Focusing on the positive during the drought The recent drought was super stressful for central Hawke’s Bay farmers Megan and Howard Petersen, but their diversified farming business helped cushion the economic blow.…
The key to unlocking time off the farm Aspen Farm’s Olivia Doonan has a great trick up her sleeve to ensure her family gets regular breaks off the farm. She books a family…
Learning to roll with it After eight years farming, with three years sharemilking, Stu Davison has taken on a fresh challenge working as a dairy analyst. He shares what farming…
Helping kids through tough times A new children’s book designed to generate discussion about mental health in rural communities is proving a hit with schools. ‘Use Your Voice’ tells the…
Great turnout for Farmstrong fundraiser A speed shear event organised by the Pendarves Young Farmers in Canterbury has raised more than $5,000 for nationwide, rural wellbeing initiative Farmstrong. Bridget McFadden,…
A different philosophy Drought-hit Northland farmer Mark Meyer has an approach to farming that helps him get through even the toughest times. Mark milks 400 cows on…
Filling the fountain Juggling farm work and family responsibilities is a challenge many rural women face. Taranaki sharemilker and 2019 ‘Dairy Woman of the Year’ winner Trish Rankin…
Wednesdays with a difference When the world went into lockdown, the overseas staff on Waikirikiri Farm Canterbury dairy farm were a long way from home. The Reeds decided it…
Thinking outside the box Bex and her partner Steve are 50/50 sharemilkers. They’ve been on a farm in Pahiatua coming up two years. Bex actually comes from a sheep…
Shearing the challenge during COVID-19 Otago shearing contractor Jock Martin is incredibly proud of how his industry has stepped up during the COVID-19 crisis to ensure its essential work is…
Put your energy into what you can control Learning to live with unexpected challenges is the key to getting through life in lockdown for Otago farmer Luke Tweed. Along with his family, Luke…
A team effort Although lockdown has made Marian Hirst’s blueberry business more challenging to run, it’s also made her appreciate why she loves the job. It’s blueberry harvest…