FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final heads to Taranaki

The three-day FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition is expected to inject more than half a million dollars into the local economy as thousands of spectators throw their support behind the seven Grand Finalists vying for the title of New Zealand's top young farmer. 63 Primary school-aged AgriKidsNZ competitors and 14 FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year high school teams will also battle for national honours.

Hosted by New Zealand Young Farmers, the event is a highlight on the rural calendar, showcasing the breadth of talent, innovation and opportunity within New Zealand’s food and fibre sector. This year marks the event’s 58th season and the first time the iconic event has been held in Taranaki.

“It’s essentially a nationwide search for the ultimate farming all-rounder,” says Grand Final Convenor Emma Northcott.

The Grand Finalist who takes out the title of FMG Young Farmer of the Year will need to prove they have what it takes to be New Zealand’s best. That means applying technical skills, problem-solving and practical know-how across a huge range of farming-related challenges.

Points are accumulated across a gruelling series of practical and theoretical challenges, including modules involving big machinery, construction, livestock and more.

“This competition itself is a real pressure cooker, so the ability to perform under pressure is absolutely essential,” says Northcott, adding that organisers are focused on creating an event that reflects both the diversity of Taranaki agriculture and the strong community spirit behind Young Farmers.

“One of the things that makes this region special is that you don’t have to travel far to see something completely different — from dairy farming through to sheep and beef, there’s a real mix here.”

Northcott says the 2026 finalists are shaping up to be one of the most evenly matched groups in recent years.

“It genuinely feels like anyone could take this out, which is going to make for an incredible competition.”

New Zealand Young Farmers Chief Executive Cheyne Gillooly says the Grand Final continues to be an important platform for celebrating the diversity of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.

“There’s often a perception that farming is one-dimensional, but the sector encompasses an enormous range of skills, careers and opportunities — from livestock and machinery through to technology, science, environmental management and logistics."

New Zealand’s primary sector exports hit a record $60.4 billion in June 2025, accounting for 83% of New Zealand’s merchandise exports. NZ Young Farmers has been part of the backbone of this primary industry for nearly 100 years, nurturing and supporting talent while growing connected communities.

The competition also plays a key role in inspiring future generations.

“Whether it’s AgriKidsNZ competitors stepping onto the national stage for the first time or spectators coming along to see what the industry has to offer, events like this help spark interest and create pathways into the sector,” says Gillooly.

“We want people to come along, get involved and see firsthand what the future of rural New Zealand looks like.”

The FMG Young Farmer of Year Contest is proudly supported by FMG, Ravensdown, New Holland, Milwaukee, MPI, Honda, PTS, ACC, Lincoln Uni, Bushbuck.

The seven finalists competing at the FMG Young Farmer of the Year are:

• Justin Ruygrok, representing Northern.
• Edwin Laver, representing East
• Cam Clayton, representing Waikato Bay of Plenty.
• David Reesby, representing Taranaki Manawatu.
• Bryce Win, representing Tasman.
• Jack Taggart, representing Aorangi.
• Thomas Slee, representing Otago Southland.