Rachel and partner Alistair own and farm 890ha near Pongaroa. They have been farming in the area for 20 years. 

Rachel and Alistair have established extensive riparian, woodlot and pole plantings to reduce erosion, enhance water quality and biodiversity, and create new income streams over time. They enjoy the amenity value from a range of trees species on farm.

Rachel has worked as an Agribusiness Consultant since 2002 working with rural businesses to improve their financial, social and environmental outcomes. She is leading BakerAg’s Integrated Farm Planning program in the lower North Island, and facilitates a discussion group in the Akitio Catchment. As a farmer she is well aware of the challenges of managing natural resources, and the barriers to environmental investments. Though her industry and professional roles she also supports farmers to meet regulatory for farm assurance program requirements. 

She has a Bachelor of Applied Science and has completed Massey University’s Advanced Sustainable Nutrient Management, and Greenhouse Gases in Farmed Landscapes courses. Achieving certification as a Farm Environment Planner will formalise how she currently supports farmers managing resources.