The Post August 2024

Welcome to the August edition of The Post. This month, we focus on the goat industry and chat to two impressive goat farmers who braved the winter weather with us, to showcase their farms. Our first profile features Hēpara Cashmere, a 250 hectare cashmere goat farm based in the Catlins Ranges, run by owner and farm manager, David Shaw. David shared with us the story of his farm and his fascinating journey of integrating cashmere goats into the New Zealand agricultural landscape.

While we were down near Balclutha, we caught up with the team at Craig Sinclair Fencing, where Will Pei showed us how to tie netting onto a strainer.

In Waipu, Northland, Belle Chèvre Creamery exemplifies the spirit of rural New Zealand with its commitment to quality and community. Owned and operated by Jennifer and David Rodrigue, the 40-acre dairy goat farm showcases their transformation from high-tech professionals to one of the country's finest artisans of exquisite, sustainable goat cheese. Discover their inspiring journey, the unique charm of their goats, and the practices that make Belle Chèvre Creamery a standout and sell-out in the Northland region.

The NZYF Tournament: Goldpine Fencing National Final kicked off again last month in Hamilton where young fencers travelled from around the country to compete at Claudeland's Oval. We caught up with competitors, judges, and supporters alike, who shared their journey to get to the New Zealand Young Fencers' event.

Our State of the Industry article for this month focuses on other animals. We spoke with key figures in New Zealand's goat farming sector, uncovering insights into its sustainable practices, economic prospects, and burgeoning global appeal.

We intend to continue supplying you with the best stories, activities and techniques in agriculture. If you have anything that you would like us to share, please get in touch.