As we welcome April, the crisp mornings and golden hues of autumn remind us of the importance of seasonal shifts in our routines, especially as daylight savings ends on Sunday 6 April.
This month, we share updates on key initiatives and upcoming events shaping the potato sector. Make sure you RSVP for the Member’s Event and the Special General Meeting, where we will be discussing and getting your feedback on the constitution and other important matters.
Potatoes New Zealand remains focused on supporting growers and stakeholders through research, advocacy, and innovation. Read on for the latest insights and opportunities.
Dr Paul Horne’s Integrated Pest Management Presentation
Biosecurity Update
Over the past 12 months the Ministry for Primary Industries has been busy reviewing everything biosecurity related – from import health standards, the system for importing plant germplasm and even the Biosecurity Act itself. All of these changes have an impact on the horticultural sector, and Potatoes New Zealand has been working closely with our industry partners to advocate for growers and toward securing the best outcome for potato businesses.
Submissions have been made in response to MPI’s proposed changes to the import pathways for germplasm into New Zealand and the wide-ranging review of the Biosecurity Act. The germplasm import system is critical to maintaining our industry’s robust and healthy stock of mother seed, our ability to adapt to changes in market preferences, and to supporting innovation. We have made it clear that changes to the system must strike the right balance between meeting those needs and ensuring our industry is protected from pests and disease.
The review and proposed amendments to the Biosecurity Act are very wide-ranging, with impacts on funding and compensation when there is an incursion, responsibilities held by the private and public sector when it comes to readiness and response, import health standards, border biosecurity processes, and the Government Industry Agreement partnership. Potatoes New Zealand has been working closely with our horticulture industry partners including HortNZ and other product groups to develop an informed and cohesive response with a clear focus on achieving an effective biosecurity system that also allows for growth and innovation within the sector.
These proposed changes are still in a development phase, allowing for further engagement and review. If you have any concerns or thoughts please reach out to our team to discuss.
Potatoes New Zealand Bursary – Recipient Announcement
We are excited to announce the recipient of the Potatoes New Zealand Bursary:
Carys Luke, Lincoln University
We look forward to seeing Carys’ progress throughout the year.
Potatoes New Zealand recognises the importance of capacity building, skill development and increasing knowledge about potatoes is important and this is why the Potatoes New Zealand will offer a Bursary each year.
International Women’s Day – 8 March
Sarah Newton
Sarah works for McCain as a Senior Agronomist, based in Timaru, South Canterbury.
Ran Yamaguchi
Ran works for Talley’s as the Vegetable Processing Manager and also in the Senior Leadership Team.
Catherine James
Catherine works in the Research and Development team at Fruitfed Supplies.
Bobby Hall
Bobby works as the Finance Manager for Potatoes New Zealand.
Christine Cromie
Christine is the Supply Chain Manager at Talley’s and also a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
Congratulations to Matt and Heidi Hart!
Congratulations to potato growers Matt and Heidi Hart from Longlane Farm, who walked away with five category awards at the 2025 Canterbury Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
Young Grower of the Year – Enter Now!
Applications are open for the Young Grower of the Year >>
The Young Grower of the Year is an annual competition run by regional organisers and Horticulture New Zealand, where they select the finest young grower in the country. The dates for the events are:
- Central Otago: 16 May
- Pukekohe: 23 May
- Hawke’s Bay: 5-6 June
- Nelson: 19 June
- Bay of Plenty: 27 June
- Canterbury: 10 July
- Gisborne: 17 July
- National Final: 10-11 September
Public Consultation: Proposed health, safety and wellbeing guidance for transitional facilities
Biosecurity New Zealand is consulting on a proposed new Health, Safety and Wellbeing Guidance Document for the Standard for Transitional Facilities for General Uncleared Risk Goods (TFGEN-GD-HSW), and proposed changes to guidance information within the Standard for Transitional Facilities for General Uncleared Risk Goods (TFGEN Standard).
Consultation period: Feedback on the proposed changes closes at 5pm on 10 April.
Webinar slides: A series of webinars to introduce the proposed changes have been held and here are the presentation slides >>
Proposed Waitaki District Plan Now Open for Submissions
The Proposed Waitaki District Plan will determine permitted activity conditions and whether resource consent is needed for matters such as:
- Crop protection and support structures
- Buildings
- Frost fans, bird scarers
- Seasonal worker accommodation
- Hours of business operation
- Horticulture as an activity.
The Proposed Waitaki District Plan is now open for submissions and is available here >>.
Instructions on how to make a submission are here >>.
New Freshwater Micro-credential – Programme Available Soon
As a sector, we have a responsibility to ensure our practices safeguard rivers, lakes, and streams. Now, there’s an opportunity for growers and employees, horticulture advisors and council staff to enhance their knowledge and demonstrate commitment to freshwater management.
A new micro-credential, ‘Assess and Manage Risks to Freshwater from Horticultural Production,’ has been approved by NZQA at Level 4 (10 credits). This new programme, available soon, will provide practical knowledge on identifying and mitigating freshwater risks from horticulture operations. Completing this 100-hour (approx.) programme will equip you with skills to:
- Assess potential risks to freshwater values and ecosystem health from horticultural activities.
