Gary and Tania Coker are two of our southernmost farmers, running a dairy grazing and beef finishing operation at Agland Farms near Dacre. Some of that beef is First Light Wagyu, which the Cokers – who have been farming for over 40 years - say has helped open their eyes to new possibilities. “It has broadened our opportunities in cattle finishing and risk profile, while being involved in a company actively marketing quality beef,” says Gary.

The Cokers farm across 620ha, and in their spare time enjoy a bit of boating. They also look forward to the annual trip north to Hawke’s Bay for the First Light AGM. “It has given us opportunities to meet other likeminded farmers.”

Provenance, animal welfare and sustainability play a big role in how the Cokers run their operation and they devote themselves to getting it right. “Those values are extremely important to us,” says Gary. “We farm with the future in mind. We’re not wanting to harm the environment so we manage our stock to both sustain our land and provide a premium product for the end user.”

Gary encourages anybody looking for a new opportunity to raise, farm or finish the best beef in the world to contact First Light. “Go visit a farmer who runs Wagyu cattle across the age groups to see how they would fit into your system,” he suggests.