Youth a focus at 2026 East Coast Farming Expo

There was an impressive line-up for the 2025 Cadet Challenge at the East Coast Farming Expo and it looks like the 2026 event will be just as popular.

A youthful energy will be buzzing through the East Coast Farming Expo at the Wairoa racecourse in February.

Every year, organiser Sue Wilson ensures there is plenty to engage, inspire and educate the next generation of farmers and, with this in mind, the Thursday of the 2026 edition will be known as “Youth Day”.

“The East Coast has long attracted shepherds who are starting out because of its good, challenging country that offers plenty of work for their dogs and lots of camaraderie,” Wilson said.

“The two-day expo [February 18-19] is the perfect place for youngsters to look, learn and try their hands at all manner of things.”

Entry is free for agri-students from schools and cadet training farms in Hawke’s Bay, Wairoa and Gisborne.

Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer of the Year Chloe Butcher-Herries (Ngāti Mahanga, Waikato-Tainui) is one of the seminar speakers on the Thursday.

Butcher-Herries grew up in Hawke’s Bay and long dreamt of being a farmer. A deep connection with the whenua drives her passion for working on the land, and she’s always keen to inspire the next generation.

“A panel discussion featuring Rex Newman - head of agriculture from Napier Boys’ High School - Growing Future Farmers Tairāwhiti manager Taryn Helm, Farmer Time for Schools co-ordinator Marie Burke and Kiwi Country Kids’ Sally Newall will explore the opportunities available, future workforce requirements and how best to inspire and support the next generation of farmers,” Wilson said.

Helm said there was plenty of momentum within Growing Future Farmers.

“There is a genuine sense of pride across the country in what we are building together and the direction we are heading.

“The expo really captures that energy. It is such a valuable space where industry, educators, farmers, trainers and students all come together. It is not just about showcasing what is out there but also about sharing ideas, learning from each other and building those relationships that strengthen the sector as a whole.”

It is a similar story for Burke.

“Our involvement with the expo couldn’t be timelier, especially given its strong focus on inspiring the next generation.”

Burke said the aim was to engage, educate and inspire students from early primary to intermediate years when many were beginning to consider potential careers.

Master dog triallist Guy Peacock will present working dog demos on both days of the expo from 11am.

“This is great for younger shepherds who can learn some great tips for training their hunterways or heading dogs from a real expert,” Wilson said.

“We want to inspire them to take that step into the industry.”