Taranaki pig farmer invests in solar-powered extension
Monday 28 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Karl Stanley is undertaking a multimillion-dollar extension to his Ōpunake piggery to future-proof the business. The project includes a new shed for up to 1000 grower pigs and uses solar energy to reduce power costs. The move aims to address rising costs, consumer demands, and changing welfare regulations.
Key facts
5 facts
- Stanley Bros operates a 5000-pig operation near Ōpunake
- The new shed measures 75m x 16m and houses up to 1000 grower pigs
- Welfare changes must be implemented by the end of 2035
- The farm size is 133 hectares
- The operation delivers 240 to 260 pigs weekly to the domestic market
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Karl Stanley is building a multimillion-dollar extension to his Stanley Bros piggery near Ōpunake to future-proof the business. The new 75m x 16m shed will house up to 1000 grower pigs and is expected to be operational by Christmas. This expansion aims to address rising costs, consumer demands, and changing animal welfare regulations.
The solar-powered facility will feature automatically controlled temperature, lighting, and ventilation systems. Stanley, who returned to the family farm 12 years ago after working in viticulture and winemaking, expects the new shed to lower stocking density across the farm.
The investment comes as welfare regulations tighten, requiring the time sows spend in metal crates to be reduced from 33 days to seven by the end of 2035. New mandates will also include increased minimum space for grower pigs by 13.3% and the use of moveable rails.
The 133-hectare farm currently runs a 'farrowing to finish' operation with 500 sows, delivering 240 to 260 pigs weekly to the domestic market. The farm uses 100% natural fertiliser from the pigs to grow silage, hay, and maize for neighbouring farmers.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and The Post.