The three finalists in the Ahuwhenua Excellence in Māori Farming Awards are soon to open their gates to allow the wider community to view outstanding examples of Māori agribusiness.
Onuku Māori Lands Trust at Rerewhakaaitu is the first of the finalists to host a field day on Thursday 25 August, starting at 9am.
The Awards judges have highlighted the Trust’s strong focus on governance, with clear policies and strategies in place along with its continued improvement of the different blocks across the whenua.
Comprehensive due diligence processes are implemented when decisions are made on land optimisation, environmental improvement or new ventures.
The Wi Pere Trust at Te Karaka near Gisborne is holding their field day on Thursday 1 September, also starting at 9am.
In naming the Wi Pere Trust as a finalist, the judges noted their strong team culture from governance through to the on-farm staff. There was also an excellent focus on building and utilising data and high-quality information to drive decision-making.
The Wi Pere Trust worked to ensure the values espoused by their tupuna Wi Pere continued to run throughout the business and in their connections to the wider community.
The third finalist is Hereheretau Station at Wairoa. Their field days will start at 9am on Thursday, 8 September.
The judges remarked on Hereheretau Station’s strong emphasis on investing in productive assets and building up a diverse land portfolio. This was with the aim of optimising productivity and feed quality while minimising their impact on the environment.
Hereheretau Station also had a strong focus on developing young shepherds with an emphasis on pastoral care and supporting their overall well-being.
The farm continues to provide support for returned servicemen and women and their whānau through the Māori Soldiers Trust and Hereheretau Station staff play an important part in their local community.
As proud sponsors of the Ahuwhenua Trophy, Beef +Lamb New Zealand is encouraging anyone with an interest in farming, agribusiness, environmental management or farm governance to attend these days to see Māori agribusiness at its best.
B+LNZ spokesperson Mark Harris says these field days, which are part of the judging process, are a fantastic opportunity to gain insight into three high performing businesses.
“All three finalists balance productivity with strong environmental management and ensure that their people and community are central to their businesses.”
The winners of the Ahuwhenua Trophy will be announced at the Awards Dinner on Friday, 21 October at Pettigrew Green Arena, Taradale, Hawkes Bay.
Established in 1933, the Ahuwhenua Trophy for Excellence in Māori Farming Award is this country’s oldest and most prestigious farming competition. Held annually, it alternates between dairy, sheep and beef and horticulture.
For more information about the field days and Awards Dinner, visit our events calendar webpage.