July 2026
As winter settles in across Aotearoa, and politicians start to gear up into election mode.
Potatoes New Zealand turns its focus on supporting growers through continued advocacy, industry collaboration and engagement, and practical tools to strengthen on farm performance.
From policy developments and sector conversations to upcoming events and initiatives, there’s plenty happening across the industry.
We encourage our growers to register for our Agronomy Summit and the Annual General Meeting and dinner, both coming up in August.
Stay connected and feel free to reach out to any of the team, we welcome your input to build a thriving Potato industry.
Potatoes New Zealand
Celebrating a Young Grower Success
The regional Young Grower of the Year competitions highlight the exceptional talent, skill, and leadership emerging across New Zealand horticulture. From practical challenges and technical questions to business and leadership assessments, competitors are tested across a wide range of disciplines that reflect the demands of a modern growing career.
Congratulations to this year’s regional winners, who will now compete at the 2026 Young Grower of the Year National Final in Cromwell on 27–28 August:
- James Blair (Pukekohe)
- Luke St John (Central Otago)
- James Torrie (Gisborne)
- Maddi Sheridan (Hawke’s Bay)
- Amelia Marsden (Nelson)
- William Kenna (Bay of Plenty)
- Amber Davy (Canterbury)
Potatoes New Zealand is particularly proud to acknowledge James Blair of AS Wilcox and Amber Davy of Eurogrow, whose regional victories showcase the strength of leadership and expertise within the potato industry.
We wish all finalists the very best as they compete for the national title and celebrate the future of New Zealand horticulture.
Youth Council Update
Read the latest Youth Council Update – written by Jamie Wells.
Youth Council members include:
- Chair: Harry Maddox
- Secretary: Molly Green
- Members: Bridgett James, Catherine James, Jamie Wells, Amber Davy, Samuel Pye and Steven Rink
Agronomy Summit: Thursday 6 August
Why you need to attend!
Potatoes New Zealand is gearing up for an amazing Agronomy Summit at the Pukekohe Golf Club — and this is one event growers won’t want to miss.
Bringing together leading researchers, industry experts and growers from across the country, the Summit is designed to deliver practical, on-the-ground insights you can take straight back to your operation.
From improving crop performance and managing emerging challenges, through to hearing the latest science and innovation shaping our industry — this is your chance to stay one step ahead.
Why be there?
- Gain practical, evidence based insights to support better decision-making
- Hear directly from experts working at the forefront of potato research
- Learn from other growers and share experiences from the season
- Stay up to date with issues impacting productivity, sustainability and profitability
Just as importantly, the Agronomy Summit is a chance to connect, with fellow growers, agronomists and industry partners who understand the realities of growing potatoes in New Zealand.
Whether you are looking to refine your approach, tackle current challenges, or plan ahead for next season, the Summit offers valuable insight and connections to support your business.
👉 Make sure you are part of the conversation. We look forward to seeing you there.
Annual General Meetings and Grower Dinner with Horticulture Canterbury Growers Society, Potatoes New Zealand and Process Vegetables NZ
On Tuesday 25 August at 5pm, Potatoes New Zealand will be partnering with the Horticulture Canterbury Growers Society and Process Vegetables NZ to hold our respective Annual General Meetings at the Ashburton Events Centre.
All growers are encouraged to attend. This is a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow growers, board members and Potatoes New Zealand staff, and to have your say on important matters facing the industry.
Following the AGMs, attendees will enjoy a guest presentation from World Champion Mountain Runner Melissa Moon, before coming together over a delicious dinner to continue the conversation.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Growing the Next Generation of Food Heroes
Potatoes New Zealand is proud to be partnering with Garden to Table to help bring food education to life in schools and early childhood centres to over 35,000 kids.
Together, we are supporting learning that goes beyond the classroom, into the māra kai (garden) and the kīhini (kitchen), where students can connect with where their food comes from.
Garden to Table schools and centres already equip thousands of Kiwi kids with knowledge and skills that have a transformative and lifelong impact on their hauora (wellbeing) and on the world around them.
Watch this space as in the coming months we will keep you up to date on some of the activities we are working on to support education in schools.
Industry
Taking Our Industry to the Beehive
The Vegetable Industry Showcase at Parliament brought together more than 100 attendees, including growers, industry leaders and several government ministers, highlighting the strength and future of New Zealand’s vegetable sector.
Held under the theme “Feeding the Future: Advancing New Zealand Vegetable Producers,” and hosted by Minister for Agriculture Hon Todd McClay, the event provided a valuable platform to connect directly with decision-makers and reinforce the importance of a resilient, innovative industry.
