After an impressive display to take out the East Coast Regional FMG Young Farmer of the Year title in Waipukurau last Saturday, Hamish Best is now eyeing the grand final in July.
Mr Best saw off some stiff competition as 56 contestants battled it out in seven regional finals from Northern, Waikato-Bay of Plenty, Taranaki-Manawatu, East Coast, Tasman, Aorangi and Otago-Southland between February and April.
The Tikokino young farmer is now one of seven winners to emerge from the regionals, and will lock horns with New Zealand's finest at the grand final in Manawatu.
The 26-year-old won four of the five Agri-Challenges as he was put to the test physically and mentally.
The young farmers' management skills, understanding of technology and business smarts were evaluated.
The diverse range of assessments also saw competitors grilled by a panel of industry judges before facing off in tasks that put their focus and stamina to the test.