Further to last week's post about the latest redevelopment project at Struan Farm, we're starting to acquire the huge quantity of native trees needed to plant this extensive area along the stream down the hill to the Mangaotaki River. So far there are 82 totara, 50 kahikatea, and 50 other varieties sitting shaded under the tawa trees. Everyone is getting watered each night.
John is picking up a carload each week. The nursery will continue to grow, at least until winter when we can (and will) start to plant!
Hi, Karen! Kris Founds (of The Web-sters) sent me a link to your blog because I just got back from a 15 day cruise around New Zealand. I used to work at the Web-sters, and I called Kris to catch up and told her that I'd fallen in love with NZ and wanted to go back and have a sheep farm. Naturally, she thought of you and your farm! Unfortunately, the ship didn't stop on the west side of the islands, so I didn't see Piopio... but I did see five sheep farms on the south island. My favorite was the Paua Bay Farm owned by Murray Johns. He gave us lots of sheep farming history, and emphasized the need to keep changing with the times in order to make a family farm successful.
I admire your pioneering spirit!! And next time I come to New Zealand (and there WILL be a next time) I'll make sure to see your side of the islands.
Best, Carol in Texas
Posted by: Carol D. | 02/08/2016 at 04:35 AM