Farming

Since the 1st September 2008 the farm land has been managed by Mangatawa. John Walker, the Farm Manager continues to run the farm in a highly professional manner and the land has been improved considerably over the previous four years. The farm infrastructure (fences and irrigation system) is constantly being improved, with high quality grasses being sown where possible. This year we planted maize for silage and grain, as well as ran a number of herds.

Unfortunately the silage market price dropped by over three hundred percent, so the projected returns were dramatically reduced. We did, however, have grain contracts which to some extent offset the loss in silage returns. This year we are looking at purchasing around two hundred and fifty stock and are currently discussing with PGG Wrightson the possibility of purchasing a particular breed that provides an excellent return, however, these negotiations are only at the preliminary stage.