Kiwifruit Growers Largely Escape Cyclone Vaianu Damage
The country's kiwifruit growers seem to have escaped much of the predicted wrath of Cyclone Vaianu which hit the east coast of the North Island this month.
The Bay of Plenty region is set to witness the talent and dedication of its young horticulturists as they gather for the Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition and Gala Dinner.
Taking place on Wednesday 12 July, the competition – now in its 16th year - promises to showcase the depth of the careers within the horticultural industry and the competitors’ passion.
Organised by New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc (NZKGI), the competition aims to recognise and celebrate the skills, knowledge and innovation demonstrated by young horticulturists in the region.
Participants from various horticultural sectors, including kiwifruit and avocados, will engage in a series of practical and theoretical activities designed to test their abilities across multiple areas.
The Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition not only provides a platform for friendly competition but also serves as a learning experience for the participants.
They will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders, exchange ideas, and gain insights into the latest techniques and practices driving the horticulture sector forward.
Colin Bond, chief executive of NZKGI says the organisation is thrilled to host the competition and provide a platform for young talent in the region to shine.
“These dedicated individuals are the future of horticulture, and their passion and innovation will shape the industry for years to come. We encourage everyone to join us and support these talented young growers as they showcase their skills.”
The Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition will take place on Wednesday, 12 July at 9am at Mount Maunganui College and the Gala Dinner will take place on the same day at 5:30pm at the Stadium Lounge, Bay Park.
The winner will earn the “Bay of Plenty Young Grower 2023” title and will go on to represent the region in the national Young Grower of the Year competition held in Pukekohe later this year.
Potatoes New Zealand says it congratulates Amber Davy of Eurogrow on her recent win at the 2026 Canterbury Young Grower of the Year competition.
For Tararua District dairy farmer Lisa Lyons, ongoing professional development has always gone hand-in-hand with life on the farm, but a major health challenge prompted her to take her study journey even further.
New import standards could put New Zealand’s blueberry industry and the wider horticulture industry at risk.
The Sustainable Vegetable Systems (SVS) Project has been named a finalist in the Technology & Innovation Project Award at the Primary Industries New Zealand (PINZ) Awards.
Amber Davy has won the 2026 Canterbury Young Grower regional title.
Carey Pawson-Edwards, a South Canterbury stock manager, has been named the winner of the 2026 Rabobank Management Project Award.

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