Following a rollercoaster ride for many Kiwis I’m pleased to confirm that Xmas is coming!

For the Trust we’re really looking forward to holding the Ballance Farm Environment Awards functions in the new year. It’s been a challenging period for many organisations that hold events but we reckon that early 2022 will be a great opportunity to celebrate some of our amazing food and fibre producers.

BFEA judging is currently underway throughout the country. All our judges and entrants are fully vaccinated which means that we can plan with confidence.

Research highlights that farmers are feeling under pressure due to a range of factors including the volume of regulatory changes they are confronting. On the other hand, there remains high global demand for food that has been produced to the highest standards. Amidst the challenges we feel it is vital to continue to highlight many of the positive examples of good practice occurring throughout the country.

I’m off to Spain in December (only virtually unfortunately!) to chair a session at the International Land Conservation Network on farm stewardship: https://www.landconservationnetwork.org/2021-global-congress. It’s a great way of getting a global perspective on some of the challenges and opportunities facing farmers across the globe.

Summer can be a busy time across the country’s farms and orchards but I hope you enjoy the opportunity to have a breather with friends and family over Xmas and the new year period.

James

2022 BFEA Event Details

The schedule for the regional BFEA dates and National Sustainability Showcase have been finalised. Be sure to save the date for 2022.

East Coast | 3/3/2022 | Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre

Bay of Plenty | 4/3/2022 | Trustpower Arena

Canterbury | 10/3/2022 | Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Waikato | 16/3/2022 | Sir Don Rowlands Centre at Mighty River Domain

Horizons | 17/3/2022 | Silks Lounge Awapuni Function Centre

Taranaki | 22/3/2022 | Devon Hotel

Greater Wellington | 23/3/2022 | Carterton Event Centre

Northland | 30/3/2022 | Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands

Auckland | 31/3/2022 | Tote on Ascot

Southland | 7/4/2022 | Ascot Park Hotel

Otago | 8/4/2022 | Glenroy Auditorium
 

National Showcase | 9/6/22 | Christchurch – Te Pae

Meet the Entrants

With judging already underway in some regions, we will be introducing the 2022 BFEA entrants from across the country over the coming weeks. Keep an eye out on our Facebook and Instagram pages to meet the BFEA and Catchment Group entrants.

   

 

What Are They Up To Now? Series