Wellington’s River Foster named 2025 Young Amenity Horticulturist of the Year

Wellington City Council’s River Foster has been crowned the 2025 Young Amenity Horticulturist of the Year. The winner was announced at the Recreation Aotearoa Parks Awards in Tāmaki Makaurau tonight, following the competition at Auckland Botanic Gardens on Monday.

The annual competition, delivered by Recreation Aotearoa in partnership with Botanic Gardens New Zealand, showcases the country’s emerging leaders in amenity horticulture. It combines practical skills, management challenges and leadership tasks to test participants on their knowledge, capability and potential.

“This event is all about inspiring and recognising the next generation of leaders in our parks, gardens and open spaces,” said Kieran Smith, Parks, Play and Open Spaces Programme Manager at Recreation Aotearoa. “It gives young horticulturists the opportunity to grow their skills, connect with peers, and gain valuable industry experience.”

The competition attracts young professionals under 30 years old from botanic gardens, parks, native reserves and open spaces nationwide. 

As this year’s winner, River Foster will now represent the amenity sector at the prestigious Young Horticulturist of the Year Grand Final. The national final takes place in Auckland this November, with finalists from six horticultural sectors vying for the title.

“We’re incredibly proud of River and all this year’s finalists,” said Smith. “Regardless of placings, every participant represented the amenity sector with passion and skill. They’ve gained valuable experience and connections that will shape their futures in this industry.”

Recreation Aotearoa and Botanic Gardens New Zealand encourage the sector to support River Foster at the Grand Final, held at Karaka Bloodstock on 5–6 November 2025.