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Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) is calling on New Zealand’s dairy community to nominate an outstanding woman for the 2027 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year Award – an opportunity that could be the beginning of a transformative leadership journey.

Now in its fifteenth year, the award recognises a woman who demonstrates passion, drive, innovation and leadership, and who is making a meaningful contribution to New Zealand’s dairy sector.

The 2027 recipient will receive a scholarship to the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, providing an opportunity to step outside the day-to-day, challenge their thinking, strengthen their leadership capability and build relationships with leaders from across Aotearoa.

For 2026 recipient Hinehou (Hine) Timutimu, the award has provided an opportunity to strengthen her leadership, expand her networks and explore how women can have greater influence across the agri-sector.

“Kellogg has been one of the most significant leadership development experiences of my career,” says Hine.

Hine’s Kellogg research, Not One More Acre of Māori Land, Not One More Voice Lost, explored the role of women in agriculture and the difference between participation and influence. Her research found that women are contributing across farming businesses, governance, industry organisations, rural communities and whānau, but their contributions are not always reflected in positions of authority, visibility or decision-making.

“Kellogg reinforced that effective leadership is not about titles or status. It is about understanding systems, building relationships, contributing with authenticity, and having the courage to step forward when it matters most,” says Hine.

DWN Trustee and Lead Judge Jenna Smith says this is exactly what makes the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year Award so important.

“Women are shaping our dairy sector in so many different ways, whether on farm, in businesses, in their communities or around board tables,” says Smith.

“Often, they are the quiet doers who roll up their sleeves because it’s the right thing to do, even when it isn’t easy. They bring people together, support others and get things done without seeking recognition.”

“If you know someone who fits that description, nominate them – and if that’s you, put yourself forward! This opportunity will give you the platform to make an even greater impact.”

The award offers more than recognition. The recipient receives a scholarship to the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, including the full payment of the programme fee, travel and accommodation assistance, mentoring, and access to the DWN and Fonterra platforms to share their research.

Fonterra has proudly supported the award since its inception, helping celebrate and develop women who are shaping the future of dairy.

Fonterra Farm Source Group Director Anne Douglas says the Co-op believes diverse leadership is good for the whole sector. 

“We know diverse perspectives make better decisions and build stronger businesses, and women’s leadership is central to that,” Douglas says.

“The Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award is one of the ways we champion and celebrate the outstanding women shaping the dairy industry, and we hope it inspires even more women to back themselves and put their hand up for development opportunities.”

DWN is encouraging people to think beyond the obvious candidates and consider the women leading change on farm. The person bringing people together in her community. The emerging leader with ideas for the future. Or the woman who is quietly opening doors for those coming behind her.

It could even be you. You don’t need a long list of leadership titles. You don’t need to have everything figured out. What matters is your contribution, your commitment to the dairy sector and your potential to make a difference.

As Hine reflects after completing Kellogg, the goal is not simply to find your own voice, but to use it to help ensure others are heard too.

So, who is the woman you know who deserves the opportunity to step forward?

Nominations and applications are now open and close 26 February 2027.

Know a woman who should be recognised? Nominate her.

Think you could be the next Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year? Apply today.

Click here for more information or to nominate

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Photo: Supplied by DWN; Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year recipients. (L-R) Jo Sheridan (2025), Donna Cram (2023), Barbara Kuriger (2012), Belinda Price (2021), Hinehou Timutimu (2026), Trish Rankin (2019), Ash-Leigh Campbell (2020), and Justine Kidd (2013).

For more information
Sarah van Munster
Partner Relationship Manager
07 974 4852
media@dwn.org.nz