fbpx
Print this page
Tuesday, 14 April 2026 14:55

Potatoes New Zealand Celebrates Milestone Amid Grower Pressures

Written by  Staff Reporters
Potatoes NZ chief executive Kate Trufitt. Potatoes NZ chief executive Kate Trufitt.

Potatoes New Zealand is reflecting on its legacy of innovation, resilience and a commitment to growers as it gets ready to mark its birthday on 17th April.

Kate Truffitt, chief executive of Potatoes New Zealand says the anniversary comes at a time when growers are under real pressure.

“Input costs remain high, markets are tight, and uncertainty continues to weigh heavily across the sector,” Trufitt says.

“While it’s important to acknowledge how far we’ve come as an organisation, our focus is firmly on supporting growers through the challenges they are facing right now – with practical tools, strong advocacy, and science-based solutions that help build resilience for the future,” she says.

The organisation was established in 2012 as a collective effort to represent growers.

Potatoes New Zealand says it has subsequently grown into a national voice championing potatoes in all forms and practical advocacy for the industry as a whole.

It has led research programmes to improve crop performance, invested in science to protect against pests and disease, and worked closely with government and partners to support the long-term viability of potato production in New Zealand.

Today, the organisation continues to evolve, with work spanning biosecurity readiness, environmental stewardship, innovation in sustainable farming systems, data-driven insights, and targeted support for domestic and export markets.

As Potatoes New Zealand marks its 14th year, it says it acknowledges the generations of growers, industry partners, researchers, and supporters who have shaped the sector through both good seasons and bad.

“Their resilience and commitment continue to underpin the strength of the industry today,” Potatoes New Zealand says.

More like this

Featured

NZ Farm Accident Claims Drop Nearly 35% Since 2020

A huge reduction in ACC claims from on-farm accidents over the last five years is due to thousands of small, practical decisions being made in sheds, yards, paddocks and around kitchen tables across the country, says Safer Farms ambassador Lindy Nelson.

Inside the Moxhams' Award-Winning Organic Dairy Farm

Wayne and Ange Moxham of Horowhenua have just been named as Fonterra's top organic performer for milksolids. As well as providing organic milk to Fonterra, the couple also sell Udderly Organic milk to more than 100 outlets in the region and are embarking on another exciting venture producing organic gelato. Reporter Peter Burke went along to see their farming operation.

National

Machinery & Products