Napier Port Hawke's Bay Primary Sector Awards

Napier Port Hawke's Bay Primary Sector Awards Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Napier Port Hawke's Bay Primary Sector Awards, Event Planner, Foodeast Business Hub, 4 Hanui Road, Tomoana.

The Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards are focused on recognizing and celebrating excellence across the sector, the event is proudly owned and managed by the Hawke’s Bay A&P Society.

What a night! 💫We’re still buzzing from the Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards and want to say a heartfelt th...
18/04/2025

What a night! 💫

We’re still buzzing from the Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards and want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the evening so special.

To our attendees, sponsors, dinner supporters, finalists, winners, judges, committee, Toitoi Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre and all those magic people behind the scenes that make it all work – your support, energy, and passion for our region’s primary sector made it a night to remember.

A huge shoutout to Simon Cartwright Photography for capturing the magic – the moments, the people, the pride – and doing it all with style.

We’re thrilled to share some snapshots from the night with you – enjoy reliving the celebration! 📸🎉

🌾 A Massive Thank You to Our Judges & Primary Sector Committee 🌾As we close the chapter on another incredible Napier Por...
17/04/2025

🌾 A Massive Thank You to Our Judges & Primary Sector Committee 🌾

As we close the chapter on another incredible Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the people who help make it all happen behind the scenes — our amazing judging panel and the primary sector committee.

These awards wouldn’t exist without your dedication, knowledge, and countless hours of work. From reading through entries to visiting nominees on-farm, attending meetings, and having the tough job of selecting winners — you’ve poured time, care and expertise into this process, and it shows.

Your passion for the primary sector and commitment to celebrating excellence in our region is what gives these awards their meaning and mana. 🌟

On behalf of the entire team and the wider community — thank you for everything you do.

We are so lucky to have such capable, experienced, and committed people leading the way.

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors 🌟As we wrap up the 2025 Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards, we want t...
16/04/2025

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors 🌟

As we wrap up the 2025 Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards, we want to take a moment to say the biggest thank you to each and every one of our incredible sponsors.

These awards simply wouldn’t be possible without your support. From the very beginning, your partnerships have helped us shine a light on the hard work, innovation, and leadership across our region’s primary industries.

Your generosity allows us to celebrate the people who grow, harvest, create, and lead—those who are the backbone of our region and our future. 🌱

To our naming rights sponsor Napier Port, our category sponsors, supporters, prize sponsors, and all those working behind the scenes—thank you for standing alongside us.

We are truly grateful for the belief you’ve shown in the awards and the people they recognise.

We couldn’t do it without you. 🙏💚

Silver Fern Farms Hawke’s Bay Farmer of the Year! Congratulations to Simon and Lou White of Ludlow Farms Limited—this ye...
15/04/2025

Silver Fern Farms Hawke’s Bay Farmer of the Year! Congratulations to Simon and Lou White of Ludlow Farms Limited—this year’s well-deserving winners!

Ludlow Farms is a 1,015-hectare operation with a legacy that stretches back over 150 years. The judges were blown away by Simon and Lou’s attention to detail. Ludlow Farms is a prime example of a financially resilient business that practices sustainability across the board.

Here's a bit more about why they deserved the win:
Simon and Lou have been on a journey of succession for several years which has enabled them to continue the legacy of the generations before them. Like many others they have experienced setbacks, Cyclone Gabrielle dealt a devastating blow to their farming operation, and they faced the challenges head-on and moved forward.

The Whites are early adopters of technology when it brings efficiency and sustainability to their business. They’ve embraced precision agriculture systems and sustainable water harvesting and storage. Their approach to diversification and developing specialty products has been a key part of their success, supported by their solid market knowledge and business connections.

A big part of their success comes from their constant drive to improve. They’ve continued to invest in technology, like water storage and irrigation, and more recently built a seed drying facility that not only supports their own operation but helps other growers in the area as well. Beyond the farm gate, they’ve also invested into emerging businesses with potential for growth, helping to process their own products and support the local economy.

Congratulations again Simon & Lou!

Pan Pac Forest Products Farm Forester of the Year! A huge congratulations to Pete Swinburn and Suzanne Hoyt, this year’s...
14/04/2025

Pan Pac Forest Products Farm Forester of the Year! A huge congratulations to Pete Swinburn and Suzanne Hoyt, this year’s winners of the Pan Pac Farm Forester of the Year award!

