting.” Natalie grew up on a sheep and beef farm and Andre grew up in rural Te Puna and relief milked for neighbouring dairy farms from a young age. “We both love animals and the outdoors, so farming was definitely on the cards for both of us. “Andre loves the daily challenges it brings - no day is the same, and we both enjoy the lifestyle it has for bringing up our young family.” The couple continue to set goals within the industry, aiming to improve herd genetics and continue to increase their shareholding within Cameron Dairy Farms Ltd.
| 7 nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Courtney West and Greg Partington Courtney West’s top gong and five merit awards Richard Loader A former adventure tourism worker who swapped adrenaline rushes for the dairy industry has been crowned the 2025 Northland Dairy Manager of the Year. Courtney West, who manages Greg Partington and Nicola Murray’s 147-hectare Tomarata farm, walked away with the prestigious title along with an impressive five merit awards. “It took me by surprise to be honest. But it’s been really cool and a boost in self-confidence,” says Courtney. “I don’t have many friends who are farmers so the grand finals were a good networking opportunity.” The 26-year-old’s achievement represents a remarkable career transition, having only entered the dairy industry in 2020 following the collapse of her previous profession. “Until 2020 I worked in Queenstown in zipline, jetboating and skydiving companies,” explains Courtney. “I needed a career change when covid destroyed the tourism industry and I haven’t looked back.” Now approaching her third season managing the 350-cow operation, Courtney’s rapid rise through the ranks demonstrates her natural aptitude for dairy farming. Last year, she was runner-up in the same category, building on her third-place finish in the 2023 Manawatu Dairy Trainee category. Her sweep of merit awards reflects her comprehensive approach to farm management. These included the CowManager Livestock Management Award, where she impressed judges with her focus on animal health and breeding programmes. “I have a lot of passion for young stock health, it’s a big focus for me,” says Courtney. “The calving was going for too long when I came to this position so we changed the plan to better suit this split calving farm.” Her reduction of artificial insemination and putting the cows out to the bull has prevented overlapping calving seasons, significantly improving animal health outcomes. Milk quality excellence earned her the Fonterra Dairy Management Award: “The big thing was keeping a good eye on somatic cell count. When I first started here there were a lot of alerts and grades and I didn’t want that,” says Courtney. “So we are now sitting under 90 and in the excellence area and getting the Co-operative of Difference Te Puku Award for 30 days of excellence from Fonterra and we are about to get the Te Tihi for 100 days of excellence.” Her third merit award came for pasture and feed management, with judges impressed by her detailed approach. “It’s an area I am new to but having my feed wedges on display on boards for the judges’ assessment so they could see what I was doing helped I think. I do weekly pasture walks to know the changes in the paddocks,” explains Courtney. Courtney West manages Greg Partington and Nicola Murray’s 147-hectare Tomarata farm. Environmental sustainability represents another area where Courtney has made significant improvements, earning her fourth merit award. “The main thing here was focusing on the effluent system,” says Courtney, who personally undertook improvements around the effluent area. Her team’s efficiency measures have reduced water and power usage while maintaining productivity despite decreasing stocking numbers from 1,000 to 700 cows. Her fifth merit award recognised personal planning and financial management, with Courtney and her partner Colin Beazley, who is the farm operations manager, demonstrating sound financial planning. Unlike many in the industry, Courtney’s ambitions lie not in farm ownership but in becoming a dairy cow nutritionist. Alongside PrimaryITO courses she has Brendon Browne Director Rodney Honda 74 Hudson Road, Warkworth Phone 09 945 3989 Mobile 021 0238 7572 E-mail sales@rodneyhonda.co.nz www.rodneyhonda.co.nz completed in milk harvesting, livestock husbandry and pastoral livestock production, she is currently studying towards a Bachelor’s degree in Agriscience through Massey University online. “It’s definitely not easy to keep focused but it’s a long-term goal.”
