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Tonight, the winner of the Maori Farm of the Year
will be awarded the Ahuwhenua Trophy.
Hinerangi Goodman spoke to the three finalist today.
This is the much prized trophy which for many years has been
competed for by Maori farmers throughout the country.
In just a few hours, it will perhaps find it's way to a new home.
This is a time for us all to meet and get to know one another
especially with Pakihiroa and Otakanini
to celebrate this very special event.
Tonight almost 600 people will join to celebrate this event
and their efforts in the farming sector.
Yes, it is hard because we don't know what the judges are looking for
but we are looking forward to celebrating together.
Maori have been farming for many years,
but this particular competition has made it possible
not just for us Ngati Porou, but for everyone else to develop themselves.
The event began in 1932 by Sir Apirana Ngata and Lord Bledisloe.
However, it wasn't until some years later that it picked up
and has now become a large annual event.
We will all be winners, all Maori farmers.
An event made possible through the protection of the environment
which is the livelihood of Maori.
Hinerangi Goodman, Te Karere.