They are:

• Andrew Hutchinson, technical growing support for AS Wilcox;
• Daniel Fong from Perfect Produce in Pukekohe;
• Amrik Singh from Purewal Growers also in Pukekohe, and;
• Christchurch-based Lincoln Roper from Roper & Son.

The contestants will spend the day at Riccarton Racecourse testing their practical skills around quad bike handling, first aid and squash crate assembly, and their theoretical knowledge of fertilisers and seed spreading.

Industry body, HortNZ, says it is delighted to see three of the four competitors are from family owned businesses, because succession is a significant issue for the vegetable growing industry – this is also the topic for the speech the contestants will give at the awards evening at the Rydges Latimer Hotel.

There are still tickets available for the evening event. Those interested in attending this important industry gathering are invited to contact Graham Martin on 027 247 5115.