New Zealand has summed up the results of the annual Arable Awards 2026.

The fourth annual awards ceremony dedicated to innovations in the grain and seed sector brought together nearly 500 guests at the Air Force Museum in Christchurch. The event celebrated industry leaders across seven categories.

The title of "Farmer of the Year" was awarded to John and Mel McCaw, who had previously won the "Seed Grower of the Year" category. Finalists for the top award also included Mark Shera (best maize grower), Andrew and Amy Darling (best grain growers), and representatives of Lovett Family Farms (for positive environmental impact). The judging panel noted the McCaws' success in optimizing crop rotation, effective yield management, and a strategic integration of crop production with livestock. Experts highlighted that the farmers managed to combine high profitability with sustainable farming practices through the use of cover crops, shelterbelts, and gentle tillage methods.

Special attention was given to John McCaw's achievements in community and advisory roles. He chaired the herbage seed section of Federated Farmers and was previously named the organization's Agricultural Advocate of the Year for his significant contribution to the industry's development.

During the ceremony, new members were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Among them were John McKay, founder of New Zealand's largest vegetable seed production company, South Pacific Seeds, and John McKenzie, who contributed to forage crops breeding and agribusiness. The list also included Eric and Maxine Watson, known for their world wheat yield records, and posthumously, agronomic researcher Murray Kelly from PGG Wrightson Seeds, who contributed to increasing seed yield.

The innovation award was presented to Marty and Georgina Scurr. They created a rock flour production business based on their farm, closing the loop from grain cultivation to the marketing and sale of the finished product to the end consumer.