Agri Futures Scholarships applications now open

Applications are now open for the Agri Futures Scholarships, helping young Kiwis from rural backgrounds kickstart careers in agriculture and rural sports.

This year, up to 14 scholarships will be awarded, up from nine last year, to support:

· Secondary school leavers who’ve competed in Clash of the Colleges events and are pursuing further education or cadetships.

· Rural sports athletes under 20 who are studying or training.

“We’re all about inspiring and supporting the next generation in agriculture and rural sports,” says Agri Futures general manager Daniel O’Regan.

Scholarship Highlights:

· Most are open nationwide, but two are reserved for Manawatū/Palmerston North students (recognising their support for the NZ Rural Games).

· One is dedicated to South Otago, thanks to the Balclutha-based company, Danone.

Funding comes from:

· Ford NZ Rural Sports Awards auction – featuring signed memorabilia from stars like Dylan Schmidt (Olympics), Erica Dawson (Sailing), Sir Wayne Smith (Black Ferns), and Tim Southee (Black Caps).

· Agri Futures & partners, including Danone and the NZ Rural Games Trust (supporting Otago University sport science student scholarship).

More about the scholarship programme, including the application link, is available at: www.agrifutures.kiwi/scholarships. Applications close at 5pm on Friday, 29th August 2025. Successful applicants will be notified on Tuesday, September 30th September.

Rural Sports athlete applicants welcome from any New Zealand rural sport, including, as an example, Harness Racing, Wood Chopping, Shearing, Rural Fencing, Tree Climbing, Highland Games, Sheep Dog Trials, Gumboot Throwing, Ploughing, Equestrian, Motocross, Shooting and Thoroughbred Racing.

For further information, please contact:

Daniel O’Regan
Agri Futures General Manager & Marketing Manager NZ Rural Games Trust
021832151