Youth take centre stage at East Coast Farming Expo 2026
There's a special sort of energy at the East Coast Farming Expo, especially when it comes to youth.
From the Eastland Building and Farm Supplies Fencing Hub to Guy Peacock's working dog demo, Air Borne Solutions drone demo and the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Station Challenge, all is well covered at the two-day February 18-19 gathering.
B+LNZ extension manager Ali Forbes says their commitment to the Expo and challenge is part of their support to the wider rural community.
"The event attracts local shepherds, many of whom are the emerging leaders and managers of the future, and supporting their development aligns with our purpose and values," she says.
"It is an engaging and dynamic event that fosters strong team culture. The challenge encourages collaboration among shepherds as they work together to achieve a shared goal in a competitive, practical environment while upskilling at the same time."
The challenge is being run on Wednesday (February 18) at 1.30pm. Entries will open towards the end of January.
Forbes says it also provides the public with a meaningful insight into the skills and responsibilities involved in shepherding. "It blends education practical skill-building and healthy competition, making it both valuable and enjoyable for all involved."
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Scott Horgan from Air Borne Solutions will be demoing drone spraying. He's seen huge growth in drone use. "Workload and sales are doubling year on year which is largely due to the drones' abilities becoming greater and greater. They can fly further, faster, carry heavier loads and are smarter."
Eastland Building and Farm Supplies' Myles Vennell says a visit to the 2025 Expo and the resulting "good" business from it encouraged him to step up and sponsor the Fencing Hub.
He will have world champ fencer Tony Bouskill on site and has extended an invite to Tony's award-winning dad Shane as well.
"Tony is keen to talk to whoever has an interest in fencing and pass on the knowledge where he can," says Vennell.
"Most of our fencing contracting clients are short of workers but not short of work."
He's also looking to have some of his suppliers there. His team will be able to do on the spot quote and offering Expo deals. "This is an opportunity to meet new people and find out what else we can do to support our farmers."
The Fencing Contractors Association NZ have voiced their support too. Executive director Jaime Bigwood says they'd seen the value of a fencing hub at Northland Field Days where people liked that they could speak to product suppliers and more.
"Having skilled fencers onsite to share tips and tricks is invaluable to both the end users and the sales reps."
Fencing was now recognised as a trade in itself and the time and money saved by getting the job done by the experts was invaluable for many.
"It's a great career for people who love to work in the outdoors and appreciate the gratification of seeing a job well done," says Bigwood.
The working dog demo from highly regarded trainer and triallist Guy Peacock runs over both days of the Expo.
"Shepherds and shepherdesses love their dogs and will benefit from the demonstrations from Guy who will share techniques to help people get the Huntaways or heading dogs."
Event Info
What: East Coast Farming Expo
When: February 18-29, 2026
Where: Wairoa Race Course, Wairoa, Northern Hawke's Bay
More Info: https://eastcoastexpo.co.nz
