"There's been massive development in the new varieties like the red kiwifruit. That's something that really interests me. And I definitely don't like the taste of kiwifruit so one day, hopefully I can make some I do like to eat."
At age 17, Fergus already has a track record in plant genetics and wonders if his good fortune has anything to do with the four-leaf clover science fair project he completed four years ago. His experiment, which won a regional award, successfully cloned the lucky leaves.
Among his trophy haul at the recent Katikati College prizegiving night, the multi-talented teen collected awards for leadership, drama, top overall student and one for unselfish service to the school.
While at university, he hopes to join an overseas student exchange programme but ultimately hopes to stay in New Zealand.
"Why would you want to leave," he says.
In the meantime, he has a summer of kiwifruit work on the family orchard.
Zespri Grower & External Relations General Manager Dave Courtney says this year's scholarship winners stood out among a field of 117 applicants from around New Zealand.
This year, the second Zespri scholarship went to Bethlehem College student Alex Tomkins.
"It's exciting to see young people of this calibre eager to enter our industry," Dave says.
"They are smart and driven, they're natural leaders but they're also well-rounded, thoroughly decent citizens who have already contributed significantly to our community.
Just imagine how they might help to shape our future." The successful candidates receive $5000 a year towards their tertiary studies, as well as industry mentoring and support over a three-year period.
Next year, Fergus heads to Victoria University to complete a science degree majoring in biotechnology as well as cell and molecular bioscience.
