Image: James Blair, 2026 Young Grower of the Year, during his biosecurity module at the national competition in Cromwell.

This year, KVH continued its support of horticulture’s emerging leaders by becoming a silver sponsor of the Young Grower of the Year national final in Cromwell, delivering a biosecurity module at the event.

Despite heavy rain on the day, the weather did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the competitors. Regional finalists put their practical skills and knowledge to the test across a broad range of horticultural topics.

The KVH module challenged competitors to demonstrate their understanding of how the multiple layers of New Zealand’s biosecurity system work together to protect our primary industries. They were also tested on their ability to recognise key pests and biosecurity risks in the workplace and to apply practical biosecurity measures relevant to their own sites and industries.

Hands-on activities covering tool hygiene and pest reporting added an interactive element to the module.

Competitors brought plenty of energy, enthusiasm, and lateral thinking to the challenges and KVH congratulates them all on their skills, commitment, and dedication to building careers that will contribute to the future of New Zealand’s growing industries and communities.

Congratulations to James Blair, an agronomist with AS Wilcox, who was named the 2026 Young Grower of the Year. Amber Davy, Quality and Field Manager for seed potato supplier Eurogrow and the Canterbury finalist, was runner-up with Amelia Marsden, Nursery Manager at Thomas Brothers Orchard and Nelson regional finalist, placing third.

Finalist profiles and competition highlights can be found here.