ROB PRINS AWARDED 2024 CHRISTIE AWARD

Rob Prins has been named the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Christie Award, a highly respected recognition within New Zealand’s retail meat industry. This esteemed accolade honours a lifetime of dedication, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the trade. Prins is only the 13th person to receive this award, named in memory of Geof Christie, a pioneer in butchery education and mentoring.

Rob Prins has been a cornerstone of industry training in the South Island throughout his career. Starting at the Christchurch Meat School alongside Geof Christie, Rob mentored hundreds of young butchers, guiding them through their apprenticeships. After the school’s closure, he continued his work at Dunninghams as the South Island representative, where he promoted in-house smallgoods making, further expanding opportunities for aspiring butchers. His dedication to training extended with roles at Competenz and Skills4Work, ensuring that apprentices continued to receive top-tier mentoring and support.

Rob’s influence on the South Island’s retail meat industry is immense. His passion for nurturing young talent has led many apprentices to success, thanks to his belief in their potential. His people-centric approach has left an indelible mark, not only in the apprentices he mentored but also in the many butchers now running their own businesses, having been inspired by his guidance.

Reflecting on the honour of receiving the award, Rob Prins shared, “This is truly outstanding —something I never expected. When I look at the names on the list, many of whom I’ve admired, respected, and even had the privilege of working alongside, it’s incredibly humbling. I’m deeply grateful to receive this award.”

Rob’s long-standing involvement in competitions such as the Young Butcher of the Year, where he has served as a judge, further highlights his dedication to fostering excellence in the trade. His commitment to the future of the industry is unparalleled, ensuring that New Zealand’s butchery sector continues to thrive.

Reuben Sharples, President of Retail Meat New Zealand, expressed his admiration for Rob’s contributions: “Rob Prins represents everything the Christie Award stands for. His passion for the industry and his dedication to training the next generation have made a lasting impact. He is a role model to all of us.”

Rob joins an esteemed list of past Christie Award recipients, including Sir Peter Leitch, Todd Heller, and Beef + Lamb New Zealand CEO, Rod Slater. His lifetime of service has not only strengthened the meat industry but has also secured its future by shaping the careers of countless young butchers.

For more information about the Christie Award and past recipients, click here.