Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to your questions in our FAQs below, from how to enter the NZ Dairy Industry Awards to specific questions about judging and awards events.
Entering
What region am I in?
For the purposes of the Awards Programme, New Zealand is divided into eleven different regions. Take a look at the map in our Regions section to determine which region you will be an entrant in. SEE REGIONS HERE
What category should I enter?
Our category section should give you a good idea of the award you could be eligible for. Then make sure you check the full Conditions of Entry to make 100% sure you have the right category. If you are still unsure, get in touch with us through our contact page.
How many times can I enter?
As many times as you like, as long as you meet the Conditions of Entry for the category. Once you have won your regional category however, you cannot enter that category again in any region.
Do I need 'manager' in my job title to enter Dairy Manager of the Year?
No you don't - you just need to meet the Conditions of Entry for Dairy Manager of the Year!
Can more than one person from the same farm enter Dairy Manager of the Year?
Yes, they can! The Judging Criteria focuses on the person and their contribution to the farming operation, therefore there is no reason why more than one person from the same farm cannot enter separately. Judging schedules will be set so that multiple entries from the same farm are not judged at the same time.
Is farm owner/farm employer permission needed?
Entrants in the Share Farmer of the Year and Dairy Manager of the Year category must have their Farm Owner and if applicable, Farm Employer’s permission to enter. Dairy Trainee of the Year entrants do not need their Farm Employer's permission to enter.
How many entrants will there be in my category?
This varies each year and from region to region and in each category. We always welcome past entrants back and love to see new faces.
Why do I need to provide a photo?
Supplying a Head & Shoulders Photograph is optional. This is so we can include it on the Entry Form and also to supply to media where needed.
How long will it take to enter?
As much time as you feel you can spare. The more effort you put in, the greater the reward.
How much help can I get with my entry?
While an entrant should fairly represent themselves and their skills to the judges, it is part of the Awards Programme ethos that it is a learning experience. So if you feel you are weak in some areas and need to up-skill, then you are free to seek out resources to help you with this.
What is DairyBase and how do I get on it?
DairyBase is a financial measurement tool used in the Share Farmer of the Year category. More information can be found on the DairyBase website.
Events
How important is it to make the entrant information event?
The entrant information event held in your region is a great opportunity to learn more about the Awards Programme and to network with all the other entrants in your region.
What is expected of me if I win my regional category?
One regional Field Day is held on the property of the Share Farmer of the Year winner, with the winner of the Dairy Manager of the Year and Dairy Trainee of the Year in attendance and presenting a small segment of the day. All regional winners will represent their region at the national final held in May each year. Any additional involvement with the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards family is at your discretion but we find most winners enjoy the opportunity to continue to be involved with their regions and sponsors of the Awards Programme.
What is the Regional Awards Dinner?
Each region has an awards dinner where the merit awards are presented and the regional category winners are announced. These dinners are a fantastic night out and an excellent way to mix with fellow entrants, peers, sponsors and judges.
What is the Regional Winners Field Day?
The Dairy Industry Awards Winners Field Day is held on the property of the Share Farmer of the Year winner. The winners from the Dairy Trainee of the Year and Dairy Manager of the Year categories are required to attend the Field Day and give a short presentation.
What is the National Sponsors Breakfast?
The regional winners meet a few days before the National Final and enjoy getting to know each other while partaking in some educational and fun activities. Prior to the National Final Dinner, the regional winners have an interview with the National judging panel. This completes their judging process.
What is the National Final Awards Dinner?
All regional winners go on to compete for the national title in each category. National Merit Awards are also announced here. The National Awards Dinner event is held in May each year.
Judging
I have no idea what to expect from judging. Can you give me a clue?
We can! Have a look at the category section for an idea of what judging entails. There is also other information including an outline of the Judging Criteria.
How does on-farm judging work for Share Farmer of the Year?
Our category pages outline in further detail how your regional judging will work. There is no 'one size fits all' as to how to give a presentation to the judges. It is up to each entrant to determine how best to cover off the judging criteria while at the same time allowing the judges to see the real you. Your allocation of time per topic is completely up to you. Many of our entrants find their confidence builds and their presentations improve each year they enter.
How does on-farm judging work for Dairy Manager of the Year?
Our category pages outline in further detail how your regional judging will work as this is different for each round of judging. Take a look here. More specific information will be given after entry.
Who are the judges?
Each region selects their judges who voluntarily give of their time in the judging rounds. They are respected farmers, agribusiness managers, farm consultants and consulting officers.
Can I talk to the judges for feedback?
Share Farmer and Dairy Manager entrants will be provided with a written Feedback Report from their judges. Dairy Trainee entrants will receive on the spot feedback as well a score summary for the skills day and written feedback for the finals round. Verbal feedback can only be sought from your judges after the Regional Awards dinner has been held.
Question not answered?
If you can't find the answer to your question here, then please get in touch with us.
