Finalists named for sports awards
Winners of the 2025 Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards will be announced at a gala function in Palmerston North next month.
New Zealand's largest celebration of rural sports athletes and enthusiasts – New Zealand Rural Games - is back for its 10th edition, kicking off in Palmerston North from Thursday, March 6th to Sunday, March 9th, 2025.
This four-day extravaganza pays homage to New Zealand's rural heritage while introducing a host of exciting new experiences for the whole family.
"The 10th edition is a significant milestone," said Annaliese Atina, managing director of Ford New Zealand. "Ford is supremely proud to support rural sports and communities across the country, and this event showcases the best of Kiwi rural culture and talent."
World-Class athletes featured:
Exciting Sporting Championships – The Rural Games will host a range of thrilling championships, including:
Steve Hollander, Founder and Trustee of the New Zealand Rural Games, reflects on the journey:
"It took many years of hard work to get the Games off the ground, but here we are, celebrating our tenth edition! It's amazing to see how the event has grown and how it continues to bring rural communities together."
This year's event promises a unique mix of world-class athletes, historical games, and exciting new activities, including:
Despite economic pressures, Hollander says the entry to the event remains free.
"Our board is committed to keeping the event free for everyone thanks to support of our sponsors and partners.” Alongside that residents of Palmy, Ashhurst, and Feilding will enjoy free bus rides all weekend thanks to Horizons Regional Council.
Special guests:
Sitting Beef + Lamb NZ farmer director Scott Gower has been voted out by farmers.
The New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) says it will be working alongside the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and Animal and Plant Health New Zealand (APHANZ) as they attempt to improve access to veterinary medicines.
Federated Farmers says it welcomes a recent court decision which granted a stay on rules in the Southland Water and Land Plan until legislative changes can be made by government.
A holistic approach to sustainability sees Pukatea Dairy Farms take out the top award at this year's Canterbury Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
Registrations are now open for the highly anticipated South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) 2025, taking place April 7-9 in Timaru.
Scientists from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) are part of an international team working to develop a low-cost diagnostic tool that could significantly improve food crop production in developing countries.
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