Last week, the 2026 Gisborne Young Grower of the Year competition showcased the talent and capability of the region’s emerging horticulture leaders through a series of practical and theoretical challenges.

There were several wide-ranging competition modules included, as well as biosecurity, with technical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills tested across real-world horticulture scenarios.

Paul Goodlet from Thompson’s Horticulture was named winner of the biosecurity section.

The day concluded with a gala dinner and the announcement of James Torrie from Wi Pere Trust (pictured during his biosecurity round) as the 2026 Gisborne Young Grower of the Year winner.

Image: KVH regional coordinator Scott Wilson and competition winner James Torrie.