In September 2025, Potatoes New Zealand’s Paula Lleras had the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands “the heart of potato innovation”, to attend Potato Europe in Lelystad, visit Wageningen University and Research, as well as take part in the Potato Business School (PBS) in Emmeloord. It was an inspiring trip full of fresh ideas, valuable…
Horticulture Undergraduate Scholarships HortNZ and the Horticentre Trust are offering scholarships to students who have a special interest in the fruit and/or vegetable industry and are studying towards an undergraduate degree. Sixteen Horticulture Undergraduate Scholarships are available to students studying in 2026. The Horticulture New Zealand Scholarship allows successful applicants to attend the 2026 Horticulture…
There has been a lot happening in the export space, so we thought it was time for an update. Taiwan MarketThe Potatoes New Zealand board have supported opening of the Taiwan market for export.There are additional requirements for this market, please ensure you follow these if you want to export to Taiwan. It is advisable for…
Seed potato growers Tracey and Andy McKay, winners of the Community Award John Jackson was recognised with a Life Member award for his instrumental role in developing New Zealand’s potato processing sector and leading the fight against Liberibacter Heidi and Matt Hart from Canterbury’s Longlane Farm were presented with the Sustainability Award by Potatoes New…
As planting gets underway, quality seed remains at the heart of a successful season. This month, we bring you updates on certification progress, reminders for growers as inspections continue, and insights from the latest research supporting the integrity of our seed system. Maintaining strong certification standards is not only about ensuring disease-free crops – it’s…
The Vegetable Industry Showcase held in Parliament Buildings, Wellington on Tuesday 9 September, was an important opportunity for the sector to connect directly with government, highlight the challenges and opportunities facing growers, and begin shaping how we can work together for better outcomes. The event featured an address from Hon Minister Nicola Grigg, a talk…
Article from Leaving School Magazine – writer Peter White Bridgett James is an assistant seed manager at the Potato Seed Co-Op in Ashburton – part of the potato supply chain that eventually reaches McDonald’s restaurants. The purpose-built facility specialises in storing, cutting and grading seed potatoes for McCain’s process growers. Bridgett (28) says the best…
At Potatoes New Zealand we’ve been listening closely to what matters most to our growers – and one message came through loud and clear: the importance of encouraging young people to get involved in industry representation. Growers told us they see real value in bringing fresh energy and new perspectives into governance roles and industry…
Potato mop-top virus (PMTV) was recently detected in Northwest Tasmania – Australia’s first encounter with this plant pathogen. It’s a good reminder for New Zealand potato growers about the importance of continued vigilance against an existing but well-managed threat. For New Zealand’s potato industry, PMTV is not new territory. The virus was first identified here…
The current five industry good vegetable product groups (Potatoes New Zealand, Onions New Zealand, Process Vegetables New Zealand, Tomatoes New Zealand and Vegetables New Zealand) are considering coming together as one, new industry good organisation. Read the Business Case that has been prepared outlining: The five current product group Boards have all endorsed the Business…
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