Applications are now open for the 2026 round of On Farm Support science scholarships, aimed at growing the next generation of on-farm advisers for New Zealand’s primary sector.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is offering six scholarships worth a total of $30,000 to students studying agriculture, horticulture, viticulture, or science degrees.

Applicants must have completed at least one year of study and have a clear interest in advisory work with farmers and growers.

Launched in 2023, the programme is already showing results.

Recipients like Ffion White and Nerissa Edwards have gone on to secure roles in farm consultancy and nutrient management.

Ffion is now interning with Ballance Agri-Nutrients, while Nerissa works full-time at KS Agri in Feilding.

Both credit the scholarship for helping them build connections and gain hands-on experience.

MPI’s director of On Farm Support, Vanessa Winning, says that’s exactly the goal—supporting students to enter science-backed advisory roles that help boost farm productivity and sustainability.

For Coasties with teens studying ag or science at uni, this could be a great stepping stone into a meaningful, land-connected career.

Applications close 15 September 2025.

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