The Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award recognises an outstanding woman who has contributed to the dairy sector with passion, drive, innovation, and leadership.

The recipient will receive a scholarship to be part of the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme. The scholarship covers the programme fee, travel & accommodation, mentoring and access to DWN & Fonterra platforms to share you research.

The selection panel consists of five judges including representatives from Dairy Women’s Network, Fonterra, Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Rural Leaders and a previous Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year recipient.

Criteria

The judging panel will consider the following qualities when awarding the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year title:

The entrant:

1. Has a commitment, drive, and passion for the dairy sector as a whole and is a positive role model for women in dairying.
2. Is a strong performer, who is recognised by her peers as a potential leader.
3. Demonstrates leadership within her community but has a wider circle of influence than her local community.
4. Is influential in the dairy sector, holding or having previously help leadership positions on regional or national dairy organisations.
5. The entrant has a vision to add value to the dairy sectors future and is actively working towards achieving that in their leadership aspirations.
6. Is a Dairy Women’s Network member.

What to expect if selected as a finalist

As a finalist you are available to attend:

• An online interview with the judges – Wednesday, 18 March 2026
• Media Training – 4 hour in-person session – Tuesday, 31 March 2026
• On-farm filming session – 2 hours – Wednesday, 1 April 2026
• The 2026 Gala Dinner – Tuesday, 5 May 2026 at Addington Raceway and Events Centre, Christchurch

The finalists will receive a complimentary registration to the DWN2026 conference and ticket to the Gala Dinner. Travel and accommodation will also be paid for by DWN to attend.

Applications and nominations close 28 February 2026.