Six Students Awarded Scholarships to Build Next Generation of Farm Advisers

Six tertiary students have been awarded Agriculture Ministry scholarships aimed at strengthening on-the-ground support for New Zealand farmers and growers, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard announced today.

The scholarships form part of the Government's wider push to ensure the primary sector has the skilled advisory workforce needed to keep farms productive, sustainable and resilient.

"This Government is backing the sector by supporting the next generation of on-farm advisers," Mr McClay said.

Investing in Practical Expertise for Farmers and Growers

The On Farm Support Science Scholarships are designed to help build specialised expertise in agricultural and environmental systems, ensuring farmers and growers can access high-quality advice at the farmgate.

"Our On Farm Support Science Scholarships are an important part of our efforts to ensure the sector can provide specialised on-the-ground expertise and advice for farmers and growers," Mr McClay said.

The programme has already shown early success, with four of the inaugural 2024 scholarship recipients having secured roles in the sector.

"The successful programme has already started producing the next generation of advisers," Mr McClay said.

2026 Scholarship Recipients Announced

The 2026 scholarships have been awarded to students studying in agricultural science, commerce, and environmental sustainability — disciplines critical to the future of New Zealand's food and fibre industries.

Each recipient will receive $5,000 for the year.

The six scholarship recipients are:

• Cameron Brans – Lincoln University

• Jack Green – Lincoln University

• Eibhlin Lynch – Lincoln University

• Fraser Wilson – Lincoln University

• Ella Hogan – Massey University

• Cecily Holland – University of Canterbury

The students have expressed strong interests across a range of key production systems, including dairy, sheep and beef, horticulture, and arable farming.

Mentoring and Real-World Industry Networks

Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard highlighted that the scholarships provide more than financial assistance — they also connect students directly with industry professionals.

"Recipients in the scholarship programme are also mentored by members of the Ministry for Primary Industries On Farm Support team, providing hugely beneficial experience and networking opportunities," Mr Hoggard said.

The mentoring component helps prepare students for careers as trusted advisers working directly with farmers and growers on challenges such as productivity, animal health, environmental compliance, and climate resilience.

Supporting the Future of the Advisory Sector

Farm advisers play an increasingly important role as the primary sector navigates changing market demands, sustainability requirements, and climate pressures.

"Farm advisers have a vital role to play in providing on-the-ground support to farmers and growers," Mr Hoggard said.

"These students are the future of the advisory sector and will help keep our food and fibre sector thriving."

The Government says the scholarship programme is a practical investment in the people who will help drive innovation, sustainability and profitability across New Zealand agriculture for decades to come.