Field day at Ward – all welcome

Marlborough Environment Awards Trust

Farmers, foresters, rural professionals, and anyone interested in farming, forestry, or other methods of productive land use are invited to a special field day at Glentoi Farm - winners of the Farming category at the Port Marlborough - Marlborough Environment Awards - on Wednesday 17 September 2025, celebrating innovation and sustainability in Marlborough’s primary industries.

Owned by Willie and Millie Millton, Glentoi is a 1,685-hectare sheep and beef breeding and finishing property that demonstrates how commercial farming can thrive alongside strong environmental stewardship. The property includes 32 hectares of protected native vegetation, designated as a Significant Natural Area (SNA), showcasing the Milltons’ commitment to ecological kaitiakitanga (guardianship).

Judges of the Port Marlborough - Marlborough Environment Awards praised the Milltons for their strong commitment to sustainable and innovative farming practices, noting how they balance agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship.

Their work includes protecting native vegetation, participating in the Emissions Trading Scheme, installing solar water pumps, and direct drilling catch crops.
Conservation efforts such as fencing native areas, eradicating wilding pines, propagating their own plants, and collaborating with experts highlight a proactive and thoughtful approach to environmental management. The judges concluded that Glentoi exemplifies how the farming community can seamlessly integrate productive farming with ecological values.

This field day is part of the Marlborough Environment Awards, a pan-sector awards programme that recognises excellence across farming, forestry, marine, business, and community projects. Visitors will see firsthand how Glentoi integrates productive land use, sustainable management practices, and native restoration efforts. A highlight of the day will be a presentation by Susan Moore-Lavo of Te Uru Rākau - New Zealand Forest Service, who will discuss forestry and land management initiatives relevant to the wider farming community.

“This field day is an opportunity to celebrate Glentoi’s award and showcase their innovation in incorporating sustainable land management and restoration into an economic farm,” says Awards coordinator Julia Brown. “It’s also about raising awareness of environmental practices and standards in a farm environment and providing a forum for networking within and outside the farming industry. Everyone is welcome to attend.”

Wednesday 17 September 2025 – 9:30am-2pm.. Glentoi Farm, Ward (directions provided on RSVP).  Requirements: A 4WD vehicle and moderate off-road driving experience are essential. Carpooling options are available. BYO lunch • RSVP: [email protected] (essential to secure a place)