Leading hand now NZ's leading young Maori grower

The competition is held in conjunction with the main Ahuwhenua event and the winner was announced before an audience of more than 900 people in early June. Each year the competition alternates between dairy, sheep and beef, and horticulture.

The other two finalists in this year’s competition were 30 year old Alix Te Kere, who is the health and safety advisor for Rockit Management Services, and Erica Henare, the pipfruit and kiwifruit manager at Kono, near Motueka.

It was first time in the history of the competition that three wāhine Māori had been selected as finalists. To mark this special occasion, each of the finalists received $5,000 each from Te Tumu Paeroa in addition to their other prizes.

Rehu was selected as a finalist in February, competing against the two other strong wāhine through a number of field days and events.

“I’m honoured to be given this recognition, and incredibly grateful to be part of this incredible competition,” she says. “When they called my name I was stunned. Winning this award is very much a shared win with my other finalists – especially as it was the first time for all finalists to be wāhine toa!”

Rehu says participating in Ahuwhenua was an absolute honour.

“It has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and learn new things and create friendships and strong bonds which I know I’ll have throughout my life,” she adds.

“Since I was young, I’ve loved being outside and on the whenua. I love what I do at T&G and the opportunities it provides. I want to help other young wāhine and tane to pursue their dreams and explore a career in horticulture.”

T&G director of operations, Craig Betty says the awards are a great way to showcase up and coming young Māori in NZ’s horticulture sector.

“We’re incredibly proud of Grace and this achievement,” he says.

“Over the last four years, we’ve seen her develop and grow into an incredible young leader. Her passion for the land and its fresh produce, and our people and industry is evident.”

Betty says Rehu is a fantastic role model within T&G’s business and in the community.

“Grace has an incredible future ahead of her.”