Ballance Farm Environment Awards launch myth‑busting campaign and honor Otago farmer

Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane was awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize, recognizing his multi‑generational farm‑growth project. Kane, a fourth‑generation farmer and former Federated Farmers president, presented his prize at the Rabobank Executive Development Programme graduation dinner.

The New Zealand Farm Environment Trust has opened entries for the new season of the Ballance Farm Environment Awards and announced a "Myth Buster" campaign. Trust General Manager Sarah Harris said the campaign aims to dispel misconceptions such as the need to be a Ballance Agri‑Nutrients customer, the belief that entrants must feel fully ready, and the notion that only a single entry is allowed. The Trust emphasizes that the awards are independent, encourage continuous improvement, and welcome repeat participation.

Both initiatives seek to strengthen New Zealand’s food and fibre sector by highlighting sustainable farm practices and supporting farmers in sharing their development journeys.