Frequently Asked Questions

Which competition am I eligible to enter?

You need to check the Conditions of Entry for all three competitions (see 'The Competitions' in menu) to ensure you are entering a competition you are eligible for.

How many times can I enter?

As many times as you like, as long as you meet the Conditions of Entry for the competition. Once you have won your regional competition however, you cannot enter that competition again in any region.

Is Farm Owner/Farm Employer approval needed?

Yes, all entrants must have their Farm Owner or Farm Employer’s signature on the Entry Form prior to sending it in.

How many other entrants are likely to be in my competition?

This varies each year and from region to region and in each competition. We always welcome past entrants back and love to see new faces.  

Why do entrants need to provide photographs?

We ask entrants to provide photographs to show on our audio visual presentations at the regional award dinners.   

What does the 'theme' of the competition mean?

Each year we choose a theme for our competition. It is integrated into photographs the entrants provide, the decoration of the venues, etc.  

How important is it to make it to the entrant information event?

The entrant information event held in your region is a great opportunity to learn more about the competition and to network with all the other entrants in your region.  

How much time will my entry take up?

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 from others with my entry?

While an entrant should fairly represent themselves and their skills to the judges, it is part of the competition ethos that it is a learning experience as well.  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.

I have no idea what to expect from judging.  Can you give me a clue?

Take a look at the section on this website relating to your competition where we have included some information on judging.   

How much time do we spend on each topic while being judged?

Your allocation of time per topic is completely up to you.  You need to cover everything so give some thought as to how you will achieve that.

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?

Entrants will be provided with written feedback from their judges at the conclusion of the regional awards dinner.  You may contact your first round judges only for verbal feedback prior to the regional awards dinner being held.

What is DairyBase and how do I get on it?

DairyBase is a financial measure used in the Sharemilker of the Year competition and more information can be found on www.dairybase.co.nz

What is expected if I win my region?

For Farm Manager and Sharemilker winners, you will hold a Field Day shortly after you win.  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 competition.

Question not answered?

If you feel you still have a question that hasn't been answered here, then please email the National Convenor, Chris Keeping, at chris@nzdia.org.nz.

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