What does it mean to nurture nature?
The relationships we form with the animals
in our lives go far beyond the superficial.
These connections can be fleeting, a quick
visit to a feeder for a snack and a song. Or
they can endure far longer, with year after
year of loyal affection.
Be it measured in seconds or years, these bonds remind us of the strength and beauty of the natural world. Animals entertain and enlighten, they fill our hearts, they lift our spirits. We want to lift them up too.
To nurture nature is to appreciate these wonders of the world flying through our gardens, bouncing in our backyards, and bounding through homes. It is to deliver goodness to their grace, helping them grow and thrive. And, at the heart of our work, it is to grow healthy and wholesome food that allows these animals to run free and soar above.
Jock Webster. Now: Director. Then: Founder. Greg Webster. Now: General Manager/Owner. Then: Intern
Our story starts
In the 1970’s, imported bird feed had flooded the New Zealand market. This feed required heat-treating at the border, a necessary bio-security measure but one that stripped valuable nutrients from the seed. We knew there was a better way.
That’s why the Mitchell and Webster families worked together in 1974 to plant the first sunflower crops at Rosedale Farm in Oamaru. Sown here, grown here, these seeds retained every iota of nutritional quality.
It certainly helped that it was grown in the rich soils of Oamaru. In 1871, this land was first identified as ideal for cropping by an ancestor, Henry Mitchell. It’s thanks to his vision that we’ve been able to grow exceptional crops here for decades.
Since the 70’s we have expanded our range of crops and extended our farm network, always seeking to create the best combination of NZ-grown raw materials for the very best nutritional outcomes. So too have we branched out, creating new feed and flavours for other much-loved pets, including dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and ducks.
Our approach…
A good balanced diet, high in natural vitamins and minerals, ensures animals can grow to full potential and live happily and healthily. Delivering quality feed means growing exceptional raw material and never losing sight of their nutritional needs.
We start at ground level. Our farming partners take a holistic approach to everything they do. They start by testing and balancing our soil using only minerals that would naturally occur in New Zealand. Then they utilise innovative techniques to ensure our feed is raised right. Only with a respectful and vigilant approach to land, crops, and animals can we safeguard our future.
The expertise of our wider network is equally vital. Working with experienced breeders and pet nutritionists, we have developed our range to suit the unique needs of our many different diners.
First, we ensure a steady supply of the highest quality raw material. Then, post-harvest, we shape this material while essentially ‘getting out of the way of nature’s good work’.
There is sentiment within how we work with our land. There is science behind delivering the correct nutritional elements so each animal and every breed can soar ahead. Our approach to crafting natural New Zealand pet food is always equally dedicated to both.
Peter Mitchell, Topflite Owner, and Jock Webster, Topflite Director
Trish releasing bird bells into the wild.
Dawn hand-making our poultry peckers.
Jock and Helen Webster, at the heart of our business.
How we work
Guardianship.
We grew up here.
In 1975 our farm began growing sunflowers. Since then, our business has grown, our family has grown, and our reputation for healthy, wholesome feed has grown too. Ensuring this growth continues means holistically caring for our land and crops, keeping an eye on the big picture and understanding our responsibility for future generations.
Respect.
We look up to our animal friends.
This enduring mindset is a big part of our research and development and the
reason why we have such non-negotiable standards behind our quality feed. We will continue to improve and elevate what we can offer. Our respect for those who eat it demands nothing less.
Nourishment.
We nurture nature.
The unique and beautiful animals within our forests, backyards and homes are hugely important to Kiwis everywhere. We nourish them with our seed and through our food. The pure, unsullied nature of this food can make a big difference to their health and to the quality of their lives.
Community.
We flock together.
Aotearoa is a small country and ours is a family business. When your customers and communities are one and the same, working for positive change is a responsibility not taken lightly. In our products, our employment, and our charitable support we understand the importance of collective empowerment, both for people and for animals.