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…
As a keen runner, Bryan Hart doesn’t bother with commercial energy gels when he’s training for a half marathon – he boils a potato, sprinkles it with salt and it provides the perfect fuel. “I put it in a ziplock bag and two hours into the run I have that,” says Bryan. “It’s better than…
Christchurch, New Zealand – 14 August 2025 The finest in Aotearoa’s potato sector were honoured this week at the 2025 Potato Industry Awards, held as part of the Potatoes New Zealand Conference at Christchurch Town Hall. The awards celebrate individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions through leadership, innovation, research, and long-standing commitment to…
Christchurch, New Zealand – 14 August 2025 Pukekohe vegetable grower Peter Reynolds has been presented with a Potatoes New Zealand Life Member Award at last night’s Potato Industry Awards 2025. The Life Member Award recognises outstanding career contributions within the Potato Industry Awards programme, which celebrates excellence whilst raising public awareness of potatoes’ value, versatility,…
Christchurch, New Zealand – 14 August 2025 Harsad (Harry) Bhula a respected Pukekohe vegetable grower and community leader, was presented with a Potatoes New Zealand Life Member Award at last night’s Potato Industry Awards 2025, recognising his work within New Zealand’s potato industry. Industry representatives have praised Harry’s mentorship of fellow growers and his commitment…
Christchurch, New Zealand – 14 August 2025: Industry veteran John Jackson’s contribution to New Zealand horticulture has been recognised with a Potatoes New Zealand Life Member Award at last night’s Potato Industry Awards 2025 ceremony. John’s work has positioned him as one of the country’s foremost authorities on potato seed and potato processing operations. In…
Christchurch, New Zealand – 14 August 2025 Andy and Tracey McKay, owners of Alps Seed Limited, have been honoured with the Community Award at the Potato Industry Awards 2025. The award recognises their dedication to community service and their innovative approach to involving the local community in horticulture. The McKays operate their seed potato business…