“You’ll need to rock a cowboy hat, an ag hat and a thinking hat - sometimes all at once.”
That’s the message from NZ Young Farmers Northern convenor, Marie Taylor, to contestants polishing up their skills ahead of this year’s Northern Regional Final set to take place on Saturday 11 April at the Pukekohe A&P Showgrounds.
While contestants can expect to be put through their paces – as usual – event organisers are ensuring there will be plenty to keep contestants on their toes as they make their way through a series of tough challenges designed to test their practical skills, technical knowledge, and ability to work fast under pressure.
For 29‑year‑old contract milker, Kieran McCahon, this will be his fourth Regional Final. He has previously competed twice in Taranaki Manawatū and once in Waikato Bay of Plenty, where at just 24, he claimed the regional title. His subsequent Grand Final experience in Christchurch left a lasting impression and is shaping the way he approaches the competition this season.
“I’m taking a more relaxed approach this time compared to the Grand Final. I think I probably took it a little too seriously back then, but it showed me how I cope under pressure.”
McCahon says the competition has taught him a huge amount over the years, and the chance to keep learning new skills is what keeps drawing him back. He’s passionate about the experience and encourages others to step up too.
“Compete and have a go. The competition is nothing if people aren’t excited to have a crack.”
While he’s taking a more low‑key approach this year, McCahon is still quietly putting in the work, like brushing up on old quiz notes. And although he isn’t putting pressure on himself, he admits he’d love another shot at the Grand Final, especially with it being held in the North Island.
“If I make it that far, I’ll be much happier competing north. I started my Young Farmers journey heading to an event in Stratford with the Massey crew, so it would be pretty fitting if my last Grand Final was in Taranaki.”
The warmer climate would be a welcome bonus too, particularly after hearing stories about frozen pipes in southern winters.
“I’ve got no interest in that,” he laughs. “Not when you’re from Northland.”
Although McCahon is settled now, he spent much of his twenties moving around the country, and throughout every move, NZ Young Farmers was the anchor that helped him find community.
“Each time I moved to a new part of the country, joining the local Young Farmers club was like a beacon, a way to find like‑minded people when you move.”
Taylor says the competition will celebrate that same diversity and connection within the Northern Region.
“Throughout the day you’ll see the diversity of the Northern Region’s food and fibre sector, a reminder that it takes a wide range of skills to keep this industry thriving.”
The FMG Young Farmer of the Year is a highlight in the rural calendar, boasting a strong track record of showcasing the rising stars in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector – igniting contestants’ competitive streak and setting the bar for excellence in farming.
NZ Young Farmers CEO Cheyne Gillooly says the long-standing contest is well-loved in Northern region and around the country because it gives talented young farmers space to shine in the spotlight and connect with like-minded peers, which can be hard to do in the industry.
“With our AgriKidsNZ events for primary-aged competitors and FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year competitions running alongside the Regional Finals Young Farmers event, collectively the day is a true celebration of agriculture and the people who drive it – with a healthy dose of competition of course,” says Gillooly.
Taylor says contestants like McCahon should keep a cool head, take their time, and read each question carefully.
“Try not to panic and think carefully about the question, because it usually gives more away than you think.”
The FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest is proudly supported by FMG, Ravensdown, MPI, Milwaukee, Honda, Lincoln University, PTS, New Holland, Bushbuck and ACC.
For more information on the regional finals across Aotearoa visit youngfarmers.co.nz/contest/regional-finals
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