Coasters have a story to tell

The Ballance Farm Environment Awards are coming to the West Coast, giving farmers and growers across the region an opportunity to have their work recognised and celebrated alongside some of New Zealand’s leading farming and growing operations. 

The awards, run by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust (NZFET) recognise farmers and growers who are making thoughtful decisions about their land, environment, people and businesses, while demonstrating the innovation and commitment that goes into running a successful primary production operation. 

West Coast Regional Council Chair Colin Smith said the region’s farming stories deserved a place in the national spotlight. 

“The West Coast has a long proud history of farming well while caring for our natural landscapes, and it’s time our farmers and growers had their place in the national showcase alongside every other region. The Council is proud to partner with the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust to bring the Ballance Farm Environment Awards to the Coast, and we’re committed to supporting the awards in the years ahead so this becomes a lasting part of how we celebrate farming here.” 

NZFET General Manager Sarah Harris said the awards would provide an opportunity to shine a light on the people and practices that make West Coast farming so distinctive. 

“The West Coast has a wealth of farming knowledge, experience and ingenuity, and we’re looking forward to hearing the stories behind the people who are working the land there. The Awards are about recognising what farmers and growers are already doing well, sharing ideas and celebrating the people who are contributing to the future of their communities and the primary sector. 

“It’s been fantastic to partner with the West Coast Regional Council to bring the Awards to the region. They have really got behind the initiative and are helping drive it locally, it’s exciting to see such strong engagement already, with several entrants signed up for the region’s first Awards season.”