This is exactly what happened three years ago to farming couple Phillip Jackson and Kirstine Lereculey, who farm 200ha surrounding the Glenbrook Steel Mill, South Auckland.
While this was a devastating blow, this couple have to be admired for their determination and positive outlook, which enabled them to carry on breeding the stock Bluff Herefords is known for.
Once over the initial shock, they then had to scan everything to find out exactly what stock was missing, as the rustlers took what they could, leaving multiple bulls together in a single paddock, orphaned calves, and fretting cows.
Building a successful stud takes many years of careful planning, selective breeding, and investment.
When animals are stolen, the loss extends far beyond simply replacing the individual stock.
The greatest loss is the genetic value developed over generations, along with the considerable time, knowledge and resources invested in establishing those bloodlines.
These genetics cannot simply be replaced overnight.
Rebuilding a stud to the same standard can take many years, making the impact of such a loss both significant and long-lasting.
While Jackson and Lereculey work hard, they both say they wouldn’t have it any different.
They love the lifestyle, the animals and being able to bring their son up in such a lovely, healthy environment.
“We are the first to admit, leasing the land that surrounds the steel mill certainly comes with its own set of challenges,” Lereculey said.
“It is a busy site with daily visitors, and the hardest job is keeping the gates shut, the stock in, and educating people to scan the QR code at every gate so everyone can be accounted for.”
Phillip Jackson and Kirstine Lereculey have rebuilt their herd after 50 cattle were stolen three years ago.
“We watch growth figures very carefully,” Jackson said.
“We are constantly reseeding, as most paddocks are kikuyu, and in the winter, silage is fed out to the stock.
“We want to stay true to our objectives, adhering to our breeding plan and facilitating our client base.
“We love the nice temperament of the Herefords and the good mothering instinct of the cows.
“It has taken a while, but finally we have our herd up to the same numbers as before the rustling, and we have our fourth bull sale happening [soon].”
The bulls are handled daily, ensuring they are quiet, well-mannered and have an exceptional temperament.
All bulls have been thoroughly tested and vaccinated, providing buyers with confidence in their health, soundness, and readiness for the upcoming breeding season.
The couple say they are pleased to welcome prospective buyers to arrange a viewing before the sale, providing an opportunity to inspect the bulls and discuss their breeding and individual attributes.
The Bluff Herefords 2026 annual sale is being advertised for Friday, September 4.
Cam Heggie of PGG Wrightson will conduct the auction on the day.