Six Tertiary Students Secure MPI On Farm Support Scholarships for NZ Primary Industries
The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has announced the recipients of its 2026 On Farm Support Science Scholarships, awarding $5,000 each to six talented tertiary students. This initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of on-farm advisers essential for supporting farmers and growers across the country's vital primary sector. The scholarships target students in agriculture, commerce, and environmental sustainability programs at leading New Zealand universities, reflecting a strategic investment in higher education to address industry needs.
Launched in 2023, the program responds to the growing demand for skilled advisers who can bridge scientific knowledge with practical farm management. With New Zealand's food and fibre exports forecasted to reach a record $62 billion in the year ending June 2026—a 3% increase from previous highs—these scholarships underscore the government's commitment to bolstering the primary sector's workforce through university partnerships.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay highlighted the importance of this support, noting that on-farm advisers play a pivotal role in helping producers navigate sustainability challenges, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. Each recipient will receive mentorship from MPI's On Farm Support team, providing invaluable industry insights alongside their academic pursuits.
Spotlight on the 2026 Scholarship Recipients
The six awardees hail from diverse backgrounds but share a passion for New Zealand's primary industries, from dairy and sheep-beef to horticulture and arable farming. Their selection highlights the breadth of expertise needed in advisory roles.
- Cameron Brans (Lincoln University, Bachelor of Commerce - Agriculture): From Waipawa in Central Hawke's Bay, Cameron is focused on sustainable meat and arable production. He aims to combine business acumen with science in advisory roles, exploring on-farm diversification strategies.
- Jack Green (Lincoln University, Bachelor of Agricultural Science Honours): Originally from Auckland, Jack brings international experience from a semester at Cornell University. His 2026 research targets data analytics and software solutions for New Zealand dairy farms, positioning him for agri-tech consultancy.
- Fraser Wilson (Lincoln University, Bachelor of Commerce - Agriculture): Raised on a sheep and beef farm in Gore, Southland, Fraser's interests lie in rural banking and agribusiness, with aspirations to own a farm or business in the future.
- Eibhlin Lynch (Lincoln University, Bachelor of Agricultural Science Honours): Hailing from Whanganui and brought up on a mixed dairy, sheep, and beef farm, Eibhlin studied environmental issues during an exchange at University College Dublin. She seeks to advise on science-backed rural services amid consumer and regulatory pressures.
- Ella Hogan (Massey University, Bachelor of Agricultural Science): From Dannevirke, Ella is dedicated to the sheep and beef sector, emphasizing science-based advice to link research, policy, and resilient farm management.
- Cecily Holland (University of Canterbury, Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability): Wellington-based Cecily focuses on horticulture, regenerative agriculture, soil health, and climate adaptation for growers, eyeing a career in sustainability consulting.
These students exemplify how targeted funding can nurture talent directly from university campuses into high-impact roles.
Lincoln University's Leadership in Primary Sector Education
Lincoln University, New Zealand's specialist land-based university, dominates the recipient list with four scholars. Renowned for its Bachelor of Agricultural Science—a unique four-year program blending soil science, crop production, animal health, and agribusiness—Lincoln equips students with hands-on skills for modern farming.
The Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) further integrates economics and management, preparing graduates like Cameron, Jack, Fraser, and Eibhlin for advisory and entrepreneurial paths. Lincoln's curriculum emphasizes sustainability, with modules on precision agriculture and environmental management, aligning perfectly with MPI's goals. The university's location in Canterbury, a hub for arable and sheep farming, provides real-world exposure through farm-based learning and industry partnerships.Explore opportunities in NZ higher education.
With strong employment outcomes—over 95% of agriculture graduates finding roles within six months—Lincoln continues to be a pipeline for primary sector talent.
Massey University: Powering Agri-Science Innovation
Massey University's Bachelor of Agricultural Science (BAgSci) is a cornerstone of New Zealand's agricultural education, offered through the School of Agriculture and Environment. Ella Hogan's selection underscores Massey's reputation for producing advisers who connect research with on-farm practice.
The three-year degree covers pastures, crops, livestock, soil sciences, economics, and agribusiness systems. Students undertake practical farm work, data analysis, and policy studies, fostering skills for resilient food production. Massey's research leadership, including the Riddet Institute for food science, enhances its global standing. For aspiring advisers, electives in farm consultancy and extension services are key.Career advice for agri researchers.
