The awards process

Awards registration

Entrants or their nominees register here.

Entry completion

BFEA provides further information and “Getting to Know You Forms” for completion at entrant’s earliest convenience (no later than one week after entries close).

First-round property visit

BFEA arranges a visiting team for each entrant, to meet and discuss their business. This is a chance for entrants to showcase their property and operation.

Shortlist process – videos & awards eligibility

The first-round teams meet to discuss all entrants and select those for whom we would like to create a video story. These will be based on great farming stories, and may include some who are early in their sustainability journey. Some entrants (finalists) will also be shortlisted to be considered for awards based on good farming practice and being role models for certain aspects of their operation.

Regional awards panel visit

The Regional Awards Panel visits all finalists at their properties to be assessed for awards available in their region.

Awards evening

A function is held to celebrate all entrants and finalists, announce awards and name one of the finalists as the Regional Supreme Winner for the year.

BFEA regional supreme winner’s field day

The Regional Supreme Winner hosts an Open Day on their property, bringing together their community, other entrants, the BFEA regional team and sponsors.

Selection of national ambassadors for sustainable farming & growing

The Regional Supreme Winners from all regions are eligible for this national award. The judging process starts with a visit by the National On-Farm Judging Team. This is followed by an interview with the National Judging Panel.

National sustainability showcase

This is a conference event bringing together all the Regional Supreme Winners, Alumni from previous awards, the National Ambassadors from the previous year, and members of the regional committees and NZ Farm Environment Trust Board.

This event is culminated with a gala awards dinner that celebrates all the Regional Supreme Winners and concludes with naming the new National Ambassadors and winners of the Gordon Stephenson Trophy.