August 2026
We can hardly believe it is August already. Like many of you, we are wondering where the year has gone. While winter has arrived, activity across the potato sector certainly has not slowed down.
Potatoes New Zealand continues to work at pace, with a busy programme of industry events, research initiatives, advocacy, communications, and grower engagement happening across the country. There is plenty underway as we continue to support growers and strengthen the future of our industry.
Biosecurity remains a key priority for growers, highlighted again in this year’s KPMG Agribusiness Agenda. Over the coming months, Potatoes New Zealand will be sharing some exciting new biosecurity resources and tools to help support on farm preparedness. In the meantime, while avian influenza (bird flu) is not a direct issue for potato growers, Ministry for Primary Industries is asking everyone to remain vigilant and report any unusual bird deaths. You can find more information on what you need to know below.
Potatoes New Zealand congratulates Peter Reynolds on receiving the prestigious Horticulture New Zealand Bledisloe Cup. It is wonderful to see a potato grower recognised for their outstanding contribution to the wider horticulture industry.
As always, Potatoes New Zealand is here to support growers. If you would like to discuss an issue, share an idea, or simply have a chat, please get in touch.
Potatoes New Zealandd
SOLD OUT – Agronomy Summit 2026
We are delighted to announce that the Potatoes New Zealand Agronomy Summit 2026 is now officially sold out.
The strong response from growers, agronomists, researchers, industry partners and service providers highlights the value the industry places on learning, collaboration and innovation. The event will take place on Thursday 6 August at Pukekohe Golf Club and will feature a full programme with the theme: Future Proofing Potatoes: Soil to Market.
A huge thank you to everyone who registered and to our sponsors, speakers and supporters who have helped make the event possible. For those who missed out on securing a place, a waitlist is now available. While attendance is currently at capacity, any places that become available will be offered to people on the waitlist. We encourage anyone still interested in attending to contact Potatoes New Zealand at vasb@cbgngbrfam.pb.am
If you have registered and are unable to attend please let us know via emailing vasb@cbgngbrfam.pb.am
We appreciate the incredible support for this event and look forward to sharing highlights, key learnings and outcomes from the Agronomy Summit with the wider industry following the event.
Learn. Connect. Engage. Grow.
REGISTER NOW – Annual General Meeting, Dinner and Guest Speaker
Tuesday 25 August | 5.00pm | Ashburton Events Centre
Potatoes New Zealand is pleased to be joining the Horticulture Canterbury Growers Society and Process Vegetables NZ for our respective 2026 Annual General Meetings.
This is an excellent opportunity to come together with fellow growers and industry leaders to reflect on the year that’s been, hear about the work being undertaken on your behalf, and contribute to discussions that help shape the future of our industries.
✅ Be part of the conversations helping drive a strong and successful future for the vegetable sector
✅ Enjoy an inspiring presentation from World Champion Mountain Runner Melissa Moon
✅ Share a delicious dinner with opportunities to connect with others in the industry
Melissa Moon’s remarkable journey of determination, resilience and success promises to be a highlight of the evening, offering valuable insights that resonate both on and off the farm.
🎟️ Register today and be part of the conversation that supports a thriving future for our industry.
Bird Flu – What you need to know
Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that mainly affects birds. However, it can also spread to mammals – including people. Read the article to learn more…
Coming Soon – Father’s Day Promotion
Father’s Day is just around the corner, and we have teamed up with Fruitfed Supplies to celebrate the dads, grandads, father figures, and everyday legends who help make our families and communities stronger.
We are excited to announce a special Father’s Day Promotion with $1,000 worth of Fruitfed Supplies gift vouchers up for grabs:
🥇 $500 Fruitfed Supplies gift voucher
🥈 $300 Fruitfed Supplies gift voucher
🥉 $200 Fruitfed Supplies gift voucher
Keep an eye on your inbox and our social media channels – entries will be opening later this month. You will not want to miss this opportunity to celebrate someone special and be in to win.
More details coming soon!
Industry
Peter Reynolds Receives Horticulture’s Highest Honour
Congratulations to Peter Reynolds of TA Reynolds Ltd, Pukekohe, who has been awarded the Horticulture Bledisloe Cup, the highest honour in New Zealand horticulture.
The award recognises outstanding contributions to the industry and was presented at the New Zealand Horticulture Industry Awards in Wellington.
Peter was recognised for his decades of leadership in vegetable growing, his commitment to sustainable farming practices, and his generous support of growers and future generations entering the industry.
Widely respected for sharing his knowledge and championing environmental stewardship, Peter’s contribution has had a lasting impact on both the potato sector and New Zealand horticulture.
Potatoes New Zealand extends its sincere congratulations to Peter on this well-deserved achievement.
