2024 Waikato Finalists: Damien Watson, Chris Tidey and Robin Gerding of Renown Pāmu, Wairakei Pastoral – Dairy

Renown has gone from pine trees to lush pastures in 17 years, thanks to excellent planning, perseverance and a strong collaboration between owner and management. 
 
Today’s profitable Reporoa dairy farm is the result of a joint venture between Pāmu and Wairekei Estate – the first of their forest-to-farm conversions. Renown has been operational since 2006, with its effective area growing from 180ha to 646ha since then. 
 
The conversion has transformed the farm which today is under the management of Damien Watson and Chris Tidey. The judges said Renown is a great example of how a collaborative partnership between an owner and management can successfully deliver on production and environmental goals. 
 
They peak milk 1,500 cows on a once-a-day farming system. Production has increased steadily over the years to 504,660kg of milk solids during the 2022–23 season.  
 
The judges commended the team’s genuine care for the herd which is combined with a sympathetic approach to the environment. The use of technology helps to guide this, including the precision application of fertiliser to help reduce leaching and ensure the efficient use of nutrients. In addition, DNA technology guides the breeding of superior animals. 
 
A significant number of native trees have been planted, including along the Waikato River and around five wetlands. The farm features large setbacks using a variety of species, while most paddocks have shelterbelts.  
 
The judges said Renown Dairy is an exemplary demonstration of what can be achieved over a relatively short period of time, when both the landowner and on-farm management team are aligned with a common goal.  
 
This vision combines with Damien and Chris’s genuine connection to the land. Renown has come a long way, however they have plenty more developments planned to ensure it continues to thrive into the future.