James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower of the Year
The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.
The competition, held on 25 June, saw a high calibre of contestants put through their paces across a range of challenges, showcasing technical knowledge, practical skills, business acumen and speaking skills.
Since its restart last year, the Canterbury competition has doubled in size, highlighting strong local support behind the competition and growing momentum to foster emerging talent across the horticulture sector.
Kate Trufitt, chief executive of the Potatoes New Zealand, says the event continues to highlight the strength of emerging talent across the horticulture sector.
“This was a tightly contested event, with all competitors demonstrating impressive skills, knowledge and professionalism. It is incredibly encouraging to see such strong capability coming through the industry," says Trufitt.
Trufitt describes Davy - who is chair of the Potatoes New Zealand Youth Council - as a "deserving winner".
"She consistently performed at a high level across all aspects of the competition, and her leadership and commitment to the sector set her apart. We are excited to see her represent Canterbury at the national final.”
Potatoes New Zealand also wished congratulations to all contestants, and extended its thanks to the supporters of the competition: Horticulture New Zealand, Horticentre Charitable Trust, Lincoln University, FMG, NZAPI, Terranova Seeds, Seed & Field, Premier Seeds, ANZ, Noble Adams, WaterForce, JJ Ltd, MG Marketing, NZ Veg and the Ministry for Primary Industries.
Davy will go on to represent Canterbury at the national Young Grower of the Year final later this year.
