Sheep farming was once a way of life for many rural communities, and Manawahe was no exception.

But 15 years ago, like many others, the Gray family were forced to diversify their farming business as the viability of sheep declined.

Many farmers shifted toward dairy or beef, and the Grays followed suit.

They disbanded their sheep flock and transitioned to dairy farming, with a beef component, in an effort to maintain a sustainable income.

This continued until around five years ago, when the dairy operation was wound up for good, leaving only the beef herd in place.

Fast forward to today, and the Gray farm is again home to sheep—565 recently delivered ewes, all in lamb.

“We have good potential for expansion, having just purchased another block next door,” said Tom Gray. “It’s also looking promising with the way lamb prices have been trending over the past couple of years.”

Mr Gray recently returned to the family farm after spending the past four years in Taumarunui, where he managed 8500 ewes and 2500 hoggets across 2,500 hectares.

He admits the scaled-down operation is a different challenge altogether.

“The farm still runs a beef herd of 1500 head, so adding 565 ewes is a bit of fun—and a great way to keep the weeds down,” he said.

Bringing sheep back has meant reviving the old shearing shed, which is currently undergoing restoration.

“The new flock has only been here a month, so we’re still looking at the current infrastructure at the moment,” Mr Gray said.

“Right now, the shed is getting a new roof. I haven’t looked into shearing just yet.”

For Mr Gray, who began his farming career at the age of 17, it has become a way of life.

“Looking after livestock comes with a lot of responsibility, but it also comes with a lot of freedom. I love the lifestyle,” he said.