This sale is part of a personal project by Andrew Luddington, who has chosen to donate 100% of the proceeds, split evenly between two causes close to his heart: Hinewai Reserve and Ukraine. We are selling on his behalf to show our support for his generosity.
Hinewai Reserve is a 1,250-hectare ecological restoration project on Banks Peninsula above Akaroa. It started in 1987 when the Maurice White Native Forest Trust purchased 109 hectares. Since then, it has steadily grown under the care of botanist Hugh Wilson and a team of volunteers who follow a simple philosophy: allow native bush to regenerate naturally with minimal interference.
When the project began, many said only fools and dreamers would believe it could work. Today, Hinewai is living proof that nature can restore itself. The hillsides that were once covered in gorse are now rich with native forest, birdlife and biodiversity.
For Andrew, Hinewai represents a powerful way to capture carbon while protecting ecosystems. Supporting Hinewai helps offset personal emissions and safeguard New Zealand’s natural treasures.
The other 50% of the proceeds will go towards supporting Ukraine. Half will be donated to United 24, a government-run foundation that funds critical needs such as rescuing stolen children, supplying first aid kits and rebuilding communities. The other half will go directly to a tank battalion led by Andrew’s friend Vasyl Starychencko. The funds will help equip the unit with anti-drone protection and other essential equipment. Watch Video here
Andrew’s support for Ukraine comes from both empathy and personal experience. He believes in standing up to bullies and oppressors, a belief that became deeply personal after losing his daughter to bullying in 2014. He sees the war in Ukraine as another form of bullying on a global scale, and he wants to help those defending their homes and livelihoods.
As a farmer of 18 years in New Zealand and 22 in Europe, Andrew also understands how the war has affected agriculture worldwide. The Russian blockade benefitted grain growers globally, Andrew quotes it would be “Damn nice to give some of it back”. He wants to support Ukrainian farmers who continue to work under the threat of missiles and drones daily.
Andrew has been a loyal customer of Cochranes for many years and is known as a generous, caring and selfless man. Following the sale of his farm, he is preparing to move back to England temporarily. By bidding on this tractor, you are not only supporting two important causes, but also showing appreciation for a local farmer who continues to give back both in New Zealand and abroad.
Auciton ends 21st October 8pm 2025.