Christchurch set to test the best
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 01-05-14

Tickets are on sale now for the 2014 ANZ Young Farmer Contest Grand Final events, 3-5 July in Christchurch.

The competition, in its 46th year, is the flagship event on the rural calendar and is unlike any other competition internationally in its prestige, sponsorship and following.

Over a demanding two days Kiwi Young Farmers are put through their paces in all things agriculture – from practical hands-on modules, including the action-packed agri-sports challenge, to theory and general knowledge tests.

“This contest is a testament to the calibre of individuals integral to the success of the primary sector,” commented Kyle Goodwin, ANZ Young Farmer Contest Chairman.

The Grand Final begins Thursday 3 July with the Official Opening at Lincoln University Library (free for spectators). The contestants will battle it out in their first head-to-head challenge and onlookers will get a taste of the action in store.

The following morning, Friday 4 July, signals the beginning of the Practical Day at Lincoln University grounds (gold coin donation entry) where the seven Grand Finalists will work their way through modules which will test their skills, strength and stamina.

The day will also play host to a variety of other entertaining agricultural events.

Future Young Farmers, the AgriKidsNZ and TeenAg competitors, will battle it out in their Grand Finals. 21 teams in each, all vying to take home their respective champion titles and trophies.

Spectators can also watch the finalists in the New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) stock judging, fencing and clay target shooting competitions.

Also in the mix is the World Young Shepherds Challenge. Eight competitors from across New Zealand will be tested in their sheep industry skills and knowledge, with the top two winning a trip to France to represent New Zealand at the final in September.

In the evening, events head to the Wigram Airforce Museum for the ANZ Sponsors and Speeches Dinner where the contestants’ rhetoric talents are tested and attendees enjoy a three course meal.

The next day, Saturday 5 July, is devoted to preparation for the live, televised Evening Show, hosted by Mark Leishman at CBS Arena. A cool head and quick wits are vital for the quiz round. By the end of the show, the scores will be tallied and one Young Farmer will be named The 2014 ANZ Young Farmer Contest Champion.

Celebrations will continue into the evening at the black-tie dinner and ball at Addington Raceway.

“Young Farmers are known for putting on a good show. The events over these few days can be enjoyed by all and it’s a great opportunity to celebrate rural New Zealand,” said Mr Goodwin.

Other events include the annual NZYF Bus Trip, the TBfree New Zealand NZYF Chairman’s Awards Dinner & Debate, AGMARDT Agri-business Breakfast and the NZYF Annual General Meeting.

For tickets CLICK HERE
Full schedule of Grand Final events CLICK HERE
Contestant profiles CLICK HERE

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