FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR NATIONAL LAMB DAY 2026 WITH PRINCIPAL PARTNERS RABOBANK AND FMG RETURNING

National Lamb Day is back for 2026, and the celebrations are set to be bigger than ever with principal partners Rabobank and FMG returning to support the nationwide event. Once again, Ag Proud and Beef + Lamb New Zealand will lead the campaign, raising a chop to New Zealand food, and the people who make it possible.

Jon Pemberton, chair of the National Lamb Day committee, says the team is excited to build on last year’s success. “It’s fantastic to have both Rabobank and FMG back on board as we build momentum for 2026. Their support helps us celebrate our farmers, producers and rural communities in a way that truly reflects the pride behind New Zealand lamb.”

A major focal point for the 2026 campaign will be happening at Southern Field Days in Waimumu. On Friday, 13 February, National Lamb Day will be celebrated with national radio broadcasts, barbecues, branding, and on-site activities designed to bring Kiwis together ahead of the official day on 15 February.

Rabobank is proud to be returning as a principal partner. Todd Charteris, CEO of Rabobank New Zealand says “National Lamb Day is an important reminder of the dedication behind New Zealand’s world-class food production, and we’re pleased to continue our support in 2026.”

“We’ll also be joining the festivities at Waimumu, and there’ll be plenty of lamb on offer for visitors to our Field Days marquee.”

FMG is also delighted to rejoin the campaign. “Backing National Lamb Day aligns strongly with our commitment to rural communities, and we’re looking forward to another great year of celebrating Kiwi farmers”, said FMG’s Chief Marketing Officer Pete Frizzell.

Following strong engagement in 2025, the register your barbecue promotion will return, encouraging Kiwis to host their own National Lamb Day gathering. Last year saw 1,145 barbecues registered nationwide, and more prizes will be up for grabs in 2026 through nationallambday.co.nz.

The Dining Guide will also return to the website, highlighting restaurants across the country serving standout lamb dishes for those who prefer to dine out.

Supporters can show their lamb pride with the 2026 National Lamb Day T shirt, available in this year’s colour, khaki green. Shirts can be ordered now for $30 through the cooltees.nz website.

National Lamb Day, celebrated annually on 15 February, marks the anniversary of the first frozen lamb shipment in 1882. It is a tribute to New Zealand’s food heritage and a celebration of the dedication of today’s farmers and producers.