NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon said the continuation of these awards strengthens the programme’s scope, extending support beyond trainees to those actively purchasing farms. The initiative reinforces NZDIA’s mission to recognise excellence across all career stages while supporting succession planning and long-term sustainability in the dairy industry. The impact of the programme is illustrated by 2025 ASB Alumni of the Year winners Steve and Amy Gillies, who credited access to 1% interest lending from ASB with accelerating their farming ambitions. After earlier success in NZDIA competitions, the couple purchased a 97-hectare farm in Te Awamutu and are now planning further expansion and opportunities to support future sharemilkers. The ASB Alumni of the Year Award targets NZDIA alumni from the past seven years who are transitioning toward ownership or early ownership stages.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 19, 2026 19:27 UTC