September 2025
Meet Jack Daines, a proud member of the Morrinsville-Ngarua Young Farmers Club, where he’s been an enthusiastic part of the crew for the past two and a half years. Jack has quickly become a familiar and friendly face, known for his warm welcome and his knack for helping new members feel right at home.
For Jack, joining Young Farmers has been about much more than meetings or competitions, it’s about connection.
“The highlight for me has been creating friendships with like-minded people who are motivated and inspiring to be around,” he says. “It’s great having a place to get off farm, experience new things, and be surrounded by people who truly understand what life on the land is like.”
Jack’s farming story began early — growing up on a dairy farm before moving into town during his high school years. Eventually, the pull of the land brought him back, working alongside his dad before taking the leap into contract milking.
He’s now in his first year of contract milking, running 210 cows on a 44-hectare flat farm through a 14-a-side herringbone shed. “I’m really thankful to the farm owners for taking a chance on a younger farmer, I was only 22 when I started. I haven’t been fired yet, so I must be doing alright!” he laughs.
Before stepping into contract milking, Jack spent time working for his parents across two farms milking 330 and 380 cows respectively. That experience, he says, was invaluable: “It was a great way to get to know my parents as an adult. I learned so much and took on responsibilities that set me up really well for this next step.”
Jack is optimistic about the future of farming, believing that technology will continue to shape and streamline the industry. “It’s making it easier to focus on the finer details, helping keep our cows fatter and happier,” he explains.
His personal goals are equally inspiring: “I’d love to own my own herd one day. Being able to care for and work with cows that are mine, that’s the dream. And hopefully soon, I’ll get to travel the Northern Hemisphere to experience new cultures and histories. Their summer lines up nicely with our dry season!”
When it comes to role models, Jack doesn’t hesitate to name his dad as his biggest inspiration. “He’s always been there to guide me and stop me making the same mistakes he made. He has a calm and trusting way of teaching that’s shown me how to be a good farmer and a good boss.”
Jack’s impact extends far beyond the farm. As the New Members Liaison for Morrinsville-Ngarua Young Farmers, he’s been a driving force in helping the club grow and thrive. Since taking on the role, the club has welcomed 10 new members and Jack’s friendly, approachable nature has played a big part in that success.
“Reaching out and coming along for the first time can be terrifying,” he says. “I was once in that position, so I know how it feels. I just try to make people feel welcomed so they’ll want to come back again.”
His clubmates agree wholeheartedly. One member who nominated Jack shared:
“Since Jack took on the New Members Liaison role, he’s just been a gun. He makes sure everyone feels part of the club — even acting as an ‘uber’ driver to help a member who couldn’t drive for a few months still attend our events. He’s a kind soul and a great example of what Young Farmers is all about.”
Congratulations, Jack! Your energy, kindness, and commitment to your club and your farm make you a truly deserving John Bull Member of the Month.