James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower National Champion
James Blair, an agronomist for AS Wilcox and the Pukekohe regional champion, has won the 2026 Young Grower national title.
There was a strong female presence this year, with three women out of four competitors competing at the event. Contestants participated in a series of practical and theoretical modules that tested their first aid skills, pest and disease identification, tractor operation and more.
Whitehead says being part of the competition, particularly with such a strong line up of talent, was an amazing experience.
“This year was definitely a celebration of the growing number of women involved in and joining the horticulture industry,” she says. “To be part of that and to be named the 2022 winner is a real privilege.”
Whitehead says this is the second year she has entered the Nelson competition.
“I love a challenge so thought I would give the competition another go this year.
“There are so many career opportunities for people of all ages in this industry. The competition really helps to highlight those opportunities and the talent among us.
“Regardless of whether you win these competitions, you walk away with great connections, greated confidence and a boost to your career.”
Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Nadine Tunley says the exceptional calibre of entrants seen year after year highlights the value of the Young Grower competition.
“As the emerging leaders of our industry, it is invaluable to have an environment where young growers are supported to realise their full potential,” says Tunley. “The Young Grower competitions provide personal and professional development opportunities, confidence building and the tools and networks for our young growers to forge a successful career path for themselves.
“It is clear from the talent on display today that the industry has a bright future,” she says.
Tunley says the continued impacts of the pandemic and labour shortages have made events like the Young Grower competition even more important.
“It’s an opportunity for industry to come together, catch up, celebrate our young growers’ success and foster growth and resilience in our sector,” says Nadine. “It’s great to see industry come together in support and recognition of the next generation’s achievements.”
Nelson Young Grower organiser Richard Clarkson says it’s great to see so many new and returning candidates enter the competition.
“It doesn’t matter what level of experience the contestants have, the day is all about their growth,” says Clarkson. “It’s not about coming first or second, it’s about developing people. If we don’t develop the young growers coming through this industry, then we won’t have any future leaders.
“There are so many opportunities, roles and career pathways in this industry for all walks of life. It’s great to see these young growers using the competition as a tool to tap into that potential.”
Meryn Whitehead will go on to represent the Nelson growing community in the national Young Grower of the Year final in Nelson on 21 – 22 September.
