James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower of the Year

Blair, an agronomist for AS Wilcox, is also the Pukekohe regional champion.

Davy, the Canterbury regional champion, is a quality and field manager for seed potato supplier Eurogrow.

For the potato industry, seeing two of its own stand on the national podium was a proud moment, says Potatoes New Zealand chair Paul Olsen.

He says the achievements of Blair and Davy reflect the calibre of people working across the industry and the bright future ahead.

“These awards celebrate excellence, dedication and leadership, and we could not be prouder of what James and Amber have achieved,” says Olsen.

“To have James take out the national title and Amber secure both runner up and the innovation award is an incredible result for them personally, for their organisations and for the wider potato industry.

“Success at the Young Grower of the Year Awards does not happen by chance. It comes from hard work, a commitment to learning and a genuine passion for growing food. James and Amber exemplify these qualities and are wonderful ambassadors for our industry.”

Olsen says both competitors represent the next generation of industry leaders who will help shape the future of New Zealand’s potato sector.

“What stands out about James and Amber is not only their technical capability, but also their enthusiasm, professionalism and willingness to embrace new ideas. These are exactly the qualities that will help drive our industry forward and ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.

“The future of our industry is in good hands with people like James and Amber coming through. Their achievements should inspire other young people to consider a career in horticulture and see the many opportunities that exist within the potato industry.”

Blair’s Young Grower of the Year title recognises his exceptional performance across a demanding programme of challenges that tested technical knowledge, business management, communication, leadership and practical growing skills.

Davy’s innovation award highlighted her ability to think creatively and embrace new approaches, while her Runner Up placing recognised her consistently high performance throughout the competition.

Potatoes New Zealand also congratulates all competitors who took part in the 2026 Young Grower of the Year Awards, including third place getter Amelia Marsden of Thomas Brothers Orchard, who was also recognised with the Outstanding Leadership Award.

“The standard of competition continues to be exceptionally high, and all finalists should be incredibly proud of their achievements,” says Olsen.

“As an industry, we celebrate James and Amber’s success and look forward to seeing the contribution they will continue to make to New Zealand horticulture in the years ahead.”