8 | nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » B&T Hopson Partnership Caitlin wins Dairy Trainee of the Year 2025 Nicki Woodlock The winner of the Auckland/Hauraki Dairy Trainee of the Year category for 2025 was awarded to Caitlin Snodgrass at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards on 11 March. Her prize haul includes over $6,200 worth of prizes and two merit awards; the Franklin Vets Farming Knowledge Award for general knowledge of farming, and the Taylor Bros Transport Communication & Industry Involvement Award for communication and industry involvement. Snodgrass’ community involvement is in the charity Surfing for Farmers which aims to build a sense of community amongst farmers. Caitlin Snodgrass works as a farm assistant on Stu and Kaaren Davey’s 215 hectare, 600 cow property in Paeroa. She collaborates with sharemilkers Brendan and Tessa Hopson. The farm operates a KiwiCross herd - a mix of Jersey and Friesian cows - and includes a 60- hectare runoff area used to raise young stock. After competing last year and earning the runner-up position, Snodgrass remained determined, continuously building her knowledge of pasture and nutrient management. She is currently completing a Level 3 ITO Apprenticeship in Dairy Farming, expected to be finished within the next month. “I was encouraged to enter by a friend - to benchmark where I was at, and also to make industry connections,” says Snodgrass. Snodgrass’s win came as a surprise, given that she has only been farming for two seasons. Out of six regional entrants, she was shocked to win. Snodgrass shares, “I didn’t expect to win. There are very bright, hard-working young people in this area. I was in shock when my name was called. I feel that I pushed myself through all of my doubts. I feel proud about how far I’ve come in the last few years both personally and professionally.” Reflecting on her farming journey, Snodgrass admits, “I’m really loving farming. I’ve definitely had my struggles—mostly to do with confidence, as it’s been a steep learning curve. I hadn’t even touched a cow until I was 27 yrs old!” Before venturing into farming, Snodgrass worked in public health in Auckland but found the corporate environment unfulfilling. She recalls, “I decided that I needed to spend some time outside and I decided to get out of the city. I needed to find a meaningful pathway that makes me happy. I love being outside and being with animals.” The Dairy Industry Awards competition involved two main events: a practical skills day consisting of eight stations with a series of 10-minute practical challenges, and an interview to assess entrants’ general farming knowledge, industry insight, and personal experiences on the farm. Snodgrass attributes her success to her evident passion for the industry and the happiness she Farm owners Stu and Kaaren, Caitlin Snodgrass in the middle, sharemilkers Tessa and Brendan. DIA Nationals 2025. derives from her work. She notes that the most challenging aspect of the competition was maintaining composure during practical assessments. Learning to farm has been a rapid process for Snodgrass, who couldn’t drive a manual vehicle before moving to the farm. Now, she confidently operates a large tractor with a feed wagon and independently handles daily farming tasks. The Hopson’s have played a significant role in her training in practical farming skills. In preparation for the national final on May 10, Snodgrass is focusing on building her general knowledge and completing the final two ITO subjects: milking and pasture management. Looking ahead, her goal is to advance to a farm management role. JONO TESSELAAR | MOB 027 495 6106 | 0800 956 106 • Maize Planting & Harvesting • Loaderwagon Silage • Baleage Rounds • Cartage • Cultivation • Hedgecutting • Spraying • Crop Planting SAM TISSINGH Electrician Proudly supporting B&T Hopson Partnership PAEROA - HAURAKI • PH: 022 657 8169 • @: tisselectrical@gmail.com Industrial - Rural Service - Residential - Commercial WE ARE PROUD TO WORK WI TH THE HOPSONS AND THEIR TEAM. BIG THANKS TO CAI TL IN SNODGRASS FOR HER HARD WORK ! Snodgrass aims to move into a 2IC (second-incharge) position and ultimately manage a farm, with the potential of taking on contract milking. She reflects, “Sometimes I miss the animal health side. I might want to go into a research role, maybe in the distant future.”
