Canterbury will play host to the most prestigious annual contest in the food and fibre sector, taking place in Christchurch from 1–3 July 2027.

The contest series will kick off in October 2026 with District Contests held across the country, from Otago/Southland right to the Far North. More than 160 competitors will battle it out across the country to secure their spot in a Regional Final where they will then have a shot getting through to Grand Final.

Grand Final 2027 convenor Dean Gardiner is also thrilled the big event is coming to Canterbury.

 "We can’t wait to host Season 59 in NZ Young Farmers’ 100th year. It’s certainly going to make it a very special occasion and a fantastic opportunity to showcase all that the Tasman Region has to offer" says Dean.

"There’s a real buzz around the region at the moment, and the excitement and energy are certainly building. We’re absolutely buzzing to be hosting it".

NZ Young Farmers Chief Executive Cheyne Gillooly is also excited to see the Grand Final in Canterbury, with a lot of great energy building in the region, both in Christchurch and the wider region, especially as NZ Young Farmers is going into its 100th year.

"We are so excited that we are closing in on the 100, things have been building really well so it will be nice to celebrate some of that history with Grand Final being a part of that journey"

“There’s often a perception that farming is one-dimensional, but the sector encompasses an enormous range of skills, careers and opportunities — from livestock and machinery through to technology, science, environmental management and logistics."

 

The competition also plays a key role in inspiring future generations.

 

“Whether it’s AgriKidsNZ competitors stepping onto the national stage for the first time or spectators coming along to see what the industry has to offer, events like this help spark interest and create pathways into the sector,” says Gillooly.

 

“We want people to come along, get involved and see firsthand what the future of rural New Zealand looks like.”

 

Make sure to keep the dates in your calendar for Grand Final. Tickets will open in 2027. And District Contest registrations are set to open at the end of August