What is BOPYG?

The 2023 Bay of Plenty Young Grower competition aims to inspire and acknowledge the talents of young people employed in the fruit and vegetable sectors in the Bay of Plenty. We have some of the best fruit and vegetables in the country so it goes without saying that there are also a number of very talented young fruit and vegetable growers in the region. The winner of the 2023 Bay of Plenty Young Grower goes forward to the national final of the NZ Young Grower on 4-5 October 2023 in Pukekohe.

“The Bay of Plenty Young Grower is a fun-filled and challenging full day event in which contestants undertake a range of horticultural related theoretical and practical activities. To round off the day there will be a dinner where contestants participate in a speech competition and awards will be presented to the winners. The competitions have an emphasis on practical production (on or close to orchard/farm) skills and business skills associated with growing and industry knowledge. The term “grower” includes those involved in growing plus those roles closely associated with growing such as pack house and coolstore employees. This does not include service providers such as bankers and consultants.”

- Brice Morrison, Winner, BOPYG 2021

Whats in it for me?

Need more convinicing? Check out what 2020’s Bay of Plenty Young Grower winner, Melissa van den Heuvel, has to say about her experience…

Tell us about your experience participating in the BOP Young Grower Competition.

The 2020 Bay of Plenty Young Grower Competition was an amazing experience, and one that I am very proud to have been involved in. The competition was a challenge of both my practical and theory skills within the horticulture sector. Not only was I able to share the knowledge I have across different parts of the industry, but it was also an amazing opportunity to learn and extend these further, to meet other like-minded people, and to share my passion for the sector.

Contestants get the opportunity to put themselves out there, to share their knowledge and also gain further industry insights in an event that is so well supported by the industry. Not only do participants get to plant an avocado tree, drive a tractor and test their public speaking skills, they also get the chance to grow networks within the horticulture sector.

Why do you think this event is important to the industry?

Bay of Plenty Young Grower is an important event to the industry as it showcases the ‘up and coming’ members of the industry. It’s a great promotion of what the horticulture industry has to offer and provides the opportunity for young people to share their passion, knowledge and skills. It is also a great way for the younger generation to be empowered, and to promote the industry and opportunities within it, to others looking for future careers.

What would you say to anyone thinking of entering the competition?

For someone looking at participating, I would 100% recommend giving it a shot. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain by putting yourself out there and seeing what this industry has to offer!

How to enter?

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