Peter and Helen Gilder’s attitude to entering these awards provides a succinct insight into their approach to overseeing this predominantly lowlying 855ha Balclutha dairy and dry stock unit.

Explains Peter: “It’s not Helen and I that entered, it’s the farm and the people on it; Landcorp, the whole crew. Two of our senior guys are managers in their own right.”

In praise of Waitepeka, Landcorp’s southern-most farm, the judges summarised: “Staff development and input is highly valued which is a reflection of Peter and Helen’s personal commitment to the farm. There is clear evidence of a vision and passion to work within the landscape and sustainably integrate social, environmental and farm production values.”