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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.

Her Words

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.

Community Feature Post v2

Dusting off the Silks

For over 150 years, the Chatham Islands Jockey Club has been woven into the fabric of island life. For club treasurer, harness driver and trainer Monique Croon (Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri), 59, that connection runs deep through six generations of her whānau. Here, Monique and other women involved in the races reflect on the club’s history and significance to the community.

Community

Grace & Ruby

When their two Murihiku Southland rugby clubs merged for the 2025 season to form a new team, Tū Kotahi Wahine, Grace Duthie (Ngāi Tahu), 20, and Ruby Laidlaw, 22, went from being rivals to teammates. We caught up with them last year, and asked about the change.

Feature Post v2 Provincial Life

Shepherd Dreams

Victoria Baker knew from a young age that she wanted to follow in her parents’ footsteps. Although taking over the family farm wasn’t always on the cards, Victoria and her partner, Gregor Goble, are now continuing her parents’ legacy, shepherding a new generation.

Feature Post v2 Her Words

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.

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.

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Feature Post v2 Provincial Life

Summer Lovin’

Summer florals made easy – perfect for picnics by the lake, a day at the races, or a barbecue with friends.

Community

Saniya & Morina

Dance like no one is watching is a saying Saniya Thompson, 35, and Morina Colyer (Fasito’o Tai & Le’auva’a, Upolu, Sāmoa), 42, of South Pole Dance studio in Waihōpai Invercargill wholeheartedly encourage. The duo run inclusive pole dancing classes making women – and the occasional bloke – feel confident, strong and joyful in their own bodies.

Her Words

Chat on the Chathams

In a place as remote as Rēkohu Wharekauri Chatham Islands, making the most of resources and being self-sustaining is less an aspiration than a necessity. Greer Paterson, 32, our resident columnist – and also a school teacher, fencing contractor, mum of two and much-loved Shepherdess team member – gives a glimpse into her “Backyard Butchery.”