The Farm Shop’s localised paddock-to-plate approach has earned the niche business a finalist spot in The David Awards Solo Meo Category.

The David Awards are aimed at the smaller end of New Zealand’s business sector, with the Solo Meo category specifically aimed at single-person businesses.

The Farm Shop owner Rose Haynes said the David Awards are based on the story of David and Goliath, recognising that New Zealand’s entrepreneurial Davids often punch above their weight.

“I am humbled to have been selected as a finalist and it is great to put Wairoa on the map at a national level.”

Rose started The Farm Shop around 2018 from her Waihua Station home. Open every Sunday, The Farm Shop offers a packed meat range of Black Reef Merino Crossbreds and Waihua Station Hawke’s Bay Heifers, which Rose farms sustainably to provide a taste of real New Zealand beef and lamb. 

Rose says she is motivated to produce top meat products because she is selling them directly to her customers. “We are producing good meat for a reason; it is a personalised approach where the focus on growing great animals is really enjoyable because we know exactly where the meat is going.”

The Farm Shop also offers a relaxing Sunday outing with barista coffee, homemade pizzas and a range of other goodies.

Diversification and an environmental focus are key to Rose’s business foundation, which includes on-farm eco accommodation and a coffee cart.

Rose said that to have made it on the list as a finalist is a fantastic honour, adding it is great to have The Farm Shop’s point of difference acknowledged.

Category Winners and the Supreme Winner of The David Awards 2024 will be announced on October 18.

26 September 2024

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