New Zealand’s national Open Farms Day took place on Sunday 9 March 2025. This year’s event drew the largest crowds ever, with a record 4,504 urban Kiwis flocking to a range of farmer and grower host farms across the country.
Five of the 23 open farms were related to sheep and beef operations, and with around 40% of all visitors attending one of these farms it shows their popularity with the public.
Open farms took place at Mangaroa Farms near Wellington, Te Aratipi Station near Napier, Cornwall Park farm in Auckland, Hardyards Farm near Nelson, and Rewa Rewa Station in the Wairarapa.
Ed and Ro Palmer were first-time hosts at Te Aratipi Station, a historic 4th-generation Hawke’s Bay farm.
Ro says that despite the crazy weather, the open farms event was a huge success. It was thanks to everyone who braved the elements that made it such a memorable day.
“From farmyard fun with our Angus cattle and Romney sheep to a fantastic tractor trailer ride, there was something for everyone! We also planted native trees and learned about conservation, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting our land.
“We loved seeing everyone getting up close with our animals and having the opportunity to show our visitors how we care for the environment and enhance biodiversity on our farm.
“We're already committing to hosting an open farm event again next year. We’ll be going bigger and bringing even more people out of town for another family event,” adds Ro.
The record visitor turnout shows the ongoing popularity of Open Farms says founder Daniel Eb.
“A huge thank you to every farmer who opened their gate for New Zealand’s fifth national Open Farms Day. Every year we’re getting thousands of New Zealanders out on the land – 15% of whom have never been on a working farm – and every year the feedback from them is a resounding ‘Thank You’.
“Our national open farm day is a credit to the farmers who choose to open up their gates to give urban Kiwis the chance to reconnect with land, food and farming. This is their day.”
Rowena Hume B+LNZ General Manager Insights & Communications says B+LNZ supports this important initiative as it gives urban New Zealanders the opportunity to get behind the farm gate, meet our farmers and hear their stories.
“I’m really encouraged by the increasing number of people who want to see first-hand where their food comes from as it adds to the growing knowledge and confidence they can have in our sector.”
Learn more on the Open Farms’ website.
