FAR’s Phil Rolston is officially a World Class New Zealander! Dr Rolston was one of six people from very different industries who were honoured at the 2017 World Class New Zealand Awards in Auckland.

Judging panel chair Phil Veal said the awards showcased the very best of this country’s talent, and focused on how individual’s contributed to New Zealand’s global reputation, building global connections for New Zealand, and promoting the exchange of information, knowledge and skills.

Phil’s citation referenced his scientific influence on the farming sector worldwide, from New Zealand to China. Phil has invested 42 years with DSIR Grasslands/AgResearch in forages and forage seed research and is currently employed by the Foundation for Arable Research.

In 1996 he received China’s highest award to foreigners, the Friendship Medal, 1996. In 2005 he received the NZ Institute of Agriculture, and the Horticulture Technology Transfer Award. Phil was acknowledged as Researcher of the Year by the Foundation for Arable Research in 2008. He also received the China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award, 2015.

The other 2017 winners are:

• Parris Goebel –  Choreographer & Founder of ReQuest, The Royal Family and The Palace Dance Studio
• Ian Wright –  Engineer & Founder of Wright Speed
• Dr Privahini Bradoo – Scientist, CEO and Founder of BlueOak
• Robert Oliver –  Chef, Author, Restaurateur
• Sir Rob Fenwick KNZM KStJ

The World Class New Zealand Awards are New Zealand’s most prestigious individual achievement awards, acknowledging the country’s top international talent.

Established in 2003, the awards recognise world-leading Kiwis whose inspiring achievements are defining New Zealand’s image internationally. There are plenty of Awards celebrating success in New Zealand – the key point of difference for these Awards is the celebration of global success often from Kiwis who have achieved outstanding and, in many cases, world-changing success offshore.

Share this: