September 2026
Spring is in the air, and with it comes a sense of anticipation for the season ahead. While winter may still be making its presence felt, there is no shortage of activity across the potato industry as growers prepare for planting, planning and another year of producing one of New Zealand’s favourite foods.
Recent weeks have seen strong engagement across the industry, with the Potatoes New Zealand Agronomy Summit bringing growers, and industry together to share knowledge, practical insights and ideas for the future. Events like these highlight the value of collaboration and the importance of staying connected as an industry.
We have also recently held our Annual General Meeting in collaboration with Horticulture Canterbury Research, advocacy and biosecurity continue to be key focus areas for Potatoes New Zealand. We are working alongside industry partners to ensure growers have access to the information, tools and support needed to build resilient and profitable businesses while protecting the future of New Zealand potato production.
This month we also take the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the many people who contribute to our sector every day. From growers and farm teams to researchers, service providers and industry partners, your commitment and expertise help strengthen our industry and ensure potatoes remain a valued part of New Zealand’s food system.
As always, if there is an issue you would like to discuss, feedback you would like to share, or support you need, please reach out to the Potatoes New Zealand team. We look forward to continuing the conversation and working alongside you throughout the season ahead.
Potatoes New Zealand
Agronomy Summit 2026: Future Proofing Potatoes: Soil to Market
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.
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 in the below link 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..
Learn. Connect. Engage. Grow.
Thank You to the Agronomy Summit Sponsors
Valued GOLD Sponsors
Valued SILVER Sponsors
- AgWorld
- Corteva
- De Sangosse
- Horticentre Charitable Trust
- Servalesa / Agreva
- SGS
Valued BRONZE Sponsors
- Alex McDonald Ltd
- Syngenta
- Trical New Zealand
- Wyma Solutions
Annual General Meeting, Dinner and Guest Speaker
On Tuesday 25 August, the Potatoes New Zealand Annual General Meeting brought members and industry stakeholders together to reflect on the past year and discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead for the sector. Attendees received updates on key industry initiatives, advocacy work, research projects and the priorities shaping the future of the New Zealand potato industry.
Held alongside Process Vegetables New Zealand and Horticulture Canterbury, the event provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections across the wider horticulture sector, share perspectives and explore areas of common interest and collaboration.
Potatoes New Zealand extends its thanks to Process Vegetables New Zealand, Horticulture Canterbury, guest speaker Melissa Moon, and everyone who attended and contributed to making the event a success. Together, these conversations help build a stronger and more connected industry.
Kate Trufitt Webinars – Chief Executive Insights
Potatoes New Zealand’s chief executive Kate Trufitt shares regular industry updates.
From advocacy and industry issues to upcoming initiatives and events, Kate regularly shares updates on what is happening.
Potatoes New Zealand 2026 Annual Report – Available Now!
Potatoes New Zealand’s latest Annual Report is now available! You can now read the key achievements, activities, and outcomes delivered for growers and industry stakeholders over the past year.
Discover the progress made across advocacy, research, education, industry engagement, and strategic initiatives, along with an overview of Potatoes New Zealand’s financial performance and future priorities
Biosecurity Planning Manual
A biosecurity plan is one of the most important tools for protecting your farm, crops and business. It outlines how you manage biosecurity risks on your operation and the steps to take if a pest or disease outbreak occurs.
The Biosecurity Planning Manual provides a practical five-step template to help growers develop a plan that suits their operation. By documenting procedures, recording key movements and involving staff and contractors, growers can improve farm preparedness, support early detection and response, and strengthen protection against pests and diseases.
Investing time in biosecurity planning today can help reduce future risks, minimise disruptions and protect market access opportunities.
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
Entries are close Friday 4 September – Enter Now!
Industry
Vegetable Sector Pre Election Debate
Want to hear what the various political parties will do to support vegetable growing in New Zealand, now and in the future?
Potatoes New Zealand, the NZ Vegetable Council (NZVeg), and the Pukekohe Vegetable Growers Association are bringing together politicians from across the political spectrum to debate the future of vegetable growing, less than a month out from the General Election on 7 November.
We look forward to your attendance for an evening of industry engagement and political discussion.
Friday 25 September
Pukekohe Golf Club
WEBINAR: Solar 101 for Growers
Potatoes New Zealand hosted an EECA grower focused webinar on Thursday 20 August covering the fundamentals of on farm solar, including where it can support energy intensive activities such as irrigation, packing and cool storage.
Youth Council – September 2026
By Molly Green
Molly has recently be appointed Secretary of the Council with Harry Maddox as Chair. As the Chair changes each year, we thank Amber Davy as her hard work as Chair in the recent year.
Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Farmstrong: String Reset – Small Habits, Big Difference
Spring often brings increased workloads and a busy pace. As the season ramps up, Farmstrong encourages us to focus on small habits that support wellbeing and resilience.
You do not need to make huge changes.
Simple actions such as getting enough sleep, taking regular breaks, staying connected with others, or making time for exercise can have a positive impact on both your wellbeing and performance.
Farmstrong Tip: Choose one healthy habit to focus on this month and commit to it consistently.
Rural Support – Spring Check In
Spring often brings renewed energy and optimism, but it can also bring longer days, increasing workloads, and added pressure as the season gets underway. During busy periods, it is easy to focus on everything that needs doing while overlooking your own wellbeing.
Taking a few moments to check in with yourself, your family, staff, or neighbours can make a real difference. A simple conversation can help identify challenges early and strengthen the connections that support us through demanding times.
Need support? Contact the Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254 or visit https://www.ruralsupport.org.nz.
Events
SAVE THE DATE – Potatoes Conference 2027
17-18 August 2027
One New Zealand Stadium
Make sure to save the date for Potatoes Conference 2027.
This industry leading event will bring together growers, researchers, industry partners, and sector leaders to explore the latest innovations, share insights, and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the potato industry. More details and registration information will be available soon. We look forward to seeing you there.
Save the date and stay tuned for more information.
Pre Election Debate
On Friday 25 September at 5pm, join Potatoes New Zealand and NZVeg for a Pre Election Debate at the Pukekohe Golf Club.
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
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
