James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower National Champion
James Blair, an agronomist for AS Wilcox and the Pukekohe regional champion, has won the 2026 Young Grower national title.
The delegates come from all facets of the industry including growers, packers, exporters and others who provide services to the sector.
The keynote speaker at the conference was well known Australian science writer and agricultural communicator Jullian Cribb who gave delegates an insight as to how horticulture may develop in 20 to 30 years time.
There was also a focus on good agricultural practice (GAP) which included local and international speakers discussing market trends. During the conference each of the various horticultural product groups have holding their annual general meetings.
A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Bledisloe Cup for exceptional service to the horticulture industry to Hastings AgFirst horticulture consultant John Wilton.
Ian Greaves was awarded the presidents cup for his services to PSA grower support and Tony Ivecivich and Brian Garguilo were awarded life memberships of HortNZ.
