Honouring our Jules Matthews

As we look towards the future of Mangaroa Farms, we want to take a moment to honour someone who has been an integral part of our journey— Jules Matthews

Jules has been the driving force of the birth of what is now known as Mangaroa Farms, laying down a foundation of passion, dedication, and resilience. She had the original vision for the market garden, connecting us with Jodi Roebuck to codesign our systems, and then went on to introduce our range of laying hens (now retired) and the Honesty Fridge - laying the foundations for what is now the Farm Shop / Kete Kai, based on her years of previous experience with honesty stalls and farm shops overseas.

Jules’ clout in the regenerative farming scene was the main reason why Hyundai Country Calendar came out to see us in the first place - and through her work (alongside her growing collection of sheep dogs young & old), she has instilled the regenerative principles that continue to guide our farming practises. Not to mention her Quorum Sense Farmer Network and Integrity Soils Ltd networks - any many more friends & relationships built with our local community, have amplified so much colour and diversity to our little corner of the world.

She sure knows too how to smoke some Lamb!! We have Jules to thank for developing the quality lines of nutritient dense beef & lamb raised with care, which is now available to our wider community to enjoy.

Her mahi across the farm and kaupapa of Mangaroa Farms has been nothing short of incredible, and we are forever grateful for her leadership and vision, deeply intertwined into the whakapapa of our inter-generational mission. While Jules will transition to focus on her role as a director at Mangaroa Farms and an agroecological coach and educator in regenerative agriculture, we look forward to continuing our journey with her in a new capacity.

Big love and gratitude Jules, you legend 🧡

View the full photo album on Facebook here.