Youth farming competitions open for entry

‘‘We have now expanded the number of teams competing to adjust to the growth.’’ David Highsted.

Rural youth competitions have expanded due to phenomenal growth, and AgriKidsNZ and TeenAg entries are now open.

They were held around New Zealand to coincide with the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Awards, but due to popularity organisers were warning teams to get their entries in early.

NZ Young Farmers Compe- titions co-ordinator David Highsted said since AgriKidsNZ began in 2005 and TeenAg began in 2009 the competition has gone from strength to strength.

‘‘In the last contest season that culminated in record entries and we have now expanded the number of teams competing to adjust to the growth.’’

TeenAg numbers had increased by 27 per cent since last year alone, and AgriKidsNZ by 6 per cent.

‘‘It’s encouraging to see that the work NZ Young Farmers puts in is exciting the younger generation about agriculture and is being rewarded, and we hope it will eventually reward the entire New Zealand Primary Industry,’’ said Highsted.

Designed as a fun competitive way to introduce urban and rural schools and families to agriculture, the contests had become the highlight of many students’ year.

‘‘These students are becoming champions of our industry and are sharing the fantastic experiences they have through the contest.

‘‘It is a great public relations exercise and a vital part of NZ Young Farmers ongoing emphasis of educating our youth about the vast and exciting opportunities within the primary sector.’’

Entries were now open online at agrikidsnz.co.nz and teenag.co.nz.