Day 8

Group photo at Glen R Angus

Enjoying some morning refreshments,
thanks to our wonderful host, Helen.

This morning, we departed from our hotel and headed to Glen R Angus farm to check out their Angus studs, mix of sheep breeds, and herding dogs. We were welcomed by Helen into her beautiful home which was built after the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. She offered an array of tasty breakfast treats along with tea, coffee, and juice. While discussing the history of her farm, she mentioned the challenges and difficulties of pests and their control in the paddocks. One of them being the common slugs that chew the roots of their grass needed for everyday grazing. A common weed they deal with is the yellow flower gorse. It is a very invasive plant that can disperse seeds year-round. They must consistently spray for it, sometimes using helicopters to cover more ground.

Students checking out the Angus
Bulls ready for the bull sale in June

We then made our way to the pen where they were holding 9 Angus stud bulls. Helen discussed the importance of genetics when choosing a bull. Mitchell then gave his go at choosing the best-looking stud in the bunch. These bulls are set to be looked at by interested buyers mid-June. Most of the studs will be bought by commercial farmers and will contribute to the robust beef market in New Zealand.

A mixed herd of sheep after being
moved in by the herding dog so we
could get a closer look at the wool.

The herdsman, Patty, was then able to show us his hardworking herd dog, Boost. He rounded up a flock of mixed sheep, so we could get a closer look and feel their wool. Boost was very impressive for a six-year-old dog and did an amazing job moving the sheep. When touching the wool, we were able to feel a wide variety of softness and thickness. The wool on their sheep will be used for rugs due to its high coarseness. Patty was also excited to show us his Huntaway dog. The Huntaway breed is known for barking to alert the sheep or cattle to start moving. Rome, the Huntaway, was born with instincts but after about a year of training, he can understand Patty’s calls made through a whistle.

Pork and apple pie with a pig
snout flaky crust

After visiting with Helen and Patty, we hopped on the bus to head to the World Famous Sheffield Pies for lunch. Some of us got something savory while others enjoyed a sweet treat. Thanks to our amazing tour guide, Kate, lunch was free.

We hopped back on the bus to continue our journey to a popular tourist shop, The Tin Shed. Along the way, we saw stunning views unique to the South Island including vast mountain ranges and glacial blue rivers. We were lucky enough to be stopped by a dairy heifer traffic jam moving from paddock to paddock.

Traffic in New Zealand is quite different

The Tin Shed was filled with a variety of Merino Wool Products: from sweaters, to socks, cardigans, and hats. Everyone was able to find something to bring home. We also enjoyed some of the animals including a donkey, two alpacas, sheep, and a pig.

Halle (left) and Julienne (right)
saying hello to the Tin Shed
donkey, Jerry

Students enjoying a BBQ buffet.

After our stop at the tourist attraction, we made our way to Ashburton. Once we got settled and had some free time, we enjoyed a barbeque buffet. We then settled into our hotel for the night. It is a testament to Kate and her team how each day is consistently more amazing than the last. We are so excited to continue this journey and share our progress!

Written By: Casey, Briana, and Cade