Applications for our 2026 cadetship intake now open

The Coleridge Downs team

Charlie Johns

Operations Manager

Charlie joined Coleridge Downs in 2023, starting as the manager on the Big Ben block before stepping into the role of Operations Manager in late 2024. With a strong farming background and a deep passion for the agricultural industry, Charlie is committed to upholding and evolving the legacy of Coleridge Downs as a progressive farming operation and agricultural training provider in New Zealand.

Charlie convinced his partner Annie (originally from the UK) to swap Wales for the South Island High Country. When not supporting Charlie, Annie teaches at a local primary school in Methven. Their two children, Amelia and Arthur, attend Windwhistle Primary School.

Outside of work, Charlie makes the most of winter on the slopes and enjoys hands-on farming whenever his role permits.

Coleridge Downs

Manager

Reece Cleland

Reece started with the Coleridge Downs group managing Annavale for 10 years before coming across in 2022 with his wife Mel and family to manage the Coleridge Downs block. Reece has strong ties to the community through rugby and dog trials.

Annavale

Manager

Tim Sowman

Tim has been with the Coleridge Downs group since 2021, swapping places with Reece to manage Annavale in 2022. Tim is a keen hunter and successful dog trialist.

Big Ben

Stock Manager

Jack Ensor
Jack joined Coleridge Downs in 2025 as Stock Manager of Big Ben and Dry Acheron. With a background in extensive high country farming, Jack is relishing the transition to a more intensive breeding and finishing operation.

Training Manager

Kristen O'Callaghan

Kristen is primarily the training manager of the cadet program and also helps with general farm support. She works alongs Charlie and the boards cadet sub-committee. Kristen also provides pastoral care for each and every cadet.

Kristen has been involved in the development of the cadet training program since 2017.

She comes from a strong farming background and has a passion for seeing young people achieve and succeed in our industry.

Administrator

Cindy Mackenzie

Cindy has served as the Administrator at Coleridge Downs for the past nine years. A vital part of the company, Cindy works both on-site and remotely, ensuring smooth operations behind the scenes.

Her dedication and expertise have made her an integral member of the team. Outside of work, Cindy remains active in the community, contributing her time and energy to numerous local initiatives.

Fencer General

Alex Smedley

Alex, Sam and his family moved to Coleridge Downs around 2008.

Alex has been a long standing solid team member at Coleridge Downs and the wider community serving as a volunteer fire fighter.

Annavale Shepherd

Morgan Sim

Morgan joined the group at Annavale Station in Feburary 2025, Morgan has played senior rugby in Darfield this season and is fitting in really well to the crew and community.

Cook