Awards building people capability

“Building people capability is the core purpose of the awards,” she says.

“By providing a platform for entrants to learn about farming and themselves, connect with others and achieve their goals we are helping to fast-track the development of many farmers each year. 

“Many of our past and current entrants are in leadership roles in dairy and their communities.”

Volunteer farmers and national sponsors ensure this opportunity is available year after year.

The awards were created by farmers 30 years ago, starting with the NZ Sharemilker of the Year (now Share Farmer of the Year), then two more categories -- Dairy Manager of the Year (formerly Farm Manager of the Year) and Dairy Trainee of the Year -- have since been added. People on work visas were this year allowed to enter the dairy manager and dairy trainee categories.

Regional winners for 2019 will be judged again soon in the NZ share farmer, dairy manager and dairy trainee categories to be announced at the National Awards in Wellington on the May 11.  Regional results and national awards tickets are available at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz 

The awards are sponsored by Westpac, DeLaval, Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Fonterra, Honda Motorcycles, LIC, Meridian Energy, Ravensdown, DairyNZ and Primary ITO.