Luke & Sunny Oud
Oud Agri

A bold new chapter is underway at this family dairy farm as its current stewards drive a significant expansion that builds on 100 years of farming history.

Following dual career pivots, Luke and Sunny Oud are the fourth generation to farm the family’s 80ha dairy unit. With the support of Luke’s parents, they have significantly increased the dairy platform to its current size of 240ha (225ha effective).

Luke and Sunny became equity partners in 2022 and, since then, have undertaken a strategic expansion that has enabled them to grow the herd from 200 to 600 cows.

The expansion has included purchasing two neighbouring blocks of land to support the herd’s growth. This trajectory has been managed meticulously, with the couple installing robust systems, supports, checks, and balances to ensure that production milestones are hit without compromising on quality and values.

Production has steadily increased, jumping from 162,000kg milk solids in the 2023/24 season to 194,000kg milk solids in 2024/25.

A key piece of infrastructure enabling this efficiency is a covered livestock shelter. The shelter has been strategically integrated into the farming system to support the dramatic increase in cow numbers while protecting the delicate Kaipara clay soils from pugging.

The Ouds have embedded technology and data-driven decisions into their operation, particularly in pasture management and genetics. This is driving long-term productivity and restoring better work-life balance.

The judges were impressed by the couple’s inspirational journey that has seen them transition successfully from different industries into farm ownership.

They said the Oud’s attention to detail, innovative thinking, and active involvement in the local community, demonstrates an admirable commitment to both business sustainability and social values.