Hawke's Bay teen helps rural families access affordable school uniforms
Hawke's Bay teenage entrepreneur Hugo Moffett is helping the rural community access cheaper school uniforms, all without leaving their homes.
Rural schools around the country have been able to boost resources thanks to the help of farmers and fertiliser company, Hatuma Dicalcic Phosphate Ltd.
Farmers throughout New Zealand are invited to donate money to Hatuma's "Growing Minds" fund by nominating a school and in return Hatuma donates a percentage of their dicalcic phosphate order to that school.
Over the last four years the company has donated over $20,000 to rural schools through the programme.
Flemington School in Central Hawke's Bay attracted support from farmers this year. Principal Phil Bourke says the help provided by Hatuma and farmers gives a welcome boost to country schools, which are faced with many challenges.
"Rural schools often struggle with dwindling rolls and staffing issues so having a sense of community is crucial. The extra funding opens up more opportunity."
Central Hawke's Bay farmers also help Flemington School raise money by grazing cattle.
"The school buys the cattle and then farmers graze them for free. Up to 30 farmers will graze one or two cattle at a time. It works really well and we appreciate the support from the local community," he says.
With a roll of 72, Flemington School has three Government-funded classrooms and three teachers.
"Through the support of local farmers and companies like Hatuma we are able to employ an extra teacher for a half a day, each day."
OPINION: Ministry for Primary Industries' situation outlook for primary industries report (SOPI) makes impressive reading.
Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…