Dual system operation wins Southland Regional Supreme Award

Tony and Michelle Roberts, alongside Kate Roberts and Mark Lieshout of Top Deck Trading, located at Merino Downs near Gore have been named the Southland Regional Supreme Winners at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, recognised for transforming their property into a highly efficient, diversified farming business with strong environmental and succession planning foundations. 

Since purchasing two neighbouring farms in 2017, the family has developed the combined 269ha (240ha effective) property into a specialised dual-system operation. One half operates as a high-performing deer unit focused on velvet production and trophy bucks, while the other supports intensive dairy heifer grazing alongside a smaller beef operation. 

Judges praised the Roberts family for their strategic thinking and attention to detail across all aspects of the business. “A high level of business and environmental sustainability – attention to detail in the farming operation considers livestock classes and mitigations appropriate to the soils and landscape.” 

The transformation has included significant infrastructure development, with new fencing, water systems, internal lanes and a purpose-built paddock layout enabling efficient stock movement. An old woolshed has been converted into a modern deer facility, complemented by a dedicated deer wintering barn, both designed to improve animal welfare and ease of management. 

The judges also highlighted the strength of systems and communication across the operation. “Extensive use of record keeping and information sharing, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment.” 

Genetics play a key role in the deer operation, with a strong focus on producing high-quality animals. Across the entire farm, livestock health and performance were noted as exceptional. 

Environmental stewardship is equally embedded in the system, with biodiversity corridors, constructed wetlands and retired marginal land enhancing water quality and supporting native ecosystems. 

Judges also recognised the depth of long-term thinking within the business. “They demonstrate great depth of thought into all areas of the business, particularly around succession.” 

Succession is already underway, with daughter Kate Roberts and her partner Mark Lieshout actively involved in the business and working toward future ownership. 

For the Roberts family, the farm is more than a business. “It’s our life, our home and our business – we love being here. We have a great community around us and enjoy sharing our farm with others.” 

Other awards for Tony & Michelle Roberts and Kate Roberts & Mark Lieshout 

Hill Labs Agri-Science Award
Beef + Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award
FMG Risk Management Award
WaterForce Safe Water Recognition Award
 

Other Award Winners 

Ivan, Denise and Kelly-Anne Hopper – Dairy Patch – Woodlands
Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award
DairyNZ Sustainability and Stewardship Award 

Tom, Denise and James Anderson – Awatere Station – Waikaia 

Norwood Farming Efficiency Award
Bayleys People in Primary Sector Award
Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award 

Mark & Elspeth Thomson – Lora Glen – Lora Gorge
Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award
Environment Southland Water Quality and Biodiversity Award 

Catchment Group Showcased 

The awards also showcased the Waikawa Catchment Group, a long-standing community initiative that has been driving environmental improvement across Southland since 2009. Now spanning around 18,000ha and representing the majority of the catchment, the group is focused on enhancing water quality, biodiversity and overall ecosystem health while supporting a productive farming landscape. Through projects such as the “Slow the Flow” erosion mitigation programme, the group has retired vulnerable land, installed sediment traps and established native plantings to reduce runoff into the Waikawa River and estuary.  

The Ballance Farm Environment Awards are delivered by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust and celebrate excellence in sustainable farming and growing. 

The Roberts family will join fellow regional winners from across the country to be considered for the Gordon Stephenson Trophy at the Trust’s National Showcase in Christchurch on July 2. The recipient of the Gordon Stephenson Trophy becomes the 2026 National Ambassador for Sustainable Farming and Growing.