December 2025

For someone who says he’s “not generally the sort of person who likes recognition,” Carlos has certainly earned it.

A proud member of Coastal Taranaki Young Farmers for the past eight years, and Club Chair for the last year and a half, Carlos has played a huge role in strengthening connections — not just within his club, but across the wider community.

“Carlos does a great job extending our club into the wider community,” his nominator shares. “He regularly organises catch-ups with other clubs, has started a monthly community potluck, and recently organised a skills day — he even sorted a digger for people to have a go on. He’s always thinking about ways to bring people together.”

Carlos says the highlight of Young Farmers has always been the people.

“Most Young Farmers members are decent people,” he says. “It’s the interactions and forming new friendships that make it worthwhile.”

That sense of camaraderie is clearly something he values deeply — and something he’s worked hard to foster within Coastal Taranaki.

Carlos got into farming through family connections and work experience, and he’s now been in the industry for nine years, stepping into management four years ago.

He currently manages a 500-cow dairy farm, milking mainly KiwiCross cows through a 50-bail rotary.

His journey reflects steady growth, hard work, and a clear passion for the industry.

When it comes to the future of farming, Carlos is realistic about the hurdles young farmers face.

“The future of farming is looking tough for a lot of us young people starting out — from never-ending regulations to opportunities that used to be there not being there anymore,” he says. “It’s certainly got its challenges trying to get through.”

Despite that, his commitment to the sector hasn’t wavered.

Carlos has clear goals for where he wants to head next.

“I’m hoping to get into a herd and eventually buy into a farm,” he says. “I couldn’t see myself wanting to do anything else.”

It’s that dedication — even in the face of industry challenges — that speaks volumes about his character and long-term vision.

Carlos is also quick to acknowledge the people who’ve supported him along the way, giving a special shout-out to club Vice Chair Rhiannon Whelan.

“She’s been a good friend to me and I really appreciate her friendship,” he says.

There’s no doubt his leadership, humour, and commitment have made a lasting impact on Coastal Taranaki Young Farmers and the wider community.

Congratulations Carlos!

Make sure you check out our other member's of the month in our news section, and if you want to nominate someone who has been an awesome contributor to your club, submit in the NZYF portal