Young farmer driven to make a positive impact

Maintaining public confidence in farming and protecting New Zealand’s access to international markets will be two important challenges for the sector.

That’s according to Cameron Beck, Perrin Ag’s 2026 John Perrin Scholar who recently received $6,000 towards completing his Bachelor Agriculture at Lincoln University.

“Negative perceptions of animal welfare could lead to customers or markets rejecting our products. That risk is greater than ever because of the reach of social media and the increasing influence of personal values on food choices,” he says.

Any loss of market access could have similarly serious consequences for farmers and the wider New Zealand economy.

Beck’s path into agriculture became clear while working alongside Hawke’s Bay farmers repairing fences and infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Growing up on a lifestyle block south of Rotorua, agriculture was part of his upbringing, but he did not initially appreciate the breadth of career opportunities available within the sector.

“Throughout high school, the law and business pathway was heavily encouraged, and there wasn’t a lot of information about agriculture.”

After several years travelling, Beck returned to New Zealand and began reconsidering his future.

He had nearly committed to studying law when he received a phone call offering him work on a Hawke’s Bay farm after Cyclone Gabrielle.

This included repairing fencing and other farm infrastructure, alongside the farm’s usual summer stock work.

“With limited practical experience in the sector, it had been difficult to get my foot in the door.

“Having someone recognise my drive and willingness to learn, and then give me the opportunity to do so, was exactly what I needed.”

That experience confirmed his interest in agriculture and prompted him to reconsider his career choices.

Since enrolling at Lincoln University, Cameron has embraced both his studies and the wider opportunities available within the sector.

He was appointed chair of Lincoln Young Farmers for 2026 and has received several academic awards, including the Sir James Wilson Prize and the Luisetti Seeds Award.

Looking ahead, Cameron hopes to pursue a career in farm management and has a particular interest in hill country development.

“I’m interested in the opportunity to improve both the physical and financial performance of hill country farms and contribute to food production as the global population continues to grow.”

“For me, successful development means lifting production in a way that strengthens the viability of the farm business while also supporting environmental performance and staff wellbeing.”

The scholarship selection and interview process was led by Perrin Ag Directors John Perrin and Carla Muller.

They were impressed by Beck’s academic achievements, leadership and commitment to building a career in New Zealand’s primary sector.

“Cameron has demonstrated a genuine willingness to learn, take on new challenges and contribute to the wider agricultural community,” says John Perrin.

“His academic achievements, leadership within Young Farmers and clear sense of purpose make him a deserving recipient of this year’s scholarship.

“With his drive, passion and introspection, we see him having a significant contribution to New Zealand agriculture.”