The prestigious agricultural communicator award was presented to Lain Jager Chief Executive of Zespri tonight at Mystery Creek Fieldays.

The Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year honours those who make a significant contribution to the sector and the role they play in making New Zealand world leaders in primary production.

Lain Jager is credited for running the best business in the primary sector, taking the kiwifruit industry from crisis to global success - now supplying 32% of global trade.

Lain is one of those natural leaders that can take a nation with him, his accessibility and ability to connect with people on any level are paramount to his success. The journey Zespri has been on from the PSA outbreak till today is testament to that.

Greg Campbell, Ravensdown Chief Executive

Lain receives $2500 cash prize from Ravensdown alongside the prestigious pounamu trophy.

In its 31st year, the Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year Award remains the premier award for agricultural communicators and is run by New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators.

“Communicating the opportunities and challenges facing the agri-sector has never been more important. The industry is full of talented, insightful and enthusiastic individuals who connect with people in a variety of ways. This award is about celebrating all those champions as well as acknowledging the efforts of one individual.

That’s why we’re thrilled to be able to support the New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators with this award.”