One couple looking forward to CHB bull week are Sam and Sarah Duncan, the newest owners of Elgin Stud.
While this year will be the 41st time an on-farm auction has been held at the 330-hectare stud at Elsthorpe, it will be the first for the husband and wife team, who have recently become the third generation of Duncans and the fifth generation of the same family to own Elgin.
The stud was established in 1952 by Sam's grandfather, Jock (J.L) Duncan with a base of cows brought from Totaranui, Waiterenui and Brooklands studs. Jock's son Mick and his wife Barb took over the stud in the 1970s. For the past 16 years Sam has worked alongside his father Mick, building up the stud and calving 100 cows and 25 heifers. Alongside the stud operation, Sam also lambs 1000 ewes and finishes all the lambs.
Elgin usually offers between 25-30 rising two-year bulls for sale during 'bull week', and Sam was excited about his first on-farm auction to be held in June.
"It's always a bit of a thrill to see your two years of hard work come up for sale. I'm proud of what Dad and I produce here at Elgin and I think this year's line-up of bulls reflect our combined vision for the stud."