2024 Canterbury Finalists: Gavin and Kylie Bay of Bluff Farm – Dairy

Simplicity is the key to success at this family–owned dairy farm which boasts lush pastures, healthy animals and a thriving natural environment – all with very few inputs. 
 
Gavin and Kylie Bay have been involved with Bluff Farm for 14 years, and farming it on their own since 2018 when they bought it off Gavin’s parents. 
 
Located near the picturesque Ashley Gorge, Bluff Farm is comprised of 106ha owned by the Bays, plus just over 300ha which they lease. During the 2022/23 season, they produced about 157,000kg of milk solids off 420 cows. 
 
They are focused on ensuring the North Canterbury property is managed sustainably so they can hand it down to their children. 
 
As they strive to be completely self-contained, cow health is a top priority, and the farming operation is designed around this. Half of the well-managed pastures were recently renovated so they’re now lush with the most optimum mix for the land – reducing the need for imported feeds. Nutrient use is limited and care is taken to avoid disturbing soil structure.  
 
A paddock on the property is being transformed into a mini sanctuary for native wildlife and fish. It’s a snapshot of extensive native planting across the wider property, including wetlands and shelterbelts, along creeks, laneways and fence lines, and around the dairy shed. 
 
The Bays are actively involved in their local community, for example hosting regular horse treks to support Canterbury Rural Trust, and supporting the Lions Club. They also showcase their farming operation and environment to interested visitors who stay at their on-site caravan park.  
 
The Bay’s extensive knowledge of their property’s key drivers is enabling them to enjoy a family lifestyle in a beautiful rural setting. As they look to the future, they plan to continue planting, looking after the habitat and teaching people about the farm.