Around 74 shepherds joined the recent B+LNZ Shepherds’ Dog Training and Health Day at Awapuni Station, some travelling more than four hours, highlighting strong interest from younger shepherds in upskilling.
The B+LNZ Shepherds’ Dog Training and Health Day brought together farmers and shepherds from across Te Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay, creating space to learn, exchange ideas and strengthen the relationships that continue to sustain our rural communities.
The day was designed to reflect the realities of farming today. Alongside working dog training and animal health sessions, attendees heard from speakers on financial wellbeing, technology, leadership and personal resilience – recognising that a productive farm system depends just as much on people as it does on land and livestock.
The day was organised by B+LNZ Mātanga Whenua Māori (Māori agribusiness extension specialist) for Te Tairāwhiti and Heretaunga, Pania King, who said the response highlighted just how valuable these opportunities are, with support from local B+LNZ Extension Manager Ali Forbes, highlighting the value of a collaborative, team approach to delivering for farmers across the region.
Ali Forbes says the event reflects the importance of bringing people together across the sector.
“Whether you’re working on whenua Māori (Māori-owned land) or privately owned farms, shepherds are shepherds. Days like this create a space where everyone can come together, build skills and share knowledge.
“Investing in good working dogs is one that adds great value to a sheep and beef farm as it makes working with stock a whole lot easier as they are for a shepherd the “tools of the trade”. Having the skills and confidence to train them well makes a real difference to both performance and job satisfaction. It’s also great to see young people come together in a supportive environment to learn and grow – they’re the future of our sector.”
Pania King says the strong turnout highlights just how valuable these opportunities are.
"I was overwhelmed to see such a great turnout of shepherds from throughout our regions. With 74 attending from the top of the Cape through to Kotemaori, and some travelling more than four hours, it tells me there's a real need for more opportunities like this. If we're serious about supporting, developing and growing the future of our sector, it starts with our shepherds."
"As a mother of a shepherd, this Kaupapa (cause) is close to my heart. I know how important it is that our rangatahi (youth) are supported in their work, their wellbeing and their growth. Sometimes that's through practical skills, sometimes it's through technology, and sometimes it's simply about creating space to connect with others who understand the work. I was incredibly humbled by the support from our sector partners. There was no hesitation when I shared the vision for this day, and that's a real reflection of what we can achieve when we work together."
King also acknowledged the strong backing from sector partners.
“There was huge support from industry partners to make this happen. It shows what we can achieve when we pull together behind a shared goal, supporting the next generation of farmers and shepherds.”
The event also reflects B+LNZ’s wider focus on capability building, supporting farmers with the knowledge, networks and confidence they need to navigate change and run successful, resilient businesses.
Thanks to those involved
B+LNZ thanks Tairāwhiti Whenua Charitable Trust, John Gorringe and the team at Awapuni Station for their generous hospitality, Rebecca Williams Photography for capturing the day, and to Leroy Pardoe (Tauawhi Men's Centre), Robbie Hill (Resolution App), Michelle Hawea (ANZ), Andrew Cribb (East Coast Farm Vets) and Colin Bayliss (Dog Trainer) for sharing their knowledge and experience so generously.
