REGISTRATIONS WILL BE OPEN SOON! Please get in touch with Rebecca if you'd like to be added to the mailing list.
The NZDFA Next Generation Programme fosters the growth of those Next Generation deer farmers in the industry that are keen to learn more about deer farming, connect with other like-minded deer farmers and get on farm to see what is possible with the input of knowledge, technology and a little know-how!
This year's Next Generation Programme is shaping up to be a fantastic event. Based out of Blenheim, Marlborough (New Zealand's sunniest town in 2024)! on Thursday 31 July and Friday 1 August, the programme will include farm visits and some theory alongside a social evening.
Spaces are limited and registrations are essential
There will be a wait list if spaces exceed the limit, we'll let you know if you are on the wait list once you register.
Please wait until your spot is confirmed before booking flights.
The NZDFA covers the cost of:
- the programme
- evening function meal
- ground transport for attendees flying in
You'll have to cover the costs of:
- accommodation
- breakfasts
- travel to/from Marlborough and transport between farms if you aren't flying in
- flights if needed
Remember to have a talk to your local branch to see if they're able to support you to attend and get behind this great initiative.
Outline
(full programme to be released soon and is subject to change)
Day 1, Thursday 31st July
- Jason Rentoul at Wye Hills. Velvet, Venison.
Situated in the picturesque Wairau Valley carved out by an ancient glacier and now surrounded by mountains, rivers and grapes. - Andrew and Fiona Fishburn at Fiddichburn. Trophy, Venison.
Located near the beautiful and stunning township of Picton, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds which make up 10% of the New Zealand coastline.
Day 2, Friday 1st August
- Geoff and Nic Hayes at Ben Morven. Velvet.
Sitting on elevated views overlooking Blenheim and the Wairau Valley the largest grape region in New Zealand, the perfect spot for working with a view. - Justin and Rebecca Stevens at Marldene. Velvet, Venison.
Located around the township of Seddon, which is the heart of the Awatere Valley, New Zealand's second largest wine region and close to the largest solar salt works in New Zealand.
Transport
For attendees flying in, we're providing transport between Marlborough airport and the farms (all other attendees will need to provide their own transport).
To work with our ground transport timings, you'll need to fly into Marlborough airport before 9:30am on 31st July. On 1st August we'll be back at Marlborough airport around 4:30pm for flights.
Anyone flying from Invercargill/Queenstown may have to fly in on Wednesday and fly out Saturday due to limited flights with airlines.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options in Marlborough.
We have limited rooms held until 30 June at the Scenic Hotel (65 Alfred Street, Marlborough). If you would like to stay here, contact reservations@scenichotelgroup.co.nz or 0800 69 69 63 or book online.
Currently they are running a sale when you can receive a 50% discount on your second night booked. Sale runs until 31 August 2025. Use promo code SAVE50 when booking online www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz
NOTE: Rooms here are limited, once they run out you will need to make accommodation arrangements elsewhere.
If you have any questions, get in touch with Rebecca rebecca.norling@deernz.org