Winning the FMG Young Farmer of the Year title was a long-held dream for Waikato farmer Hugh Jackson.
After first competing at 19 while studying at Massey University, Hugh finally claimed the title in 2025 on his second appearance as a Grand Finalist.
“I started competing at 19, during my first year at Massey University, and got the bug from there. Over the years I enjoyed pushing myself and competing. The more I did it, the more skills I learnt and the more I enjoyed it. It was a real thrill to get there in the end.”
The award opened doors to media appearances, speaking engagements and unique experiences. But behind the success, Hugh admits there were challenges.
“Imposter syndrome definitely played a part,” says Hugh. “On numerous occasions I’ve caught myself thinking thoughts along the lines of ‘now you’re the Young Farmer of the Year, you better make a good job of taking the family farm through another generation. What would people think if things went pear-shaped?’ There was an extra pressure on top of the high expectations I always have for myself.”
A fourth-generation farmer from Te Akau, north of Raglan, Hugh has always set high standards for himself. While that drive has helped him achieve his goals, he says it has also come at a cost.
“When I look back over the last 28 years of my life, there have been benefits of these high expectations and the self-inflicted pressure, but it has also driven me to breaking point when I’ve needed the support of friends, family and health professionals,” says Hugh.
“But my experience is a good reminder that we all have our struggles. We all go through tough times to different degrees. So, don’t be afraid to talk to friends and family and make a plan to get through.”
Today, Hugh prioritises wellbeing through exercise, good sleep, social connections and taking time away from the farm. Reading Doug Avery’s Resilient Farmer also helped him rethink how he spends his time, shifting from day-to-day operational work towards leadership and team development.
Mental wellbeing is something Hugh actively promotes within his own team, encouraging regular check-ins and open conversations.
He is also a supporter of Farmstrong and its work helping rural people build resilience.
“It’s great to share farmers’ stories about dealing with tough times. We all go through tough times and it’s just a case of making sure we’re open and honest with ourselves and others around us when we’re feeling rough.”
For Hugh, strong people create strong communities.
“I personally find there are huge benefits to this through the people you meet that you can lean on when you need to and of course you can help these people out when they need it. This creates more resilient communities and therefore more resilient people too.”
FMG with Waikato farmer Hugh Jackson
