Conservation and Farming Go Hand in Hand at South Head Field Day
More than 100 farmers, industry professionals and environmental advocates gathered at South Head recently for the Auckland Regional Farm Environment Award Winners Field Day, hosted by Don and Kirsten Watson, winners of the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards for Auckland.
Held under perfect blue skies, the open day provided an opportunity for visitors to see first-hand how the Watsons have combined productive farming with outstanding environmental stewardship on their South Head dairy farm.
Representatives from The Forest Bridge Trust, including Conservation Project Manager Helen Jamieson, Community Liaison Heather Steadman and Kaipara Moana Remediation (KMR) Field Advisor Angela Parkin, attended the event to share information and connect with local landowners.
Don and Kirsten were recognised by the judges for their commitment to sustainable farming practices, high standards of animal welfare and ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment on their farm. Their work demonstrates how environmental restoration and productive farming can successfully go hand in hand.
As part of the day’s programme, Helen presented on two iconic wetland species found in the area, the Australasian bittern and pāteke (brown teal). Bittern are frequently seen foraging on the Watsons’ farm, while a wetland on their run-off block is considered a possible breeding site.
Helen also spoke about The Forest Bridge Trust’s two-year Department of Conservation-funded South Head conservation project, which focuses on pest control and the protection of native wildlife.
Don and Kirsten have worked closely with The Forest Bridge Trust over the past year to reinvigorate pest control across their property, helping strengthen protection for native wildlife. Kirsten is also an active member of the South Kaipara Landcare committee, working alongside other local landowners to improve conservation outcomes across the wider South Head landscape.
Following Helen’s presentation, Hana from Mountains to Sea shared insights into the lifecycle of inanga and highlighted the importance of healthy waterways for native freshwater species.
Visitors also had the opportunity to speak with local environmental organisations through a series of information stalls. The Forest Bridge Trust, Mountains to Sea and South Kaipara Landcare showcased conservation initiatives underway across the region and discussed ways landowners can get involved.
For Heather, the event was a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships and expand conservation networks.
“I connected with several landowners, met new volunteers, followed up existing contacts and made valuable new connections. These events open up conversations that don’t always happen over email or phone,”
Heather said.
“The initiatives alongside the farming innovations being rolled out by Don and Kirsten Watson were incredibly impressive. There was a real willingness to learn, share ideas and improve outcomes for both farming and the environment.”
Angela was also on hand to answer questions about funding opportunities for Kaipara Moana Remediation. Don and Kirsten have recently received a KMR fencing and planting grant to support the retirement and restoration of a steep erosion-prone slope on their property, along with riparian planting alongside farm waterways.
The field day highlighted the growing momentum for sustainable farming in the Kaipara region and demonstrated the value of collaboration between farmers, community groups and environmental organisations.
By bringing together practical farming knowledge and environmental expertise, events like this help strengthen connections across the landscape, supporting healthy farms, thriving waterways and a future where native wildlife can flourish.
Please reach out to us for more information on Conservation, Trapping or KMR Grants in the South Head area. Email Helen@theforestbridgetrust.org.nz