Small farms come in all shapes and sizes, but there is one common thread - there is always something new to learn. More than 2500 people attended the last event and they agree.

It's estimated that in the Waimakariri and Selwyn Districts alone, there are about 20 000 farm owners, with properties varying in size from under a hectare to about 150 hectares.

Past events have provided seminars, practical demonstrations and access to leading merchandisers. All aiming to assist with property and product management, essentially events are a forum for sharing ideas and knowledge.

Comments from Past Exhibitors

Gordon Morris of Morrifield developers in Invercargill, has been exhibiting his greenhouses and hydroponics equipment at every Small Farm Field day held so far. "I receive more interest from the Small Farm Field Day, than from any other show or exhibit I usually attend," he says.

One of New Zealand's Alpaca pioneers, Linda Blake from West-Melton in Central Canterbury, says Alpacas usually attract a huge amount of interest at the Small Farm Field Day. "They are such an interesting and fascinating addition to the rural lifestyle, you just can not ignore their presence," she says.

Mark and Caroline Eastmond started building up their hazelnut orchard about 15 years ago. Nowadays they have 2000 nut producing trees and also run a hazelnut nursery, producing about 60 000 trees a year. "The Small Farm Field Day presents us with an opportunity to try and set up new growers," says Mark. "There is a huge potential for growth, as not nearly enough nuts are being produced in the country to satisfy the market" He says,"