The organisers reported that well over 3000 people came through over the course of the day.
 
Top horticultural industry identities were on site, as well as a number of locals and an increased number of out-of-towners. Organisers said that they were delighted with the day and positive about the growth that the event has seen this year, demonstrated by a marked increase in attendence.  
 
“We’ve worked hard to grow this event and showcase the unique nature of the event – bringing together education, networking, trade and access to top quality research and innovation all in one place. Combined with the best weather we’ve seen at the event for the last three years, it made for a great day with a great atmosphere. We have plans to grow the event even more next year so it’s an exciting time,” said Anna Hamilton, Events Manager.
 
Andy Lysaght and his Andweeder™won this year’s highly coveted Ravensdown Innovation Award at the National Horticultural Field Day. A clever innovation designed to eliminate hand weeding between crops such as Squash. The Andweeder™is a mechanical non-chemical inter-plant weeder designed for use on precision-planted crops.
 
The winner of the Ravensdown Innovation Award received $1,000 cash as their prize. Runner up was Peter Lawry from Glaber for his Glaber Uppercut 2700 mower.
 
The 10th annual Hawke’s Bay Young Fruitgrower of the Year Competition ran for much of the day as competitors completed a number of practical and theory tests. The competition concludes on Friday evening with the formal dinner at Mission Estate Winery.
 
“This year’s event was about expanding the National Horticultural Field Day to include more vegetable and cropping and give the event a more national focus. We had visitors from Pukekohe, Gisborne, Manawatu, Taranaki and Wellington so we’re delighted,” Hamilton said.