On the 20th March, the Trust attended the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, where the Oromahoe Trust was one of six finalists.
The awards celebrate farmer and grower achievement, showcasing good practices to other farmers and growers, and shares positive farming and growing stories.
All entrants go through an assessment process to consider the farm system including:
Animal & Plant Care, Biodiversity, Business Health, Climate, People & Wellbeing, Soil, Water, Waste Management.
There were 11 awards presented on the night, with the Trust and Dean Candy our Farm Manager taking out the following awards:
Bayley’s People in the Primary Sector Award: For the people side of farming, recognising the importance of staff management, succession, community involvement, health and safety and
practices associated with people management and wellbeing.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award: Recognising the livestock farmer who demonstrates the need for long term land and animal stewardship, incorporation the wise use of land,
labour and capital resources. Livestock are well cared for, stock class and type are managed appropriately to land contour and soil type.
Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award: Recognising the approach that farmers and growers take to accomplish the important management practices of operating a successful farm and growing
business. Including the development and use of a business plan, benchmarking and succession planning.
Northland Balance Farm Environment Award Regional Supreme Winner
Recognising excellence in sustainable farming practices.
Needless to say it was an excellent achievement for the Trust and our Farm Manager Dean, to be recognised in these areas. The supreme winner from each of the 11 regions involved would now
be considered for an overall national award to be announced in Hamilton in June.
He Mihi:
Tena koutou katoa e aku Rangatira,
Anei te reo o te haukainga e karanga ake kia koutou, mai tata mai tawhiti, haere mai haere. E tangi ana te ngakau ki nga mate huhua o te wa.
Kua wehe atu koutou ki tua kua haumumu o koutou reo kua piki atu ki te pae o maumahara. Haere atu koutou ki Paerau, koutou kua wheturangitia
moe mai ra, whakaoti atu.
Ka tau mai ano ki papatuanuku, kia koutou e pae nei ki runga te mata o te whenua, tena koutou katoa.
First and foremost your trustees acknowledge and pay respect to those dearly departed since last we met and or communicated being the AGM last
December 2022. To our whanau who have experienced the loss of loved ones over this period our sincere condolences and aroha.
The following report has been generated to update owners on the management of your papawhenua under the auspices of the Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust
these past 6-months from December 2022 – May 2023.
GOVERNANCE: Overview
The past 3-years of COVID-19 including harsh environmental events to presently experiencing a severe downturn in the economy have all played a
major part in shaping both the governance and operational team to develop and adopt a resilient response to counter the impacts imposed by
these challenging circumstances.
The trustees are trusting and confident of the efforts expended these past years that operationally the farm business is being managed
satisfactorily with the appropriate policies, procedures and systems in place to meet our compliance and regulatory obligations.
Accordingly, trustees have disposed of monthly meetings and have for some time been practicing quarterly meetings. At these meetings, the focus
being our governance responsibilities and in particular the development of a Strategic Plan, which will be presented at a proposed meeting of
beneficial owners on the 16th & 17th June for discussion and feedback. We look forward to seeing you all there, nau mai,
piki mai, haere mai.
AGM
Two (2) AGMs were held concurrently on the 10th of December 2022, for the end year reporting periods of 2021 and 2022.
Although successful on the day in obtaining a quorum, this was duly responsible to respective beneficial owners in exercising their proxy
votes.
The uncertainty of assembling a quorum from years past motivated the trustees in recommending that the Trust order be varied to practically
counter the noticeable downturn in beneficial owner’s attendance from years past.
Beneficial owners voted and approved on the day the following Trust Order changes;
That in accordance with the Trust Order; Section 28; Clause (6) (a) (refer also to Substitute Trust Order 11 October 1999) the quorum of 30
beneficial owners to now being 21.
Additional to Clause (6) (a) the quorum of beneficial owners to form a quorum be present personally, or by proxy vote and
or electronic means inclusively, at the meeting.
Furthermore; in accordance with Clause (6) (c) the vote shall be conducted by a show of hands, be substituted to read; by
secret ballot.
Trustee rotation for the 2021-year end period was Lucy Taurua-Mason and Merle Tipene, for the 2022-year end period being Wiremu Tane and Geneva
Proctor. Lucy and Merle announced their resignations with Geneva and Wiremu opting to stand again.
A robust election process ensued with 8 nominations received. The four (4) successful nominees in being elected were trustee elects, Jennifer
Rutherford and Peter Baltus and returning incumbents Geneva Proctor and Wiremu Tane.
We again take the opportunity in sincerely thanking Merle and Lucy for their unselfish display of passion and loyalty in offering their skills
knowledge and experience in shaping the Trust to what we see today, and wish them both; thank you, kia kaha, kia manawanui kia ora and all the
best for the future.
Strategic Planning
As a reminder our Strategic Planning journey started in 2021 with the assistance of BDO to create a draft, which trustees presented to
beneficial owners at our June 2021 Hui. Following feedback from beneficial owner’s trustees have been diligently working to further develop and
fine tune the plan in creating smart goals to align our visionary goals with a road map to ensure future direction and
clarity are maintained.
