Ratahiwi

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Tararua Ranges, Ratahiwi is an 845-hectare farm that blends productive agriculture with environmental stewardship. Located just 5 minutes north of Woodville, this summer-safe property offers a well-balanced mix of breeding and finishing country, with rolling hills and steeper terrain rising toward the ranges.

Livestock Systems

Ratahiwi is a high-performing livestock unit featuring:

• 2,500 terminal sired ewes, with a large portion of lambs finished straight off mum
• Seasonal flexibility: remaining lambs are either finished on-farm or transferred to northern Horizon Farming properties
• 100 young bulls are in a 12-month trading policy, with top performers sent to the works and others transferred internally
• 170 Angus breeding cows, with:
  • Heifer progeny sent to Longrange to be grown out and returned in calf
  • Steer calves retained and finished on farm

This livestock strategy ensures optimal performance across seasons and supports Horizon’s wider breeding objectives.

Environmental Commitment

Ratahiwi proudly protects 300 hectares of retired farmland, planted in native vegetation to safeguard waterways and enhance biodiversity. This commitment to ecological balance is a cornerstone of Horizon Farming’s long-term vision.

Infrastructure & Innovation

• Robust fencing and laneways
• A reliable, high-quality water system
• Modern technology to drive efficiency, animal welfare, and operational excellence

Location & Lifestyle

• Just 5 minutes from Woodville, with local amenities and community connections
• 30 minutes to Palmerston North, a major regional centre
• 20 minutes to Dannevirke, offering additional agricultural services

Environmental Works:

• Woodville town water intake management
• 2 QEII blocks – 17.53 ha total
• Following a FEP
• MMS project to plant out protected waterways
• Weed and Pest eradication