Ottilie Upshall

Based in Rotorua, New Zealand I am the leader at Eric Kawabe & Associates SRU Ltd, the consulting business established by my father, Eric in the 1980’s. I am a graduate of Auckland University’s School of Biological Sciences with a BSc majoring in Biology and specializing in Environmental Science. I have been working for the family business since the early 2000’s. 

Most of our clientele are based in Japan with the “Soil Research Union” a network of like-minded farmers whom we support with science-based tools and recommendations, of which Brookside Lab’s services play a huge part. We also have a strong history of working with Australian farmers, having been based in Tamworth, NSW for many years before making the move to New Zealand in 2007. Our company has also been involved in projects in South America and Mongolia. 

As a part of Brookside Lab and the Amplify Network, I stand upon the shoulders of giants. My main area of interest is in promoting sustainable/regenerative farming practises with an emphasis on supporting soil health and biological diversity, with equitable economic, social and environmental outcomes at the forefront. 


We specialize in soil fertility for a diverse range of crops including rice, beet, wheat, corn, potatoes, vegetables, pasture for grazing and hay. We produce tailored “PMR” feed ration programs for pasture-based dairy systems, and have developed our own system for balanced calf rations to optimize early growth and development of healthy young stock. 



I have a keen interest in animals and animal welfare and at home on the family small holding I breed and train horses for dressage, and keep a small flock of sheep and some chickens. I live with my husband, Mark and a Mini Schnauzer x Jack Russell Terrier called Pippa Potts. 

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