John and Penny Bargh, well-known agricultural aviators in Wairarapa for over 40 years, have joined forces with Ravensdown’s Aerowork to ensure continued reliable aerial spreading services for local farmers once they retire.

 The Barghs, with their distinctive bright yellow Air Tractor, have been long been recognised in the South Wairarapa farming community for their skill, reliability, and strong relationships with generations of local farmers.

 Their business, Bargh & Gardner Aviation, has been sold to Aerowork, with a succession plan in place to ensure continuity for local farmers and honour the Barghs’ legacy. As part of a gradual handover, John will continue flying as part of Aerowork team, sharing his decades of knowledge about the land, terrain and local customers.

 Aerowork CEO Harald Hendel says the approach was never about a simple transaction. “We wanted to honour what John and Penny have built. Their reputation, loyalty, and personal care for their customers are legendary. Our goal was to make the transition gradual and thoughtful, ensuring continuity for farmers who depend on reliable spreading services, with the same personal service.”

John and Penny, now in their seventies and looking to spend more time with family and exploring the world, approached Aerowork, looking for a partner who shared their values and would maintain the personal relationships they have cultivated with local farmers. “We wanted to make sure the people we’ve served for so long would be in good hands,” says John.

 Aerowork’s connection to the Wairarapa runs deep, having served the region for many years. Acquiring Bargh & Gardner allows Aerowork to increase its presence in an important lower North Island market where farmers top dress around 15000 tonnes of fertiliser each year. Aerowork will complement John’s Air Tractor with modern aircraft and technology, including the New Zealand-designed Cresco, known for precision aerial spreading and stability in hill-country conditions.

 “Meeting and working with John and Penny is an absolute pleasure and honour,” says Harald. “They are true pioneers of New Zealand agricultural aviation, and we are committed to carrying forward their values and service ethos.” 

“It’s a good feeling to hand over something you’ve built to people who care. We wish Aerowork all the best — and look forward to seeing their planes gracing the Wairarapa skies for another 40 years,” said John.