The B+LNZ Ladies' Night Out, in Manawatū, was a fantastic evening for rural women to connect, unwind and share experiences. The event, supported by B+LNZ Farmer Councillors, featured guest-speaker Nadia Lim – chef, entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable farming – who shared her inspiring journey.
Ladies' Night Out provided a much-needed break for hardworking rural women — farmers, mums and wives—to relax and enjoy the company of others who understand their unique challenges.
Traditionally, B+LNZ has hosted popular Ladies' Long Lunches, but the decision to try a Ladies' Night Out was an overwhelming success, selling out with over 200 women attending.
This B+LNZ Farmer Council-led event featured fantastic food, exceptional speakers, great prizes, and even better company. The evening's MC, local Farmer Council Chair Christine Christensen, kept the conversation flowing smoothly and the laughs coming.
The event showcased the incredible contributions of women in rural communities with guest speakers Suze Redmayne and Nadia Lim.
Suze Redmayne, who balances farm life with her role as MP for Rangitīkei and raising three children, spoke passionately about her experiences. She and her husband are behind the multi-award-winning Coastal Lamb brands, and were the 2022 supreme winners of the Horizons Ballance Farm Environment Awards. Suze is a strong advocate for championing rural New Zealand’s story, believing it is the lifeblood of the nation.
Then Nadia Lim shared an honest and refreshing perspective on her life and the many hats she wears. Nadia and her husband, Carlos, run the historic Royalburn Station in Arrowtown, using regenerative and ethical farming practices. Their TV show Nadia's Farm showcases their dedication to sustainable agriculture and their efforts to transform Royalburn into one of the region's leading farms.
Nadia emphasised the importance of prioritising oneself and close relationships, as strong personal connections are crucial for the success of businesses, families, and communities.
She also highlighted New Zealand's unique position, where livestock live as naturally as possible, creating an excellent opportunity to combine farming with tourism and tell the story from farm to plate.
Nadia discussed the diversification they have undertaken at Royalburn, from her passion project of her market garden to growing barley and venturing into beer-making. She shared stories about their not-too-bright chickens, as well as talking about how their on-farm butchery has been a massive buffer during a challenging farming season.
Leading the organisation of the event was Emily Perry, B+LNZ Extension Coordinator, who said: "This event has truly highlighted the strength and resilience of our rural women. It’s been incredible to see everyone come together, support one another, and have such a wonderful time."
Special thanks go to our main sponsors: Rabobank, Treadwell Gordon Lawyers, and Ataahua Blooms. The evening also featured a silent auction with the funds raised from a gorgeous painting of a farm landscape and the flower centrepieces going to the Manawatū Rangitikei Rural Support Trust. Nadia also donated $10 from every book she sold on the night to the Trust.
B+LNZ Ladies' Night Out provided a much-needed break for hardworking rural women.
B+LNZ Extension Coordinator Emily Perry opens the night and announces the winners of the spot prizes.
Suze Redmayne, who balances farm life with her role as a National MP for Rangitīkei, spoke passionately about her experiences.
B+LNZ Farmer Council Western North Island Chair Christine Christensen interviews celebrity chef and farmer Nadia Lim.
B+LNZ Farmer Councillors Stacey Buchanan and Megan Bates. Nadia Lim donated $10 from every book she sold on the night to the Manawatu Rangitikei Rural Family Support Trust.
B+LNZ Farmer Council Western North Island Chair Christine Christensen and B+LNZ Farmer Council Eastern North Island Chair Sandra Matthews.