New Crop Of Arable Leaders Stand TallFrom a couple who set up their own stone-ground milling enterprise to developers of a seed treatment that reduces nitrogen losses, the 2026 Arable Award finalists have been named. Dillon says he’s particularly impressed by the three Innovation Award finalists. When higher input costs and sluggish returns from the global oversupply put the squeeze on arable growers, it might be thought investment in environmental improvements will take a back seat. There are three Maize Grower of the Year finalists, in a year that’s seen a record maize silage harvest - one bright spot for arable. Supported by a significant dryer and silo complex, his business is recognised as the largest maize grain operation in the South Island, demonstrating both scale and commitment to crop production.