Former Fieldays Chairman Lloyd Downing honoured for services to agriculture

January 2026

The New Zealand National Fieldays Society has congratulated long-serving leader and former Chairman Lloyd Downing ONZM on being appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2026 New Year Honours, announced on 31 December 2025, recognising more than 100 New Zealanders for their service to the country across a range of sectors.

Downing’s acknowledgement reflects more than three decades of voluntary leadership across the primary sector, including a significant contribution to Fieldays and the governance of the Society. His involvement with Fieldays spanned nearly 30 years, from 1985 to 2014, during a period of strong growth and increasing international relevance.

During his time with the Society, Downing chaired both the Exhibits Committee and the Agricultural Fieldays Committee, before serving as a Board member and President from 2011 to 2013. He played a key role in shaping Fieldays as a nationally significant event with a growing global outlook, including supporting the establishment of what is now the New Zealand International Business Centre at Fieldays and strengthening international engagement with key international markets.

Reflecting on the honour, Downing said the recognition was shared with many others who had contributed alongside him over the years.
“It was pretty cool to be recognised. I’ve had messages from people I haven’t seen in 40 years,” said Downing. “Fieldays was always about bigger, better, brighter and continuous improvement. Going global was vital, because the New Zealand market is only so big, and international participation creates real opportunities for exhibitors through exports and partnerships.”

Beyond Fieldays, Downing has held a range of governance and leadership roles within Federated Farmers and the Waikato Farmers Trust, where he helped modernise structures and strengthen support for rural charitable causes.

Society Chief Executive Richard Lindroos said the honour showcased the contribution of leaders who helped build the foundations of Fieldays.

“Heritage and history are an important part of the Fieldays' story,” said Lindroos. “It’s a testament to the ongoing relevance of the event when those who helped shape it in earlier decades are recognised at a national level. Lloyd’s leadership helped position Fieldays as a platform for innovation, connection and global engagement.”

The Society acknowledged Downing’s appointment as a proud moment for the wider Fieldays community and the many volunteers who have contributed to its success for over 57 years.