OPERATIONS: Farm
With Lloyd Brennan’s resignation as reported upon at the AGM, we embarked on a recruitment process taking around 3-months to find a suitable
replacement. After conducting rigorous interviews with suitably qualified candidates, the trustees decided upon an internal appointment by
promoting the assistant manager to the vacancy. Accordingly, we are pleased to announce and confirm Dean Candy as manager and look
forward to introducing him and his whanau at our hui. We have committed to continue support our staff and improve farm management practices
with the appointment of AgFirst consultant Andrew Drysdale on a monthly basis and have experienced first hand the benefits of his knowledge and
experience in multi ranges of farm best practice management from the paddock to the farm office.
The past year has not been without its challenges, and recently Cyclone Gabrielle was one of these events. Compared to our Te Tai Rawhiti
and Kahununu whanaunga the farm faired reasonably well, with general damage, e.g. from fallen trees on the fence line. The Trust applied
successfully receiving funding from the Cyclone Gabrielle farmer and grower recovery grant of around $8K.
The Trust has experienced extraordinary market fluctuations in the sale of finished bulls over the season which has directly resulted by a drop
in returns amounting to around $100K which is extremely disappointing given the hard work of staff to grow and maintain pasture to ensure that
the bulls are presented at premium weights and value at date of sale.
It was noted in the Chairpersons AGM report that the change in stocking policy were forecasted to affect our profitability margins for the
2021/22 and 2022/2023 year. Our YTD profit and loss report is attached to this report.
Our stocking policy this year to buy weaners and take them through to finishing has been tracking as expected. We now have 580 bull
weaner calves on farm along with nearly 750 rising 2’ year olds. However as Autumn disappears with the onset of winter there is a shortage of
local weaner replacement calves equating to a higher demand and increase in purchase costs to now casting our net further afield impacting with
increased transport costs in addition to the former.
Sheep ewe numbers are down to 930 this year from originally 1200 as management opted to not carry lamb ewe replacements as normally practiced
in the past. Further, the strategy being based on income, in that to increase bull numbers per ratio of sheep yielded a far better
return.
A new development has been undertaken in the “Bruce’s” area of the farm, to fence the waterways and install troughs with further developments
to our intensivetechnograzing system. We hope to carry out another development such as this in the 2023/2024
year.
Cell Towers
We have a lease arrangement with Spark and One NZ (formerly Vodafone) and we are presently reviewing the 3 yearly lease terms and conditions,
currently returning us a total of $23,000 per year.
Environmental
We were granted $48,000 in NRC funding to fence and protect waterways and plant out the same areas in Manuka to assist offset our carbon
emissions footprint. 30,000 seedlings were purchased from Kauri Park in Kaiwaka, who also planted the targeted areas in a little under 3
days. The process has now been completed incorporating our maori values as responsible kaitiaki of
our taiao.
Forestry
We are continuing discussions to sell our three pinus radiata blocks comprising in total 24.5ha which were delayed due to COVID-19; however
this is proving difficult with fluctuating markets impacted upon by unprecedented weather events and increased transport and shipping costs for
example resulting in poor returns. No decision has been made as yet as to what replanting looks like, with the trust undergoing investigations
as to different options.
We have in recent times engaged with a local sawmill operator to investigate the milling of our pockets of native Totora blocks in using a
selective and sustainable method that promotes a minimal impact on the surrounding trees, flora and fauna. It will be replaced by Totora
seedlings propagated from his nursery. The venture is overseen by MPI who have a strict compliance regime in place to manage and monitor the
entire harvest and replacement process. The anticipated commercial returns far exceed that of the pinus radiata.
Economic
We are currently investigating an investment policy as recommended by accountants BDO and considering different strategies for investment over
the coming year to further increase the Trust’s assets with diversity always at the forefront of mind.
Diversity in business models if pursued will kick start a review as to whether the Trust has the appropriate business
structure in place to manage and minimise risk to its assets. If this were to happen it would signal positive signs in the maturity of Trust
commercial development opportunities.
Community Outcomes
Last year we conducted a successful home-kill meat distribution to beneficial owners reaching over 30 local families.
This distribution covered whanau in Waitangi, Paihia, Okaihau Kerikeri and Oromahoe. Our intention is to carry on distributing when our meat
supply allows, with our next distribution targeting owners in other areas such as Moerewa, Kawakawa, and beyond as practicalities allow. This
was viewed as a successful day with pleasing feedback received from humble and grateful owners.
We are currently looking to undertake more community projects and have been pleased to be able to koha a lamb to the Oromahoe School’s Matariki
Festival, a koha to the Marae to urgently replace its aged gas water heater and to the Waitangi Marae in supporting the hosting of his year
Waitangi Commemorations day.
Grants
The Trust are once again pleased to announce the approval of $16,500 in education grants and the aged pension grants to our 60+ beneficial
owners of $3,750, a total of $20,250. For the second year we have collaborated with the Maori Education Trust (MET) based in Wellington
who added a further 40% for education grant recipients, on top of the Trust Contribution.
Trustee Yvonne Menary has undertaken to review comprehensively the grants process and she looks forward along with the trustees in making a
presentation to owners for discussion and feedback, anticipated to be at our Hui in June 2023.
Succession Planningand Other
This upcoming year it is envisaged that trustees will introduce workshops/discussions incorporating;
trustee governance training,
succession to land share interests of maori freehold land customarily from deceased
parents, types of entities (e.g. whanau trust) for owners to consider and adopt prior to succession applications being processed by MLC, to
prevent fragmentation of a whanau share interests in their respective land blocks.
