The Waikato and Bay of Plenty region has 15 active New Zealand Young Farmers Clubs.

“From Taumarunui to Ngatea, Te Kuiti to Edgecumbe and everything in between, there is a club for everyone to join and embrace the opportunities that we have to offer,” says Young Farmers national field team coordinator Casey Huffstutler.

New Zealand Young Farmers Club competitions at regional level test a range of farming skills.

The network operates with an information flow capacity through which business, leadership and personal development programmes are aligned to provide a progression pathway within NZ Young Farmers, all while having a fun element to it.

“The competitions vary from stock judging to photography and the ANZ Young Farmer Contest to test their skills. Each club has its own identity and culture for people, aged 18-31, who come from on or off-farm.

“If there’s not one in your area, we can help you start one,” says Casey.

“You don’t need to be a farmer to join. We have many members who are landscapers, electricians and lawyers.”

Find your closest club on the national website www.youngfarmers.co.nz or contact Casey Huffstutler, who’ll point you in the right direction. Call her on 027 213 0043 or email casey@youngfarmers.co.nz