A panel of farming sector business leaders will be in Omakau on Monday to share insights on moving forward in uncertain times.

Hosted by Waiora Manuherekia - a funding initiative of the Manuherikia Catchment Group - the free event ‘No Regrets Farming: How To Future proof Your Farm,’ included a lively panel discussion and lunch.

MCG administrator Emily Hart said it was a one-off event, unique to the area and two of the three speakers were very familiar with the typical issues of the farming community.

Almost half a dozen people have already signed up, and the group expects many more farmers and landowners will RSVP as they firm up their diaries in the coming days.

Emily said if the community really enjoyed the event and would like another one, the catchment group would look at ways they could do something similar in the future.

Many new community-led initiatives are underway in the Manuherikia catchment to improve the environment such as the Thomson's wetland near Omakau. FILE SHOT.

The Waiora Manuherekia Project received funding from the Ministry for the Environment from July 2024 to June 2025, and was focused on connecting the community to the Manuherekia River, through environmental work.

There has been a Drone Demo Day showing how to control weeds in a wetland, willow control in the Poolburn Gorge, Hills Creek, Falls Dam and Matakanui Station, river clean up days, wetland mapping and a soil monitoring event.

Once the willows were cleared, the next step in some areas would be planting native vegetation to enhance these spaces, creating scenic spots for locals and visitors to enjoy — particularly at Lauder Creek.

Next week’s event will be held at the Omakau Golf Club, featuring Karen Williams (chief executive officer Irrigation NZ), Kim Reilly (Otago regional manager Ministry of Primary Industries On-Farm Support), and David Cooper (principal advisor DairyNZ). 

All three have a strong background in advocacy and have worked closely together at Federated Farmers.

MCG general manager Clare Hadley said they knew many farmers were keen to improve their farm systems and environmental outcomes but faced barriers – whether financial, regulatory, or practical.

“It’s about starting those honest conversations and encouraging action that pays off in the long run.”

Lunch starts at 12.45pm, with the panel kicking off at 1.30pm. RSVP by emailing [email protected] and see more details on the @whats on guide.

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