Generations of Care
Robyn Stephens, a Te Rohe Pōtae King Country farmer and grandmother of nine, took up dog trials at the age of fifty-nine, following in her father’s footsteps, and at seventy-six is still working as a casual musterer. Here, she reflects on her connection to the past and how her whānau Māori has influenced her.
Still Here
Her father’s influence and a deep love for animals inspired her to become a shepherd, but it’s not been an easy road for Wairarapa-based Lara Smith, 29. Here, she shares how her persistence has paid off.
Finding The Strength
Shepherdess recently visited Mātāwai sheep and beef farmer Jenny Sandford, 40, for our new podcast, Far From Town, made in collaboration with RNZ. Here is some of her conversation with podcast host Arpége Taratoa-Rangikura.
Chat on the Chathams
Greer Paterson, 32, our resident columnist – and also a school teacher, fencing contractor, mum of two and much-loved Shepherdess team member – shares the special highlights and challenges of teaching in a place as remote as Rēkohu Wharekauri Chatham Islands.
Catherine Chidgey
Catherine Chidgey, 55, is one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed contemporary writers. She’s running a workshop, Writing the Child, at this year’s Featherston Booktown Karukatea Festival.
Abby France, FMG
Abby France, 38, is a client advice manager at FMG and a mum to two young girls, Harriet, 6, and Pip, 3. She is also a sheep farmer and co-owns an events company. From her home in Heratini Geraldine, Abby helps clients plan for the future – and throws a country fete or two to give them an excuse to get off farm and connect.
A Dream & Hard Graft
A way of life with a love of horses at its core, encompassed by a strong belief that horses can heal.
The Peri-Urban Pantry
Dr Shannon Davis is examining how bringing farming back into local communities can make Aotearoa think differently about the edges of its cities.
Holly Thompson
Shepherdess caught up with Holly on Mounganui Station to learn more about how the curling competitor spends her days.
Sophie & Lucy
Sisters Sophie and Lucy used the headspace afforded by Covid lockdowns to create Middlehurst Delivered; shipping lamb from their family’s farm in the Awatere Valley to customers throughout Aotearoa.
Wisdom from the Skies
Heeni Hoterene transforms maramataka lunar calendar wisdom for modern contexts, so it resonates with an ever-evolving world.
My First Love
I can still remember the day I laid eyes on my first love… No blue eyes or sweet words – just two wheels, a chain and a hint of freedom.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our beautiful Takurua Winter 2026 Edition is out now.