Young Farmer decider on this weekend

Kiwi champion Athol New (left) will take on Aussie contender Marty McConnon.

The biggest week of the year is underway as all roads lead to the Manawatu for the Grand Final of the FMG Young Farmer of the Year.

Beginning today at Massey University, the seven grand finalists from all around New Zealand begin an arduous three days of battles to be named New Zealand's top Young Farmer.

The finalists include Lisa Kendall from the Northern region, the fourth female to compete at a Grand Final. She's joined by Richard French from the Waikato/Bay of Plenty, James Lawn from Taranaki/Manawatu, Hamish Best from the East Coast, Andrew Wiffen from Tasman, Arjan van't Klooster from Aorangi and Nigel Woodhead from Otago/Southland.

Tomorrow the contestants will battle exhaustion as well as each other in the gruelling practical day.

It will also feature the first ever Trans-Tasman Olympic Ag Battle with current FMG Young Farmer of the Year Athol New taking on Australia with Tasmanian Young Farmer of the Year Marty McConnon.

The pair will do a number of challenges side by side to see who is going to be named the Trans-Tasman champion for 2017!

The AgriKidsNZ and TeenAg Grand Finals will take place with primary and secondary school teams from around New Zealand for the coveted titles.

FMG Young Farmer of the Year Contest Chairman and former Grand Finalist Dean Rabbidge said this year's contest marked a new direction and it would be an exciting experience.

"There will be something for everyone, including those in urban areas. As well as showcasing excellence in the agri sector, this year's contest will allow them to see the mana in which this competition is held."

¦ The contest will be featured online through the NZ Young Farmers You Tube channel and contest Facebook page. It will also feature on Country TV on Thursday, July 13 at 7.30pm.