Pete and Suzanne run Tourere Farm, 20 minutes south of Waipukurau in the Flemington district—and it’s safe to say the judges were seriously impressed when they visited.

What stood out and why they won:
A smart, well-thought-out farm layout—divided into cropping land, easy hill country, harder hill country, and retirement land planted in natives.
A team-focused approach—bringing in the right people for the right jobs instead of piling it all on one set of shoulders.
A long-term vision—over 20 years of blending trees and farming, protecting native bush (including 16 hectares under a QEII covenant!), planting both natives and exotics, and joining the Emissions Trading Scheme.
And a farm system that’s not just productive, but sustainable and adaptable to suit their lifestyle.

It’s a fantastic example of what thoughtful farm forestry looks like in action.

Well done, Pete and Suzanne!

2025 Horticentre Group Horticulturalist of the Year: Liam Sykes – Ngāi Tukairangi TrustIn just a few years, Ngāi Tukaira...
13/04/2025

2025 Horticentre Group Horticulturalist of the Year: Liam Sykes – Ngāi Tukairangi Trust

In just a few years, Ngāi Tukairangi Trust has become a force in Hawke’s Bay horticulture—thanks in no small part to the leadership and expertise of Liam Sykes. From bold orchard development to a remarkable cyclone recovery effort, Liam and the team exemplify innovation, resilience, and forward-thinking.

Here's why he’s this year’s standout horticulturalist.
Liam’s expertise in horticulture, particularly in apple growing, is exceptional. His knowledge spans all aspects of the business, and his recent promotion to Hawke’s Bay Area Manager reflects his outstanding leadership.
The teamwork and support across the organization are evident, contributing to their ongoing success.

Perhaps most remarkable is their response to Cyclone Gabrielle. Their kiwifruit block on Moteo Pa Road suffered severe damage, losing 18 of 22 hectares. The restoration effort has been nothing short of outstanding—clearing and replanting thousands of seedlings, rebuilding hail and wind netting structures, and bringing the land back to productivity.

With a strong governance structure, a clear strategic vision, and an exceptional management team, Ngāi Tukairangi Trust and Liam Sykes are deserving recipients of this year’s Hawke’s Bay Horticulturalist of the Year Award.
Their journey from newcomers in 2017 to industry trailblazers today is a testament to their vision, innovation, and determination.

Well done to Liam and the team!

Grace Fulford the winner of Craigs Investment Partners Emerging Leader of the Year!Here's why she is deserving of the wi...
12/04/2025

Grace Fulford the winner of Craigs Investment Partners Emerging Leader of the Year!

Here's why she is deserving of the win:
Grace the Quality & Compliance Manager at T&G and has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication in the horticulture industry, making significant contributions to quality and compliance at T&G Global.
Coming from a fourth-generation horticultural family, Grace has built an impressive career, initially serving as a Packhouse Manager before stepping into her current role.
In this leadership position, she has flourished, driving improvements in T&G’s growing systems and strengthening vertical integration by fostering a stronger relationship between growers and the packhouse.
Her efforts have led to tangible successes, enhancing both efficiency and collaboration within the business.
Grace’s exceptional skills and industry expertise have been further recognized through her participation in the Hawke’s Bay Young Fruit Growers Competition and the National Young Grower Competition.
Grace has has excelled on the national stage, winning both the Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Young Fruit Grower of the Year and the National Young Fruit Grower of the Year titles and also winning the 2025 Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association Emerging Achievers Award.
She will now represent the region at the prestigious Young Horticulturist of the Year competition in Auckland later this year.
A role model for aspiring leaders in the horticulture sector, Grace embodies excellence, commitment, and innovation.
Her achievements serve as an inspiration to the industry, and she is a most deserving recipient of this recognition.

Well done Grace!

Hastings District Council - Te Kaunihera ā-Rohe o Heretaunga Industry Leader of the Year: Bruce BeatonA respected leader...
11/04/2025

Hastings District Council - Te Kaunihera ā-Rohe o Heretaunga Industry Leader of the Year: Bruce Beaton

A respected leader with a deep understanding of horticulture, retail, and the supply chain, Bruce Beaton has spent decades shaping New Zealand’s primary sector. With a career that spans supermarket management, large-scale apple production, and senior leadership roles in some of the country's most prominent organizations, Bruce’s influence is seen across the industry.

