Kirsten and Donald Watson, parents of Collegian Riley (Clark 2021-2025) and current students George and Josh, have been named Auckland Regional Supreme Winners at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

Since purchasing their Helensville property, Moreland Pastoral, nine years ago, the Watsons have transformed the 123ha grazing platform and 150ha runoff into a high-performing dairy and beef operation. Drawing on their backgrounds as veterinarians, they combine strong animal health practices with innovation, using technology such as virtual fencing and real-time data to improve efficiency, animal wellbeing and environmental outcomes.

Sustainability sits at the heart of their approach. Investment in advanced effluent systems, wetland restoration and tidal habitat protection reflects a long-term view, caring not only for the land but for what it will provide in the future. “Adopting regenerative practices has significantly increased pasture grown and harvested,” the judges said.

“Our farm has become a spiritual home for our family. It’s where our boys have grown up, developed skills and built connections to the land,” they say.

That sense of family and connection extends to St Paul’s, where the Watsons have supported The Hive. Their family brick, inscribed Riley, George and Joshua – Proud Clark House Parents, quietly captures their pride in their boys and their place in the school community.

Congratulations, Kirsten and Donald, from everyone at the St Paul’s.