New Zealand’s farmers have weathered the storm in more ways than one over the past year, coping with extreme weather and a tough economy to continue their vital work up and down the country. The annual Ballance Farm Environment Awards celebrate success with some great farming stories. Here are three of this year’s Regional Supreme Winners, including farmers who have branched out into tourism, and one orchard owner making a huge environmental impact.

Peter Rensen of Utopia Nurseries took home the Auckland award. Rensen’s Pukekohe nursery produces orchids, chrysanthemums, Ruscus greenery, and miscanthus, grown and processed for potential use as a biofuel.

Extensive riparian planting has been carried out. The property boasts more than four hectares of native bush, including the Raupō wetlands, one of the few habitats of its type around Auckland.

Rensen has enhanced the natural environment through native planting and reduced soil runoff. Excess water from glasshouses is filtered before entering local streams. Peter’s focus on freshwater extends to future planning, new irrigation ponds ensuring future expansion is not reliant on external water sources.

The Canterbury award went to High Peak Station, managed by eight members of the Guild and Dunbar families, for building a diverse and robust farming business with several income streams, spanning multiple generations.

Their revenue comes from tourism, sheep, cattle, deer, and honey. Each arm of the business was credited for high-end products and experiences. The partnership has a focus on diversification, sustainability, and long-term financial stability. Judges were impressed with a forward-looking approach to regulation, and vast knowledge of the property’s soil, topography, and winter grazing.

The 1,500-shareholder collective Oromahoe Trust, managed by Dean Candy, picked up the Northland award. Environmental issues are central to the Trust’s business decisions on its sheep and beef farm, with a positive impact on farm freshwater.

Riparian fencing and native planting complement the redevelopment of paddocks for cell grazing, reducing nitrogen levels. The Trust’s environmental stewardship continues to reap rewards. Wetlands on the farm have been protected and returned to their natural state. Active pest management has enabled native plants and wildlife to flourish.