Wellingtonians invited to 'their farm' on March 18

Federated Farmers Wairarapa invites families in the Wellington region to experience a working sheep and beef farm that is a regional park. Federated Farmers Farm Day takes place on Sunday, March 18 giving individuals and families the perfect chance to see how farms work.

“Farm Day is a great chance to see what sheep and beef farmers do and how we do it,” says Paul McGill, Federated Farmers Wairarapa president and Farm Day coordinator.

“Thanks to the generosity of Greater Wellington Regional Council, we’re inviting Wellingtonians to come onto this property run as a sheep and beef farm by Norm Cobb at the Battle Hill Forest Park in Pauatahanui.

“It’s the second year we’ve come to Battle Hill, which is a fantastic resource being close to Wellington, Porirua and the Hutt Valley.

“Battle Hill covers 500 hectares and 180 hectares of forestry. There’s deer, goats, cattle, sheep, cattle and even eels. The cattle include Angus-Hereford’s that have distinctive white faces framed by glossy black bodies.

“Farm Day will give Wellingtonians a chance to see sheep and shearers up close as well.

“We’re keen to show how farmers manage farm environments and livestock. It can only be a positive thing for farming to have opportunities like this to explain and show what we do.

“As we are adding new attractions all the time we can promise a fun experience for the entire family.

“Federated Farmers is looking forward to Farm Day on Sunday March 18,” Mr McGill concludes.

Federated Farmers Wellington Farm Day is taking place on Sunday March 18 between 10am and 3pm at the Battle Hill Forest Park, Paekakariki Hill Road, Pauatahanui. For more information and Google maps, go to www.farmday.org.nz.

Features of the Wairarapa/Wellington Farm Day

• Shearing demonstrations

• goats, sheep and cattle

• Wetlands

• History

• Working Dogs