Waikato-Bay of Plenty's Hugh Jackson wins Young Farmer of the Year award
Hugh Jackson
was crowned the 57th
FMG Young Farmer of the Year
on Saturday, July 5, 2025. The result was announced after the final test in Invercargill. After securing the title of New Zealand's top young farmer, Jackson, 26, said that he is over the moon.
Seven grand finalists, who were in the race for the award, competed in challenges involving heavy machinery and livestock. The challenges also included public speaking, quizzes, and interviews. Contestants faced each other in tasks such as shearing sheep, building bridges, filleting fish, and making hay bales to show off their farming skills during Friday's practical contest at the Winton Racecourse.
Jackson, who felt relieved after taking the trophy home, said that it was his second time being a grand finalist. 'It was a nerve-racking last couple of hours, so to get that weight off my shoulders is massive. It's been a lot of years in the making,' he said, as quoted by RNZ.
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Working on his family's farm in Te Akau, north of Raglan, Jackson said that he spent his days working with his 'old man.' He has an interest in technology and also has a passion for mental health. He was also the chair of the Hamilton City Young Farmers Club.
'With this title, I really hope to help showcase the talent we have coming through and highlight the opportunities that are there for young people,' Jackson said. 'Where the industry is moving in terms of technology is exciting, and there is an opportunity where we can grow people and provide career opportunities within that,' he added.
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New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly said that Jackson impressed everyone with his innovative thinking and talent across the agricultural sector.
'FMG Young Farmer of the Year is one of the most prestigious farming awards in the country. It's inspiring to see the recognition go to someone who will not only be a strong ambassador for the next generation of young farmers but across the agricultural industry,' he said.
Acting PM Seymour congratulates Jackson
Acting Prime Minister David Seymour extended his wishes and congratulations to Jackson for bagging the award. 'Last night I was lucky enough to attend the Young Farmer of the Year grand final in Invercargill. It was a brilliant event, celebrating the future of farming and showcasing their expertise, leadership, and passion for agriculture,' he said.
'Hugh… demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and knowledge in one of the most historic competitions in the country. They have a bright future ahead of them, and I wish them all the best for their future in farming.
'Even for a townie from Epsom, it's impossible not to appreciate the contribution farmers make to New Zealand. We are lucky to live in a country that produces food the world loves, and with export revenue on track to surpass $60 billion for the first time, agriculture is very much central to New Zealand's future prosperity.'
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