As summer ripens across New Zealand, February brings another bountiful period for potato growers and Potatoes New Zealand looks forward on continuing to support growers through this busy time.
In this edition, we highlight the Potatoes Youth Council, which is closing for applications on Friday 7 February as well as the Potato Bursary is now open, so grab your chance to cultivate your dreams. There is also the Vegetables Big Day Out on 3-4 February in Pukekohe, a Safety Alert and so much more…
Let’s dig into a productive and successful month together!
Incorporated Society Constitution Amendments
The Incorporated Societies Act 2022 (the 2022 Act) modernises the laws and the way societies need to operate. The deadline to re-register for each incorporated society is April 2026. Potatoes New Zealand has taken the opportunity to review, simplify and update our constitution/rules in line with the new act.
The draft version is now available: Find out more and read Potatoes New Zealand’s Draft Constitution >>
Key changes
A summary of the key changes for an Incorporated Society: https://is-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz/law-changes-for-societies/key-changes/
Feedback
In April 2025, Potatoes New Zealand will arrange grower meetings to discuss the changes and address any concerns. Please send any feedback via Potatoes New Zealand’s Contact webpage >>
Potatoes Youth Council – Open for applications!
Join Potatoes New Zealand Youth Council to have your say and you will be helping to shape the future of the potato industry.
Connect and network with young people in the potato industry to learn and share your ideas.
The Youth Council is open to people aged 16 to 35 years old and aims to provide a platform for young people to represent interests of youth, to foster growth, and to encourage leadership within the industry.
The Youth Council will also strive to grow and progress the industry.
Apply now for your chance to lead and future proof the potato industry. Applications are open until Friday 7 February 2025.
Grow your future – Potato Bursary Open Now
Are you passionate about agriculture, innovation, or making an impact in your community? The Potato Bursary could be your chance to cultivate your dreams!
We’re offering two bursaries to support aspiring students who want to shape the future of agriculture and beyond. Whether you’re studying agribusiness, food science, sustainability, or a related field, this opportunity is for you.
Applications are now open! Make sure you grab this opportunity to sow your seeds of success.
Vegetables Big Day Out – SOLD OUT
Come along to an informative day on-site at Plant & Food Research,learning about vegetable research happening in Pukekohe and across Aotearoa. Hosted by the Te Ahikawariki/Vegetable Industry Centre of Excellence (VICE) project. Vegetables Big Day Out is a great opportunity to meet with growers, industry members, academics, and government bodies to share best practices and be a part of the next generation of kiwi vegetable research. There will be indoor seminars, outdoor demonstrations, yummy food and great company.
There is a subsidy available for growers, find out more on this Google form >>
Note: This event is now sold out, however if you are a grower and wish to attend, please email rzvyl.ynfxva@urfy.pb.am.
Safety Alert: Staying safe around overhead powerlines
This is a reminder to farmers and their teams to be vigilant around overhead power lines, and the risks they pose of electrocution. This comes after two incidents, where farm workers or contractors received an electric shock, while working around overhead power lines.
Key lessons from this Safety Alert include:
- See the danger before you start the task and be aware of the risks.
- Keep a minimum safe working distance of four metres.
Brief contractors fully before they start the job.
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!
You’re invited… American growers visit get together in Kirwee
Potatoes New Zealand is hosting an afternoon get together at Tom Webster’s Woolshed in Kirwee, Canterbury. There will be a group of American growers who are travelling New Zealand and will finish their week at this networking event. Come along and connect with your peers at this casual gathering.
Date: Friday 7 February
Location: Tom Webster’s Woolshed, 1031 Wards Road, Kirwee 7670
Time: 4pm to 6pm
Please RSVP for catering numbers by Wednesday 5 February.
Please contact vasb@cbgngbrfam.pb.am with any questions.
Dr Paul Horne talks – Join these insightful events
Come along and listen to Dr Paul Horne as he shares his invaluable insights and experience. It is also a chance to catch up with peers and industry representatives.
As a distinguished applied entomologist, Dr. Horne initiated his impactful career in 1986 at the Victorian Department of Agriculture, later establishing. IPM Technologies P/L in 1996—an industry leader in integrated pest management.
He will be speaking at three locations: Lincoln University, Massey University and Pukekohe.
Please RSVP for catering numbers.
Lincoln
Tuesday 25 February – 5pm to 7.30pm
Lincoln University – Room to be confirm
Find out more and RSVP >>
Massey
Wednesday 26 February – 5pm to 7.30pm
Massey University – Location to be confirmed
Find out more and RSVP >>
Pukekohe
Friday 28 February – 8am to 10.30am
Venue to be confirmed
Find out more and RSVP >>
Events
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
