New Acres of Ingenuity campaign for Wanaka A&P Show
A campaign celebrating unique rural enterprise across the Upper Clutha has been launched in the countdown to the 2020 Wanaka A&P Show
Four local businesses will front the Acres of Ingenuity campaign, selected during a recent competition focusing on diversification in farming and land use.
Salmon farm and restaurant Hook, e-bike and hot pool attraction LandEscape, cherry growers and exporters New Zealand Cherry Partnership (trading as New Zealand Cherry Corp.) and honey production company Taylor Pass Honey Co have been chosen to feature in the campaign for the 83rd annual Show, held March 13-14 next year. They will also feature prominently at the March event as part of a special Acres of Ingenuity display.
Wanaka Show event manager Jane Stalker says all four enterprises are utilising their land in unique and varied ways in an effort to create a viable – and sustainable – business.
"While this was not intentional during the selection process, all four winning businesses have a common focus on sustainability and they have thought outside the square on how best to use their land," she says.
"Most farmers are passionate about the environment and here are some great examples of agricultural-based businesses contributing to the Upper Clutha ecosystem."
Prior to opening in Albert Town in February 2019, Hook has been in development for 10 years by owners Hayley and Graeme Lee. Because it didn’t have the acreage to become a standard beef and lamb operation, the diversification from traditional farming methods was formulated in the early days of development.
Hook encompasses a highly sustainable approach to waste and farming alike, with an emphasis on zero impact upon the environment.
"As part of this campaign, our goal is to give these businesses a platform to promote their incredible work and bridge the gap between urban and rural communities by showing all of our attendees how the farming industry has evolved to include some innovative, dynamic and resourceful operations."
Traditional farming practices will also be celebrated with the World Merino Excellence Conference and World Hereford Conference set to take place at next year’s Wanaka Show.
"We are honoured to be hosting these tremendous events which are important forums for discussing and learning about the traditional farming practises that are the backbone of the New Zealand economy," Stalker adds.
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