Jamie & Nicky Gaddum
Matangi Station

In recent years, this large East Coast sheep & beef operation has developed its farming practices to create a business that is a masterclass in agricultural resilience.

Spanning three properties – Matangi, Atua and Oakley – the operation has a combined total of 965ha (865ha effective) which is managed by Jamie and Nicky Gaddum. One of the properties – Atua Station – is owned by them, while they lease Oakley, and manage Matangi which is owned by Austrians Robert and Inge Haselsteiner. All of the blocks create produce which is sold under the Matangi Prime Meat banner.

The devastating Cyclone Gabrielle of 2023 sparked a business reset so the team now controls the entire supply chain – from production to distribution.

The most tangible result of this shift is a new purpose-built butchery. Fully operational since March 2024, it features a team of butchers along with state-of-the-art dry-aging technology.

Ultimately, this means the business has secured its route to market, ensuring their premium grass-fed Angus beef and chicory-finished lamb reach consumers exactly as intended.

Farm practices are guided by a philosophy of leaving nothing to chance, with technology playing a key role in their data-driven approach.

Digital tools are used to boost productivity while minimising environmental impact. This includes monitoring breeding cows, using drones and precision fertiliser application.

Recognising that soil quality is the foundation of their product, the team uses direct drilling to protect soil structure, and carries out extensive erosion control. This includes planting about 3,000 native seedlings every year since 2018.

Further environmental safeguards include solar-powered stock water systems – allowing natural waterways to be retired – and engineered sediment traps to intercept runoff.

Animal welfare has always been a top priority. Operating a closed herd for biosecurity, the farm manages stock with a focus on optimal nutrition and low-stress handling.

By blending traditional stewardship with modern innovation, Matangi has emerged from the storm as a model of sustainable, resilient farming.