The Post August 2025

Welcome to our August edition of The Post. This month, we explore New Zealand’s agricultural sector, from niche ventures like sheep milk to broad topics like soil health, and meet the passionate farmers driving the industry forward.

We begin at Tinwald Farm, a 750-hectare property north of Cromwell, where accountant-turned-farmer Amanda Currie shows that a healthy farm isn’t measured by stock numbers, but by the quality of its soil. With productive sheep and beef operations, 22 hectares of vineyard, and a growing agritourism business, Amanda explains how the health of her land sits at the heart of everything she does.

In the eastern Wairarapa, we visit Fernglen Farm, where the Ravenwood family are producing sheep milk with serious muscle. Their product is a nutritional powerhouse, built on prioritising SPCA-certified animal welfare and a commitment to sustainability. It’s a family-run operation that’s quietly transforming the dairy industry.

Further south in Otago, fencing contractor Mike Andrews of Southern Fencing shares a practical tip for working with the region’s tough terrain. After over a decade in business and as one of the first in New Zealand to achieve NZQA Fencing qualifications at Levels 2, 3, 4 and 5, Mike and his team have built a reputation for tackling the hardest jobs.

We also visit Hans Biemond of Biemond Market Gardens in Alexandra, who reveals how a humble 4-bay Ned’s Shed has helped level up his vegetable business.

To wrap up, we stop by HUHA in Wellington, New Zealand’s largest independent animal rescue. From monkeys and turtles to dogs, cats and goats, over 500 animals rescued from tough situations now live happy endings, many housed in Goldpine timber.

Our State of the Industry feature provides valuable insights from key leaders shaping New Zealand agriculture’s future.

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.