Ahuwhenua Trophy 2026 Finalists Showcase Māori Horticulture Excellence

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka have announced the three finalists for the 2026 Ahuwhenua Trophy, highlighting the growing strength and innovation of Māori-owned horticultural enterprises.

The finalists — Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective, Otama Marere Trust (both Bay of Plenty-based), and Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust of Northland — were revealed at a function at Parliament today.

The prestigious Ahuwhenua Trophy celebrates excellence in Māori agribusiness and recognises the vital contribution Māori farmers and growers make to New Zealand's food and fibre economy.

Māori Horticulture Driving Export Growth

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay said this year's finalists represent the future of high-performing, export-focused Māori horticulture.

"This year's finalists exemplify excellence in horticulture, driving growth in the food and fibre sector while creating jobs in rural communities," Mr McClay said.

Māori-owned agribusiness is playing an increasingly significant role in New Zealand's export ambitions. The Government has set a goal of doubling the value of exports within 10 years, with horticulture identified as a key growth engine.

"The hard work of Māori growers and their staff will help achieve New Zealand's aspirational goal while meeting global demand for high-quality, safe and sustainable food and fibre," Mr McClay said.

Rapid Expansion on Whenua Māori

The competition's horticulture category was introduced in 2020, reflecting the sector's rapid growth on whenua Māori. Since 2017, horticulture on Māori-owned land has increased by 50 percent, driven by investment in apples, kiwifruit and other high-value crops.

Māori agribusiness collectively controls significant land assets and continues to diversify into premium, export-led production systems, incorporating sustainable land management and intergenerational planning.

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said the benefits extend far beyond balance sheets.

"Māori orchards and agribusinesses provide employment and vital reinvestment back into marae, papakāinga, kura and education scholarships," Mr Potaka said.

"The prosperity and wellbeing horticulture generates for iwi and Māori across the motu has far-reaching impacts. I tautoko the outstanding work these finalists are doing."

Innovation, Sustainability and Community Impact

The Ahuwhenua Trophy recognises not only financial performance but also:

• Environmental stewardship

• Governance and leadership excellence

• Workforce development and training

• Intergenerational wealth building

• Contribution to local and regional communities

Finalists are assessed on their ability to balance commercial success with cultural values, kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and long-term whenua sustainability.

Field Days to Decide Overall Winner

Each finalist will now host a public field day, showcasing their operations, production systems and governance models to judges, industry representatives and community members.

A second round of judging following the field visits will determine the overall winner.

The 2026 Ahuwhenua Trophy winner will be announced on 5 June in Whangārei, placing a spotlight on Northland as a key region in Māori horticulture and agribusiness development.

The award continues a long-standing legacy of recognising Māori excellence in farming and land stewardship, reinforcing the sector's growing influence in New Zealand's economic and social landscape.