Peta Brings Passion and Expertise to SealesWinslow

Peta Hamilton joined SealesWinslow earlier this year as the Technical Sales Representative for the lower North Island region. Her varied experience in the agricultural industry made her the ideal candidate for this role, along with her passion for animal nutrition, rural communities and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by farmers.

From the beginning, Peta’s life has revolved around farming. Her upbringing on a sheep and beef farm set the stage for a diverse career in the agricultural sector. Over the years she has worked in horticulture, at Thoroughbred studs, and varied roles in the sheep, beef, deer, and dairy sectors. This broad exposure has given her a comprehensive understanding of New Zealand’s primary industries.

Peta’s husband, Andy, has also been a significant influence on her love of the rural sector, with his career in the sheep, beef, and deer industries taking their family across various regions of New Zealand. From the King Country to Southland, they have embraced all opportunities offered to them. Peta’s time as a station cook at Mount Somers Station in Canterbury introduced her to the dairy sector, where she began relief milking on local farms. This initial exposure led to a deeper involvement in the dairy industry, rearing calves and working with LIC as a herd tester and AB assistant.

Most recently Peta has had roles at PGG Wrightson, first as a customer service representative in Lumsden, and after moving back to her hometown, a senior customer service role in the Whanganui store. These roles helped hone her skills in customer service, and continue to build her connection to the farming community.

Rural communities hold a special place in Peta’s heart. Having raised her three daughters in some of New Zealand’s most isolated regions, she treasures the close-knit bonds that form in these unique environments. “There is something special about these communities especially ones that rally around small rural schools.” Peta says.

One of Peta’s passions is Māori agribusiness. She is inspired by the Māori values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and the relationship between whakapapa (genealogy) and whenua (land), and she is keen to merge her expertise in animal nutrition with these cultural values.

Peta recognises the past year has been challenging for New Zealand farmers, with rising costs putting pressure on their operations and understands the importance of being empathetic and practical when offering solutions to farmers during tough times. Her role at SealesWinslow allows her to leverage her knowledge and experience to help farmers navigate these challenges. “Animal nutrition, specifically dairy nutrition is a huge moving part of a farmer’s business. It fascinates me that one on-farm discussion and decision can have a huge impact on the result.”

Peta’s decision to join SealesWinslow marked a significant step in her career. After years at PGG Wrightson, she wanted to step out of her comfort zone and was excited about what the role offered – the perfect opportunity to combine her customer service experience with her passion for animal nutrition, particularly in the dairy industry.

Since joining SealesWinslow, Peta has gained invaluable insights, particularly in the importance of starch levels in calf feed. She reflects on her previous focus on protein levels, realising now that while protein is essential for growth, starch is crucial for rumen development, leading to healthier and more productive heifers.

The variety in her role keeps Peta engaged and excited. Whether it’s meeting new customers, collaborating with merchant stores, or learning from the SealesWinslow team, she thrives in the dynamic, supportive environment SealesWinslow offers.

Outside of work, Peta is a dedicated mother to her three daughters, Quinn, Honor, and Geva. The family recently moved off the farm after 16 years, with husband Andy now working on a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) basis.

During summer, you can find her chauffeuring Quinn and her ponies to showjumping and eventing competitions. In winter, she enjoys coaching Honor’s netball team and attending ballet lessons with Geva.

Looking ahead, Peta is excited about the future, eager to contribute to the success of farmers across the country and to inspire the next generation in the farming community.