Supporting Local: Akitio Sheep Dog Trials – Pongaroa

PFP Fertilisers were proud to sponsor the Akitio Sheep Dog Trials, held on 7–8 March in Pongaroa. This fantastic local event brought together farmers, handlers, and supporters from across the region to celebrate the skill, dedication, and tradition that sit at the heart of rural New Zealand.

Sheep dog trials are a long-standing part of farming culture, showcasing the incredible partnership between handler and dog. Over the two days, competitors demonstrated precision, patience, and teamwork as they guided their dogs through challenging courses designed to test both control and stockmanship.

It was great to see such strong community support for the event, with locals turning out to watch the action and back the competitors. Events like these play an important role in keeping rural traditions alive while strengthening connections within the farming community.

As part of our sponsorship, PFP Fertilisers donated a prize of 1 tonne of Lime Prills, supporting local farmers with a practical product that helps improve soil health and farm productivity.

Congratulations to Mitch Rowely, the winner of the 1 tonne of PFP Lime Prills, and well done to all the place getters and competitors who took part in the trials.

At PFP Fertilisers, we believe in supporting the communities and farmers who are the backbone of our rural economy. Being involved in events like the Akitio Sheep Dog Trials is one of the ways we give back to the regions that support us.

Thank you to the organisers, volunteers, and competitors for putting on such a great event. We look forward to continuing to support local farming communities in the future.

See the photo gallery below for highlights from the weekend.