Here’s a look at his impressive journey.
Bruce Beaton comes from a family of talented growers and grocers. Going straight from school into the family owned supermarket, he spent the next 20 years leading that business, and then handed it over to his brother Iain, who continues to manage Greenmeadows New World in Napier.
He moved on to join his other brother Ross in the family apple business, growing Apollo apples. That business grew to be New Zealand’s second largest apple grower and a significant exporter.
After selling it to T&G Global in 2014, Bruce took up the role of General Manager T&G Pipfruit New Zealand.
Today he is responsible for the growing, third party grower supply, post-harvest & sales operation for T&G’s NZ business accounting for a third of New Zealand’s Pipfruit exports.

He was a Director of Foodstuffs (WGTN) Cooperative Society Ltd for 13 years and was involved with the merger of Foodstuffs Wellington & Foodstuffs Auckland to create Foodstuffs North Island, and served on the Board until 2014 when he took up the role with T&G.

He also served as director of the Port of Napier Ltd for six years.

He has a strong understanding of growing, supply chain & retail and enjoys growing the capability of his team.

A well deserved win Bruce, congratulations!

The winner of the Unison Hawke's Bay Primary Sector Professional of the Year goes to Gary Speers!What an incredible achi...
10/04/2025

The winner of the Unison Hawke's Bay Primary Sector Professional of the Year goes to Gary Speers!

What an incredible achievement! Here is a little bit about Gary and why he deserves the win:
For over 30 years, Gary Speers has been a beacon of expertise, dedication, and innovation in the horticulture industry. His unwavering commitment to supporting growers, his profound respect for the land, and his affinity for building meaningful relationships with clients have made him an invaluable asset to the pip fruit sector and the horticultural community at large.

Gary's journey began with his graduation from Massey University, where he earned a Diploma in Horticulture. Starting as a horticultural cadet, Gary’s career has flourished through decades of transformative industry changes, adapting seamlessly from an era dominated by family-owned orchards to today’s landscape of large corporate and investment operations.
Throughout, Gary has maintained a steadfast focus on the people and the land—treating each client’s orchard as if it were his own.
Gary holds himself to the highest professional standards, with his clients' success serving as the ultimate measure of his achievements. His passion for the industry extends beyond his immediate client base, as he often goes out of his way to assist others in the horticulture community in finding innovative solutions.

Congratulations Gary!

This years winner of the Bayleys Hawke's Bay Innovation Award is Annabelle Chilwell & Billy Dowle from Natural Hound!Her...
09/04/2025

This years winner of the Bayleys Hawke's Bay Innovation Award is Annabelle Chilwell & Billy Dowle from Natural Hound!

Here is a little bit about them:
Natural Hound, has exemplified innovation and commitment with their handcrafted dog beds and coats. Their journey began around four years ago when they sought a high-quality, durable dog bed for their six working dogs. After extensive research and finding that existing products did not meet their standards for durability, functionality, or sustainability, they took matters into their own hands—developing a purpose-built product that exceeded expectations.
Natural Hound has successfully identified an opportunity within the farming sector, adapting an existing product to better serve working dogs and pet owners alike. Their focus on comfort, longevity, and environmental responsibility is evident in every aspect of their design. Sustainability and durability are at the core of their process, ensuring that their products not only meet but surpass industry standards.

Key highlights of Natural Hound’s approach include:
• Identifying an untapped market with significant potential for growth.
• Grounding their product in thorough market research with demonstrated benefits.
• Utilizing natural materials while maintaining a strong brand focus.
• Raising awareness of the value and importance of their product’s benefits.
• Making a substantial personal investment of time, money, and energy to bring their vision to life.

Natural Hound—designed for hardworking high-country hounds and beloved by dogs everywhere. With quality, function, and the planet in mind, they have created a product that truly stands out.

Congratulations Natural Hound a well deserved win!

We’re thrilled to once again announce Kay Griffiths as the recipient of the Laurie Dowling Memorial Award at the Napier ...
08/04/2025

We’re thrilled to once again announce Kay Griffiths as the recipient of the Laurie Dowling Memorial Award at the Napier Port Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards!

