NZYF launches employer supporter membership for rural businesses
New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) has launched a new initiative designed to make it easier for employers to support their young team members by covering their NZYF membership.
Danielle Hovmand has been announced as the 2024 recipient of the New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) Contiki Local Legend Award.
The award celebrates NZYF members who demonstrate dedication to their community, the primary industry, and the NZYF network.
Among her contributions, Hovmand led the 2021 Morrinsville-Ngarua Young Farmers Naked Calendar fundraiser, raising $10,000, and initiated the 2023 Community Quiz Night, which generated $30,000 for local causes.
She has volunteered for events like the Morrinsville Fireworks Show and Christmas Parade and organized Pink Ribbon Breakfasts to support breast cancer awareness.
Her primary sector advocacy work includes the promotion of Ag Days, speaking at schools, and participating in A& P shows.
She has also collaborated with groups like the Rural Support Trust, Federated Farmers, Lions Club, and local schools in an effort to create lasting community connections and showcase the role Young Farmers play in supporting rural New Zealand.
Hovmand says she is excited to receive the award.
“A massive thank you to Contiki and NZ Young Farmers for this epic opportunity! I cannot wait to head off overseas at the end of the season,” she says.
“Being a part of Young Farmers has been such a big part of my life over the past few years, and I’m so grateful for the incredible people I’ve met, the lasting friendships formed, and the chance to give back to my community,” she adds.
As the 2024 Contiki Local Legend, Danielle has won a $5,000 Contiki travel voucher.
As guests gathered on what is known as the Speaker's Lawn - a beautifully manicured patch of grass behind the main buildings of Parliament - to mingle and enjoy a lamb chop to celebrate National Lamb Day, the mood was very much upbeat.
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Booming primary sector exports are helping lift earnings for farm service providers.
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Controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Mt Roskill have been lifted.

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