Celebrating and learning from thriving farming women

// Staff and Training

Around 120 women from across the agricultural sector attended the recent B+LNZ Thriving Farming Women event in Taupiri where they heard inspirational stories of women in farming and their thriving businesses.

women farming event inside

The recent event in Taupiri (near Hamilton) provided a platform for farming women across New Zealand to come together and learn from inspirational speakers with rural backgrounds, who shared their unique journeys into creating successful businesses. 

Speakers included Abbe Hoare, the founder of the sunflower business Mangamaire Sunflower Field; Monique Neeson, co-owner of the sustainable wool blanket company Shear Warmth; Suzie Denize, co-founder of the tourism company Hairy Feet Waitomo; and Emily Scott, co-owner of the glamping business Wild Canvas. 

Laura Davis, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Mid Northern North Island (MNNI) Extension Manager, says the speakers shared valuable and practical advice about what it takes to run a small business which got others excited about what is possible for them. 

“It was fantastic hearing from women who brought their ideas to life. They emphasised the importance of courage, resilience, and seizing opportunities in the pursuit of success. 

“We had fabulous feedback on the day, and still have women approaching me now saying what a great day it was. Our speakers were the highlight of the day for sure, and I am truly grateful to them for sharing their stories and giving their time to this event. 

B+LNZ thanks the event sponsors: Rabobank, FMG, BNZ, and Dairy Women's Network. 

The B+LNZ Thriving Farming Women event is part of the Ladies Long Lunch series, run regionally across the country, as part of B+LNZ’s ongoing commitment to support and empower women in the red meat sector.  

“The event wouldn’t be possible without the B+LNZ MNNI Farmer Council acknowledging the importance of events like these that give women the opportunity to network and learn from each other,” adds Davis. 

For more information and upcoming events near you, please visit B+LNZ’s events calendar.

image of four women panel sitting on stage