Update for discussion around crown shares (46506.801)
The Oromahoe Trust is in search of a logo that visually represents who we are and strengthens our identity.
The competition is open to all whanau/hapu of Oromahoeand will be used as the official logo for the Oromahoe Trust. Multiple entries are welcome.
The winning entry will receive a Meat Pack and a $50 supermarket voucher.
How to Enter
The contest will run until the 30th October 2022. Winners will be
announced on social media, our website and by direct contact to the winners' email account.
Ideally your entry will be:
·Submitted directly to our office electronically at administrator@oromahoetrust.co.nz or by hard copy to our
post office box at Oromahoe Trust Logo Competition, PO Box 221, Kerikeri 0245.
·Please state your name, address and contact details at the bottom of the page.
·All designs to be accompanied with a brief story behind your design.
Logo Requirements
Professional: This logo
may be featured on our website, our social media platforms and other mediums (stationary, pamphlets, website, social media, t-shirts etc). As a result, while we would like the logo to be
eye-catching, it must still be simple and legible. We will organise the technical stuff, you give us the idea.
Theme: Logo must
promote who we are and what we do. We would love a story, incorporated into it somehow and of course a nod to the fact we are a Maori organisation.
Colour: There are no
limitations and any colours may be used. However, logo must look good in colour (if any) AND black and white.
Integrity: Logos cannot
contain copyrighted material. Logos must have been created and edited by the contestant(s). Logos may not include images or licensed images that have been previously published. Original designs
only please.
Contest Details
Contestants agree that the Oromahoe Trust may publish their logo and name(s) and may use both for advertising
campaigns and/or marketing materials in the future.
Contestants assign all ownership rights, including all intellectual property rights to the logo, to the Oromahoe
Trust. Additionally, the Oromahoe Trust may alter, modify or revise the logo as it sees necessary.
Oromahoe Trust reserves the right to not select a winner if, in its sole discretion, no suitable entries are
received.
Ideas for your design
You may have your own
stories about what Oromahoe means to you which we would love to hear and incorporate into our logo. Or alternatively you may wish to feature something from ours:
The Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust, otherwise known as the Oromahoe Trust is an Ahu Whenua Trust under Te Ture Whenua Māori
Act 1993. The Trust was established in 1990 and is located 15 minutes from Kerikeri, Kaikohe, Paihia and Waitangi. The Trust has approximately 1142 shareholders. The core business of the Trust is
in sheep and beef farming and forestry.
"Oromahoe would probably not mean much to most New Zealanders. Three dirt roads intersecting State Highway 10 are barely
obvious markers of a former vibrant hub of the north. On closer inspection, however, a 120-year-old church, marae and small community may be seen nestled on the horizon… Or it
might be the Oromahoe School that others know about or attended, that gives meaning to this place. From its humble classrooms, great leaders such as Hone Heke MP have emerged and again put
Oromahoe on the map. And then there is another signature of the north; the stone walls that are the result of days and weeks that were spent carefully making patchwork out of the landscape. The
collecting of rocks, one by one from surrounds and building dozens of stone walls has cemented memories of Oromahoe in the minds of many.The aged walls are testimony to collective effort and
the building blocks of community essence, past and present….
... it is beyond the walls where Oromahoe's history and depths of northern spirit lie, in the lands and in its
people."
Freda V. Rankin-Kawharu
Oromahoe – The meaning
Oro has two meanings in the Māori language and can be translated to grove/orchard or echo. The Māhoe – Melicytus
ramiflorus or Whitey wood is a small tree that grew abundantly over the rohe attracting the Tui and Kererū which dined on their berries. Our Whānau hapu considered the Fern root or tap to be a
delicacy. They used to carefully crush the root in the early hours of the morning before the mist cleared from the whenua . There is a stone mound on the corner of Porotu Rd and
School Rd where they used to place the fern root and pound it with their patu. In the early hours of the morning the “echo” or “oro” could be heard around the rohe where all the māhoe trees
grew. Hence Te oro o te māhoe….. or Orōmahoe.
On the 25th and 26th June 2021, the Oromahoe Trust held a beneficial owners hui. The purpose of the hui was to
share whakapapa and history of the Trust land, have korero around the current Trust Order and to hear and discuss the Whenua Plan.
The evening began by whanau introducing themselves (whakawhanaungatanga) and being asked what outcomes they hoped to achieve by
their attendance.
We then proceeded to explain the various names of prominent hapu landmarks, the six (6) hapu associated within our rohe potae (Pouerua ki
Rakaumangamanga) and the whanau names connected by whakapapa to those named respective hapu (Ngati Kawa, Te Ngare Hauata, Te Matarahurahu, Te
Whanaurara, Ngati Kaihoro and Ngati Rahiri). As the evening progressed it was pleasing and noticeable to observe how positively and attentively
the information was received with a desire to hear more of the same in the future.
As we Māori say; “Hinga atu he tete kura ara ake he tete kura”, “a fern frond dies with another rising to take its place”, a
reference in the importance of kaumatua to pass on our hapu traditional knowledge and nurture those of us that follow to be strong, confident and
secure in te ao maori.
The second day of the Hui was focussed on the joint venture with Te Puni Kokiri and discussion around the Trust Order.
