New Zealand growers and those across the wider horticulture sector are being encouraged to recognise the people driving the industry forward, with nominations now open for the 2026 Horticulture Industry Awards. The awards span six categories and celebrate excellence, leadership, service and innovation across the breadth of the sector.
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board chair Bernadine Guilleux says the awards are an opportunity to shine a light on the individuals and teams whose efforts often go unrecognised. "These awards are about celebrating the people who make a real difference, those who lead, innovate, support others and consistently go the extra mile. Our industry plays a vital role in producing healthy food for New Zealanders and the world. Behind that success are people who are committed to what they do. Nominating someone is a simple but powerful way to acknowledge that contribution and share their story with the wider sector and New Zealand."
Nominations are invited across six award categories. The Horticulture Bledisloe Cup recognises outstanding and meritorious contribution to the New Zealand horticulture industry, while the HortNZ President's Trophy acknowledges persons showing promise in horticulture business and/or leadership, regardless of experience level. The Industry Service Award honours people, other than growers, who have given long and dedicated service in a supplier or service role, going beyond the call of duty for the betterment of the industry.
The Sustainable Innovation Award is open to a person or team who are developing, or have developed, technologies, an innovation or undertaken research that increases productivity, profitability or environmental sustainability in the sector. The Manaaki Award recognises a person, group or organisation that has risen beyond the call of duty to support employers and workers, with a focus on the positive impact their service has had on employers, workers, the community and the wider Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. Finally, the HortNZ Life Member Award is presented to growers with long and dedicated service as office holders of HortNZ and/or an affiliated product group or grower association.
"I expect most people in the sector will know someone who deserves to be nominated," says Guilleux. "These awards are about recognising those contributions and celebrating the strength of our industry." To make a nomination, individuals must be either an active grower member of HortNZ, an affiliated product group or affiliated association.
For more information:
Horticulture New Zealand
Tel: +64 (0) 4 472 3795
Email: [email protected]
www.hortnz.co.nz
