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.
Creative at Heart
Amy Burke, 41, of Te Mamaku Ruby Bay, near Motueka, created Botanical Skincare, whose roots stretch back to her childhood – playing in her grandmother’s sprawling botanical garden and soaking up knowledge of plants and their properties. Here, the 2024 winner of Rural Women New Zealand’s Creative at Heart award takes us through a day of blending product-making with running a business and raising a family.
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 Gin Genie
Nestled amongst the spectacular Paparoa and Victoria ranges, Reefton is home to the eponymous Reefton Distilling Co., founded by local Patsy Bass.
Mel & Brianna
Melanie Gielen and daughter-in-law Brianna Patino, helms popular Rawene eatery The Boatshed Cafe. There, they dish up fresh, delicious kai with a twist, sharing their boundless hospitality with locals and visitors alike.
The course providing farming couples with the tools to make their businesses resilient, adaptable – and profitable
Ann and Scott took part in AWDT’s ‘Our Resilient Farming Business’ course.
The benefits of a collective oomph – how taking part in AWDT’s ‘It’s all about YOU’ programme led to longstanding connections and a rewarding career
Katherine credits this course with helping her to find inspiration and confidence to embark on a journey in life coaching, teaching, and group facilitation.
Pirinoa
Jacqui Sutherland, 77, has found her place in Pirinoa, South Wairarapa, where she raised her family and still lives with her husband.
The short course full of “useful little gems” to help identify stress and prioritise wellbeing in yourself and others
Alice Trevelyan, 33, completed the ‘Know Your Mindset. Do What Matters’ programme with her husband, Dave.
Takurua Winter 2026 Edition
Twenty-Sixth Edition
Our Takurua Winter Edition is out 8 June.