"Positive role models and opportunities for learning are the most effective tools to improving farm practices. Being part of the awards is a stimulating, informative and enjoyable opportunity to benchmark your farm," Mr Wyn-Harris said.
All entrants go through a judging process which considers the entire environment the farm operates within with regard to sustainable profitability, environmental awareness, good business practices and social and community responsibility.
Vying for the supreme award is the Upton and Absolom family who own McNeil Farms out at Rissington.
The 910ha farm is split into two blocks, which are both leased by Ben and Katie Absolom.
The 220ha of forestry is run by Mr Absolom's aunt and uncle, John and Sue Upton.
The Upton block has 160ha of pine trees with the first trees planted in 1993 and another 50ha of alternative commercial species and other trees.
There are also several reserves and wetlands.
Last season McNeil Farms carried 4500 maternal composite ewe hoggets based on Rissington genetics, 600 breeding cows and replacement, 400 R1 bulls and 230 R1 steers.
The second farmer hoping for the top award is Philip Holt.
He has farmed the original part of Maraetara for 35 years.
The 1485ha Maraetara includes 18 titles ranging in size from 150ha to 1.5ha Maraetara has 88ha of pine trees, 14ha of alternative species, 21ha of planted natives, an 18ha QE II National Trust covenant and an 184ha open space covenant.
The farm is also home to Tara's marae, a historic Ngati Kahungunu site dating to the 1350s, and borders Ahuriri Estuary.
Robert and Helen Pattullo of Newstead Farm are also strong contenders for the supreme award.
Their 935ha farm is centred around bull beef finishing and the couple farm in the sensitive Ahuriri Estuary catchment.
Two-thirds of the property is broken into 1ha cells with single-wire electrics and permanent reticulated water.
Last year's winners, Hastings pipfruit and blueberry growers Graham and Marian Hirst, will be on hand in Gisborne to pass on the carved wooden trophy.
The East Coast Ballance Farm Environment Awards region covers the geographic areas of the Hawke's Bay Regional Council and the Gisborne District Council, which are both valued supporters of the awards.