A revived farm competition is being credited with turning Maori farmers into some of the best in New Zealand.
The Ahuwhenua Trophy was started as part of Apirana Ngata's land development programmes of the 1930s.
Waatea News reports it was revived in 2003 to recognise excellence in Maori farming.
Entries are now open for the 2009 competition, which covers the sheep and beef sector.
Management committee chair Kingi Smiler says the quality of entries has improved since the relaunch, in terms of both governance and management.
Entries for the Ahuwhenua Trophy close at the end of January. Regional judging is in March and the supreme winner will be announced in June.
