Farmers and growers across New Zealand are invited to step forward and share their stories of innovation, stewardship and resilience through the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

Facilitated by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust (NZFET), the awards celebrate excellence in sustainable farming and growing, recognising the many ways landowners are working to strengthen the future of food and fibre in Aotearoa.

NZFET general manager Sarah Harris said the programme was designed to encourage and support farmers and growers at every stage of their journey.

“The awards are about celebrating progress, not perfection, and sharing ideas across sectors and regions, farmers learning from farmers.

“They are also a great opportunity to reflect on what you’ve achieved, gain feedback for future growth, and connect with like-minded farmers and growers who are passionate about looking after the land for future generations.”

Blair Dyer and Steve Atkinson, of Kiwi Heights in Te Puke, were named this year’s Bay of Plenty regional supreme winners and encourage other farmers and growers to give the awards a go.

Blair Dyer and Steve Atkinson, of Kiwi Heights in Te Puke, are this year’s Bay of Plenty regional supreme winners. Photo / Supplied

“It’s always good to get yourself out there and test yourself amongst your peers,” Atkinson said.

“What I’ve taken out of it the most is having other people look over your business and having these amazing judges come in; they’re not picking at your business but they’re telling you what you’re doing great and giving you advice in areas that you could be doing better.”

“In the five or six years I’ve been here we probably haven’t had time to reflect on the development and what we have really achieved and this whole judging process has allowed us to reflect – it’s been a very special process,” Dyer said.

Each year, the awards provide a platform to showcase a wide range of operations, with judges looking at the whole farm system. Considerations include soil and water management, climate and biodiversity initiatives, animal welfare, waste management, team and community wellbeing, and business planning.

The catchment group showcase continues in 2026, highlighting the impact of rural communities working together to improve water quality, protect biodiversity, and achieve sustainable land management outcomes.

The BFEA programme is supported by a wide network of agribusinesses, sector organisations and regional councils, many of whom provide technical insights and feedback to entrants as part of the judging process.

Entries for the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards are now open and close in October. Initial farm visits will take place later this year, with regional awards events held in March and April 2026.

The 11 regional supreme winners will then come together at the trust’s National Sustainability Showcase in Christchurch next July, where one will be named the recipient of the Gordon Stephenson Trophy and become the national ambassador for sustainable farming and growing for 2026.

Entries and nominations can be made online at bfea.org.nz

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