Potatoes New Zealand and AuSPICA Workshops
Potatoes New Zealand is pleased to be partnering with AuSPICA to bring two valuable workshops to Canterbury in August. These workshops provide an excellent opportunity to hear from Australian biosecurity experts, share experiences, and discuss practical approaches to protecting New Zealand’s potato industry from emerging pests and diseases.
Workshop One – Learn from the Experts: AuSPICA Workshop in Canterbury – 13 August
Potatoes New Zealand is pleased to invite Seed Potato Inspectors, Growers and Industry to an exclusive workshop hosted by AuSPICA, Australia’s Peak Seed Potato Industry Certification Authority.
This session is a valuable opportunity to hear directly from leading industry experts and gain insights that can help strengthen seed potato quality, improve crop outcomes, and support best practice throughout the production cycle.
Workshop Two – AuSPICA Certified Seed Potato Inspection Workshop – 14 August
Invite Only – Potatoes New Zealand is pleased to invite AuSPICA, seed potato inspectors, and invited guests to a comprehensive workshop led by AuSPICA, Australia’s Peak Seed Potato Industry Certification Authority.
This interactive session will focus on the practical application of certified seed potato tuber inspection standards, providing an excellent opportunity to strengthen knowledge, improve consistency, and discuss best practice.
WEBINAR: Solar 101 for Growers
When | Thursday 20 August
Time | 10am
The webinar will cover the fundamentals of on-farm solar, including where it can support energy-intensive activities such as irrigation, packing and cool storage.
You will also hear the latest insights from EECA’s Solar on Farms programme, including what we are learning from demonstration farms across New Zealand.
Whether you are just starting to explore solar or looking for independent, practical information to help inform your next investment decision, this session will provide useful insights and the opportunity to ask questions.
Vegetables Election Debate – Save the Date
When | Wednesday 16 September
Where | Pukekohe Golf Club
Save the Date to attend the pre-election debate. Further details and registration link to follow.
Broadview Farm Grower Takes on Community Leadership Role
Congratulations to Hugh Wright of Broadview Farm, who has recently been elected President of the Malvern Lions Club.
Hugh was officially inducted into the role during the club’s annual changeover event held at Darfield High School. He takes over from Past President Andrew Brooker and will lead the club for the coming year. The evening also celebrated the contributions of members and recognised outstanding volunteer service within the community.
Photo: Malvern News
The Malvern Lions Club has a proud history of supporting local causes and community initiatives, contributing thousands of volunteer hours and significant fundraising support across the district.
Many in the potato industry will know Hugh through his work at Broadview Farm and his longstanding involvement in the sector. His appointment reflects the strong tradition of leadership, service, and community commitment that exists among New Zealand growers.
A Career in Potato Farming
Harry Maddox, was recently profiled in the latest edition of Leaving School Magazine.
The article highlights Harry’s journey in the potato industry and showcases the opportunities available to young people considering a career in horticulture. Harry also shares his involvement with the Potatoes New Zealand Youth Council, demonstrating the important role young leaders play in shaping the future of our industry.
Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Recharge Your Battery This Winter
Winter can be a busy time, and shorter days often leave us feeling more tired than usual. Just like we recharge our phones when the battery gets low, it is important to recharge ourselves too.
Getting enough sleep, staying active, eating well, and spending time outdoors can all help improve energy levels and support our overall wellbeing. Even a short walk during lunch, a few minutes of stretching between meetings, or stepping away from your desk for a break can make a noticeable difference.
It is also important to check in with yourself and those around you. A quick conversation, a shared coffee, or asking someone how they’re doing can help strengthen connections and support a positive workplace culture.
Looking after your wellbeing does not need to be complicated. Small habits, repeated consistently, can have a big impact on how we feel, both at work and at home.
Farmstrong: Live Well, Grow Well
Looking after your wellbeing is just as important as looking after your crops and business. Farmstrong’s Live Well, Grow Well guide is packed with practical tips, real life stories and simple strategies to help you stay healthy, resilient and connected, no matter what the season brings.
Whether you are managing a busy workload, looking to improve your wellbeing, or simply searching for fresh ideas, this resource offers plenty of inspiration from people who understand rural life.
👉 Read or download the Live Well, Grow Well guide: Farmstrong Live Well, Grow Well
Remember, investing in your wellbeing is one of the most valuable investments you can make.
Rural Support – Help and Support
The Rural Support team has more than 300 trained staff across 14 regions throughout New Zealand, meaning support is never far away. They can provide assistance with:
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Employee and employer support
- Adverse events
- Financial pressure
- Biosecurity
Phone 0800 787 254 (8am to 6pm) to be connected with your local Rural Support Trust. All calls are free and completely confidential.
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
New Zealand’s Weather
Weather Watch
Weather Watch brings you the latest New Zealand forecasts weekdays.
Weather information sources to support informed decision making on the farm:
NIWA outlook for dryness/drought
NIWA outlook for rain
NIWA seasonal forecast for next 3 months
