Three top Māori horticulturalists in the North Island are finalists in this year’s Ahuwhenua Trophy competition.
Ngai Tukairangi Trust’s largest orchard near Hastings, Māori Investments Limited’s Whiritoa orchard and Wi Pere Trust Horticulture in Gisborne are the final three in the competition encouraging farmers to improve their land with an emphasis on sustainability.
It is the second time horticulture has been included in the competition, which runs on a three-year rotational basis between the dairy, sheep and beef and horticulture sectors.
The finalists were announced at Parliament, at an event hosted by Minister of Māori Development Willie Jackson.
Ahuwhenua Trophy management committee chairwoman Nukuhia Hadfield said there will likely be changes to the judging process due to the effect of Cyclone Gabrielle.