Community first for farmer

LEADER: Kaharoa farmer Chris Paterson has been recognised for her role in the community. PHOTO/FILE

A Rotorua dairy farmer, who holds her local community "close to her heart", has been recognised with a national award.

Chris Paterson of Kaharoa, was named the winner of the Dairy Community Leadership Award at the Dairy Women's Network (DWN) annual conference in Hamilton this week.

The award recognised the voluntary role dairy farming women play in leading their communities, and sharing their time and skill.

Mrs Paterson was one of three nominees for the award.

DWN chief executive Zelda de Villiers said Mrs Paterson won for her "humble, down-to-earth, open and friendly manner, and passion for her community".

"While she is also involved with Rural Women and DWN, her community lies closest to her heart," Ms de Villiers said.

"She chooses to be most active on a local level, and not a regional or national level, as her local community is so important to her."

Mrs Paterson and her husband, Jamie, farm 125ha milking 275 cows at Kaharoa, north west of Rotorua.

They have been on the farm for 17 years.

Three years ago they stepped back from day-to-day farming operations to focus on management with their son and daughter-in-law.

Mrs Paterson said it was in her early years of farming in Reporoa where she learned the value of community. She was passionate about nurturing and mentoring young people new to dairy farming.

"I absolutely believe that an individual can make a difference, and part of caring for your community is being prepared to stand up and be their voice if that is what is required."

Mrs Paterson received a $2500 Milk Bar-sponsored scholarship to attend a leadership programme of her choice in New Zealand.