Carl Carmichael

Meet Carl Carmichael, the powerhouse Farm Manager at Aratiatia, who is a passionate advocate for farming and the next generation of farmers. A self-proclaimed “farmer at heart,” his career is a blend of hard graft, mentorship, and mucking in that has seen him thrive in multiple roles within the agricultural community. 

Carl’s farming journey began with simple ambitions: to become a world champion shearer and a farmer. Luckily for us, his shearer aspirations may have stayed in the back paddock. He persisted with farming, now with a focus on giving back to the industry through the Pāmu Apprenticeship Scheme. 

Carl’s love for farming is only matched by his passion for helping others succeed. As a former provincial rugby player and coach, he applies the same mentorship skills to guide young apprentices.  For Carl, it’s about guiding young people on their journey and seeing them thrive.

Carl’s leadership knows no borders. As a Beef + Lamb NZ Beef Industry Future Leader, he was selected to join a group to represent New Zealand on the international stage at the 2014 International Beef Alliance (IBA) in Brazil’s primary beef-producing region, Mato Grosso. While there, he and fellow leaders met with beef producers from the USA, Brazil, Canada, and beyond. The experience was pivotal in expanding his knowledge, giving Carl first-hand insight into the global beef industry and the challenges it faces. 

Carl’s journey at Pāmu began back in 2015, when he started as a Fencer General at Te Whārua. It wasn’t long before Carl’s work ethic and dedication saw him rise through the ranks. By 2023, after a few seasons of hard graft and hands-on experience, Carl took the reins as Farm Manager at Aratiatia—a role he embraced with his trademark enthusiasm and passion for the land. 

During his tenure, Carl’s mentorship has extended beyond farm management. He has become a key player in the Pāmu Apprenticeship Scheme, aimed at school leavers and those seeking a career change.  He works closely with apprentices, teaching them the hands-on ins and outs of farming, from livestock care to machinery operation.  

As the manager of Aratiatia Farm, Carl is committed to ensuring that the farm operates sustainably and innovatively. Under his guidance, Aratiatia has been involved in a range of sustainability initiatives, from methane reduction strategies to agri-data tools for better decision-making. He’s also deeply involved in local sports, where he coaches and mentors young players, fostering future leaders both on and off the field. 

We’re proud to have Carl Carmichael on board, and we look forward to the many apprentices he will mentor as they embark on their journey in New Zealand’s thriving farming sector.