In an industry where time equals money, South Island dairy farmers should be turning to specialised recruitment services to nd the right sta for their businesses, says Paula Hems, owner and operator of Rural People Ltd. She believes farmers should not be intimidated by using recruiters despite some negative perceptions in the sector. "Over the years there have been a lot of negative feedback of the recruitment industry due to some bad apples giving the rest of us a bad name. That's why it's important to use an experienced and respected recruiter. Our client testimonials show we do what we say we will do," explains Paula. With over 30 years of experience in Human Resources and Recruitment, Paula has built Rural People into a trusted name across the South Island dairy industry. Now in its ninth year of operation, the company specialises in matching the right candidates with farms, saving farmers the considerable time and e ort involved in recruitment. "Farmers want to save time and money, and using a recruiter can help them do just that," says Paula. "Retention is cheaper than recruitment so getting that right sta member really counts. If you get the right person who stays in your business, that more than pays for a recruitment service." What sets Rural People apart from other recruitment companies is Paula’s commitment to long-term relationship, she o ers a three-month guarantee on placements, replacing candidates free of charge if things don't work out in that timeframe. "I like to see myself as an extension of my clients’ businesses," says Paula. "I not only nd them the right people but I stay in touch afterwards. It's all about relationships. With Rural People clients get fantastic rst-hand experience, excellent ongoing support and a great service." Paula’s personalised approach means recruitment is tailored to each farm's speci c environment, team dynamics and operational needs. Rural People's services include but are not limited to, employment contracts, job descriptions, immigration paperwork if required, HR and ongoing support. As Paula explains, many farmers simply don't have the time to manage the recruitment process themselves, especially if it involves immigration matters. "For example at the moment I can easily receive 90 plus applicants for each advert and all those people need to be assessed properly. That's a lot of time for a busy farmer who has a farm to run." Working alongside a licensed immigration advisor, Paula can provide comprehensive support for farmers who need to navigate complex immigration processes. It's no surprise that most of Rural People's business comes through word of mouth rather than marketing, testament to the reputation Paula has built. Paula works with farmers across the South Island, with Paula planning a campervan tour in October to visit existing clients and meet potential new ones. "I have built strong relationships with my clients. Some even become good friends. I treat people the way I would want to be treated, and I trust farmers really value that." The right staff for the job RURAL PEOPLE FINDING RURAL PEOPLE Finding the right person isn’t just about matching a skill set, it’s about ensuring that the new person is going to fit in with your team. When we find the right person our service includes employment contract, job description, immigration paperwork (if required) and labour market testing. We will continually work with you to ensure the employees smooth transition into your workplace. With Rural People you will get fantastic first hand experience, excellent ongoing support and a great service. Recruitment Immigration HR Service PAULA HEMS Owner / Operator, Rural People Ltd Get In Touch 027 511 8814 paula@ruralpeople.co.nz ruralpeople.co.nz
10 | nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Edwards Dairies Sharemilking couple winning in 2025 Bernadette Cooney The motivated young couple behind Edwards Dairies, have been named the 2025 AucklandHauraki Share Farmers of the Year at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. Brad and Courtney Edwards not only took home the region’s top title but also swept up six merit awards. The sharemilking couple were runners-up in the same category last year, where they clinched the Federated Farmers Leadership Award and the Diprose Miller Business Performance Award. “Winning this year is a reflection of how much we’ve grown not just in how we farm, but how we run our business,” says Courtney. “Last year we learned a lot, especially through benchmarking with Dairybase. This year, we really focused on being evidence based and showing what we do and why,” she says. That evidence-based approach helped them shine across categories. In addition to being crowned Share Farmers of the Year the Edwards also received the LIC Animal Wellbeing, Recording and Productivity Award, the Diprose Miller Environmental Sustainability Award, the Trelleborg Sustainable Pasture Award, and the Honda Farm Safety, Health & Biosecurity Award. Farming 240 Friesian-cross cows on a 90- hectare 50/50 sharemilking farm in Ngatea, the couple are raising their two young sons, Arthur and Grayson, while managing a high-performing and future-focused dairy operation. As Certified Milk Suppliers under Synlait’s Lead With Pride programme, Brad and Courtney are committed to best-practice farming. “It’s about more than ticking boxes. We take pride in knowing our farming is transparent from its animal welfare and health to its greenhouse gas emissions, our milk quality, our financials and social responsibilities, it’s all there.” “You think you know your business until you pull it all apart,” says Courtney. “These awards help you think strategically, and I’d 100% recommend it to any sharemilkers across the country.” Their on-farm