Tributes for a top farmer

In a statement, the NZDIA said Bolstad was a true stalwart of the New Zealand dairy industry and was one of the Awards' biggest advocates.

He died in a tragic event while milking cows on his farm. Worksafe is investigating the accident.

His daughter Angela said in a Facebook post that her dad died tragically in the cowshed "milking his precious cows".

"We are all totally broken and cannot yet comprehend this tragedy. People that knew Jeff knew he was so full of life, loved his family, loved people, loved having a chat, loved his dairy farming and he never thought this day would ever come to him. He still had so much to do in life."

The NZDIA sent its sympathies to his wife Annette, his daughters Angela, Debbie, Janice and Alison and all their families.

"A family man and proud dairy farmer, Jeff was instrumental in developing the Awards and had a deep passion and belief in not only the Awards, but the whole dairy industry," the NZDIA says.

"He has dedicated much time and energy to the Awards and was a dedicated volunteer, committee member and judge."

In 2021, Bolstad was the recipient of the inaugural Lifetime Contribution to NZDIA Award, presented at the national gala dinner in Hamilton. During his acceptance speech, he commented that he was very touched by the recognition. In his words, "You get out what you put in".

"Publicly, Jeff preferred to remain in the background and used his strengths in forming strong relationships to guide, encourage and mentor up-and-coming farmers," the NZDIA says.

"A community man, Jeff was also a board trustee and involved in Federated Farmers, community projects and was considered a sounding board and mentor by many. An extremely humble man, Jeff expected no recognition. He was one of a kind and his loss will be felt by many."