In this conversation with interviewer Jenny Stephens, Peter shares a life story that weaves together the fabric of farming, family, business and community. He begins by reflecting on his early years, growing up on farms in Middlemarch, Crookston, and West Otago during and after the Second World War. He speaks candidly about formative memories, and his experience of moving from rural to urban life.
Peter always had a deep-seated ambition to be a farmer. He describes his journey to accomplish that goal, starting as a stock agent, and overcoming hurdles such as a childhood stammer to developing his Millers Flat property, Minzion Station, with his wife Geraldine. Wanting the best deal for fertilizer lead to Peter’s leadership roles with Southland Co-operative Phosphate Company (later Southfert), the Bay of Plenty Fertiliser Company, and the creation of Ballance Agri-Nutrients. He offers fascinating insights into the world of fertiliser cooperatives, boardroom negotiations, and the significant mergers that shaped New Zealand’s agricultural landscape. Peter also details his twelve years as chairman of the South Island Crown Renewable Leaseholders Association, describing the complex process of negotiating the freeholding of Crown leases—an achievement that has had lasting impact on Otago’s farming families.
Throughout the conversation, Peter shares anecdotes of business trips to Israel, Jordan, Canada, and reflects on how these experiences broadened his perspective on farming and environmental practices. A trip to Scotland also enabled him to explore the history of the Macdougall clan.
Interviewer: Jenny Stephens
Interview Dates: August 2025
Peter Macdougall, undated
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