The prestigious Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award has once again shone a spotlight on emerging talent in New Zealand's pastoral and horticulture sectors, with the announcement of the 2024 finalists. Among the contenders are three exceptional individuals poised to make significant contributions to the agricultural landscape.
Ben Purua, a seasoned finalist at 29, hails from Tainui and manages Waimakariri Lands Ltd, overseeing a herd of 540 cows in the Waikato region near Tirau.
Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer finalist Ben Purua // Image Supplied
Joining him is 21-year-old Hannah Speakman of Ngāti Kahungunu, serving as the 2IC at Woodlands Farming's Pine Hill Dairy farm in Enfield, where 560 cows graze over 170 hectares.
Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer finalist Hannah Speakman // Image Supplied
Completing the trio is Shayden Gardiner, aged 21, representing Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, Ngā Rauru, and Ngāti Rangi, who assumes the role of Assistant Farm Manager at Ma Taua Dairies, Rylib Group, located near Ashburton in mid-Canterbury, overseeing an impressive herd of 1,120 cows at peak milking.
Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer finalist Shayden Gardiner // Image Supplied
Established in 2012, the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award serves as a beacon of recognition for young Māori individuals who demonstrate exceptional promise in agriculture. Over the years, the competition has garnered significant interest, attracting high-calibre entrants who later assume leadership roles within the agri sector. Lead Judge Matiu Julian of Primary ITO expresses profound admiration for the commitment and dedication exhibited by these young farmers, emphasising the privilege it is to be part of their journey.
Julian underscores the significance of the award as a platform for young Māori farmers to connect with their heritage while forging pathways to success in the agricultural realm. For many, participation in the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award embodies a profound sense of belonging to a legacy of Māori resilience and determination. It is an opportunity to represent not only oneself but also the whānau and communities that have invested in their growth and development.
A defining aspect of the award experience is the unparalleled access granted to finalists, enabling them to learn from seasoned industry professionals and service providers. Julian describes the journey as emotionally stirring and deeply impactful, resonating with the core values encapsulated in the whakataukī, 'He kai kei aku ringa – There is food at the end of my hands.' This proverb symbolises a generational commitment to enhancing the productivity and capacity of the Māori agribusiness sector, thereby enriching the overall health and well-being of the community.
Looking ahead, Julian expresses confidence in the future trajectory of young Māori leaders who emerge from the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award program. With an expanding alumni network dedicated to upholding the mana of this prestigious honour, the agricultural sector is poised for continued growth and excellence under its stewardship.
In celebrating the achievements of Ben Purua, Hannah Speakman, Shayden Gardiner, and their peers, the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award reaffirms its commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of agricultural trailblazers. As these young farmers embark on their respective journeys, they carry with them the aspirations and aspirations of a community united in its pursuit of agricultural excellence and sustainability.
