John Deere Names 2026 Technician of the Year Finalists
John Deere has announced the finalists for its 2026 Technician of the Year Awards, with 30 regional finalists being named in five award categories.
The 5090EN and 5105EN specialty tractors are purpose-built for vineyard and orchard operations, building on the success of John Deere’s 5ML orchard tractor.
“This our line-up of specialty tractors for the high value crop sector, which is incredibly important to John Deere,” said Erin Wagstaff, Australia & New Zealand small ag and turf marketing manager.
“We launched the 5ML in 2023 for our nut and larger orchard customers, while also leveraging some of the technology from our broadacre business like AutoTrac. “The 5EN now caters for customers who need a machine that is purpose-built for narrow rows, so it’s perfect for vineyard and citrus operations.”
Wagstaff commented that the original 5EN models offered a 75 and 90hp engine, which has now moved to 95 and 105hp in the latest editions to meet customer demand.
“In terms of technology, the 5EN Series also has options for the G5 Universal Display and StarFire 7500 Universal Receiver to enable systems like AutoTrac, which really minimises operator fatigue,” she said.
Enhancements in the cab include a new digital dash display, an enhanced right-hand console with optimised throttle placement, USB-C ports for modern connectivity, an electro-hydraulic (EH) hitch and an integrated armrest for ergonomic support. The cabin also features improvements to help reduce operator fatigue and increase comfort, as well as advanced filtration to extend filter life.
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“The new 5EN’s see the Category IV filtration system being factory-built into the cab rather than being an aftermarket kit,” Wagstaff said. “A switch inside the cab allows an easy transition between Cat II or Cat IV filtration as required, making it ideal for customers who do a lot of spraying work, but it can be switched off when undertaking non-spraying activities, so extending filter life.”
Elsewhere, lighting upgrades include LED work lights, headlights, and rear hitch lights as standard, with side work lights optional. The cab has been designed with a flat floor for optimal comfort to help reduce fatigue, especially for operators who may need to spend long hours in the cab at peak times.
A choice of transmissions, both with optional creeper, include a 12F x 12R PowrReverser or 24F x 12R PowrReverser with Hi-Lo. The older models were only available with the 12F/12R transmission, so the splitter option will offer finer speed control, such as ultra-slow for harvest, spray or planter applications.
Along with the choice of transmission, the 5EN also offers a 94 l/min hydraulic output, 1390 kg maximum lift capacity, an optional underbelly protection shield, and a camera mount field kit for A&I camera integration. The 5EN Series tractors will be available for viewing in dealerships across New Zealand in the near future, with orders
being taken now for delivery in early 2026.
