DairyNZ chief executive Campbell Parker congratulates Wairarapa Moana ki Pouakani Incorporation as this year’s winner of the Ahuwhenua Trophy, and farm manager Ben Purua from Waimakariri Lands who took out the Young Māori Farmer Award.
“It is fantastic to have an event dedicated to celebrating excellence in Māori dairy farming, and the awards evening really showcased the passion, innovation and adaption of Māori farmers,” says Campbell.
“These young farmers are focused on improving the outcomes for their people and land, with a deep understanding of intergenerational responsibility as they look to the future.
“I wish all the best to the winners, and other Ahuwhenua finalists, for their future endeavours in our proud industry, as they continue to play a key role in the success of dairy farming in the long term.”
DairyNZ staff celebrating with Wairarapa Moana ki Pouakani Incorporation at the Ahuwhenua Trophy Award evening. Photo credit: Alphapix
DairyNZ has a long association with the Ahuwhenua Trophy, and is a proud gold sponsor, providing judging expertise and facilitating field days. DairyNZ’s chairman, Jim van der Poel, is a part of the management committee, while DairyNZ’s chief science advisor, Bruce Thorrold, was a judge for the Ahuwhenua Trophy.
DairyNZ’s Kaiarahi Ahuwhenua, Clinton Hemana, played a key role in organising and facilitating the field days on Wairarapa Moana ki Pouakani Incorporation and Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board in the lead up to the Awards dinner.
“Māori agribusiness is a significant part of the New Zealand dairying sector culminating in a combined 10% of the industry; equally, agriculture is a significant part of the Māori economy making up over one third of the total Māori asset base,” says Clinton.
“I am very proud of DairyNZ’s role in progressing towards a sustainable farming future and I see Māori as natural leaders in this area. Māori are kaitiaki and “forever farmers” and finding the balance between people, profit and planet is a challenge, and something I am passionate about, like many farmers.
“I would like to congratulate all the contestants, finalists and winners for putting themselves forward, challenging themselves and leading the way. I am very excited for the future for all of us and encourage all our Māori farmers to participate in the future – ka mau te wehi e nga Rangatira ma.”
DairyNZ sees the Ahuwhenua Trophy as a great opportunity to continue to celebrate success and business excellence, acknowledging the growth of Māori dairy farming, and showcasing motivating stories of achievement.
Media contact
Celine Walters-Gray
Media specialist
p: 027 247 9876
e: celine.walters@dairynz.co.nz