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Overview
This premier research-in-action award supports research projects and initiatives in Taranaki. It offers an opportunity to realise the remarkable potential of the Taranaki agriculture, horticulture and veterinary sectors.
Value
Each project can receive up to $35,000. The total funding awarded each year is $100,000. The value of the Award is not subject to GST, inclusive or otherwise.
Bashford-Nicholls Trust and Massey contribute an equal share to the award fund.
Timeline
You can find more information about the 2025 timeline in the Guidelines for Applicants document below.
June, Applications open
July, Information and connection workshops
23 July: Taranaki workshops
If you would like to attend any of the Massey University and Taranaki research connections workshops, please email Lara Thompson at researchsystems@massey.ac.nz
Sept, Deadline for draft proposals and closing date for final applications
8 September: Deadline for draft proposals to Research Operations.
25 September: Closing date for submitting final applications.
Oct, Committee meeting and Q&A session
Mid-October: Assessment Committee meeting
Late October: Q and A session for short-listed applications
Nov, Final decision announced
November: Applicants will be notified of the committee's final funding decisions.
2026, Funding available
Between late January and early February 2026, funding will be available to the successful applicants.
Applying for the award
Applications are now open.
The ideal project will leverage the research results and the skills and experience of Taranaki stakeholders for creative solutions and positive action to benefit both Massey researchers and the region. Projects are co-led by a Massey University researcher and a Taranaki-based partner.
Applicant eligibility criteria
Applications are open to eligible Massey researchers and Taranaki organisations, industry, community groups or individuals.
- Massey University researchers who wish to undertake projects to apply their research knowledge and expertise alongside an organisation, industry group, community group or individual in the Taranaki region where there is clear ‘regional fit’ and value for Taranaki.
- Organisations or individuals seeking to work with Massey University researchers to develop economic, social or environmental benefits for the Taranaki region.
Application form
Download and complete the Project Proposal Form. Applications should be no more than 5 pages, excluding the Curriculum Vitae. Email the completed form to researchsystems@massey.ac.nz
Draft proposals due 8 September 2025. Applications close on 25 September 2025.
Previous winners
2025
2025
Terroir Taranaki
Testing the power of sensory consumer science in distinguishing Taranaki crops and value-add products for market advantage.
He Rau o Rongo: He Maramataka mō Taranaki.
The project aims to revive maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) knowledge in Taranaki, with a focus on sustainable practices related to food sovereignty and health.
Evaluating bio-concretes for farm infrastructure applications
This project aims to evaluate the use of bio-concretes, concrete alternatives made from locally-grown agricultural materials such as hemp, in farm infrastructure and buildings.
Media Links
Massey News: Three Massey-led projects receive Pivot Award funding
2020 to 2022
2020 to 2022
2022 – Measuring impacts of regenerative agriculture
Massey University is working alongside the Taranaki Regenerative Agriculture community to measure on-farm and environmental benefits of innovations to improve their farms environmental health, resilience and prosperity.
2021 – The Juniper Berry
The Juniper Berry is the focus of Massey's research to evaluate and identify suitable strains and propagation methods with the potential to give New Zealand-made gins a unique sensory signature.
The project will also explore the potential for other uses of juniper berries, including in meat and pickle flavouring and pharmaceutical uses.
Media links
2020 – Farming to Flourish
This project investigated the role of small-scale growers and regenerative food networks in creating sustainable livelihoods and generating thriving communities in Taranaki. The network of localised food chains, Farm Next Door (FND), led by urban farmer Carl Freeman, was central to the research.
Media links
Contact us
For questions about the award process or these guidelines, contact the Award Secretary, Lara Thompson.
If you would like to provide connections between Massey researchers or interested parties in Taranaki, contact the Award Secretary or Eve Kawana-Brown, Business Development Manager.