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.
Gomm, an orchard leader at the Burnside Trust, competed against some of Gisborne’s best young horticulturalists at Kaiaponi Farms yesterday before being presented with his title at a gala awards dinner last night.
Krista Manuel from Kaiaponi Farms came in second, while third place went to Emily Samuel of Thompsons Horticulture.
The competition saw contestants face a series of challenges designed to test their knowledge and skills around topics vital to the management of a successful orchard, including fencing, biosecurity, and tractor safety. They also delivered a speech to a crowd of 110 people at the White House, including Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon, on the importance of innovation and technology in fruit growing.
Matt, 23, got his start in horticulture five years ago, when he began as an orchard hand with Bostock NZ.
"I’m still a bit shocked I won, to be honest," says Matt. "The variety of challenges was really interesting, and we all got stuck in and gave it our best.
"The whole competition was great, and I can’t wait to give nationals a go."
Matt’s prize includes a professional development tour to Hawke's Bay to learn about horticulture, a trip to the Horticulture Conference in Christchurch later this month, a cash prize of $1,500, and an all-expenses-paid trip to compete for the national 2018 Young Grower of the Year title in Napier this August.
