OPINION: As an on-farm judge for the Ballance Farm Environment Awards for many years, I’ve witnessed first-hand how dramatically New Zealand agriculture and horticulture has transformed over the past three decades. As we enter into another round of applications for next year’s Ballance Farm Environment Awards, here are some key trends I’ve observed around the wider shift toward a more holistic environmental guardianship approach to farming and growing. A common observation is the improved aesthetics and work environment these wetland or riparian areas provide. Warwick Catto is a board member of the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust and has been an on-farm judge of the Ballance Farm Environment Awards for more than 15 years. Entries are now open for the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards, for more information, visit bfea.org.nz Entries close 31 October 2025.