Our combined field trip offers an exceptional learning opportunity for our students, made possible through the generosity of several Southland Girls’ alumni and their families who are now actively working in the Agriculture and Agribusiness sectors. These hosts are opening their farms to us, showcasing modern farming technologies such as eShepherd, sharing their career pathways, and providing hands on practical experiences including activities like in paddock weighing of beef and sheep. Alongside these onfarm sessions, industry experts—including bank managers and agribusiness professionals—will join us at selected stops to explain the financial and business aspects of running and purchasing a farm. This realworld exposure is invaluable for our learners, which is why we are taking three classes on this field trip. The day will begin with students arriving at West Range Station at approximately 9:45am on the bus, followed by technology demonstrations, paddock visits, drone displays, and presentations from PGG Wrightson, Gallagher, and ANZ on how emerging technologies are shaping farm management and profitability. 

Details:  

•  Time: 8.30am – 2pm (back in time for last period) 
• Date: Wednesday 18th March 2026 Return: Southland Farms – Riverton, Hauroko Valley  
• Transport: Go bus 
• Meet: Kumagaya Gates at the front of school 
• Clothing and Equipment Required: Mufti appropriate for being on a farm. Gumboots are a must 
• Cost: $15 remainder will be covered by the Careers department  Please note: Board financial procedure requires payment in full, by the due date for your child to purchase resources, participate in sports or attend trips/events. Payments received will be allocated to the oldest unpaid fees and charges owing on your child’s account first. Extra-curricular activities operate on a “pay before you play” policy.
• Venue: Chamberlains farm (West Range Station), 548 Otatahu-Eastern Bush Road, Eastern Bush 9682 

 Mel Young has a current first aid qualification and will be always carrying a first aid kit. Jon Breach from MPI has worked with both teachers to design a field trip that is hands on, informative, meets the interests of our students, and connecting past and present students from Southland Girls. Each student will get the most out of this incredible opportunity.  If for some reason an accident does happen, Mel Young or Vicki Jones will ring the parent Immediately and notify the school. 

 This event contains risks, including slipping on the wet ground while visiting the sheep and beef farms. This event is managed by school staff who will manage risk and hazards according to the school’s safety management plan.  This includes careful use of appropriate nonslip footwear, walking carefully in areas that are slippery and boggy. While risks can be maintained to acceptable levels they cannot be eliminated.  Some risk is retained for its learning and experiential value.  If you wish to come in to school to see our safety management systems or have any questions, feel free to contact Mel Young  at [email protected] or 03 2116030

It is important for safety reasons that students follow instructions given to them by all staff and follow all appropriate school rules. Behaviour by students that is deemed dangerous and puts themselves and/or others at undue risk will result in your child being picked up by a caregiver and not attending further Year 12 and 13 Agriculture and 13 Agribusiness trips this year. 

Please pay and complete the permission form below by 6 March 2026.