Hunter Farms

Hunter farm is an organic sheep and beef property in South Otago, nestled in the hills of Tuapeka West, situated 40km from Balclutha or 20km from Lawrence. This property has wonderful varying views of the Clutha River and the Blue Mountains with pockets of native bush and flourishing bird life. Fallow deer live in the surrounding bush providing great hunting opportunities for keen local hunters. We carry 2500 ewes, 100 head of beef cattle of varying ages and 650 replacement stock.

In 2007 we began the journey of farming this property organically, having farmed conventionally for 24 years, not seeing the improvements in animal health and grass performance that we were looking for, nor were we getting the return for our product that we needed for strong viability. We soon learnt that organic farming wasn’t just about the removing of prohibited inputs, but about optimising the soil environment by correcting soil imbalances. We learnt that there is just as many living organisms in the soil as there is above it and that conventional farming practises have depleted this life. A healthy balanced soil is the key to growing healthy mineral rich plants, which in turn grows healthy animals and of course as humans we reap the true benefit of that. A new world of learning has opened up to us since we have embarked on this fascinating journey of farming organically. We continue to learn and embrace its many challenges. We are proud to be producing a premium health product.

Graham and I also welcome guests from all over the world to stay with us as we provide farm stay accommodation within our own home. We recently hosted our first small bus tour where provided lunch and a farm talk. We love to cook good organic lamb/hoggat for our guests and it never fails to please.