Emerging talent earns Young Māori Grower recognition

Larissa Wooding‑Ngata (Ngāti Porou) has been recognised as a finalist in the prestigious 2026 Ahuwhenua Young Māori Grower Award, celebrating emerging talent and leadership across Aotearoa New Zealand’s horticulture sector.

Larissa was one of three outstanding Māori horticulturalists acknowledged for their skill, dedication and contribution to the industry. The award highlights the next generation of Māori growers who are helping to shape one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing primary sectors.

The 2026 title was awarded to Te Rina Joe of Ngāti Pāhauwera Commercial Development Limited, recognising her achievements and leadership overseeing apple operations in Hawke’s Bay.

The competition journey began for the finalists with a comprehensive interview process conducted by a panel of three judges.

Lead Judge Sam Vivian‑Greer described this year’s finalists as “fine up‑and‑coming young Māori leaders,” underscoring the importance of supporting and developing talent as they progress into management and leadership roles across the sector.

Following her successful selection as a finalist, Larissa embarked on a development programme designed to expose participants to some of the best examples of Māori horticultural excellence across the country.

As part of the programme, finalists attended a field day hosted by one of the Excellence in Māori Horticulture Award finalists, Otama Marere Trust. The Trust has led the development of SunGold G3 kiwifruit, becoming one of the first Māori-owned orchards to establish the variety. The Trust is also recognised for supporting its owners and whānau through grants and initiatives, while demonstrating strong kaitiakitanga (guardianship) through environmental restoration and continued orchard growth.

Larissa joined Craigmore Sustainables in February 2023 as an orchard leading hand and has since progressed to the role of foreperson across the Glenpark and Sunpark apple orchards in Gisborne.

For Orchard Manager, Joshua Rowe, her selection as a finalist reflects her strong work ethic, capability and the values she brings to her role.

“For those who know Larissa, her selection as a finalist comes as no surprise. Since beginning her horticulture career, she has continually sought opportunities to learn, grow and lead. She has become a highly respected member of the team.” said Joshua.

“Being named an Ahuwhenua Young Māori Grower Award finalist highlights Larissa as one of the emerging leaders within New Zealand horticulture. Over recent months, her confidence, industry knowledge and leadership presence have continued to develop, and this experience has undoubtedly accelerated that growth.”

While Larissa narrowly missed taking home the overall title, she received a $5,000 scholarship to support her future study and professional development.

“We are incredibly proud of Larissa’s achievement and look forward to seeing where her horticultural journey takes her next. The future of our industry is bright with leaders like Larissa helping to shape it.’ Joshua added.

The major award, the Ahuwhenua Trophy, was awarded to Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective, a strategic partnership with a significant kiwifruit portfolio based in Te Puke.