For the first time the Ahuwhenua Trophy for Māori dairy farming excellence has gone to the South Island. The Proprietors of Rakaia Incorporation run just over 800 kiwi cross cows on their 216 Tahu a Tao farm near Ashburton. The property has been farmed since 1886 and was converted to dairying in 1996.

Judges cited the good relationship with 50/50 sharemilkers Mark and Julie Cressey, the use of the latest cultivars of seed to boost production, an advanced irrigation regime using soil and water measuring technologies, the focus on animal welfare and concern for the health and safety of staff.

There is also an emphasis on kaitiakitanga with a recycling system for all farm and household waste and a dairy shed effluent handling system that reduces the risk of nitrogen leaching when it is spread on the land.

Ahuwhenua organising committee chair Kingi Smiler says the achievements of all this year’s finalists live up to the aspirations of Sir Apirana Ngata and Lord Bledisloe who started the competition in 1932 to promote Māori farming excellence.

The Rakaia Incorporation received various prizes to the value of $40,000.

Waateanews.com

The Proprietors of Rakaia Incorporation with the Ahuwhenua Trophy.

The Proprietors of Rakaia Incorporation with the Ahuwhenua Trophy.