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Wednesday, 14 October 2026 07:55

2027 NZ Dairy Industry Awards: Entries Now Open

Written by  Staff Reporters
NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon. NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon.

Entries are now open across eleven regions for the 2027 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA).

Up for grabs are awards and prizes over $1 million in three categories: Share Farmer of the Year, Dairy Manager of the Year and Dairy Trainee of the Year.

The regional winners will compete for the national title at the national awards dinner in Christchurch on Saturday, 15 May 2027.

NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon says the awards programme continues to shine a spotlight on the best of the New Zealand dairy industry, with strong entrant numbers last year across the categories and the backing of loyal national and regional sponsors.

"We are launching into our 38th year with real energy to drive and showcase best practice across the dairy sector.

"Following on from a strong year, farmers and businesses are in a good position to support the awards programme. It's a great way to invest in your people and your business, and to help secure the future of New Zealand's strongest primary sector."

The awards are an opportunity for entrants to better themselves and their business. Being able to benchmark against the best in the industry and gain insights from the judges puts entrants in a better position to advance their careers, he says.

Entrants get networking opportunities, the chance to find mentors and make key industry connections to help their future dairy careers.

The prize package of more than $1 million is the cherry on top, he says.

NZDIA has announced a new North Waikato/Hauraki region, which now takes in the Morrinsville district and continues to include Franklin and South Auckland, will run its first awards programme this season. The regional committee will be reaching out to farmers and potential sponsors across the new regional area.

Entries for the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards close 6 December.

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