systems reflect that commitment. They track young stock weights, conduct monthly health checks, and complete feed budgeting and blood testing to monitor animal performance. Their milk production figures are healthy too, with Edwards Dairies only 1000 milk solids off beating their own previous best, set in their second season. “So close, but we didn’t quite break our own record this season before they had dried off, but it’s still been really good,” she says. Their genetic strategy also reflects their forward-thinking approach. The herd is primarily Friesian-cross, trending toward pure Friesian for better production. This season , Edwards Dairies began participating in a sire proving scheme with LIC. “We run a 10-week artificial breeding programme right through. We don’t put Jersey bulls to tail over or anything like that. Brad and Courtney Edwards at the awards (middle). We just AI the whole time to produce as many replacements as possible and support long term herd improvement.” Brad and Courtney both come from farming backgrounds and are clear about their ambition to own their own farm by their 30’s. “We’re nearly in our mid 20’s and we love farm life, its challenges and its rewards and we couldn’t imagine doing anything else,” says Courtney. The Edwards still find time for community involvement despite the demands of dairying, including Hauraki Young Farmers and local hockey leagues. “You think you know your business until you pull it all apart. These awards help you think strategically, and I’d 100% recommend it to any sharemilkers across the country.” HAURAKI PLAINS MOTORS LTD For all new and used farm machinery 1 Pipiroa Road, NGATEA - Ph. 07 867 7021 e: admin@hpmotors.co.nz www.haurakiplainsmotors.co.nz Miles Shelley 027 227 1121 Michael Duffin 027 440 4681 bluffherefords.co.nz 39 Williams Road, Glenbrook, Auckland 2681 | Phil - 021 178 3053 Kirstine - 021 178 3863 | hello@bluffherefords.co.nz Get In Touch 2025 Annual Yearling Bull Sale to be held on farm 39 Williams Road, Glenbrook, Auckland We had the most incredible day at our 2024 sale and the 2025 is set to be even bigger and better. See you there! Refreshments to follow 5th September, 2025 @ 1.00pm
| 11 nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Eva Wooller - Longburn A career-defining moment for Eva Wooller Karen Phelps The 2025 Manawatu Dairy Trainee of the Year award has proved a career-defining moment for Eva Wooller that led indirectly to her recent promotion to herd manager on the same Fonterra Longburn farm where she began her dairy career. “Winning the award was the catalyst that gave me the confidence to apply for and secure the herd manager position,” says Eva. “It was one of my short-term goals but it’s come faster than expected. It was about timing but winning the award definitely helped.” Eva has made significant progress in her career in just two years for someone who didn’t grow up on a farm. She began her dairy career as a farm assistant after completing her Bachelor of Animal Science degree majoring in Animal Welfare from Massey University, making this her third season in the industry. “I was really fresh into the industry when I started on this farm,” explains Eva. “So winning makes me realise how far I’ve come and that I know what I’m doing. It was a good bench marker and proof of my hard work.” Her passion for the role became evident early, particularly in calf rearing which she took on responsibility for shortly after starting. “I love it, it’s one of my favourite things about working here,” says Eva. “We send them off for grazing so it’s a timely situation as I want them to meet certain targets to get them off to grazing quickly. We do fortnightly weigh-ins to make sure they are progressing well and meeting targets.” The nurturing aspect of dairy farming particularly appeals to Eva, who finds deep satisfaction in animal health work and treatment. “I really enjoy getting to treat cows and make them better,” explains Eva. “For me it’s all about getting to work with the animals that I love. It makes me feel like I’m giving back to them when I make them better.” Her attachment to individual animals is evident in her relationship with a favourite cow named Tufts. “When she came back as an R2 heifer she had a big tuft on her head that stuck out like a sore thumb,” says Eva. “She knows when I’m milking as she will hang for a scratch before she comes in the yard.” The awards programme participation came through encouragement from her boss Jake Ferreira, who recognised the development opportunities it provided. “Jake thinks it’s a really cool thing to get involved with,” explains Eva. “The second time it was about beating what I did last time. I find it so much fun and I meet really cool people.” She thinks her success at the competition partly stemmed from her assurance with the practical tasks during judging and her growing confidence in the role. “I also got quite lucky on the day as all the stations as part of the judging were all things I was quite comfortable with.” Auckland/Hauraki Dairy Trainee of the Year Caitlin Snodgrass with Manawatu Dairy Trainee of the Year Eva Wooller. “For me it’s all about getting to work with the animals that I love. It makes me feel like I’m giving back to them when I make them better.” For all your dairy livestock requirements contact Brownie: Phone: 027 271 4722 Email: sandfly1@xtra.co.nz Proud to support EvaWooller - Longburn Proudly supporting Eva Wooller Currently completing an ITO qualification, Eva has clear long-term aspirations within the dairy sector around animal welfare. “I see myself fitting in where changes are or need to be happening,” says Eva, referring to ongoing developments in cow welfare optimisation. “I want to be part of those conversations.”
