A livestock sale that yielded great success in the North Island will now launch in the South Island, thanks in part to Waikaia farmer Megan Thomas.
After seeing the success of the Waikato Next Generation Sale, Ms Thomas believed it was time the South Island had a similar opportunity.
The sale aims to provide young dairy breeders with the opportunity to purchase animals for showing and breeding purposes.
Ms Thomas said her driving force in bringing the sale to the South Island was her passion for supporting the next generation of dairy enthusiasts.
This was a way to keep them inspired and motivated to expand, learn, be mentored and get advice and guidance, she said.
An opportunity like this was needed for these reasons, she said.
The sale had 10 lots available, comprising a diverse range of breeds including Holsteins, Jerseys, Ayrshire and Dairy Shorthorn.
The first Next Generation Sale was held in 2016 in Matamata.
Ashburton farmer Peter Gilbert had been a big help in getting the 2023 sale up and running, Ms Thomas said.
‘‘I approached Peter with the idea for this sale, and after several months of hard work, we are excited to see the sale go ahead.
‘‘But the main thing for me is just being able to give the opportunity and chance to the next generation.’’
Ms Thomas is on the sale committee and will be an associate judge in the Holsteins category.
The sale is this Friday at the Canterbury A&P showgrounds, from 9.30am.
