Greater Wellington Ballance Farm Environment Awards celebrated

Sustainable farming excellence has won Wairarapa couple Gemma and Andy Phillips the regional supreme prize at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, and congratulations from Greater Wellington.

The regional council is a long-term partner of the awards, attended by councillors Daran Ponter and Adrienne Staples in Carterton on Wednesday.

Cr Staples says the Phillips’ success is a tribute to their commitment to sustainable farming practices now widespread across the region.

“We have enormous passion in our region – passion for land, water and the plants, animals and communities they sustain,” Cr Staples says.

“The Phillips of Motumatai have shown us how that passion can fuel innovation to protect the health of the environment while enhancing the productivity of the land.”

Greater Wellington kaimahi (staff) are actively involved in the awards, from judging entries to supporting farmers with environmental planning, freshwater management and land restoration.

Cr Ponter also extended congratulations to the winner of the Greater Wellington Regional Council Award, Jason Christensen.

“Jason’s outstanding use of plant materials optimised his land use, while enhancing biodiversity and carbon sequestration,” Cr Ponter says.

The awards also showcased the Ahiaruhe Eco Area Catchment Group, who Greater Wellington commend for their commitment to their community and collaborative approach to their work.

“We celebrate all agricultural communities striving for environmental excellence and encourage all farmers to get involved in the awards. It’s a fantastic way to be recognised for your work, while meeting likeminded people building a better tomorrow.”

For more information, and to view the full list of award winners, visit the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust website.