- Identify on-farm biophysical and management risk factors.
- Recommend best practices to manage these risks effectively.
Completing this programme not only supports good practice but will also demonstrate that you understand and actively manage freshwater risks.
A Strategic Action Plan for Biosecurity
Biosecurity protects New Zealand’s unique environment, economy, primary industries, and way of life. Our biosecurity system isn’t just a collection of individual efforts – it’s a powerful, interconnected network of people, technology, infrastructure, processes and regulations working in harmony.
Together, these layers form a robust defense against biosecurity threats. Now, we’re taking the next leap forward with a shared action plan designed to unite everyone involved in biosecurity. This plan builds on what would have been the ‘Biosecurity 2025’ strategy and aims to supercharge collaboration across the system.
The action plan is a blueprint for everyone involved – individuals and organisations – to come together to tackle biosecurity challenges. It will be jointly owned by those who are committed to delivering actions where they are best placed and can commit resources.
To finalise the plan, a steering group has been established. This team includes representatives from government and non-government organisations, reflecting the diverse perspectives of New Zealand’s biosecurity community. They will help finalise, champion, and oversee the delivery of the action plan.
You too can get involved:
- Explore the draft: check out the draft action plan here.
- Reach out: Potatoes New Zealand to share your views >>
Looking ahead, the Biosecurity System Action Plan is set to be finalised by May 2025, complete with priority actions ready to roll.
Potatoes Conference 2025 – Save the Date!
A premier industry event that unites growers, researchers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts from across the sector!
The conference theme focuses on ‘Innovating for the Future’, which will address key industry challenges, showcase innovative technologies, promote best practices and celebrate our successes in the potato industry.
Get ready to dive into a rich abundance of knowledge, innovation, and networking opportunities in the stunning location of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Together, let’s delve into the exciting possibilities ahead and dig deep into the world of potatoes!
Registrations are opening in March – Save the Date!
Potatoes New Zealand – Special General Meeting
Members are invited to attend a Potatoes New Zealand Special General Meeting (SGM) to discuss important matters requiring member input and resolution. Primarily the changes to the Potatoes New Zealand Constitution. Find out about the Constitution >>
Tuesday 20 May | 3pm to 5pm
Ashburton Events Centre, 211A Wills Street, Ashburton, Canterbury
Member participation is essential to ensure a quorum and that decisions made reflect the collective interests of our membership.
Please confirm your attendance by Monday 12 May. We look forward to your presence at this important meeting.
Member’s Events
RSVP Now for the Member’s Event closest to you, where Potatoes New Zealand will be discussing key updates that will shape the future of our industry.
Key topics
- Important updates and changes to the Potatoes New Zealand Constitution following the update of the Incorporated Societies Act.
- Insights into the Potatoes New Zealand Business Plan and activities 2025/26
- A valuable opportunity to ask questions and have your say
This is your chance to stay informed, provide feedback, and ensure your voice is heard on important industry matters.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Please arrive at 6pm ready for 6.30pm start.
Please RSVP for catering purposes!
The Vegetable Research Roadshow is back for 2025. After a successful inaugural 2024 event, the Vegetable Research Roadshow looks to deliver the latest research results, project updates, and key information to vegetable growers across New Zealand.
Held in various locations around the country. All growers and industry representatives are encouraged to attend.
Pukekohe – 8 April
Ohakune – 9 April
Palmerston North – 10 April
Ashburton – 30 April
Oamaru – 1 May
Invercargill – 1 May
Gisborne – 6 May
Hawke’s Bay – 7 May
Richmond, Nelson – 13 May
Canterbury Growers Meeting – All welcome
Thursday 10 April, 6pm- 7.30pm
AgResearch Tuhiraki, 19 Ellesmere Junction Road, Lincoln, Canterbury
- Overview of the Horticulture Canterbury Growers Society & update on the new strategic plan
- Database discussion
- Introducing HortNZ South Island Policy Lead
- Update on Canterbury Young Grower Competition (bring your potential participants!)
- Other regional/national event updates
- General business
Nibbles, tea and coffee provided.
Farmstrong Toolbox Tips
Events
Fieldays 2025
Join Potatoes New Zealand at Fieldays 2025 at Mystery Creek, Hamilton. Fieldays is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event and the ultimate launch platform for cutting edge technology and innovation.
11-14 June 2025
Find out more >>
Primary Industries Summit & Awards
The Primary Industries New Zealand Summit and Awards brings together influential stakeholders and leaders from across of the primary sectors of New Zealand. Delivering strategic insights around future challenges and opportunities and celebrating our most successful and innovative primary industry producers and businesses.
24-25 June 2025
Find out more >>
Horticulture Conference 2025
Save the Date for the 2025 Horticulture Conference and RSE Conference.
Held in Wellington on 26-27 August – Save the date now so you are ready for when tickets open!
More information will be available soon.
View the events calendar
Find out about the horticulture industry events and activities that are currently happening.
NIWA National Weather Outlook
NIWA outlook for rain
NIWA outlook for dryness/drought
NIWA seasonal forecast for next 3 months
