Niamh Waters awarded 2026 Sunline scholarship
Niamh Waters has been announced as the 2026 recipient of the Sunline Trust International Management Scholarship and is ready to begin her 30-week international experience.
Funded by the Sunline Education Trust and administered by the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, the scholarship provides an all-expenses-paid, bonded international experience designed to expose emerging industry leaders to the operational systems and management practices of the world’s leading thoroughbred organisations.
Waters brings a strong practical background gained across New Zealand, England, and Australia, having worked through breeding seasons, yearling preparations, and major international sales environments.
Her career began at Haunui Farm in Karaka while completing a Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, before taking roles at New England Stud and Newsells Park Stud in Newmarket, and more recently Newgate Farm in Scone, where she has taken on increasing responsibility within the yearling team.
NZTBA chief executive and Sunline Trust Trustee Nick Johnson said the scholarship has played an important role in developing future leaders within the industry.
“The Sunline Scholarship has now given more than 20 young New Zealanders the opportunity to experience the global thoroughbred breeding and racing industry, bringing the skills and knowledge they gain back home,” Johnson said.
