Ahuwhenua Trophy chair Nukuhia Hadfield said with covid restrictions now being progressively lifted, it was decided that it is safe to resume the judging process.
She said entrants and sponsors have all been consulted and they are happy with this decision.
She said the only change to the programme now is the cancellation of the announcement of finalists at a function at Parliament.
“We will be announcing the finalists once the first-round judging process is complete. People will have a chance to meet this year’s finalists at their respective field days in August and September. These events have always proved popular and are an excellent way of showcasing the achievements of our finalists,” Hadfield said.
The new amended dates for the field days are: Field Day 1, August 25; Field Day 2, September 1; and Field Day 3, September 8.
The awards dinner will be held on October 21 at the Pettigrew Green Arena in Hawke’s Bay.
Hadfield said 2022 has been a very challenging year for many Māori sheep and beef farmers, especially those on the East Coast of the North Island.
“The heavy rains in March had a catastrophic effect on some Māori farms – akin to the devastating Cyclone Bola in 1988. The torrential rain caused massive slips on many farms destroying fences, tracks and other infrastructure. Stock has also been lost or affected by the storms. It will take considerable time and effort to restore these farms to their former state,” she said.
But she said despite the setbacks, the prospects are good for another excellent Ahuwhenua Trophy competition.
