Kapenga M Trust headed off strong challenges from two other finalists: Tauhara Moana, Taupo, and Waewaetutuki 10 Wharepi Whanau Trust, Te Puke.
The trophy was presented by Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae at a gala awards ceremony in Auckland attended by at least 600 people.
The Kapenga M Trust dairy unit milks 998 Jersey/Friesian cross cows on 330ha. Since 2008 production has risen from 241,442kgMS to 371,169kgMS though the herd has only increased in size by nine cows.
Awards chief judge Doug Leeder noted production for the current season was heading towards 400,000kgMS.
“It is the very best of the benchmark group for this region and while this season may have helped this level of production, it requires astute planning and management,” he said. Leeder also praised the governance structure of the trust and its review of its deed of trust to ensure a rotation of trustees.
Trust chairman Roku Mihinui told Dairy News he was delighted at the Kapenga M win, attributing it in part to their good working relationship with their farm supervisor.
“Also the foresight of the earlier trustees who set a strategic plan in place.
I think having faith and confidence in ourselves, that collectively we were going to do alright, played a part in our winning of the award.”