The Trust have undertaken a venture with Te Puni Kokiri to help develop a Whenua Plan. The idea behind the venture is to help whenua owners
become connected to their land and to help Māori owners to understand their aspirations and resources.
It is a three-year project, and we are currently in year two. The second year will focus on implementation of the Whenua Plan. TPK presented the
plan in three parts, Strategic, Productivity and Environmental.
The
Draft Strategic Plan detailed the current vision of the Trust. The Pou outlined are Social, Economic, Cultural,
Environmental and Partnership. It was noted that today’s hui was for sharing the plan and when beneficial owners next come back as a
group, more discussion can be had and decisions made.
The productivity demonstration outlined the farming business and analysed how it was performing against
other comparable farms in Northland. The Trust’s farm is doing well against benchmarks and AgFirst have identified some main areas and
measurables to aim towards for the next year.
The environmental plan outlined the different land use areas, detailing wetlands, native vegetation,
erosion and waterways. There are many different soil types and some lend to horticulture. The Trust is now in the process of
prioritising and implementing the Environmental plan.
The Trust Order was discussed and all
present agreed some clauses in the Trust Order need amending. This is a large area for discussion and will be part of the work plan for
this year.
Lastly, all attendees were asked for
their general feedback and asked to raise anything they felt was important. This highlighted a number of areas for the Trust to
consider. These are detailed below:
Strategic Planning
Korero around overall binding
vision
Decide on drivers to reach the
vision
Trust Order
More korero around Trust Order
clauses and which need updating/amending
Clarity around who is a beneficial
owner
Trust Order to be presented in
clearer language
Grants
Grant regulations need updating and
including in Trust Order
Social/Cultural
Investigate process for whanau land
access
Investigate how the Trust can better
support the Marae
Meat distribution
Haukainga access to
water
Significant cultural and historical
areas to be marked on map
Miscellaneous
Beneficial owners would like a Te
Turi Whenua Act Presentation
Whenua, strategic, environmental
plans and Trust Order distributed to beneficial owners after Hui for them to review and comment on.
The Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust invites its beneficial owners to our June wananga.
The purpose of the hui beginning Friday is to provide a platform to wananga whakapapa and hitori of our papatupu lands. On Saturday we will be joined by Te
Puni Kokiri Whenua Advisory Team to inform owners of the Trust’s participation and outcomes from their service to date, receive feedback and develop owners aspirations for the future progress and
well being of their Trust.
A Draft Strategic Plan and the current Trust Order have been provided below for
beneficial owner review. Copies and an explanation will be provided on the day.
For catering and Marae accommodation purposes, please RSVP
to administrator@oromahoetrust.co.nz stating which days you will be attending or both.
Please forward to any beneficial owners who may wish to attend.
For further information or queries please contact administrator@oromoahoetrust.co.nz or 0204 136 9946.
Anei tau Poari e mihi whanui nei ki a koutou e nga tini whanaunga. Ko te tumanako e noho ora mai ana koutou, a tinana, a hinengaro a wairua hoki, i
raro nga manaakitanga maha a te Kaihanga. Ki a tatou tini mate takoto rangimarie.
The trustees are mindful that, since our October 2020 AGM there has been an absence of timely information given to beneficial owners as to the
progress of your Trust. The following report accordingly is provided on that basis with a commitment by trustees to be more communicative than ever
that was offered in the past.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
Farm Manager Position:
In December 2020, the Farm Manager of 3-years resigned leaving for the greener pastures of Pipiwai, we extend to Karene, Sam and their 2 children,
our best wishes for their future.
At the time with Xmas and New-Year’s holiday period on our doorstep, the resignation placed us in a confronting position. A junior staff
member having given prior resignation notice in November 2020 to take up a position on his Waima whanau incorporation farm, and staff taking
pre-booked annual leave, all contributing to and compounding our staffing resource position. As it proved to be so during this 3-week holiday
period with no one looking for new jobs, replacements were not forthcoming.
Dean Candy our head shepherd was offered and accepted the Managers role on an interim basis until a replacement was found, also being encouraged to
apply for the vacancy. Dean as an assistant manager has proven to be conscientious and proficient in the conduct of his duties including the
effective deployment of staff in continuing their day-to-day activities and ensuring that our farm business was not overly compromised by the
absence of a Manager and basically with out two full time employees.
As the delegated trustee on behalf of the Board I take this opportunity to express gratitude to Dean, Garry, Ethan, Tama and Jasper who applied
themselves industriously to their tasks. The comradeship I experienced in working with this team and the increased knowledge of our farm was
invaluable and rewarding.
Due to the Manager vacancy, trustees launched a recruitment process meticulously considering the past, present and future requirements of our farm
to continue, improve and enhance its development and performance. Fifteen applications were received with ultimately two (2) prospective candidates
being strongly considered.
Trustees are pleased to inform, following this protracted recruitment period, the appointment of Mr. Lloyd Brennan as the new Farm Manager
accompanied by his wife Pauline. Lloyd joins us, bringing a wealth of knowledge (40-years+) in the farming sector with notably and recently in
2017, responsible with his team from the neighbouring Omapere Farm Trust Kaikohe, in lifting the coveted Ahu Whenua Maori Award for excellence in
Beef and Sheep farming, a future goal for us to aspire to.
