2025 Summer Newsletter
Christmas Message from Potatoes New Zealand Chair
As we come to the close of 2025, on behalf of Potatoes New Zealand I would like to extend our genuine thanks to all potato growers, Trade and Associate members as well as stakeholders for your ongoing support, dedication, and partnership throughout the year. Your resilience, innovation, and ongoing commitment to excellence continues to strengthen our industry and ensure a vibrant future for potato growing across the country.
This year has brought both opportunities but also challenges, and your willingness to work together, share knowledge, and engage with Potatoes New Zealand has made a meaningful difference. From sustainability efforts and research trials to biosecurity vigilance and market development, your contributions have been essential in helping us advocate effectively and support the long term success of our sector.
As we head into the festive season, we want to acknowledge the hard work that goes into each crop, each decision, and each season. Your efforts not only feeds communities but creates jobs and upholds a proud tradition of food production in New Zealand.
I hope you enjoy a well deserved break with friends and family. Wishing you a joyful Christmas, a relaxing holiday period, and a prosperous, productive season ahead.
Thank you once again for everything you do for Potatoes New Zealand and for the potato industry.
Merry Christmas and warmest festive wishes.
Paul Olsen
Chairman Potatoes New Zealand
Holiday Office Hours
Please note the Potatoes New Zealand office hours:
Monday 22 December – 8.30am to 5pm
Tuesday 23 December – 8.30am to 5pm
Wednesday 24 December – 8.30am to 5pm
Thursday 25 December – CLOSED
Friday 26 December – CLOSED
Monday 29 December – CLOSED
Tuesday 30 December – CLOSED
Wednesday 31 December – CLOSED
Thursday 1 January – CLOSED
Friday 2 January – CLOSED
Monday 5 January – Potatoes New Zealand Team return to office
Potatoes New Zealand – Wrap Up 2025
Potatoes New Zealand’s chief executive Kate Trufitt shares a Potatoes New Zealand Wrap Up for 2025. Watch the video >>
Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Remember to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the company of family and friends – when you can over the summer season. It is a busy period for many in the potato industry, so please remember that your health and safety come first.
- Stay Safe at Work: If you’re harvesting or working in the field, keep up with safe practices—use protective gear, stay hydrated, and take regular breaks.
- Look After Your Wellbeing: The festive season can be stressful. Make time for relaxation, connect with loved ones, and reach out if you need support.
- Travel Safely: If you’re on the road, plan ahead, avoid fatigue, and drive responsibly.
- Enjoy in Moderation: Celebrate, but take care of your health—eat well, stay active, and drink responsibly.
Your wellbeing is important to all of us.
Attention Growers: Biosecurity Awareness Update
Growers read more about Potato Cyst Nematode Effective Hygiene Practice >>
Industry Notification: Early Blight Resistance Management Guidelines
Find out more about the Group 7 SDHI fungicide guidance for potato growers >>
Yellow-legged hornets
As of 11 December there have been 34 confirmed queen hornets found (based on specimens). If you suspect anything please report it.
Save the Dates
Potatoes New Zealand has some exciting events in the planning for 2026.
To help with your planning for next year, lock in the following dates before your calendar fills up:
Agronomy Summit 2026
- Thursday 6 August
- Pukekohe
- Sponsorship: There will be sponsorship opportunities available, please contact Potatoes New Zealand if you are interested in supporting this event.
Potatoes New Zealand Annual General Meeting 2026
- Tuesday 25 August
- Ashburton Events Centre, Canterbury
- Focus: Reporting on the year’s performance, ensuring transparency and setting priorities for the year ahead.
More information will be available in the new year regarding these events.
Vegetable Research Roadshow 2026
The Vegetable Research Roadshow delivers practical research, innovation, and real-world solutions directly to growers across New Zealand.
In 2026, the Roadshow will visit seven regional centers: Dargaville, Pukekohe, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Levin, Ohakune, and Ashburton. Each event will showcase the latest insights on managing key pests and diseases, smarter nutrient management in vegetable crops and new tools, technologies, and research outcomes relevant to all major vegetable sectors.
Sign up here: Vegetable Research Roadshow 2026
Christmas Message from the Potatoes New Zealand Team
Christmas is a time for reflection, connection, and, for many of you, the busy task of potato harvesting (thank you for the Christmas potatoes).
It’s a season to celebrate achievements and look forward to the year ahead, we wish you and your loved ones a Christmas filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments.
Thank you for being an important part of Potatoes New Zealand.
Here’s to a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
The Potatoes New Zealand Team
Kate, Bobby, Paula, Cyril, Tristan and Sheree