Here's a little bit about Kay:
Kay’s lifelong passion for conservation and wildlife management has taken her from the heart of Nelson to the heart of Hawke’s Bay — making a lasting impact every step of the way. With hands-on experience in biodiversity, recreation, education, and community engagement, Kay has dedicated her career to protecting our natural environment and inspiring others to do the same.

From her early days with the Conservation Corps to her leadership in biodiversity threat management, and now running The Conservation Company with partner Craig Single — Kay's contribution to conservation in Aotearoa is nothing short of remarkable.

Congratulations, Kay – your work embodies the spirit of the Laurie Dowling Memorial Award!

Winner of the Lawson Robinson Ltd Hawke's Bay Scholarship – Phoebe LaugesenA driven and passionate veterinary science st...
07/04/2025

Winner of the Lawson Robinson Ltd Hawke's Bay Scholarship – Phoebe Laugesen

A driven and passionate veterinary science student, Phoebe Laugesen is this year’s recipient of the Lawson Robinson Hawke’s Bay Scholarship.

Currently in her final year of vet school, Phoebe has combined academic excellence with a strong commitment to the primary sector, shaped by her hands-on rural upbringing and love for animals.

Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep desire to give back to the region she calls home.

Here's a little bit about Phoebe:
Getting accepted into vet school in 2021 was a hugely surreal feeling and over the last 4 years I have made the conscious effort to take every opportunity offered, this has led me to my various roles through student committees including MUVSA treasurer in 2024.
Growing up on the farm we were very much involved in everything, after school activities included grubbing thistles from lucerne hay paddocks, driving the hay truck, drafting sheep and feeding out.
As we got older holidays became filled with tree planting, drenching/vaccinating lambs and ag work in the tractor. My favourite part of farm life was always lambing or calving time and saving the orphan animals. The satisfaction of seeing them thrive was an incredible feeling and over the years we had many orphan lambs, calves, piglets, rabbits and most recently a red deer fawn.
It comes as no surprise that production medicine is one of my main areas of interest within Veterinary medicine.
I hope to be able to contribute to the thriving Hawkes bay agriculture industry in the future in my role as a vet. Aiming to increase productivity while maintaining high animal welfare standards. Helping educate farmers ar0und managing things like worm resistance which is becoming increasingly challenging in the industry. I also have a keen interest in deer which is such a developing industry and something I'm passionate about working with to keep moving forward.

Congratulations Phoebe a well deserved win!

Big news! Simon & Lou White from Ludlow Farms have taken out the Silver Fern Farms Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Farmer of ...
03/04/2025

Big news! Simon & Lou White from Ludlow Farms have taken out the Silver Fern Farms Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Farmer of the Year!

A fantastic achievement, and we couldn’t be more excited for you!

Join us in congratulating Pete Swinburn & Suzanne Hoyt from Tourere Stations, the winners of the Pan Pac Hawke’s Bay Pri...
03/04/2025

Join us in congratulating Pete Swinburn & Suzanne Hoyt from Tourere Stations, the winners of the Pan Pac Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Farm Forester of the Year!

A remarkable accomplishment—well done!

(Winners not pictured)

We’re thrilled to announce that Ngai Tukairangi – Liam Sykes is the winner of the Horticentre Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector...
03/04/2025

We’re thrilled to announce that Ngai Tukairangi – Liam Sykes is the winner of the Horticentre Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Horticulturalist of the Year!

A huge congratulations from all of us at the Hawke’s Bay A&P Society!

A huge congratulations to Natural Hound Annabelle Chilwell & Billy Dowle, the winner of the Bayleys Hawke’s Bay Primary ...
03/04/2025

A huge congratulations to Natural Hound Annabelle Chilwell & Billy Dowle, the winner of the Bayleys Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Innovation Award!

An incredible achievement—well done from all of us at the Hawke’s Bay A&P Society!

And the winner is Grace Fulford! Congratulations on receiving the Craigs Investment Partners Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector ...
03/04/2025

And the winner is Grace Fulford! Congratulations on receiving the Craigs Investment Partners Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Emerging Leader of the Year—a well-earned recognition!

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Foodeast Business Hub, 4 Hanui Road
Tomoana
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