October 2025
There’s no slowing down for Ella Thomas, who’s been at the heart of the Mackenzie Young Farmers Club as they gear up for this year’s highly anticipated Bark Up event. Known for her boundless enthusiasm and knack for bringing people together, Ella has quickly become an invaluable part of the club.
Ella is working tirelessly to pull together our Bark Up event this year, her enthusiasm is contagious, and she’s managed to pull together an awesome team to make it happen.
It’s clear that Ella’s dedication goes well beyond just one event, she’s someone who puts her heart into everything she does for the club. “Her unwavering commitment has made us a better, stronger team,” her fellow members add.
Ella has been a proud member of Mackenzie Young Farmers for almost two years, and says the best part of joining has been the people.
“Definitely the people,” she says. “When I first moved to the area, I didn’t know anyone, and now it feels like I know everyone. The friendships, connections, and opportunities that have come from being part of Young Farmers have been huge. It’s such a great community to be involved in, and it really makes you feel part of something bigger.”
Despite growing up in the city, Ella’s love for agriculture began in high school when she spent weekends visiting friends on their family farms.
“I loved it so much that after I finished school, I went to work on a high-country station myself,” she explains. “That’s what really set me on this path.”
Now based in Tekapo, Ella works in tourism but still lives on-farm, keeping her connected to rural life. “Most of my friends, my partner, and even the wider circle I spend time with are all part of the farming community,” she says. “It’s such a strong, supportive culture, and I honestly can’t imagine not being part of it now.”
Ella believes the future of farming will include more crossover between agriculture and tourism, something she’s already passionate about.
“I think we’ll see more integration between farming and tourism, with more farms opening their doors to visitors,” she says. “Many already offer farm stays, horse treks, and guided tours that let people really experience rural life. There’s so much value in giving people the chance to connect and see a different lifestyle. I’d love to see more collaboration like that, it’s such a great way to bridge the gap between rural and urban communities.”
Looking to the future, Ella hopes to travel and work in agri-tourism around the world, learning from different operations along the way.
“My goal is to travel and work across ag-based tourism businesses, learning how different operations work,” she says. “I think that mix of agriculture and hospitality is where a lot of opportunities are heading, and I want to be part of that.”
When it comes to inspiration, Ella doesn’t hesitate: it’s the community that keeps her motivated.
“It’s hard to pick just one person,” she reflects. “From managers to friends I’ve worked alongside, so many have inspired me with their work ethic, knowledge, and passion for the land. It’s that community of people that keeps me proud to be involved in the industry.”
Congratulations, Ella! Your dedication, positivity, and commitment to the Mackenzie Young Farmers Club truly embody what the Young Farmers spirit is all about.