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Client: Mark TurnwaldLocation: Ōhaupō, WaikatoFarm Size: 104 hectaresHerd Size: 360 cowsStructures Installed: Two composting barns (18m x 80m each)
Background
Mark Turnwald farms on a 150-year-old family property in Ōhaupō, in the heart of the Waikato. With deep roots in the region’s dairy industry, Mark is committed to long-term sustainability and profitability. However, like many in the area, he faces a unique challenge: Hamilton clay and consolidated peat soils, which, combined with wet winters, lead to significant pasture damage and limit productivity.
Mark recognised the need for a smarter, more sustainable solution that would protect his land, improve herd health, and offer a more predictable winter management system.
The Solution: Composting Barns for Wintering and Feeding
To address the ongoing winter challenges, Mark installed two composting barns, each 18 metres wide and 80 metres long. These barns now serve as protected wintering areas and feed pads for his herd of 360 cows.
“The cows are shiny and happy and fat in here. They are probably in the best condition we’ve had cows in during winter.”– Mark Turnwald
The barns have become a cornerstone of the farm’s infrastructure — delivering multiple benefits across animal health, pasture protection, and operational repeatability for staff.
Key Drivers for the Investment
Mark’s decision to build shelters was driven by several goals:
The Strategic Plan
To maximise the benefits of the barns and increase overall productivity, Mark implemented a broader farm management strategy:
What We Learned
After the first season using the composting barns, Mark noted several learnings and results:
Conclusion
The installation of composting barns has significantly transformed operations on Mark Turnwald’s farm. From animal welfare and pasture protection to feed efficiency and environmental outcomes, the benefits have been tangible. What began as a solution to combat winter damage has evolved into a year-round system that supports productivity, resilience, and peace of mind.
Watch the video above to hear Mark’s story in his own words.
Talk to our team about our highly resilient commercial shelters, backed with a leading 12-year guarantee, and generations of experience. Please get in touch with SmartShalters on 0800 580 297.
"We've pulled calves out of the mud, and it takes a long time for the pasture to recover. The shelters have made a huge difference to the land"
“We are growing cow condition every year, and our pastures are being looked after, and we are getting more grass”. Feed savings are rising, and there’s little wastage."
"They’re very content, they turn into quiet cows as well, it’s easy to make sure they get enough to eat, and it really, really does work."
Protect what matters with New Zealand-made shelters built on 100 years of trusted expertise. Contact us today!
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