12 | nzdairy DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS » Green Grass Farming Ltd Hard earned success at DIA Awards Randall Johnston Ryan & Scott Anderson supported by Kate Anderson of Green Grass Farming have won Share Farmer of the Year Award for the Taranaki Region at the 2025 NZ Dairy Industry Awards. “It was pretty awesome to come away with the win and we weren’t expecting it. We won six awards in a row, we honestly couldn’t believe it,” she says. “We won the Pasture Management Award and the judges really commended our efforts in that space, which was a huge achievement for us. We farm for profit not production so that’s what all our decisions are based on and we are focused on getting the best pasture harvests we can.” They also won the Livestock Award. “They made really encouraging comments on our breeding and record keeping and the training we give all our staff, which was great feedback to get.” Their mating performance was also praised at the event. This season the team, which now includes 8 full-time staff, pregnancy tested 1176 cows and only had 42 emptys. “We ranged from 78 -81% per cent six week in calf rates, which is quite a bit higher than the national averages this year so far and had a 1.8% empty rate on one farm and 3.6% across the total business.” The only awards they didn’t win were the Emerging Talent Award, the Financial Management Award or the People and Culture Award. Kate entered in the Dairy Trainee Award category about a decade ago, but hasn’t competed since and her brothers and share-milking partners Scott and Ryan Anderson had never entered any farming competitions at all. The trio formed a company and now 50-50 share-milk three dairy farms that are all on the same road (each about five kilometres apart), about 45 kilometres West of Stratford - between Mount Taranaki and the coast. One is 150ha (360 cows peak milking increasing to 410 cows next season), another is 172ha (peak milk 430 cows) where they have contract-milkers in their 12th season and the third is 150ha (450 cows at peak). Jerseys are the dominant genetics across all farms but there are some Jersey-Kiwi-Cross in the mix as well on one farm. “This is our third season all working together 50-50. I’ve been on the farm for 10 seasons now and Scott and Ryan are both on their 7th season,” Kate explains. Targeting 430,000 milk solids across their whole business, the team is so far on track to meet this, despite very dry conditions in early autumn on the 450 cow property; thankfully they saw it coming and locked in a good price for palm kernel feed late last year. They will be extending the effluent area on this farm this year too. The team also rotated stock from one farm to another, so they could also benefit from areas with more grass. They typically milk twice a day all Kate entered in the Dairy Trainee Award category about a decade ago, but hasn’t competed since. season. Their system is pasture based, only buying in feed to fill deficits on an as needed basis. “We work with Coastal Vets for our animal heath, LIC for breeding, Velocite our accountants for all things business & strategy and quite closely with our farm consultant Michael Joyce, who also worked with our parents Donald and Maree Anderson for a very long time.” With a whole swag of awards giving further encouragement, the future looks bright indeed for this highly-driven and capable generation of Andersons, setting a great example with their high standard of dairy farming in the Taranaki. Maize and Grass Silage • Hay and Haylage Bulk Cartage and Quarry Metal Groundwork and Cropping On Farm Jobs • 3 ton and 16 ton Diggers ACHIEVE GREATER OUTCOMES WITH OUR SUSTAINABLE FARM LOAN Eligibility criteria and lending criteria, terms, conditions and fees apply. A fee from our independent verifier AsureQuality will apply. Westpac New Zealand Limited. With our new whole of farm Sustainable Farm Loan you can accelerate on farm sustainability. Find out more: westpac.co.nz/sustainable-farm Proud to support Green Grass Farming Ltd Is your business performing as well as it could be? www.velocite.co.nz We can help Learn more at
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