Alan Dobbie has been named the Northland Regional Supreme Winner at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, recognising the transformation of a former dairy farm into a highly productive, environmentally responsible kiwifruit orchard. As Craigmore’s Kiwifruit Business Manager, Alan, alongside Pieter Traas, has led the development of Wiroa in Kerikeri, which has evolved into a highly productive and environmentally focused orchard since its purchase in 2019. Today, the 137‑hectare property includes 82 hectares of gold and red kiwifruit, complemented by extensive native plantings that protect waterways and support local biodiversity. More than 30 hectares of steep land, gullies and waterways have been retired into native bush, with a further four hectares of remnant bush protected, creating biodiversity corridors that support Kiwi, Weka and bats. The orchard produced 450,000 of gold kiwifruit in 2025, alongside its first commercial crop of red kiwifruit with more to come as vines mature. The Awards judges described Wiroa as “a standout example of modern horticulture,” praising “the passion and pride behind every step of this greenfield development into a highly productive orchard in just six years.” They also highlighted the strength of leadership and culture across the operation, noting “Alan’s genuine respect, appreciation and commitment to professional development for their team define their leadership approach.” Craigmore’s General Manager of Horticulture Con Williams said the recognition reflects both Alan’s leadership and Craigmore’s long‑term approach to sustainable horticulture. “This is an outstanding achievement and very well deserved,” said Mr Williams. “Alan and the Wiroa team have shown what’s possible when you combine strong leadership, technical excellence and a genuine commitment to people and the environment. This award recognises the care taken to do things the right way.” Innovation and precision underpin the orchard’s success. Advanced irrigation systems use soil moisture probes to optimise water use, while fertiliser is applied ‘little and often’ with precision to minimise leaching and protect surrounding waterways. Judges also noted the wider environmental impact of these practices, saying “environmental stewardship lifts not only their orchard but also contributes to regional ecological resilience.” At the heart of Wiroa is a clear focus on people and purpose. Judges captured this with Alan’s philosophy: “We grow people to grow food,” adding that Wiroa shows “you can operate at scale without losing touch with the things that make farming special.” For Alan, the journey has always been about more than production. “What we’ve built here is positive not only for Craigmore and the shareholders, but for the whole community – including the people we employ,” he said. “Driving past, you can’t always see what’s been achieved, but we’re proud of the legacy that’s been created.” Looking ahead, Alan says continuous improvement remains central to the business. “We must keep moving forward, continually questioning whether we can do things better.” In addition to the Northland Regional Supreme Award, Alan also received: Ballance Agri‑Nutrients Soil Management Award Norwood Farming Efficiency Award Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award Northland Regional Council Water Quality Enhancement Award Together, the awards recognise a holistic approach to horticulture that balances productivity, environmental stewardship and strong leadership – a reflection of Craigmore’s commitment to growing the best, now and for the future. From here, Alan will join the other ten regional finalists at the National Sustainability Showcase in Christchurch in July where a national champion will be crowned. Published: 30 March 2026