We look forward to working with Lloyd and welcome warmly his wife Pauline and their whanau into our community here in Oromahoe.
The Board also takes this opportunity in thanking farm consultants; Messer’s Sam Johnson (TPK Whenua Advisory Service lead consultant), James
Parsons (Agri-First consultant and TPK Whenua Advisory Service team member), Mariao Hohaia (Executive Manager Tapuaetahi Farm Trust), in
professionally assisting and supporting Chairperson Wiremu Tane in this complex and challenging mission, in a voluntary capacity that proved a cost
effective service overall to the Trust; nga mihi nui rawa atu ki a koutou mo ou mahi manaki rangatira hoki.
Farm Operations:
Basically, from the beginning of February to present we have embarked upon and completed to satisfaction some much-needed projects in the following
sectors.
1. Feasible monitoring, selling, and purchasing of stock during the drought period, i.e., the sale of bulls and lambs to maximise returns of which
accounted for steady cashflow and controlled opportunities to manage the purchase of replacement stock with diminishing grass supply as the summer
progressed.
2. Fencing off waterways, partly deteriorated boundaries, and internal zones (deferred from over a prolonged number of years).
* N.b. there is much more deferred fencing to be undertaken as currently our bull and sheep farming practices are being seriously and
embarrassingly affected especially along the boundaries between neighbours.
3. Rebuild damaged fences, culverts and washed-out roads devastated by the 2020 flash floods! A bonus being the generous gifting of surplus roading
metal from the nearby Puketona Junction round-a-bout upgrade which has translated into dollar savings of many thousands. A big thank you to
Waka Kotahi and Fulton Hogan for their generosity.
4. A substantial overhaul of our water reticulation system with 2 x diesel pumps replaced by 2 x electric pumps giving more reliable service
especially in ensuring farm water supply was uninterrupted mainly within the bull techno farming systems.
5. A thorough researched and comprehensive fertiliser spread worth more than $200K after identifying poor soil and pasture coverage from the recent
past (3-years), allowing for the timely renewal of pasture and crops leading into winter.
6. A wide-ranging weed control cycle applied – i.e., spraying gorse/rat’s tail, bull rushes etc.
7. Repairs and maintenance of general farm buildings and staff houses some at a capital cost and code of compliance obligations as a landlord
providing staff accommodation (e.g., roof and gutter replacement, insulation, wind draught sealing, electrical switch-board upgrades), all repairs
associated to H&S employer/employee obligations.
8. To remind, the Trust has three (3) x modest pinus radiata forestry blocks (24.6 ha in total), classified as a small forest, with the trees
respective of blocks aged at between 17 to 27-years. Trustees are presently undergoing a harvest review to ascertain the benefits, if any, of
milling the 2 mature blocks now or all 3 simultaneously.
We are ever mindful of the many pitfalls in the fickle forestry industry especially to the naïve and appropriately the reason for seeking
specialised assistance on this matter. We have engaged a reputable independent forestry advisor (FORME) who will conduct an evaluation of our pine
trees (girth, height, quality, and weight) to prepare a sale and purchase tender document whereby an invited expression of interest tender process
will be launched. In this process it will be guaranteed that logging contractors must have the following plans in place, H&S, environmental,
fencing etc and a realistic cash sum deposited (solicitors trust account) demonstrating that mutual good faith contractual provisions are in place
before one pine tree is cut down. Many are the tales told despite agreements in place, of trees felled, logs shipped and sitting in China with
forest owners having not received one gold-leaf for their investment. Our forest block standing is moderately valued presently at $250K
and optimistically the shortage, high value, and demand in timber products will continue to soar as presently seen in the market place.
9. Lastly, the Trust was asked by Te Puni Kokiri Whenua Advisory Service (Sam Johnson) to showcase our farm by hosting an open field-day, inviting
other Maori Farm Trusts to participate. Thank you to the many sponsors, TPK organizers, our farm staff and trustees who were present in proudly
supporting the event and the positive feedback from manuhiri and whanaunga that came from throughout the Te Tai Tokerau district.
In summary, the anticipated long drought period as experienced from last year fortunately did not materialise and along with the staff we are well
pleased with the overall human resources and business results achieved.
GOVERNANCE OVERVIEW:
As the Chair, I am well pleased at the Boards progress in these past 6 months with much being reviewed and completed concerning our organisation’s
evolutionary compliance obligations, further development of policies and procedures, the management of Staff Human Resources agreements (e.g., all
employees having reviewed, up-to-date signed employment agreements confirming a happy and willing work force).
Regarding the challenging business circumstances as described above, a current set of financials has been provided for your perusal and invited
feedback.
Trustees are unanimous in a collective desire to meet with beneficial owners in June from Friday 25th June to Saturday 26th to discuss and review
our Strategic Plan, Trust Order, including any other matter that you may wish to bring to our attention in assisting our Trust to flourish and grow
for the future benefit of all.
Kia Ora.
Naku noa,
Na Wiremu (Heamana).
VACANCY - FARM MANAGER
ABOUT US
The farm is a total of 1200 ha (750 ha effective). Principal activities include, finishing bulls (1000 SU), running sheep and finishing lambs (1200-1500 SU), annually. We also have a
small Pinus radiata forestry block ready for harvest.
