Farming in Northland means living with what the weather brings - drought, El Niño swings, and the pressure that comes with them. Whatever the Weather brings together a seasoned meteorologist and a stroke-survivor-turned-ultrarunner for a lunch event that's part practical forecast, part real talk on recovery and resilience.
Hosted by Rural Support Trust Northland and Beef + Lamb New Zealand, this is a chance to hear from people who understand both the science of what's coming and the human side of getting through it - plus a good lunch and time to connect with other farmers in your community.
Your speakers
- Chris Brandolino brings his seasonal outlook expertise to help you plan ahead for what the coming months may hold - drought risk, rainfall patterns, and practical preparedness for Northland farms.
- Mark Ford's journey from stroke survivor to ultra-endurance runner isn't a story about running - it's a grounded, honest look at what it takes to rebuild after life changes suddenly. Featured on Seven Sharp, his message is simple: you can't control every condition, but you can always control your next step.
Why attend
- Get ahead of the season with expert weather insight relevant to Northland farms.
- Hear a genuinely moving, practical story about resilience and recovery.
- Connect with fellow farmers and the wider rural support community.
- Enjoy a locally-catered lunch as part of the ticket price.
Tickets
Cost: $20 per person.
Includes meal, dessert, and both presentations include a Q&A session.
| Venue | Date | Time | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dargaville: Northern Wairoa Boat Club, Totara St, Dargaville | 29 September | 11:30am - 2:30pm | Register now |
| Kaipara Flats: Kaipara Flats Sports Club, Kaipara Flats Rd | 29 September | 5:30pm | Register now |