2006 Bay of Plenty BFEA Winners

Broad approach to sustainability wins Chattan Farm Supreme Award

The winners of the 2006 Ballance Farm Environment Awards Bay of Plenty Supreme Award are John and Jean, and Tim and Jo Mackintosh of Chattan Farm, Manawahe, Whakatane. John and Jean Mackintosh purchased 390 hectares in Manawahe in 1972. Tim and Jo Mackintosh began share farming in 2000, leasing the farm in 2004 and also buying a neighbouring 220-hectare block.

They run sheep and beef, plus dairy grazers. Livestock condition is good and animal welfare is given high importance. They have also planted 28ha with radiata pine and 20ha with other species. These are protected through fencing and pest control measures.

The Mackintoshs’ mission statement is ‘to get maximum enjoyment from the farm’. This is achieved by striving for a profitable farm with high-quality livestock. Their focus is for a well-managed, sustainable property that is protected from pests and enhanced through features like plantings and fencing. They permit their property to be used for walking, horse-riding, shooting and by caravan clubs.

They maintain excellent records electronically, allowing them to review progress plan positively for the future.

The Mackintosh family are very passionate about the district and active in their local community.

The family have a QEII covenant, and are part of the Manawahe Kokako Trust for kokako restoration. They also work with Environment Bay of Plenty on land use plans and have been involved with the Manawahe Eco Trust for protection of the Manawahe Corridor.

Their future activities include confirming a family succession plan, planting more trees for shade, shelter and production, plus developing more recreational activities on the property.

They are also winners of the Rabobank Land and Life Award; PGG Wrightson Habitat Improvement Award and Environment Bay of Plenty Environmental Award.

Other winners were:

Livestock Improvement Best Dairy Farm Award
Stuart and Alison Paton, Paton Farms, Murupara

Hill Laboratories Harvest Award
Paul and Sheryl Steens, Te Puke

Gallagher Innovation Award
Paul and Sheryl Steens, Te Puke

PPCS Best Livestock Farm Award
David and Theresa Gee, Motuore Farms, Opotiki

Ballance Nutrient Management Award
Bruce and Tessa Calder, Pikowai Farms, Whakatane

Environment Bay of Plenty Environmental Award
Charles and Ellen Mitchell, Murupara