A new award will shine a light on rural mental health heroes at the 2026 Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, for which nominations are now open.
Ford New Zealand’s Managing Director, Annaliese Atina said both Ford and the team at Courtesy Ford Manawatu are proud to recognise the hard work, dedication, and achievements of athletes and supporters of rural sports in New Zealand.
“The awards play a vital role in recognising and celebrating the incredible achievements of rural sportspeople,” said Annaliese. “They not only shine a spotlight on those who excel in their fields but also acknowledge the significant contributions of those working behind the scenes.”
The Hydroflow Contribution to Rural Mental Health Award has been created thanks to the passionate advocacy of NZ Rural Sports Awards judge and rural health advocate, Craig ‘Wiggy’ Wiggens, who said the award is a crucial step in acknowledging the unsung heroes of rural wellbeing.
Hydroflow Chief Executive Officer Kathryn Sixton said the new award recognises those who have made a positive difference to rural mental health.
“In recent years there has been a strong push for farmers and other rural people to seek help, do things to support their mental health and to reach out your mates to ensure they are okay. Rural sports clubs are often the heart of a community and play a vital role in fostering connections that are crucial to wellbeing. Hydroflow is proud to shine a light on those who have dedicated their lives to helping those with mental health issues.”
Convenor of Judges, Paul Allison MNZM said nominations are open to rural sports organisations or clubs involved in wood-chopping, shearing, horse-riding, tree-climbing, shooting, rodeo, harness racing, highland games, equestrian, gumboot throwing, ploughing, fencing and more.
In addition, the judging panel will select finalists and announce winners for the following awards on the night of the award ceremony:
Paul Allison is urging sports administrators and Regional Sports Organisations to submit nominations for the NZ Rural Sports Awards. Nominations close on Monday 12th January 2026. Finalists for the Men’s, Women’s and Youth categories will be announced in February 2026, all other recipients will be announced on the night of the awards.
Save the date
The Awards will be presented at a gala function at Awapuni Racecourse on Friday, 13 March 2026, during the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games Weekend in Palmerston North.
