Helensville Farmers Win Auckland Supreme Award at Ballance Farm Environment Awards
Helensville farmers, Donald and Kirsten Watson of Moreland Pastoral, have been named the Auckland Regional Supreme Winners at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
The pair were recognised for their combination of profitability, innovation and environmental stewardship.
Judges described the pair as “a powerhouse couple who combine their broad base of skills and knowledge to develop and achieve their strategic goals,” noting their “winning combination of profitability and environmental outcomes.”
Farming sheep and beef on 660ha of steep hill country, the Sherlocks have embraced technology and innovation to reshape what’s possible.
Judges highlighted their strategic use of virtual fencing systems, saying they have “identified the opportunities which virtual fencing systems provide them to achieve win-win solutions for land and water management.”
Their broader vision for the farm stood out strongly to the judging panel.
“Their vision for their farm as a productive mosaic could lead to transformational change across the industry.”
Read More:
- Castle Ridge Station Wins Canterbury Supreme Environmental Award
- Ministry for the Environment to sponsor Ballance Farm Environment Award
- 'Just take the plunge'
For the Sherlock family, Otorohaea is more than a business - it’s a family legacy.
“We believe we’ve found the sweet spot where good environmental management and good business work together. Finding that balance - the sweet spot between production and protection - is what we’re most proud of.”
Judges also acknowledged their strong commitment to the industry and local community, evident in the way they operate their business and contribute beyond the farm gate.
