This integrated system enables the farm to rear 1200 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, saying they had “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 recognised the positive workplace culture created by the management team, saying the model was “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’ 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 filter sediment and nutrients before they enter waterways while enhancing biodiversity.
Jarred said the success of the business reflected 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.”
The Clodes 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 Te Hou Farms
- 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 Ballance Farm Environment 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 group showcase
The awards highlighted 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 streambank restoration, strategic willow removal, native planting and a 5km trapline network that protects whio (blue duck) habitat.
With nearly three years of water-quality monitoring across nine sites – including eDNA and aquatic insect sampling – the group has built a strong scientific foundation to guide restoration efforts and ensure the health of the Ongarue River for generations to come.
– New Zealand Farm Environment Trust
