JULY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

VANESA CASTILLO

Bryham Farms Ltd – Owner

Four generations of farming experience, a passion for growing quality stock, and a commitment to doing the best for every animal — meet the team behind this long-established Whakamarama grazing operation. After four decades in the dairy industry, they made the transition to dairy grazing and have continued to build on a legacy of careful stock management and strong farming values. In this client spotlight, they share their journey, what they’ve learned over the years, how they tackle seasonal challenges, and the simple principles that have helped them achieve consistent grazing success. Read on to discover their story and practical insights from the paddock.

JUNE CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

STUART DAUN

SG & JD DAUN P/SHIP – GROWER

Meet Stuart Daun, a third-generation farmer from Bunnythorpe, Manawatū, who proudly manages the family farm that has been in the Daun family for 89 years. Farming 400 acres of flat to undulating country, Stuart transitioned from dairy farming to grazing stock seven years ago and has been working with New Zealand Grazing since 2019. With a strong belief that every animal should be cared for as if it were his own, Stuart’s practical approach, commitment to animal welfare, and ability to adapt to the changing seasons have made him a respected and valued member of the NZ Grazing network.

FEBRUARY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

IAN AND LISA JEFFERY

ROSEMONT HOLDINGS LIMITED – GROWER

Ian and Lisa Jeffery’s farm is situated in Whakamarama, Tauranga, and has been proudly held within their family for four generations. What began as a modest 40-hectare property has steadily grown over the years to encompass 140 hectares, along with an equivalent area of leased land.

The business originally started with dairying and pigs. Over time, it expanded to include two dairy herds — a spring-calving herd and an autumn-calving herd — operating on neighbouring farms. Alongside the dairy operation, the pig enterprise developed into New Zealand’s leading Landrace breeding business, earning national recognition for its quality and performance.

Ian and his wife, Lisa, took over the dairy side of the business 40 years ago. Through their leadership, dedication, and careful management, they continued to build and strengthen the operation. Four years ago, they made the strategic decision to transition from milking to dairy grazing, marking a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of their family farm.

JANUARY CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

MATT AND CARLEY CONLAN

CONLAN FAMILY FARM LTD – OWNER

Matt and Carley Conlan are fifth-generation farmers based in Oroua Downs, just north of Foxton, farming land that has been in their family since the early 1900s. Running a herd of around 240 cows, fertility is a key focus of their operation.

Since grazing their heifers with New Zealand Grazing Company, Matt and Carley have seen a significant improvement in fertility and animal condition. Out of 70 replacement heifers, only one was empty—something they attribute to the feeding, care, and quality bulls supplied by NZGC. With fewer empties, they’re producing more milk and can be more selective with culling.

Their heifers are bigger, well-conditioned, and settle seamlessly into the milking herd, with noticeably calmer temperaments in the shed compared to previous years.

Future-proof your herd with smart heifer management