Gisborne District Council was on the ground last month at Porangahau Station in Te Karaka, sharing practical insights and supporting landowners at Beef + Lamb NZ and Te Uru Rākau’s ‘Planting for Profit Field Day’.

The event brought together farmers, land managers, and forestry advisors for a farm tour and a series of workshops focused on land management.

Sessions covered practical topics such as carbon forestry 101, how to navigate the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), strategies for erosion control, riparian planting and building farm resilience through proper planning.

Senior Land Management Advisor, Bryce McLoughlin, was a key speaker presenting how Council is working alongside the community to support sustainable land use across Gisborne.

“Every property is different - and that’s why we have our land management advisors out there, working directly with landowners to provide tailored support.

“We’re helping farmers, land managers and landowners make informed decisions using the latest science and planning tools.”

Mr McLoughlin also shared how Council is using science and powerful technology to better understand the landscape and support long-term change.

“We now have access to technology and modelling we’ve never had before.”

“It’s helping us understand the land in much more detail and that means we can give more precise advice and support to landowners.”

This includes access to high-resolution LiDAR data, a landslide susceptibility and connectivity model, gully assessments, and field verification - which are all tools Council is using to guide smarter land use.

The farm tour also provided a space for farmers and advisors to share their observations, suggestions and lessons learned from their own properties. There were various discussions ranging from where to focus erosion control to how planting could complement existing land use.

Speakers also included forestry advisor Tim Petro, who gave a practical overview of carbon farming, and Danielle Castles from Te Uru Rākau, who led a workshop on the ETS.

Mr McLoughlin says events like these are a valuable opportunity to connect with locals and strengthen relationships.

“Having these conversations is incredibly valuable for our team. It helps us ensure Council’s work reflects what’s happening on the ground and the priorities of the people who work and live here.”