The Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition is the largest of its kind in New Zealand and celebrates excellence, leadership, and innovation across the region’s horticulture sector.
This year’s contestants represent a diverse mix of orchard, packhouse, technical, and innovation focused roles across the kiwifruit industry:
- Danyon Robertson, Field Operations Manager, Verified Lab Services
- Jessie Blattmann, Orchard Manager, Trevelyans Pack and Cool
- Patterson Kelly, Orchard Manager, Trevelyans Pack and Cool
- Navneet Kaur, Shift Manager, Seeka Limited
- Aimee Barker Gilbert, External Operations Manager, Hume Pack N Cool
- William Kenna, Orchard and Innovation Lead, KWKiwi
- Teriaki Williams, EDI Manager, Seeka Limited
- Nanique Bonthuys, Orchard Manager, Prospa (EastPack)
Managed by New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI), the Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition will take place on Friday, 19 June 2026, at Mercury Baypark, culminating in a Gala Dinner that evening where the overall winner will be crowned.
Contestants will be put through a series of practical, technical, and theoretical challenges during the day, before taking part in a speech competition at the Gala Dinner, a highlight of the regional horticulture calendar.
“The Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition continues to be an important platform for recognising talent, encouraging professional growth, and showcasing the opportunities within horticulture,” says Event Manager Sam Vicente Moa. “Reaching the 21st year of the competition is a huge milestone, and this year’s group of contestants reflects the depth of experience and ambition coming through the industry.”
The winner of the Bay of Plenty competition will go on to represent the region at the National Young Grower of the Year Final later in 2026.
Tickets for the Gala Dinner are now on sale and traditionally sell out quickly.
More information and ticket details are available at www.bopyounggrower.co.nz.
