Māori Agribusiness Leader Hinehou Timutimu Wins Prestigious Dairy Award

“It’s just starting to land,” she told Dairy News the morning after her win at the Dairy Women’s Network 2026 Conference in Christchurch last week.

The fourteenth winner of the award, Timutimu was recognised for her leadership, deep connection to people and whenua, and her impact across the dairy sector and Māori agribusiness.

Leadership Across Dairy Farming and Māori Land Development

She currently leads a dual-enterprise model combining dairy farming and maize at Te Tawa Kaiti Lands Trust.

In 2025, she represented New Zealand as an expert speaker at the APEC Technical Cooperation Workshop in Bangkok, contributing to international discussions on women’s economic empowerment and sustainable agriculture.

She holds governance credentials from the Institute of Directors’ course, the Fonterra Governance Development Programme, LIC leadership programmes, and the MPI Governance Essentials programme.

She is also vice chair of the Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

Award Recognises People-Focused Leadership

The general manager of Te Tawa Kaiti Lands Trust says the award represents an “opportunity to inspire others and to give them courage and confidence”.

Timutimu describes her leadership style as “values-led, and cohesive”.

“It’s about taking people along the journey,” she says.

In her career within the dairy industry, Timutimu says she’s learned a lot about the sector.

“I’ve learned about how to be resilient… I’ve learned how farmers have been challenged and how committed they are.

“I’ve learned how people can be so challenged and yet so giving,” she says.

Advice for Women Entering the Sector

Her advice for women seeking a career in dairying is simple.

“Come with a passion for the land and working with animals,” Timutimu says. “Two days are never the same.”

Judges Praise Leadership

Anne Douglas, group director of Fonterra Farm Source and a member of the judging panel, says she is thrilled to see Timutimu win the award.

“Her ability to bring together mātauranga Māori and modern farming practices is a powerful example of the leadership our sector needs,” Douglas says.

“I’ve also been impressed by her global perspective and how she applies insights from around the world to strengthen our rural communities. Her commitment to people, to land, and to the next generation of farmers is truly inspiring,” she adds.

Strong Connection to People and Whenua

Dairy Women’s Network trustee and lead judge Jenna Smith says Timutimu brings a deeply grounded perspective, with a strong connection between people, whenua and long-term outcomes.

“Her leadership is authentic and anchored in purpose,” Smith says.

“Hine leads by example, makes decisions clearly, and consistently demonstrates her ability to bring people along with her – whether she’s rolling up her sleeves planting out a stream bank or setting and implementing strategy,” she adds.

Scholarship Supports Future Leadership Development

As winner of the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year, Timutimu will receive a scholarship which covers the programme fee, travel and accommodation, mentoring and access to Dairy Women’s Network and Fonterra platforms to share research.