James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower of the Year
The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.
Sarah Dobson, a 25-year-old environment and sustainability technician at A.S. Wilcox, has won the 2022 Pukekohe Young Grower competition and will represent the region at the national competition in September.
The Pukekohe competition tested the contestant’s vegetable and fruit growing knowledge as well as the skills needed to be a successful grower. Contestants completed modules in marketing, compliance, pests and disease identification, safe tractor driving, health and safety, soil and fertilisers, irrigation and quality control.
Dobson says she was rapt with the win.
“I wasn’t expecting to win as it was such a tight competition; all the other competitors were really strong,” she says.
“I really want to say a huge thanks to the team at A.S. Wilcox. I was quite nervous before the competition, but I did lots of preparation with help from my colleagues. Everyone there has been so supportive in helping me prepare.
“I’ve learnt so much through the competition. I even learnt how to back a tractor-trailer last week which came in handy today! I would encourage anyone thinking of entering to do it, it’s been a great experience.”
Dobson says she’s looking forward to the national competition which takes place in Nelson on 21-22 September.
She’ll compete against six other regional finalists for their share of $30,000 worth of prizes.
HortNZ president Barry O’Neil says the competition is a cornerstone event that brings the Pukekohe growing community even in trying times.
“It has been incredibly tough for Pukekohe and Auckland growers,” says O’Neil.
“The various lockdowns and weather events have been unprecedented. Many growers’ businesses are under pressure, so it has been fantastic to be able to get a record turnout at the awards dinner this year and bring everyone together. The turnout shows that Pukekohe growers share a commitment to supporting the next generation of growers, and the future of the industry.”
“Our industry is looking to the future in these very challenging times. Young people will play a key role in our future with our industry’s development and sustainability. To be fit for the future, we must nurture and celebrate this talent, through events like the Young Grower of the Year. Thank you to South Pacific Seeds and Horticentre and all of our event sponsors for your support,” he says.
