A person or company that has introduced innovative technology and/or farming methods in their operation.
Purpose
The Potatoes New Zealand Innovation Award aims to recognise and celebrate innovative contributions that drive progress and excellence within New Zealand’s potato industry. This award highlights creativity, sustainability, and measurable impacts that support the industry’s long-term growth and success.
Eligibility
- Who Can Enter
Open to individuals, teams, or organisations actively involved in New Zealand’s potato industry.
- Membership
Nominees do not need to be members of Potatoes New Zealand, but they must be actively engaged in the potato industry, ie. an employee of a member.
- Timeline
Innovations must have been implemented within the last two years.
- Geographic Scope
The innovation must have a direct impact on New Zealand’s potato industry, though international collaborations are welcome.
Nominations
- Submission Process
Nominations can be submitted online via the form at the bottom of this webpage.
- Who Can Nominate
Nominations can be submitted by members, trade members, associate members, colleagues, mentors, industry peers, or by the nominees themselves from the potato industry.
- Required Materials
- A clear description of the innovation activity, including its purpose, goals and outcomes.
- Optional visual aids (photos, videos, or other media).
Decision
- Final Decision
- The judging panel’s decision is final, and no correspondence shall be entered in to.
- Winners will be announced and recognised at the award presentation during the Potatoes Conference.
Benefits
- Industry Recognition
Winners will gain widespread acknowledgment for innovation within New Zealand’s potato industry.
- Promotion
Award recipients will be featured on a Potatoes New Zealand website article, social media, and in industry publications, enhancing their visibility and reputation.
Key Dates 2027
Nominations Open: Monday 3 May
Nominations Close: Friday 2 July
Judging: Monday 5 July to Friday 16 July
Awards finalised: Friday 23 July
Award presentation: Wednesday 18 August
Innovation Award – Nomination Open Monday 3 May 2027