SPCA New Zealand - Animal Welfare Certified
Better Eggs Forest Farm – Leading the way in ‘freestyle’ egg farming
In the heart of South Waikato, Better Eggs Forest Farm is pioneering a new approach to free-range egg production by combining poultry farming with regenerative forestry.
Hens roam freely among over 100,000 trees, with sheds designed for natural light and ventilation to support their well-being. With SPCA certification and Toitū net carbon zero status, the farm reflects a deep commitment to animal welfare and environmental responsibility.
Backed by nearly 90 years of family farming experience, Better Eggs is setting a new benchmark for sustainable, large-scale egg farming in Aotearoa.
How long have you been an SPCA Certified member?
Henergy as part of Better Eggs have been certified since 1999 and were one of New Zealand’s first egg farms to achieve certification.
Better Eggs recognise the value in having SPCA certified farms, and in 2023 we were proud to add the blue badge to our new Forest Range farm.
What makes farming layer hens special to you, and what do you enjoy most about it?
As a child, I was fortunate enough to grow up on our family farm in Africa; it was here that my love for animals began. It was not unusual to be surrounded by chickens, goats, geese, guinea fowl, and often an orphaned wild animal or two.
As an adult, I enjoy being outdoors with the hens whenever I can, it is so rewarding to see them roaming free. It often brings back those happy childhood memories.
Since becoming a part of SPCA Certified, what welfare changes have you implemented on farm that you are most proud of?
We are so proud of the many trees that we have planted in the range areas, with plantings of over 600 stems per hectare. Our hens have overhead shelter and use the full extent of their ranges.
Inside the sheds, our staff are always suggesting new toys and enrichments to keep the hens occupied. It is great to see how the hens interact with the various toys and nutritional supplements that we provide.
All staff receive training in animal welfare - it has become part of our farming culture that hens always come first.
What message would you like to share with people about the importance of buying food products from farms with high welfare standards, like those who carry the SPCA Certified blue badge?
Buying foods that carry the blue badge ensure that you are buying trusted animal welfare compliant products. High welfare standards mean happy hens, and we are proudly SPCA Certified.
