Nicole and Luke Kane of Westholm Dairies are the Otago Regional Supreme Winners at this year’s Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
Nicole and Luke Kane of Westholm Dairies are the Otago Regional Supreme Winners at this year’s Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
A commitment to farming family legacy has seen Luke and Nicole Kane of Westholm Dairies named Otago Regional Supreme Winners at this year’s Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
Run by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, the Ballance Farm Environment Awards celebrate excellence in sustainable farming and growing.
The Kane familyhave farmed the same 668ha (580ha effective) property near Tapanui in West Otago for almost a century.
Today, Luke and Nicole have successfully transitioned part of the wider family business into a high-performing, 700-cow dairy operation, while maintaining strong links to the broader Kane Farms enterprise.
“The Kane family exemplifies precision with purpose,” judges said.
“Their decisions are informed by evidence, shaped in partnership with their trusted team, embrace the adoption of innovation and technology, and are carried out with a clear sense of responsibility to the land, animals, people and community.”
The business is underpinned by a data-driven model, with detailed analysis of gross margins, precision soil testing and targeted fertiliser application.
Smart technology is used across the dairy herd to monitor animal health and performance, improving efficiency while reducing waste.
Judges also recognised the strength of their stewardship and long-term thinking.
“The Kane family’s leadership, adaptability and intergenerational vision make them a standout example of what sustainable, future-focused farming looks like.”
Environmental management is approached with the same level of precision.
A carefully planned winter grazing system involves paddocks being pre-mapped and feed strategically placed to minimise soil damage, and a dedicated feeding pad for Angus cattle reduces pressure on paddocks during wet conditions.
Fenced waterways and established shelter belts further support long-term sustainability.
Judges said the couple’s approach honoured both the past and future of the business.
“Nearing 100 years of family ownership, the Kane family’s focus on succession and balanced living shows a deep respect for both heritage and future opportunity.”
For the Kanes, connection to people and place was fundamental.
“We are proud of our strong family history and our connections with our team and wider community – from industry experts to local schools and organisations.”
Luke and Nicole Kane have successfully transitioned part of the wider family business into a high-performing, 700-cow dairy operation.
The Kanes will join fellow regional winners from across the country in being considered for the Gordon Stephenson Trophy at the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust’s National Showcase in Christchurch in July.
The recipient will become the 2026 National Ambassador for Sustainable Farming and Growing.
Other awards for Westholm Dairies
Norwood Farming Efficiency Award
DairyNZ Sustainability and Stewardship Award
Bayleys People in Primary Sector Award
Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award
Otago Regional Council Water Enhancement Award
Other Otago Ballance Farm Environment Award winners
Ben and Rebecca Trotter – Black Peak Farming, Alpine Fresh and Red Bridge Berries - Luggate
Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award
Hill Labs Agri-Science Award
Beef + Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award
FMG Risk Management Award
NZFET Innovation Award
Morgan France, Ruby Herron and Kerry France – Longview Farm – Moa Flat
Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award
Catchment group showcase
The awards highlighted the East Otago Catchment Group, which has grown from a small group of farmers in 2019 into a co-ordinated network spanning five catchments across the region.
The group drives practical improvements in biodiversity and freshwater health through water quality monitoring, large-scale restoration projects, and initiatives such as the Farming with Confidence programme.
Collaborative projects include trout removal to support native fish species, riparian planting, pest management strategies and partnerships with iwi, schools and local communities.
With a strong focus on connection and education, the group works towards a shared vision of swimmable rivers, thriving ecosystems and a community deeply connected to its land.