A key moment of the evening was the launch of the New Zealand Vegetable Manifesto, outlining a shared vision for the future of the sector. Attendees also had the opportunity to take home vegetable gift boxes from T&G — a tangible reminder of the quality and diversity of produce grown right here in Aotearoa.
The Potatoes New Zealand Youth Council was in attendance, representing the next generation of growers and industry leaders, with Molly Green doing an outstanding job as MC for the evening.
It was an important opportunity to share the vegetable story, strengthen connections with government, and showcase the people, progress and potential across New Zealand’s potato and vegetable industry.
Horticulture New Zealand Conference
When | 28-29 July
Where | Tākina, Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, 50 Cable Street, Wellington
The New Zealand Horticulture Conference brings the sector together in Wellington for two days of insight, connection and practical thinking. Hear from industry leaders, explore the issues shaping our future, and build your own agenda across three streams: strategic, technical and people focused.
Whether you are looking to deepen knowledge, strengthen networks or gain fresh perspective, this is where the industry moves forward together.
Food Act Levy – New Rate for 2026
Food Act Levy – new rate for 2026 From 1 July 2026, the levy that is applied to all Food Act registered businesses will increase to $86.25 plus GST per business (an increase from the 2025 levy rate of $57.50).
From 1 July 2027 the levy will increase further to $115 +GST. This is payable by all businesses registered under the Food Act, including horticultural growers.
The levy will be collected by New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS), part of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), or your local council, to fund regulatory food safety activities. Invoices will be sent directly by MPI/NZFS or local councils to registered businesses from late July/early August.
If you have any questions, please refer to the MPI Food Business Levy FAQs or email SbbqNpgYrivrf@zcv.tbig.am. There are also Frequently Asked Questions page specific to NZGAP growers on the NZGAP website >>
Succession Planning Workshops
Rabobank are running facilitated succession planning workshops at various locations. Workshops are open to growers, including non-Rabobank customers, and are free of charge.
The workshops provide practical guidance, you’ll learn how to understand asset transfer/business continuance/inter-generational land ownership, develop a clear succession road map and more.
Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Free Support for Growers
Did you know the Ministry for Primary Industries On Farm Support Service offers free support for farmers and growers?
The service connects growers with regional advisers who can help navigate changing requirements, access advice, explore funding and learning opportunities, and connect with useful tools and resources.
Whether you are looking for guidance around environmental requirements, farm planning, biosecurity, resilience, or simply need help finding the right information, the On Farm Support team is there to help.
Farmstrong: Practical Wellbeing Tips for Growers
Looking after your wellbeing is one of the best investments you can make – for yourself, your family, and your business. Farmstrong is a nationwide wellbeing programme designed specifically for farmers, growers, and rural workers, providing practical tools and advice to help you manage stress, stay healthy, and perform at your best.
Their video library features short, easy-to-watch stories and tips from farmers, growers, and rural leaders on topics such as dealing with pressure, rest and recovery, building resilience, and maintaining perspective during challenging times.
Take a few minutes to explore the videos and pick up practical ideas that can make a real difference on and off the farm.
Kate Trufitt, Sam Whitelock and Sheree Phillips at Fieldays 2026
Rural Support – Looking After Yourself
The demands of growing and running a business can sometimes feel overwhelming, but support is available. The Rural Support Trust offers free, confidential support for growers, farmers, and rural communities, connecting people with practical help and professional services when needed.
If you or someone you know could use a helping hand, take a look at the Health and Wellbeing resources available through the Rural Support Trust or phone 0800 787 254 for a confidential chat.
Events
Agronomy Summit 2026
Practical insights, shared knowledge, stronger potato industry.
The Potatoes New Zealand Agronomy Summit brings together growers, researchers, advisors, and industry partners to share practical knowledge, emerging research, and on-farm insights that support profitable, sustainable potato production.
Annual General Meeting with Grower Dinner and Speaker
On Tuesday 25 August at 5pm, join Potatoes New Zealand, Horticulture Canterbury Growers Society and Process Vegetables NZ for our respective Annual General Meetings at the Ashburton Events Centre.
13th World Potato Congress
26 – 30 October 2026
Sawela Lodges, Naivasha, Kenya
The World Potato Congress brings together the global potato community every two years. Kenya 2026 will focus on sustainable agriculture, innovation, and building partnerships for a food-secure future. A must attend to stay relevant on a global level.
View the events calendar
Find out about the horticulture industry events and activities that are currently happening.
Weather
Understanding New Zealand’s Weather
Weather information sources to support informed decision making on the farm:
Weather Watch
Weather Watch brings you the latest New Zealand forecasts weekdays.
NIWA outlook for rain
NIWA outlook for dryness/drought
NIWA seasonal forecast for next 3 months
