Waikato Bay of Plenty young farmers gear up for Te Teko regional finals

This year is Cam Clayton's last opportunity to reach the Grand Final and compete for the FMG Young Farmer of the Year title. Photo / Supplied

A Waikato competitor is gearing up for a final shot at one of the country’s most prestigious rural titles, with organisers promising a high‑pressure contest designed to push even the strongest contenders to their limits.

For 30‑year‑old Cam Clayton, the upcoming FMG Young Farmer of the Year regional final at Te Teko this Saturday isn’t just another competition, it’s his last chance to secure a place in the Grand Final before he ages out, adding extra intensity to an already demanding day.

While contestants can expect to be put through their paces – as usual – event organisers are ensuring there will be plenty to keep contestants on their toes as they make their way through a series of tough challenges designed to test their practical skills, technical knowledge, and ability to work fast under pressure.

To get competition‑ready, Clayton has been drawing on the people around him, those who’ve competed or helped organise the competition in the past.

He said their support and insight have been “invaluable”.

One of those friends is Hugh Jackson, the 57th FMG Young Farmer of the Year.

Their usual back‑and‑forth about day‑to‑day farm work has shifted into regular FaceTime quiz sessions to sharpen Clayton’s knowledge.

“We’ve always bounced ideas off each other when it comes to daily on‑farm tasks,” Clayton said. “But now we’re having regular FaceTime sessions where he’ll quiz me on things.”

Heading into the contest, Clayton’s strategy is simple: stay focused, keep moving, and enjoy the day.

“You’ve got to do your best and move on, instead of sitting there trying to complete each task to perfection. But more than anything, because it’s my last shot, I want to enjoy it with the other seven guys on stage with me.”

Despite the added pressure, Clayton’s strong preparation and recent performance at the District Contest show he can go all the way. Young agrees he’s a front-runner.

“Cam slayed through the districts. He’s an all‑rounder and one to look out for.”

The FMG Young Farmer of the Year is a highlight in the rural calendar, boasting a strong track record of showcasing the rising stars in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector, igniting contestants’ competitive streak and setting the bar for excellence in farming.

NZ Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly said the long-standing contest is well-loved in Waikato Bay of Plenty and around the country because it gives talented young farmers space to shine in the spotlight and connect with like-minded peers, which can be hard to do in the industry.

“With our AgriKidsNZ events for primary-aged competitors and FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year competitions running alongside the Regional Finals Young Farmers event, collectively the day is a true celebration of agriculture and the people who drive it – with a healthy dose of competition, of course."

This year, 15 primary schools (34 teams), and 13 high schools (34 teams) from Waikato Bay of Plenty have thrown their hat in the ring.

Young says competitors need strong regional skills, but also the ability to think beyond standard farm tasks.

“Know your local skills but be ready for more than farming knowledge; the unexpected could be your biggest challenge.”