Hugh Jackson is back in the running for the FMG Young Farmer of the Year title after securing victory in the Waikato Bay of Plenty Regional Final.

The 27-year-old claimed the top spot on Saturday after a day of intense competition at Waerenga School, tackling a series of practical and theoretical challenges.

This win qualifies him for his second Grand Final appearance, having previously competed in 2023, where he finished third overall.

The FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition celebrates top talent in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector. Now in its 57th year, it remains the country’s most prestigious farming award, with the overall winner's prize pool exceeding $90,000 thanks to the Contest's Sponsor family. 

Hugh Jackson showing his skills. Photo/Supplied.

“I’m stoked to get another shot at Grand Final! Getting back there is never guaranteed, and I’m looking forward to giving it everything,” Jackson said. 

“The Waikato Bay of Plenty is a tough region to compete in, so I knew I had to put in plenty of prep to give myself a decent shot. I was hoping for the win, but nothing was guaranteed with the strong competition I had.

“This is probably my last crack at the big dance, so it’s now or never to give it everything. I’m definitely not heading to the Grand Final to come second!” 

Participants entered one of three categories based on age, ranging from the AgriKidsNZ competition for primary school pupils, the FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year for High School Students, and the tightly fought FMG Young Farmer of the Year category, where just eight contestants battled it out for the top spot.

Waikato BOP AgriKids heading to the 2025 Grand Final. Photo/Supplied.

Jackson edged his way to victory by clocking up the most points on the day, defeating fellow Hamilton Young Farmers member Stephen Brunskill. Will Evans from Piarere Young Farmers secured the final spot on the podium. 

With a number of individual challenges thrown their way, including a head-to-head, general knowledge ‘buzzer-style’ quiz and sponsor-led modules, contestants were tested on a broad range of practical skills, technical know-how, and their ability to cope under pressure.

“There were a few modules where I learned heaps, changing a bearing on a tyre was something I’d never done before and struggled with, but now I know how! The New Holland module was also a challenge for me, getting the settings set up correctly on the tractor was something new to me and I needed some guidance to complete the module,” Jackson said.

“I always learn plenty in every competition which is one of the reasons why I keep entering.”

The AgriKidsNZ competition was another crowd-favourite.

After a busy morning being challenged to their industry know-how, Heidi Morris, Angus Gregory, and Harrison Gregory from Elstow-Waihou School emerged as the region’s victors. Jacob Bolt, Isaac Wilson, John Woodward, from Otewa School and Homeschooled, placed second, just ahead of Brearna Bolt, Sam Bluett, Jack Woodward, also from Otewa School and Homeschooled.

Waikato BOP AgriKids winners Harrison Gregory, Heidi Morri and Angus Gregory. Photo/Supplied.

Meanwhile, Ben Ede and Stephen Ede from Cambridge High School took out the title of Waikato Bay of Plenty FMG Junior Young Farmers of the Year, ahead of Grace Dawson and Evelyn Ruegger from Matamata College.

Along with Jackson, the top AgriKidsNZ and FMG Junior teams will now compete in July’s Grand Final in Invercargill.

New Zealand Young Farmers Chief Executive Lynda Coppersmith said the competition continues to highlight the incredible skill and talent of young people in the food and fibre sector.

“Every year, we see more emerging talent stepping up to the challenge. It’s awesome to witness so many competitors putting their skills to the test and showcasing the depth of ability in our industry.”

The FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest is proudly supported by FMG, Ravensdown, Woolworths, Ministry for Primary Industries, Milwaukee, Honda, Lincoln University, Massey University, PTS Logistics, New Holland and Bushbuck.