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."
Following recent storms in the region, the 69th edition of the Tour of Southland cycling event has been postponed.
A function at Parliament on 7th October brought together central government decision-makers, MPs, industry stakeholders and commercial partners to highlight the need for strategic investment in the future of Fieldays and its home, the Mystery Creek Events Centre campus.
The Government's revised 2050 biogenic methane target range of 14-24% by 2050 is being welcomed by dairy farmers.
An increasing number of students are doing agricultural and horticultural degrees at Massey University by distance learning.
ANZ New Zealand is encouraging farmers and businesses impacted by the recent extreme weather that hit Southland and South Otago last week to seek support if they need it.
When Professor Pierre Venter takes up his new role as vice chancellor at Massey University next February it will just be a matter of taking a few steps across the road to get to his new office at the Palmerston North Campus.