From farm managers to sole owners and now Greater Wellington Regional Supreme Winners

Clarence and Elise Stolte have been named the Greater Wellington Regional Supreme Winners at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, recognised for their industry leadership, strong business performance and commitment to environmental and community outcomes. 

Dairy farming 500 cows on 387ha (360ha effective), the Stoltes have spent 18 years progressing to sole ownership through a strategic partnership between Clarence’s poultry farming parents and themselves. Clarence started as a farm manager, progressing to sharemilking then an equity partnership and now the couple own the farm outright.  

Judges described them as industry leaders operating a top-performing farming business characterised by low costs, robust profit and a medium-input system. 

“Clarence and Elise demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to their environmental, community, financial and people goals.” 

For the Stoltes, people sit at the heart of their success. 

“Nothing is more important to our business than people – starting with the people who live and work here with us on this land. We feel blessed and find it a privilege to be part of our team.” 

A significant investment in a composting barn has reduced pasture pressure, improved soil health and enhanced animal welfare. Their property also features established wetlands, extensive riparian planting, an on-farm native nursery, careful water race management and protection of the Parkvale Stream – all contributing to measurable environmental gains. 

The couple describe their approach as one of applied knowledge – constantly learning and refining their system. 

“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in constantly improving productivity and profitability while increasingly focusing on the health and beauty of our natural environment.” 

Beyond the farm gate, the Stoltes are recognised for strong community engagement and leadership. They are actively involved in local catchment groups and schools, andrecently raised more than $12,500 for a post-natal charity through a sunflower initiative. 

Living beneath the Tararua Range reinforces their long-term thinking. 

“We live in a beautiful environment. The view of the Tararuas is stunning every single day and we are so grateful to be here. It’s a wonderful place to raise kids.” 

Other awards for Clarence and Elise Stolte – Stolte Ag – West Taratahi 

• Bayleys People in Primary Sector Award 

• DairyNZ Sustainability and Stewardship Award 

Other Greater Wellington Award Winners 

Simon Perry, Meg Wheatsone and Matt Perry – Waiteko – Whareama 

• Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award 

• Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award 

• Greater Wellington Regional Council Award 

Tony and Pattie O’Boyle – Marangai Station – Mangapakeha Valley  

• Beef + Lamb NZ Livestock Farm Award 

• Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award 

Shaun and Victoria Draper and Tyler Morrison – Draper Land Co – Martinborough 

• Hill Labs Agri-Science Award 

• Norwood Farming Efficiency Award 

• FMG Risk Management Award