West Coast Heritage
The West Coast first entered into the commercial world of dairy processing in 1893 when the first dairy company was formed at Karamea. In those days, because refrigeration was not yet available and shipping schedules were less than reliable, the butter was stored in a pit dug into the river bank near the factory in an effort to keep it cool!
While this factory managed to run for four seasons, without refrigeration it faced an uphill battle getting its butter to market in good condition and the company discontinued business in 1897.
Forming of the Co-operative
The makeup of dairying on the West Coast changed in 1937 when several small dairy cooperatives joined forces to form Westland Co-operative Dairy Company. The cooperative was founded on a vision of one man, Mark Wallace.
From Westland’s inception in 1937 until the mid 1970’s, founding director Mark Wallace played an important role within the company. Dubbed Mr Westland, Wallace was something of a workaholic and a forthright, witty speaker with a penchant for literary quotations.
In 1965 he was awarded the MBE (a British honour that is awarded by the King or Queen) for his services to the West Coast. When the medal was presented to him by Queen Elizabeth II he was described by the then president of the Federated Farmers as being “the greatest living West Coaster”. Wallace served as Chairman until 1975.
Dairy Industry Consolidation
On the back of some solid success, Westland faced its biggest challenge in 2001 with the consolidation of the dairy industry and the formation of global giant Fonterra.
Westland was naturally invited to join the dairy giant, but true to the West Coast spirit, Westland chose to remain independent, despite the many touted benefits. This decision reflects the deep connection Westland has to it dairy shareholders, employees and local community.
Independence
Remaining independent has served Westland well with their dairy shareholders being some of the best rewarded in the country. The company now has a world class manufacturing plant and a strong cooperative structure representing stability and strength in a rapidly moving industry.
Where we are today
True to spirit, Wallace’s vision for the Westland to be a valuable cooperative to dairy farmers and contributor to the local community has come to fruition, with the cooperative now owned by approximately 330 dairy farmers benefiting from Westland's excellent performance.