More than 110 people gathered at Wye Hills recently for the Marlborough Farmer of the Year winners field day, where 2025 winners Jason Rentoul and Chelsea Hudson shared an on‑farm look at their business and the factors behind their recognition.
Jason Rentoul and Chelsea Hudson, the 2025 Marlborough Farmer of the Year (MFOTY) award recipients, opened their gates to showcase a diverse farming operation that spans merino and Wiltshire sheep, cattle, deer, carbon farming, a vineyard and a honey enterprise.
The field day was organised by the MFOTY organising committee, with support from a range of sponsors, including Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ).
Jason Rentoul says the day was a great opportunity to step back and reflect on their business.
“Having the chance to walk through the farm and talk about how all the parts fit together was really valuable, and we appreciated the interest and questions from everyone who came along.”
Attendees heard how organisation, planning and keeping track of multiple enterprises has been key to the business’s success. For many, seeing how the operation balances diversity while still maintaining strong systems provided practical takeaways they could apply to their own farms.
B+LNZ Chair and guest speaker Kate Acland spoke about on‑farm diversification, using examples and economic data to prompt discussion around why farmers diversify, what sits at the core of successful businesses, and how diversification decisions need to fit the farm system and the people running it.
Acland says farmers are increasingly looking for ways to build resilience into their businesses.
“Diversification can be a powerful tool, but it works best when it complements a strong core business and is backed by good information and sound decision‑making.”
Ellie Cranswick, MFOTY organising committee member, says the field day is the highlight of the programme. “It’s great to have such strong support from our local sponsors and be able to showcase strong business models to the farming community."
“Congratulations to Jason and Chelsea – the day really showed why they are such deserving winners, and it was great to acknowledge the effort they put into opening up their farm and sharing their story.”
Thank you
The Marlborough Farmer of the Year winners field day was made possible through the efforts of the MFOTY organising committee, the generosity of Jason Rentoul and Chelsea Hudson in hosting, and the support of event sponsors.
Jason Rentoul and Chelsea Hudson, the 2025 Marlborough Farmer of the Year award winners, with B+LNZ Extension Manager Amanda Henderson.