Author(s): Lynda Gray

Hunting

How deer in New Zealand changed within 50 years from being a feral pest to the basis of a farmed-livestock, $320-million export industry is a believe-it-or-not story.

In Hindsight overviews this niche agricultural sector’s unconventional upbringing and comprehensively tracks its whirlwind rise to mainstream agriculture, brought about by a unique mix of grassroots action, government policy and smart thinking. Inherent to this story are the determined, innovative people who collectively pushed the limits to grow deer farming and its reputation in New Zealand and abroad.

These people include not only the gutsy, forward-thinking deer farmers, but also leaders from across the industry—the scientists, researchers and vets recognised by their colleagues and peers. The book draws on archived issues of The Deer Farmer magazine, as well as interviews with industry people, past and present, who shared their deer farming experiences, challenges and successes.

In Hindsight is a great read, relevant for anyone in the farming sector.