Large scale dairy farm takes Horizons Regional Supreme Award

Jarred and Bronwyn Clode of Te Hou Farms have been named the Horizons Regional Supreme Winners at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, recognised for their leadership in large-scale dairy farming that combines strong commercial performance with exemplary environmental stewardship. 

Te Hou Farms, a 1,324ha (1,200ha effective) property, is two-thirds owned by Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa Developments Limited in partnership with Ātihau Whanganui Incorporation. The operation includes a 530ha dairy platform supporting 1,650 cows alongside a 600ha drystock property. 

This integrated system enables the farm to rear 1,200 beef calves annually and grow 120ha of maize silage, creating a largely self-contained operation with strong biosecurity and reduced exposure to market volatility. 

Judges praised the Clodes’ leadership and management capability across the complex operation: 

“Excellent working relationships and involvement in decision-making across all levels within the business.” 

They also highlighted the operation’s highly analytical approach to management: 

“Data driven decision-making is used to guide and implement strategy, with strong use of experts and technology to optimise productivity across the business.” 

The judging panel also recognised the positive workplace culture created by the management team. 

“Management model a culture of work-life balance, health and safety, and personal development.” 

Te Hou Farms takes a highly strategic approach to land stewardship. Minimum till and strip till techniques are used to protect soil structure, while fertiliser is applied precisely to match soil type and land capability. 

Judges noted the business has a clear commitment to protecting natural resources. 

“There is a clear focus on, and investment in, managing soil resources to minimise environmental impacts, including research projects and the strategic use of dairy effluent.” 

Environmental sustainability is a core pillar of the operation. The farm features 27ha of retired riparian and wetland areas planted with native trees and shrubs, which help filter sediment and nutrients before they enter waterways while enhancing biodiversity. 

Jarred said the success of the business reflects years of hard work and shared ambition. 

“The business and property mean a lot to us, we have achieved some big milestones here setting the business up to what it is achieving today. We are very success driven.” 

Other awards for Jarred and Bronwyn Clode – Te Hou Farms – Parewanui 

Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award
Hill Labs Agri-Science Award
Norwood Farming Efficiency Award
DairyNZ Sustainability and Stewardship Award
Bayleys People in Primary Sector Award
FMG Risk Management Award
WaterForce Safe Water Recognition Award 

Other Horizons BFEA Award Winners: 

Alan and Kerri Blake – Triple Farms – Ongarue
Beef + Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award
Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award 

Derek Mickleson – Henare Trust – Taihape
Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award
Margaret Matthews Trophy for Commitment to Sustainability 

Brayden McKenzie – Circle D Ranch – Te Uri
Horizons Regional Council Award for the Integration of Trees 

Catchment Showcased 

The awards also showcased the Upper Ongarue Catchment Group, which began as a conversation at a Taumarunui farm discussion day in 2022 and has quickly grown into a significant environmental initiative. The group brings together landowners, iwi and hapū representatives, community members, government agencies and local schools to improve biodiversity and water quality across the Ruapehu District. Projects include stream bank restoration, strategic willow removal, native planting and a 5km trapline network protecting whio (blue duck) habitat. With nearly three years of water quality monitoring across nine sites – including eDNA and aquatic insect sampling – the group is building a strong scientific foundation to guide restoration efforts and ensure the health of the Ongarue River for generations to come. 

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

Jarred and Bronwyn will join fellow Regional Supreme Winners from across the country to be considered for the Gordon Stephenson Trophy at the Trust’s National Showcase in Christchurch in July 2026. The recipient of the Gordon Stephenson Trophy becomes the 2026 National Ambassador for Sustainable Farming and Growing.