A Record-Breaking Day at The Grand Pumpkin Growing Contest 2026

What a day. What a turnout. And what a patch of pumpkins!

The Grand Pumpkin Growing Contest 2026 brought the Matakana community together in the best possible way — sunshine, music, proud growers, and pumpkins of every shape, size, and personality. From first-time growers to seasoned green thumbs, the spirit of the day was all about connection, creativity, and a little friendly competition.

And the pumpkins? Next level.

Last year’s winning weight was 26kg. This year, that would have only just got you in the running. In fact, one of the smallest pumpkins in the top five tipped the scales at that same weight — and from there, things only got heavier…

🏆 2026 Results

Biggest Pumpkin

🥇 Hugo Fisher – 41.9kg
🥈 Max Fisher – 39.6kg
🥉 Kate Loveridge – 33.9kg
(Tom placed second at 40.9kg but stepped aside from prizes as an organiser.)

Fun Categories

🌱 Tiniest Pumpkin: Cooper
😂 Ugliest Pumpkin: Luke Mistry
🌸 Prettiest Pumpkin: Benson
🎭 Celebrity Lookalike: Leon Nina
🌀 Most Spectacular Shape: Lucian Kernot
🌿 Rookie of the Year: Warkworth School
🎨 Most Creative Display: TBC

Food Categories

🥧 Pumpkin Pie Contest: Nina Hassan
🍽 Most Creative Pumpkin Food Item: TBC

🌱 More Than Just Pumpkins

This event continues to grow into something really special. It’s not just about the biggest pumpkin — it’s about whānau getting involved, schools giving it a go, neighbours sharing tips, and the joy of growing something from seed to show.

From tiny pumpkins to towering giants, every entry had a story behind it — and that’s what makes this event what it is.

🚜 Setting the Benchmark

These are our biggest pumpkins yet — and they’re only just the beginning. There’s still a long way to go to reach the national record (a staggering 844kg), but every year we’re seeing more growers, better techniques, and bigger results.

Closer to home, the Puhoi competition tipped the scales at 112kg this season — which gives us something to aim for. With the way things are growing in Matakana, we reckon it won’t be long before we’re giving them a run for their money.

📸 See the Highlights

We captured some great moments from the day — proud growers, standout pumpkins, and plenty of smiles.

A huge thank you to everyone who took part, helped organise, judged, baked, cheered, and showed up.

We can’t wait to see what you grow next year… 🎃✨