We are pleased to announce that planning is well underway for the 2026 Members’ Day and Awards Gala, and it is shaping up to be a standout event on the industry calendar.

This year’s Gala will bring together members, partners, sponsors and industry stakeholders for a day of connection, insight and celebration. It will provide an outstanding opportunity for groundspreaders from around New Zealand to meet,reconnect, and discuss the issues and opportunities facing the ground-based nutrient application industry ahead of the new season. 

The black-tie event, proudly hosted by the Central Districts Branch, will take place at the Napier War Memorial Centre on Napier’s Marine Parade on Friday, 03 July 2026. 

This one-day event is centred on nurturing  relationships and strengthening our community, with opportunities for members to come together to share ideas and contribute to important conversations impacting the groundspread industry.

The day will begin at 9.00am with a one-hour meet and greet session, followed by two interactive workshops designed to create practical, discussion-based learning opportunities for members.

The Groundspread NZ 70th Annual General Meeting will be held in the afternoon following the workshops, and all members are warmly invited to attend this important annual meeting. 

A cocktail hour will follow, including photo opportunities to capture our peole coming together to celebrate the extraordinary work our industry does everyday.

The evening will feature the eighth annual Industry Awards, recognising and celebrating individuals who have made a significant and positive contribution to the groundspreading industry.

The awards also help raise the profile of the essential role groundspreaders play in New Zealand’s food production chain.

Groundspreaders are typically the first step in ensuring on-farm productivity. By spreading nutrients accurately and evenly, using the latest technology, finely calibrated vehicles, and highly trained operators, groundspreaders help farmers and growers get the best out of their nutrient spend.

The skill and professionalism involved in groundspreading means that food production in New Zealand gets the best start possible.

Head over to the Awards Gala 2026 page to learn more about the awards categories and nomination process.

The day will also feature a partners’ and children’s programme full of fun activities, ensuring the event remains inclusive and family-friendly. So bring your family along!

Accommodation has been blocked for attendees at Scenic Hotel Te Pania, conveniently located just across the road from the venue. So mark your calenders and start planning your trip now!