Eligibility

Age Requirement

  • Contestants must be 30 years or under as at 31 December 2025.

Industry Experience

  • Minimum of three years practical work experience

  • Verified by a letter from employer

Employment Status

  • Must be working full-time in the fruit or vegetable industry

Residency Requirement

  • Must be a NZ citizen, hold a NZ residency permit, or be in process (supporting letter may be required)

Availability

  • Must be available for National Final: 26–29 August 2026 (travel costs covered)

Previous Winners

  • Regional winners can reapply

  • National winners cannot reapply