Developing a billion-dollar premium cider industry
Cider Apples New Zealand Limited has released a detailed 'roadmap' report that investigates how a premium cider industry could be developed in New Zealand.
Former Foundation of Arable Research (FAR) chief executive Nick Pyke is chair of the AGMARDT Board of Trustees.
Pyke, who has been a member of the board for two years, has succeeded Richard Green, who will step down from the board this year after six years as a trustee, the last two as chair.
Pyke is a founder and director of Ag Innovate Ltd and Leftfield Innovation Ltd and has extensive governance experience with agricultural business, farms and industry good organisations.
"Richard understands the industry so well and has done a brilliant job," says Pyke.
"I share his passion for the work that AGMARDT does. Our board is strongly focused on aligning with the AGMARDT strategy and on continuing to build the fund so that we can invest more in grants back into improving the food and fibre sector through innovation and developing leadership."
Green said it had been a great privilege to serve on the board.
"AGMARDT has regularly 'refreshed its bench' through bringing in new trustees to ensure diversity of thought and fresh ideas," he says.
"The recent appointment of our new general manager, Lee-Ann Marsh, was a logical time for me to also decide to step down as chair.
"I am looking forward to my final few months on the board and to supporting Nick and our fellow trustees in continuing the fantastic work that AGMARDT does."
Greenlea Premier Meats managing director Anthony (Tony) Egan says receiving the officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) honour has been humbling.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.