Kelso Genetics

03/06/2026

They say it takes 10,000 hours to master something. Matt Holden has done about 87,000 hours and he’s mastered it.

30 years at Kelso. Embryos to China, semen to South America and Australia, live rams to the UK - if it’s got four legs or a straw, Matt’s probably exported it. He gave us 10 years of Kelso Winter Workshops that somehow managed to be genuinely educational AND a great night out for our clients. Matt built a brand people believe in, now that’s no easy feat! He makes everyone feel welcome, doesn’t take life too seriously, and can dish it out just as well as he takes it.

We’d say we’ll miss him, but he’s not going anywhere - and neither is his Hilux 😅 Matt steps into a governance role with Kelso, so we’re fortunately stuck with him. We look forward to his return from Uganda and Europe in a couple of months. Thank you, Matt. Absolute legend! 👏🏼

02/06/2026

Matt Holden sat down with REX last week to reflect on 30 years at Kelso Genetics, what’s next for him, and his upcoming adventure — climbing the Ruwenzori Mountains in Uganda. He also talks about his passion for strong wool and the family legacy that’s driven it all

Go have a listen!

31/05/2026

We are proud to announce the winner of the inaugural Roger Marshall Scholarship is…

💥 Maddy Buckley 💥

Maddy grew up on a sheep, beef, and dairy farm in Te Kuiti, is very proud of her family, and spends her spare time helping her parents with all their on-farm projects. She is now in her fifth and final year of a double degree — Bachelor of Business majoring in Agribusiness and Bachelor of Law — at the University of Waikato.

Maddy has a real passion for gaining a role in the agricultural industry — specifically international trade, market access, and trade negotiation for New Zealand’s premium product. She brings strong analytical thinking, a critical perspective, and a drive to find real solutions for NZ farmers. New Zealand farmers are really good at what they do, and Maddy is keen to showcase their products on the world stage and ensure they consistently get more money in their back pocket.

We look forward to seeing Maddy become a strong advocate for our industry and wish her all the best for her final year of studies.

Congratulations Maddy! 🎉

NZ Farming

29/05/2026

It’s goodbye from Matt and it’s hello from Olivia 👋🏼
Kelso’s social media succession is underway…

28/05/2026

With one day to go, I am extremely humbled by this very cool piece of art my team has given me, thank you…
I will be reminded daily of the 30 great years I’ve had originally as a client, then working in and for Kelso…
To you all out there from the far north to the deep south, and everywhere in between, I say ‘thank you for all the friendships, memories and stories and the odd ram sale’ - my cup is full…

27/05/2026

On the road with our Regional Roundups…
Great catching up with clients and friends in the mighty Wairarapa…
Suzi Keeling - Head of Science and Research for Beef + Lamb New Zealand gave a genuine insight into the massive amount of groundbreaking work that goes on behind the scenes, all for the benefit of our industry, our animals and our people…

26/05/2026

Always a privilege to set foot on Tangihau Station, and a bonus to catch up with Charlie Burdon…

26/05/2026

Painted black, bred to perform…

24/05/2026

It’s never so Cool to be a Sheep stud breeder than now…
With the Bioeconomy Science Institute (BSI), B+LNZ Genetics, Beef + Lamb NZ and MPI. Then throw some cool smarts in like genomics and nProve…
We are ready for what’s coming and if that’s a Social Licence to operate, participate or access into high value markets…

23/05/2026

We look forward to working with be new Patron of the Poverty Bay A&P Society…
Thank Sid for your loyal service and support to the best A&P Show in the North Island…

After nearly two decades as Patron of the Poverty Bay A&P Association, Sid Hain has stepped down from the role, leaving behind an incredible legacy of dedication and service to the Show.

Sid has been involved with the A&P Show for more than 60 years, contributing across countless areas from equestrian and cattle to sheep sections as a young shepherd. Following in his father’s footsteps, he took on the role of Patron with immense pride and commitment.

Alongside his wife Merran, whose passion for the Show matched his own, Sid became a familiar face around the grounds. Whether it was mowing the main oval, painting rails, fixing fences, or checking in with exhibitors and stallholders, Sid gave countless hours to ensuring the Showgrounds looked their best and that everyone felt welcome at “Where Town Meets Country.”

His knowledge of the grounds and the history of the Association was second to none, and he never missed a Show.

Thank you, Sid, for your decades of hard work, care, and commitment to the Poverty Bay A&P Association and the wider community. Your contribution will leave a lasting impact for generations to come.