We are centrally located in the Bay of Islands, Northland, 15 km approximately from Kerikeri, Paihia, Kawakawa and
Kaikohe.
Access to a range of renowned local outdoor leisure activities including a temperate all-year-round climate is at the doorstep.
A 4-bedroom property is available onsite including the use of a modern work ute.
An excellent primary school is 2 kms away with secondary schools at Kerikeri, Kaikohe and Kawakawa.
An attractive total remuneration package will be offered and negotiated with the applicant based on skills and experience.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The key focus for this role is to grow the business and assist the Board with its day-to-day management and offers an excellent opportunity for personal growth and development.
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Stock Management (190 ha Techno system)
Pasture & Crop Management
Water & Infrastructure Management
Will be involved in key farm management decisions including the annual budget and farm plan.
A BIT ABOUT YOU
Key Attributes:
You will be honest and reliable, with relevant agricultural experience and a passion for farming. You will need 2 - 3 good working dogs and have:
4-5 years of proven farm management experience, honest, self-motivated & conscientious.
Excellent communication skills and leadership qualities to ensure and build healthy relationships with landowners, staff, suppliers, customers and contractors.
The ability to implement the stock health programs and general day to day farm management programs with consideration to changing priorities and adapt to constantly changing situations.
A certain amount of technological knowledge will be required to provide regular reporting and recording of farm data (Farm IQ, FARMAX, Figured, NAIT).
Work duties conducted on a shared staff rostered basis.
Due to border restrictions, we are only able to consider candidates currently residing in New Zealand with full work eligibility.
If this is of interest to you please apply with cover letter, CV including the names of two (2) referees to: administrator@oromahoetrust.co.nz.
Applications close 5pm Friday, 5th February 2021.
Shepherd General - Northland
Due to the departure of a valued team member, Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Ahu Whenua Trust, requires a Shepherd General for our intensive sheep and beef farm in the Bay of Islands. The farm has an
effective area of 750 hectares of flat and rolling to easy hill country wintering 7,000 stock units. The farm has 190 hectares of techno systems for intensive beef and is well developed with
stock handling facilities, water reticulation and farm infrastructure.
This position includes a 2-bedroom home on the farm in Oromahoe, 15 minutes to Paihia and Kerikeri and within easy reach of good schools and world famous recreational activities, including
fishing and diving.
Day to day, your role will include:
General stock work, including handling, weighing, preparing stock for sale, stock health, recording of mob numbers.
Stock handling, including pre-lambing, docking, shearing/crutching, weaning, drafting of prime stock.
Operating and maintaining farm vehicles and tractor driving.
Assisting with the water supply systems
Assessing pasture and crops
As the successful candidate, you will bring to the role:
At least 2+ years of farming experience.
A team of good working dogs.
Current clean full driver license.
Competence when driving ATV’s.
Positive and enthusiastic manner.
Appreciation of health and safety issues
Physically fit and able to undertake a range of practical farm tasks.
Good communication skills with the confidence to raise ideas and issues with your Employer.
Ability to work independently and unsupervised as well as in a team.
Honest, reliable and hardworking.
Take pride in your work with a desire to complete all jobs on time and to a high standard.
Applicants with relevant agricultural qualifications will be considered highly.
In return, we offer a two-bedroom house, a competitive salary and a great supportive team.
To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to: manager@oromahoefarms.co.nz with the subject line SHEPHERD GENERAL POSITION. Applications close 05 January 2021.
Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust
Notice of
AGM Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
will be held:
Saturday 17th October 2020 at Oromahoe Marae
Registration will commence at 9.30am
If you are a shareholder and unable to
attend, and wish to invite a proxy to take your place, please email: administrator@oromahoetrust.co.nz / phone 0204 136 9946.
If you attended the 2019 AGM you
will shortly receive a booklet by post - please bring with you on the day. For those beneficial owners without a copy, one will be
available on registration.
Please forward this email to whanau that may wish to attend.
AGENDA
To receive and accept
apologies
To receive the Audited
Financial Reports
To appoint the Share
Valuer
To receive the BDO
Remuneration Recommendation
To appoint the Auditor
2020/2021
Election of Five (5)
Trustees
To confirm the minutes of the
Last Annual General Meeting 19 October 2019
To receive the Chairperson's
report
To receive the Farm Manager's
report
To receive the Grant's
report
For any enquiries,
apologies or to RSVP, please contact the Secretary PH: 0204 136 9946 or EMAIL: administrator@oromahoetrust.co.nz
Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust
Chair Report
May 2020
E nga whanaunga
na mihi mahana ki a koutou na kaitiaki mo na whenua papatupu e kii ake neiko te 18RB2B2B2 Trust.
Kia o tatou tini mate, a nei te reo aroha e poroporoaki ki a koutou kua tiraha haere koutou haere.
Kia tatou ano nga kanohi ora tena rawa atu ki a koutou.
COVID-19 Corona Virus Global Pandemic.
As we already know and have experienced locally first-hand, New Zealand has been under a state of national emergency since 25 March - the first day of
lockdown.
To date, we have unbelievably been inspired by the remarkable resilience shown by our whanau/hapu within Ngapuhi during a time when our communities are most
exposed, suffering anxiety, stress, tensions, and even their vulnerability. Our strongest asset is the expression of manaaki, keeping spirits strong and caring for
one another, to remind ourselves of the resilience and courage that will get us all through.
