Farming
Waikato Bay of Plenty Young Farmer Hugh Jackson is “over the moon” after securing the title of New Zealand’s top young farmer.
A dedicated Young Farmers member and community gem, the 26-year-old sheep and beef farmer was crowned the 57th FMG Young Farmer of the Year on Saturday evening, following a nail-biting Grand Final event in Invercargill.
This marked Jackson’s second time as a Grand Finalist. With his dream firmly set on winning the FMG Young Farmer of the Year, he saw this year’s competition as his last chance.
The event featured a gruelling lineup of challenges — from exams and interviews to machinery operation, livestock handling, quizzes, and public speaking. All seven Grand Finalists were fiercely competitive, each aiming to bring the prestigious trophy back to their region.
“I’m really relieved to get here,” said Jackson, moments after his win was announced.
“It was a nerve-wracking last couple of hours, so to get that weight off my shoulders is massive. It’s been a lot of years in the making.”
The action kicked off Friday at the Winton Racecourse, where large crowds gathered to watch the practical contest unfold. Contestants showcased their hands-on farming skills through tasks such as shearing sheep, building bridges, filleting fish, and constructing haybales.
Tensions peaked with the buzzer quiz finale on Saturday night. In the end, Jackson emerged victorious, edging out Gareth McKerchar by 68 points. Tasman Young Farmer George Letham rounded out the podium in third place.
Jackson works on his family farm in Te Akau, north of Raglan, alongside his father. With a strong interest in technology and a passion for mental health, he also serves as Chair of the Hamilton City Young Farmers Club.
He hopes the win will help boost his profile and allow him to further advocate for agriculture, both in Waikato and across New Zealand.
“With this title, I really hope to help showcase the talent we have coming through and highlight the opportunities that are there for young people,” he said.
“Where the industry is moving in terms of technology is exciting, and there is an opportunity where we can really grow people and provide career opportunities within that.”
In addition to the overall title, Jackson also secured first place in the Community Footprint module, AgriBusiness challenge, and AgriSports section, taking home a significant prize package.
New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly praised Jackson’s performance, noting his innovation and broad skill set.
“FMG Young Farmer of the Year is one of the most prestigious farming awards in the country,” said Gillooly.
“It’s inspiring to see the recognition go to someone who will not only be a strong ambassador for the next generation of young farmers, but across the agricultural industry.”
“After seeing the talent from this weekend, the future is bright and forward-thinking for New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.”
Gillooly also acknowledged the efforts of the many volunteers who made Season 57 a success:
“We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who has contributed their time, knowledge, and skills to make this season a roaring success.”