Unsung heroes under the soil
Much of the scientific work being carried out at the Massey University led regenerative agriculture project, Whenua Haumanu, is below the ground.
The award recognises an HFNZ member who has given outstanding contribution to the association and the breed. It is only available for up to 20 living members of HFNZ at any time.
HFNZ Patron Denis Aitken said Taylor epitomised passion for the Holstein Friesian breed.
“Wayne is someone who has put the Holstein Friesian breed at the front and centre of his life,” Aitken says.
Taylor, who milks 190 cows on 68ha effective at Waitara with wife Leeanne under the stud name Muritai Holsteins, became a member of Holstein Friesian NZ in 1985 when he purchased his first Holstein Friesian cow. He registered his first Holstein Friesian cow with the Association in 1986.
The purchase of a brood cow saw the development of Muritai Holsteins’ well-known ‘W’ family.
“I don’t think there is any other cow family in the country that has produced as many bulls that have gone into a sire proving programme,” says Taylor.
Today, the ‘W’ family makes up over 70% of the Muritai herd.
Taylor has held a variety of roles within HFNZ. Not only has he helped develop the Taranaki branch of the Association – both as president, and the man behind the popular annual Taranaki Branch Sale – but became a junior judge in 1992, and senior judge in 2005. In 2011 he became overjudge of the Holstein Friesian NZ Judging School, a role he has occupied numerous times over the years.
He joined the HFNZ Board in 2002 and after a hiatus in 2003, went straight back on in 2004 – resulting in over 20 years of service.
Taylor was also a TOP Inspector from 2003-2012, President of HFNZ from 2010-2012, and chaired both the Sire Proving, Discovery Project and Black & White Youth committees at various times.
But what has arguably been Taylor’s most valuable contribution is the positive impact he has had on young people in the industry.
“Wayne and Leeanne took many youngsters under their wing, and to this day they are still mentors to many young people,” Aitken says.
“The Association has gained strength from the work Wayne has done with young people over the years; he was the ‘OG’ of HFNZ Black & White Youth and is responsible for raising it to the level it is today.
“He achieved all this, while often still running the farm at home.
“Wayne has been a truly dedicated servant to the Holstein Friesian breed, and an Honorary Lifetime Membership is a small reward for that dedication.”
Family Support
Wayne Taylor says it was a tremendous honour to receive an Honorary Lifetime Membership.
“I wouldn’t have been able to stick it out and do the job without the support of my family – in particular my sons Jamie and Dwayne, my grandchildren, and Leeanne, who is the constant behind it all,” he said.
“Without Leeanne’s support at home, keeping the place ticking over, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve the things I have; in 21 years, I’ve only missed one board meeting. I’m truly grateful for her support.
“I’d also like to acknowledge former HFNZ President Graham Johnson, who first encouraged me to put my name forward for the board.”
Taylor says it was satisfying to see two HFNZ board directors, Annabelle Scherer and Bradley Parkes, move through the ranks into the leadership roles, having been attendees of the Youth Camps they ran in the past.
“We have made some wonderful friendships with people from around the country who share the same passion,” Taylor says.
“The 21 years have slid by… it has been a passion, and a pleasure.”