Following on from Alert Level 4 and on the eve of transitioning from Alert Level 3 to Level 2, the government imposed restrictions that have caused and altered our
every-day lives conclusively are to be further downgraded. Many of our whānau, live with vulnerable or elderly people so re-opening our doors to level 2 will not
be taken lightly. It [COVID-19 response] is just a part of who we are, really good at getting on with the job and doing it.
It has been extensively publicized during the week as to what we are publicly in general able to do however with the medium and long term prospects unknown,
government mandatory guidelines will remain for some-time to come.
We the trustees and farm staff, within our respective bubbles, take this opportunity to express our aroha and tautoko to the beneficial owners, their whanau, and
friends at this unique and distressing time that in all likelihood has affected whanau in more ways than one.
We are sympathetically aware of whanau and hapu losing loved ones over this period and
the many
challenges that they culturally faced in being unable to, as usual, take our “tupapaku”, to our Marae and “poroporoaki”, them as practiced by our matua tupuna. It
is however of some relief, that all bereavements known to date were not Corona Virus related. We are relieved as you are to be informed that attendances to
funerals have been raised from 10 to 50 and be allowed to take place over days as opposed to previously being the funeral service and internment all taking place
on the same day with only the undertaker, grave helpers and 2 whanau members from their same bubble being present.
Kia a koutou nga mate maha noho mai i roto nga ringa atawhai o te Kaihanga.
As beneficial owners you may well have time to ask now with the lifting of more restrictions as to how your farm has been affected, as the last official report
received was on the 19th October 2019 AGM and normally the next report expected at this year’s 2020 AGM. The trustees, however, have decided
that due to the effects of Covid-19, as broadly reported on by the media, some good news but mostly bad, it would be responsibly prudent of the Board, in these
acknowledged extraordinary times, to provide owners with a snapshot operational update of your farm.
It is important to understand that the farm was immediately upon lockdown identified as an “essential service”, industry supplier. As such it was afforded
distinctive treatment in the way it could continue to operate with the least disruption to its normal business activities. A comprehensive Health and Safety
process was immediately introduced to ensure that staff during their daily tasks and their possible interaction with the public during and after work met and
adhered to the strict emergency government guidelines. It has been pleasing to report that with the full cooperation and willingness of trustees and staff to
collectively work together over this period, the difficult times were managed successfully, with no health issues reported and or experienced to date, resulting in
a big thank you to staff approved.
So it has been “business as usual”, with normal farm activities attended to, i.e. sales of stock (bulls, sheep and lambs), to AFFCO, although in an unstable
market, informative decisions had and were made. It must be also reminded that on top of COVID-19 the Northland farming sector has experienced a period of
unrelenting drought conditions, even up to the writing of this report, with now winter and its unknown conditions fast approaching. We are however prepared best as
can be, confidently predicting and anticipating that if no severe winter conditions are experienced, that farm production coming out the other end, to be similar
to that recorded in our 2019 season.
We are mindful of the notified SGM (trustee elections), being postponed and are in anticipation, planning in conjunction with COVID-19 Alert Levels being further
lifted, as to
what would be
possible and allowed. Simply put, it [COVID-19 response] is all about an opportunity to re-set and re-focus ourselves; to figure out what is working for us as a
whanau/hapu and what is not. Our goal is to plan for when the country comes out of these alert levels to enable trustees and owners to meet as soon as reasonably
allowed.
Heoi ano ko te
tino tumanako kia kaha kia maia kia manawanui, noho ora mai.
Kia Ora
Opportunity to Join Our Land and Water's Science Leadership Team
Applications to lead our Incentives for Change theme close Monday 18 May.
The Our Land and Water National Science Challenge is looking for the right person to join our science leadership team, as science
leader of our Incentives for Change research theme.
The role and responsibilities of theme leaders are set out in the person specification. Each of our theme
leaders (0.4 FTE) works across the Challenge, but with a primary responsibility for one of our three research themes.
Our current vacancy is for a leader for the Incentives for Change theme. This theme
seeks to identify the rewards, signals and approaches that motivate beneficial behaviours and reciprocal relationships in the
agri-food and fibre system. In doing so, we are seeking the following impact by 2030:
People and organisations in the agri-food and fibre system are motivated to prioritise the vitality of
te Taiao in their decisions and actions.
The Challenge is committed to working in a way that draws on Māori world views, as well as western science systems, in a uniquely
New Zealand approach to transformative change in the agri-food and fibre system.
We would expect our Incentives for Change theme leader to have a research background that includes understanding the way markets
for our primary production systems respond to a range of signals, and the mechanisms by which value is shared and behaviours are
rewarded throughout agri-food and fibre value chains.
If you have enthusiasm for the role, meet its requirements and have adequate time available, please submit a letter outlining your
background, experience and overall fit with the person specification.
Our mailing address is:
Our Land and Water · Lincoln Science Centre · Private Bag 4749 · Christchurch, Canterbury 8140 · New Zealand
Report abuse here Subscribe to our e-newsletters
The Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Farm Trust is seeking to develop and improve all operating facets within the organisation and are looking for a dynamic experienced person to join our team. A professional
approach to this position showing initiative and business acumen are essential whilst providing scope to be creative, working with a management team that is open to innovative ideas.
