Wedderburn, Penvose Farms, Central Otago, New Zealand

Water Holding Tank, Penvose Farm, Wedderburn

When we visited the Penvose Farm, on that partly cloudy morning in November, it was like going back to my childhood and we were at my uncles farm in southern Minnesota. The people were the same.  They were the down to earth, hard working, creative, industrious farmers.  Like my Dad would have said, "They are the salt of the earth."  

We were welcomed at the Duncan's family newest venture the  "Wedderburn Cottages.  The Rail Trail runs through the family farm.  Taking advantage of this feature, the Duncan's built accommodations for bikers.  They have cottages, camping facilities, The Red Barn rest stop, a lodge, and a smiling, helpful attitude that they extend to all visitors.  On the next blog, we'll take about the Rail Trail but right now I want to continue with the farm.

This 4,500acre high country farm is proud of its computer controlled pivot sprinkling system.  The pressure of the water coming from the holding pond, runs the system, keeps the fields green for the grazing sheep.  A more profitable farming operation.

Sheep, one of the "crops" of the Penvose farm.

It seems like every farm or station on the South Island of NZ was into the sheep business.  The Penvose farm was also into various types of sheep based on their wool.  Softer wool is becoming popular in the clothing industry.  On displayed at their visitors center, one can see and feel the difference in wool.  Paying attention to the clothing market will determine what breed of sheep they produce more of.

Sheep dogs are anxious to do their job. A whistle is all it takes to get them off and running.

 What to say about the faithful sheep dogs.  Each one has his/her job.  One will scatter, another will gather. The sheep know what each dog is going to do to them and start moving with  the command is given. It fun to watch and a marvel to see. I think I have to work with my dog a little more to get her in shape for scattering or gathering anything.

Just like country folks of my uncles era, this family took us to their home and treated us with homemade biscuits and jam.  What a treat.
If you are planning on traveling to New Zealand and get tired of all the "touristy spots"  and want to experience the "salt of the earth" people of  New Zealand, you might give the Central Otago valley and the Penvose Farms a try.

Wedderburn Cottages, Farm Tour, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand., www.wedderburncottages.co.nz

Submitted by: Bernadette Heath, photographer, writer, Janet Webb Farnsworth, writer "Grandma Needs a Four-Wheel Drive, Adventure Travel for Seniors".  www.grandmaneedsafour-wheeldrive.com