Leilani Lobb

Leilani Lobb works full time on farm as a contract milker with her partner Ben near Kurow, Otago, while also being a dedicated DWN Regional Leader for North Otago and a committed contributor to her local rural community.

Stepping up into leadership roles with DWN, including a temporary hub leader role, she has played a key role in connecting and empowering farmers through events, learning opportunities, and meaningful conversations. Leilani is also a member of the 2026 South Island Dairy Event organising committee and co-founded the Canterbury Dairy Young Leaders group to foster high-level discussion and growth.

Known for her positivity, relatability, and willingness to support others, she leads by example – encouraging those around her to build confidence, get involved, and strengthen their communities.

The judges said Leilani is a quiet achiever who’s steady, considered leadership speaks louder than words.

Contract milking at just 22 years old, Leilani has always backed herself — and backed others. Her proudest moments include that early milestone and becoming part of Dairy Women’s Network, which she sees as an essential part of her own leadership journey.

When she moved to North Otago, Leilani could easily have said no to stepping into the Hub Leader role. Instead, she leaned in. As she puts it: “The growth within myself was great.”

She is on the SIDE 2026 organising committee, helped co-found the Canterbury Dairy Young Leaders group, and is now focused on rebuilding connections in North Otago — because she believes quality matters more than quantity. Even an event that reaches just a few people holds great value for those people.

She aspires to be the leader she would want around herself — and in doing so, lifts everyone around her.

– Judges Panel