Motueka Farm Machinery Sold as Sturgeons Retire After 44 Years

Equally well known throughout the area as a one-stop shop for all things farm equipment is Motueka Farm Machinery, operated by George and Dee Sturgeon.

After 44 years in business and one of the pair hitting a birthday milestone that starts with a seven, the pair have decided to hang up the overalls and switch off the computer, put their feet up and take things a little easier.

From September 1, the newly formed Motueka Farm Machinery 2026 is operating from the existing site, ensuring the long-term association with local farmers, growers and orchardists will continue.

The new business is owned by industry stalwart Gayne Carroll who operates specialised importer AGTEK, which focuses on orchard, viticulture and horticulture, alongside retailer BOP Tractors, both located in the Bay of Plenty town of Te Puke.

The new business will also keep its association with Motueka and the Sturgeon family, as George and Dee’s son, Brad, who has worked in the business for more than 22 years, will also be a shareholder.

Gayne Carroll says, “The Mot Farm Machinery story is one about a great Kiwi family, that 44 years ago saw George operating out of the back of a van, then setting down roots in a premises to serve the Upper South Island and West Coast.”

Carroll says his connection with the business dates to the mid-1990s when Mot Farm became the second dealer in NZ to become a Landin dealer.

“Over those thirty plus years, George and Dee became valued customers, but more importantly great friends, who went on to sell more than 600 tractors and countless pieces of machinery in the area.”

Motueka Farm Machinery 2026 will operate from the same King Edward Street site, led by Brad, who will oversee branch and service management, supported by a team of mechanics, parts and administrative staff and supported by head office in Te Puke.

“MFM 2026 allows us to set down some roots in the South Island, continuing the great work of George and Dee, while also bringing with us, unrivalled and extensive knowledge of the Landini and McCormick brands, having been the importer and distributor between 2011 and 2024. We are still able to offer genuine parts and service support for those brands, while at the same time, offering existing customers, access to existing and emerging brands such as Goldoni, TYM and Basak,” says Carroll.

These prime movers will be complemented by a wide portfolio of machinery brands including, Orizzonti mulchers, Dondi ditchers, Faza spreaders, Goppel front linkages, Special Cabs, Zago mixer wagons and Segway ATV / UTVs. They will also stock a wide range of NZ-manufactured implements and all the usual machinery implements.

“We wish George and Dee a well-deserved retirement, although I’m sure they will stay involved with the Sturgeon Amusement business that is a staple of local A&P shows throughout the South Island,” says Carroll.

“In the meanwhile, we look forward to a continuing relationship with the region’s farmers, growers and orchardists and welcoming new customers through our doors.”

www.motfarm.co.nz