The 2026 Potatoes New Zealand Agronomy Summit, held at the Pukekohe Golf Club, brought together more than 100 growers, researchers, agronomists, industry partners and service providers from across New Zealand for a day of learning, discussion and collaboration.
Attendees explored the latest developments in potato production, crop protection, post-harvest management, soil health, disease and resistance management, and research priorities for the future of the industry.
The Summit provided a valuable opportunity to hear from leading local and international experts, share practical experiences, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. The presentations from the day are available below and offer a wealth of knowledge, insights and practical takeaways for those who attended, as well as those who were unable to join us on the day.
Future Proofing New Zealand Potatoes: Aligning Production with Market Demand
Leena Khilnani (Bluebird), Sarah Newton (McCain) and Bharat Bhana (Hira Bhana & Sons)
This session explored how market trends, consumer preferences and processor requirements are shaping the future of potato production in New Zealand. Attendees gained insights into evolving market expectations and the opportunities for growers to align production decisions with future demand
Integrated Pest Management in Potatoes – Canterbury Trial Outcomes
Paul Horne, IPM Technologies
Roger Blyth, Seed and Field
Paul and Roger shared findings from the Canterbury Integrated Pest Management (IPM) trials, highlighting practical outcomes, lessons learned and opportunities for wider adoption. The presentation examined how IPM approaches can support sustainable potato production while reducing reliance on traditional pest control methods.
Potato Tuber Moth: Practical Management Practices
Daniel Sutton, Potatoes New Zealand
Daniel presented findings from Potato Tuber Moth trials, focusing on practical management options and field based learnings. The session explored strategies that growers can implement to reduce risk and improve control outcomes.
Soil Carbon and Cover Crops
Steve Martin, QuorumAgri
Steve has kindly shared his contact details for growers who would like to discuss this topic further. The presentation slides are not available for distribution.
Quorum Ag Pty Ltd
Steve Martin
Regen Ag Consultant
Ph: +61 (0)41 866 0429
E: fgrir@dhbehznt.pbz
Sustainable Vegetable Systems
Andrew Barber, Agrilink
Andrew examined the principles of sustainable vegetable production and the opportunities for growers to improve environmental performance while maintaining productivity. The session explored sustainability trends, practical solutions and future challenges facing the sector.
Biologicals for Potatoes: Pipeline, Development and On-Farm Assessment
Miriam Hall and David Wright, Bioeconomy Science Institute
Miriam and David provided an overview of emerging biological products and technologies being developed for potato production. The presentation covered current research, product development pipelines and insights from on-farm assessments evaluating the role of biologicals in future crop management programmes.
Managing Resistance Challenges in the United Kingdom
John Sarup, SPUD Agronomy and Consultancy
Drawing on experience from the United Kingdom, John explored current resistance challenges affecting key potato diseases and viruses. The session examined management approaches, lessons learned and strategies to maintain the effectiveness of available control tools
Resistance Management in Potatoes
Tayah Ryan, Lighthouse Horticulture
Tayah discussed the importance of resistance management in protecting the long-term effectiveness of crop protection products. The presentation highlighted integrated approaches that support sustainable disease and pest control while reducing the risk of resistance development.
Alternatives for Alternaria
Peter Wright, Bioeconomy Science Institute and Daniel Sutton, Potatoes New Zealand
This presentation explored alternative approaches to managing Alternaria in potato crops. Peter and Daniel shared research findings, emerging tools and integrated management strategies that may help growers reduce disease pressure while supporting effective crop protection programmes.
Powdery Scab Management
Calum Wilson, University of Tasmania
Calum presented the latest research and management insights for Powdery Scab, including findings from recent trials and practical considerations for growers. The session focused on understanding disease development and strategies to minimise its impact on crop quality and yield.
Post Harvest Management: United Kingdom Insights
John Sarup, SPUD Agronomy and Consultancy
Roger Blyth, Seed and Field
Drawing on experience from the United Kingdom and New Zealand, John Sarup and Roger Blyth shared practical insights into post-harvest potato management, covering haulm desiccation, sprout suppression, and seed age and stem density management. The session explored current approaches, emerging alternatives and strategies to maintain crop quality and storage performance.