Ruralco

🔥 New Ruralco Merchant – KiwiGas

From home heating and hot water to cooking and on-farm use, Kiwigas delivers reliable LPG solutions across Canterbury.

You can now put your KiwiGas purchases on your Ruralco Card, making it even easier to manage your farm and household expenses in one place.

Ruralco Members can now receive 10% discount on annual bottle rental when using their Ruralco Card. Order online today www.kiwigas.co.nz

New grass is establishing nicely 🌱

The team have been out checking for w**d strikes and keeping an eye on growth stages.

King's Birthday weekend store hours

Our Ashburton, Methven and Rakaia stores will be closed on Saturday 30 May – Monday 1 June for King's Birthday weekend.

We’ll be back open as normal on Tuesday 2 June.

💧The Skellerup Quatro gumboots are here with optimal all-day comfort

Built to handle any condition, these gumboots are ready for whatever life throws your way.

Available in store and online.

Get ready for the season ahead with The Kit 2026: https://www.ruralco.co.nz/the-kit

👋 Meet the Team – Lester Chambers, On-Farm Sales Manager

Based primarily in Ashburton, Lester has been part of the Ruralco team since 1998 with a few hiatuses in between.

In his current role as On-Farm Sales Manager, Lester leads Ruralco’s team of On-Farm representatives across the region.

No two days are the same for Lester, one moment he’s on farm speaking with a member, the next he’s supporting his team or assisting customers in store.
It’s a busy and varied role that keeps him connected to both the team and the farming community every day.

We caught up with Lester to learn more about his role, his journey with Ruralco, and life outside of work.

What do you love most about your job?
“Dealing with farmers! I love talking to them, understanding their farming operation, and finding ways Ruralco can help support them.”

Share a career highlight or memorable moment at Ruralco.
“There have been many, from being one of the first reps on the road for ATS in the early 2000s, to running the Ashburton retail business, becoming Retail Manager, working as National Sales Manager for the Card Services team, and now leading the awesome On-Farm team.”

What’s something you’ve learned from working with farmers?
“That farmers are one of the hardest working and can be undervalued by wider New Zealand. They genuinely love what they do and have a strong sense of community.”

What’s one piece of advice you live by?
“Treat others how you would like them to treat you.”

Outside of work?
“Mountain biking, weightlifting, body boarding, and spending time with family and friends.”

Quickfire Round:
• Gumboots or Sneakers? Jandals
• Dog or Cat? Cat
• Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset
• BBQ or Roast? BBQ
• Favourite Season on the Farm? Spring–Summer

Lester’s experience, leadership, and passion for the rural sector make him a valued part of the Ruralco team. His strong relationships with farmers and commitment to supporting rural communities are reflected in everything he does.
If you see Lester out on farm or in store, be sure to say hello!

The new Skellerup Lifestyle Meadow Boot has just landed!

Thoughtfully designed with quality, comfort, and a timeless style, these boots are perfect for days in the garden, cafe catch-ups, and school runs.

Available in three colourways, shop the new Meadow range in store or online today.