University of Canterbury's Sustainability Edge
Cecily Holland represents a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability through UC's innovative Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability (BSEnS), paired with a BSc. This interdisciplinary degree tackles global challenges like climate change and resource management, with majors in sustainable business or policy.
Students learn systems thinking, applying science to social and economic contexts—ideal for advising growers on regenerative practices and soil health. UC's Sustainability Hub integrates real-world projects, preparing graduates for roles in horticulture adaptation and policy advising. As primary industries face emissions targets, such expertise is crucial.
Understanding the On Farm Support Science Scholarships Program
Administered by MPI, these scholarships target full-time tertiary students in years two or above of relevant degrees. Eligibility includes New Zealand citizenship or residency, commitment to primary sector advisory careers, and alignment with sectors like dairy, sheep-beef, horticulture, or arable.Official MPI Scholarships Page
The application process involves submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining career goals, and references. Selection prioritizes potential impact and rural connections. Recipients gain $5,000 funding plus MPI mentorship, including workshops on advisory skills and sector updates. Applications typically open mid-year, closing August/September for the following academic year.
- Launched: 2023
- Annual value: $30,000 total (6 x $5,000)
- Mentorship: MPI On Farm Support team
- Focus: Building adviser pipeline amid retirements
The Vital Role of On-Farm Advisers
On-farm advisers act as knowledge translators, helping farmers implement best practices step-by-step: assessing farm systems, analyzing data (e.g., soil tests, milk yields), recommending tech like precision irrigation, ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g., freshwater rules), and supporting business planning. In NZ's export-driven economy, they drive productivity and sustainability.
With an aging workforce—many advisers over 50 retiring—they address shortages in specialized areas like agritech and regen ag. Scholarships ensure universities produce advisers versed in both science and farmer realities.
New Zealand's Primary Sector: Economic Powerhouse Facing Evolving Challenges
The primary sector underpins NZ's economy, contributing around 8.8% to GDP directly and powering half of merchandise exports. Dairy leads at ~$20b, followed by meat/wool ($10b+), horticulture ($9.2b forecast 2026), and forestry.
Challenges include climate variability, emissions reduction (ERP2 2026-30), labor shortages, and tech adoption. Forecasts show stable growth, but advisers are key to resilience—e.g., helping shift to low-emission practices while maintaining $62b exports.SOPI December 2025 Report
| Sector | 2026 Export Forecast |
|---|---|
| Dairy | $20b+ |
| Meat & Wool | $10b+ |
| Horticulture | $9.2b |
| Forestry | $7b |
Employment in primary industries supports rural communities, with demand for 47,000 new jobs economy-wide to 2026.
Bridging Higher Education and Primary Industry Needs
These scholarships exemplify public-private-university synergy. Universities like Lincoln and Massey offer specialized programs, while MPI provides targeted funding and mentorship. This model enhances graduate employability—e.g., past recipients securing advisory roles post-graduation.Discover more scholarships on AcademicJobs.com.
For students, it means financial relief amid rising costs, plus networks for internships. Industry benefits from fresh talent tackling real issues like soil health and data-driven decisions.
Career Prospects and Actionable Insights for Aspiring Advisers
Graduates enter roles like farm consultants, extension officers, or agribusiness analysts, earning $70k-$100k starting. Pathways include:
- Certifications: Registered Farm Consultant (RFC)
- Further study: Postgraduate diplomas in agribusiness
- Experience: Farm internships, rural banking
To prepare: Join Young Farmers, volunteer on farms, master tools like FarmIQ software. Check higher-ed jobs and university jobs for related positions.Agri career advice.
Photo by Satria Perkasa on Unsplash
Future Opportunities and Call to Action
Applications for 2027 scholarships will open soon via MPI. Explore similar funding through Beef + Lamb NZ or forestry trusts. As NZ's primary sector evolves, university students like these recipients will shape sustainable futures. Visit AcademicJobs.com scholarships, higher ed jobs, rate my professor, career advice, and university jobs to advance your path.
These awards signal optimism: with skilled advisers, NZ's primary industries can thrive amid global demands.