Caring Cattleman: ‘Retiring’ to Aotearoa, Liverpudlian Mike Neil had no intention of replacing his farm in Wales, but couldn’t resist the view from where he now grazes cattle—buying dear and selling cheap to ensure light stocking during the winter, when most sediment is generated.
Photographer Maree Owston-Doyle
Mike Neil’s background is mechanical engineering and prior to emigrating to Aotearoa, he was the proprietor of an international business restoring, and manufacturing parts for, classic sports cars.
Now a Mahurangi farmer–conservationist, Mike had fenced all his bush and all but one small stream prior to the Mahurangi Action Plan being initiated.
The ‘Mahurangi Breakfast Club’ was established following Mike’s contention that regular sessions were needed at which those with an interest in the future of the harbour could spark ideas off each other.
Breakfast meetings are held weekly, from 7.30 a.m. at Ducks Crossing, Warkworth, overlooking the Mahurangi River.
