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NZ Young Farmers calls on members and communities to help tell its 100-year story

Written by NZ Young Farmers | Aug 19, 2026, 11:07:02 PM

NZ Young Farmers (NZYF) is calling on current and former members, families and rural communities to share their memories as the organisation prepares to celebrate 100 years. 

For almost 100 years, NZYF has brought young people together, built friendships and skills, and played a part in rural communities across New Zealand. 

Now, as NZYF looks ahead to its centenary, it wants to hear from the people who have been part of that story. 

Whether it’s an old photo from a club night, a story from a District Contest, a favourite memory from a trip, an old newsletter or simply a person who made your NZ Young Farmers experience memorable – the organisation wants to hear it. 

“We know there are thousands of stories sitting in photo albums, old sheds, club records and family memories across the country,” says NZYF Chief Executive, Cheyne Gillooly. 

“We want to bring those stories together and celebrate the people, clubs and communities that have shaped NZ Young Farmers over the past 100 years.” 

The call is open to anyone who has been involved with NZYF, including past and present members, convenors, committee members and volunteers. Families are also encouraged to share memories of parents or grandparents who were involved. 

The organisation is looking for four key types of stories: 

  • The people – mates, leaders, mentors, convenors, volunteers and characters who made an impact.
  • The moments – contests, trips, meetings, awards, celebrations, mishaps and milestones.
  • The clubs and communities – the clubs, regions and rural communities that have been at the heart of NZ Young Farmers.
  • The legacy and future – what NZ Young Farmers has meant to people and communities, and hopes for the next 100 years. 

“You don’t need to have a polished story,” says Gillooly. “If you’ve got something tucked away that you think might be worth sharing, send it through. We’ll take it from there.” 

The memories and material collected will help NZYF tell its story as part of its 100-year celebrations.  

Share your NZYF memories and find out more at: youngfarmers.co.nz/100-years-nzyf-call-for-memories