The role is to provide a full range of services to the business inclusive of;
·
day-to-day running of the Trust Office
·
provision of secretarial support to the Board of Trustees
·
finance and accounts management
·
budget & cash flow planning and management
·
payroll and human resources
·
production of management and financial reports
·
commitment to health & safety
Applicants must have:
·
experience with accounting software programme and be proficient in processing wages and preparing PAYE returns
·
extensive experience with Microsoft Office Suite of products
·
experience using database management systems
·
excellent oral and written communication skills
·
display strategic thinking and problem solving abilities with attention to detail as being all important aspects to this role
·
offer flexibility and collaboration
·
with a high level of interpersonal skills
If you are professionally driven, looking for an organisation that is supportive by acknowledging achievement and success, then we want to hear from you.
·please apply in writing or
by email providing the following (Covering Letter and CV, including contact details of at least 3 x referees)
·addressed to the
Chairperson, Oromahoe 18R2B2B2 Trust, P.O. Box 221, Kerikeri 0245, and/or email chairperson@oromahoetrust.co.nz
The Oromahoe Trust is committed to providing a drug and alcohol-free environment.
Applications will close 5.00 pm Friday 15th November 2019.
Update - 15th August 2018 - Mycoplasma Bovis Notice
Withdrawn
We are pleased to inform that the Notice of Direction issued in June has been revoked by MPI (on 15th August
2018).
This follows several weeks of testing of the animal of concern, and others that had been in contact with that animal.
We have resumed normal farm practices and will continue to stay vigilant to prevent M.Bovis entering the property.
The Trust wishes to extend its thanks to neighbouring whanau and others from our farming
community who have given their support during this period.
Update - 25th June 2018
The animal in question has been identified and on 13th June was tested together with 99 other cattle. The results from these tests may be returned
by the end of this week or next week.
In addition MPI has now instructed the farm manager to slaughter the animal of interest. This is likely to be done on farm and samples from the animal
will be taken for testing. Should these samples be clear of M Bovis it is likely that the restrictions on the farm will be lifted.
Background
·7th June the farm manager received a “Notice of Direction: Section 122 Biosecurity Act” relating to the tracing of one bull which MAY have
been in contact with animals that may have M.Bovis
·This essentially closed down the farm for the movement of livestock and required all persons leaving the property to ensure clothing, footwear, equipment and
vehicles are appropriately cleaned and free of sources of contamination.
·A hot tape should be placed one meter from the boundary to prevent contact with neighbouring livestock.
·A number of other restrictions are in place.
The farm manager has complied with all the restrictions with a clean area set up at the workshop and a changing station for staff in the woolshed. Obtaining
permits for moving stock eg. required for bringing the sheep from the saleyards side to the woolshed.
Neighbouring farms have all be contacted and informed of the situation. This transparency policy was promoted by the Trustees at a meeting on 8th
June as it was felt that information is better to come from an authoritative source rather than the “grapevine”. This has proved to be a sound policy as neighbours are appreciative of the
openness and they appreciate the situation and how it developed.
Trust Order and Distribution Policy Wānanga, June 2017: RECAP
Thank you to all who attended the workshop this weekend. Your time taken from your busy schedules is greatly appreciated. The ideas brought will set the foundations of the direction of the
Oromahoe Trust. Great input from all our shareholders, beneficiaries and trustees alike. The SWOT analysis (strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and Distribution Policy review completed
by the two subcommittees are available below. Original Order and Policy available also below. Notes from the meeting will be available shortly. Thank you also to our ringawera. Please send
further thoughts on the Trust Order to Hirini at tanpa244@student.otago.ac.nz.
He mihi tenei ki a koutou i tae mai ki te wānanga o te Ahu Whenua o Oromahoe. Thank you to all who attended on the weekend despite the severe weather. The wānanga was well attended by whānau,
shareholders and beneficiaries alike.
Thank you to Renata Tane, Bill Tane and others who provided a background on whakapapa and the ancestral landscape of Oromahoe, Pouerua and Waitangi for the Friday night.
The wananga was a constructive exercise that has built a platform to begin key changes to our Trust Order and Distribution Policy. Notes will be available shortly for review from the both
sessions.
The points raised form the two sessions will inform the two subcommittees created to look into the Trust Order and Distribution Policy.
Special mention must go towards our ringawera whom made the day possible. Tenei e mihi atu.
Finally, our next meeting will be on the 6th of May 2017, dedicated to developing ideas on the Trust Order. Download and review the current Trust Order and Grant regulations
(below). More information will be provided in due course. Please check our website regularly for more updates.
(October 8 2016) Thank you to all our whanau who attended and contributed to this year's AGM. A good turn out, with around 45 attending - we encourage more for next year. A very involved meeting,
a number of aspects raised for us to work towards. Click here to read AGM documents. Thank you to our
farm manager Ian Gadsby (and workers) for the continued hard work. We wish all our tertiary grant recipients the best. Thank you to our ringawera for their great food and hospitality. We welcome
Wiremu Tane to the Trust and the return of Leon Penney who was re-elected. A special recognition to our matua Hiri Hiri Parata for his 26 years of service. No reira tenei e mihi atu. Stay tuned
for events to come!
