Mark and Susannah Guscott of Glen Eden Farms 

2025 Greater Wellington Finalists: Mark and Susannah Guscott of Glen Eden Farms – Sheep, beef, arable and tourism

The couple behind this mixed farming operation are true stewards of the land – running a successful sheep, beef, arable and tourism business while enhancing the environment. 

Owners Susannah and Mark Guscott have been at Glen Eden Farms for 20 years and during that time have driven the business forward through diversification and the use of technology. Building on a rich family history, they have grown in scale while protecting and enhancing biodiversity across the 1,434ha (1,270ha effective) property. 

They live on the farm with their three teenage children, with day-to-day farm work supported by a team of three – Jasper Wrenn, Mike Morison and Jordy Galyer. Mark’s European ancestors started farming the land 170 years ago, although his Māori whakapapa dates back much further. This family history fuels their dedication to improving the land’s health. 

Key to their success is a diversified approach. Alongside traditional farming, the Guscotts have established high-end accommodation and have business partners that offer unique on-farm night sky tours – enhancing business resilience. 

Today, they derive 47% of their income from sheep, 17% from beef, 31% from crops and the remaining 5% from tourism. They grow and sell a wide range of arable crops, along with a range of forage crops for livestock. 

Technology plays a crucial role in Susannah and Mark’s decision-making, while sustainable practices are deeply ingrained in their operations. Deferred grazing techniques improve soil health, while planting mixed species enhances biodiversity and protects pastures. Water management is a priority, with efficient use and careful monitoring ensuring minimal environmental impact. 

Significant environmental investments include riparian planting, the recent creation of a six-hectare wetland, and the ongoing preservation of an 18ha QEII-protected bush block.  

As this couple strives for continuous improvement, they are guided by an overarching goal be successful farmers with a minimal environmental footprint.