Taranaki Teens Thrive with Family Support in Business Ventures

Two entrepreneurial teenagers from Taranaki, New Zealand, have turned their passion for food into thriving home-based businesses, thanks to strong support from their family. Instead of pursuing university degrees, Ashley Howard, 18, and her sister Caitlin Howard, 17, have launched their respective ventures on their parents’ farm. Ashley’s venture, Cake Obsession, specializes in custom cakes, while Caitlin runs Egg Obsession, providing eggs from pasture-raised hens.

Ashley began her baking business in late 2022, crafting celebration cakes and sweets for customers across Taranaki and beyond. The success of her venture has led her to partner with her friend Charlotte Muggeridge, and together they often work late into the night to fulfill orders. According to their mother, Diane Howard, Ashley’s love for baking has deep roots. “Ashley made her first cake when she was about 7,” Diane recalled, noting that the family’s farm provided healthy food, which made the children crave sweets.

Both sisters have utilized AI software to design their logos and labels and are developing their own websites. Every Sunday, they sell their products at the Taranaki Farmers’ Market and accept orders through social media and phone.

Family Collaboration Fuels Success

The Howard family’s collaborative spirit is crucial for managing their dual business operations alongside farm responsibilities. Diane explained, “Everybody is busy, and it takes everybody to make it work.” The family structure, including Diane, her husband Bryce Howard, and Caitlin and Ashley, has created a dynamic environment where everyone pitches in. Diane’s father, Ray Collins, and the sisters’ partners also contribute to the farm’s operations, ensuring that both businesses run smoothly.

Bryce, a mechanic by trade, oversees the machinery while also preparing meals for the family. He manages the feed for the farm’s cows and chickens, allowing for a seamless integration of their agricultural and business ventures. “There are 10 of us for tea every night. It’s heaps of fun,” Diane shared, highlighting the lively atmosphere of their shared household.

Caitlin’s foray into chicken farming began in February 2023 after she tested a smaller flock. Although she is not yet old enough to be a company director, she took on approximately $150,000 in debt to establish her business, with parental support. Diane reflected on her own experiences, explaining, “I had debt before I got a wage,” emphasizing the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in their family.

Innovative Farming Practices

Caitlin’s chicken farming operation, which includes a closed herd of 230 dairy cows, utilizes some of the same feed ingredients to maintain efficiency. The pasture-raised chickens live outdoors in mobile “caravans” and are rotated daily to fresh grass, promoting their health and well-being. This farming method, inspired by a conversation with nutritionist Grant Richards, aligns with Caitlin’s aspirations in animal nutrition.

To enhance her operations, Caitlin has recently partnered with Nestor Eligado, who assists with daily tasks. She has implemented rigorous biosecurity measures and record-keeping systems to maintain compliance with industry standards. Ray Collins and his friend have constructed a larger, solar-powered chicken caravan, equipped with hydraulics for easy movement, further improving efficiency.

Caitlin expressed her newfound passion for chicken farming, stating, “The chickens have kind of brought it all together. I love my chickens. I never thought I’d become a chicken farmer, but here we are.” The commitment to providing quality eggs is reflected in their feed, which results in eggs lower in saturated fat and higher in protein compared to commercial alternatives.

Community support for both Egg Obsession and Cake Obsession has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers eager to invest in the young entrepreneurs. Diane expressed her gratitude, saying, “People have been incredible; they have really invested in the girls.” The sisters’ hard work and dedication to their businesses have not gone unnoticed, fostering a strong connection with their customer base.

Caitlin and Ashley can be reached through their Facebook pages, Egg Obsession and Cake Obsession, where they continue to share their journey and products with a growing audience.