Spud growers seek fair returns
Regulation changes, future proofing the industry and ensuring fair returns are some of the challenges facing potato growers, according to Potatoes New Zealand chief executive Kate Trufitt.
OPINION: As we look back on the past year, I am proud to reflect on the remarkable progress and achievements that have defined our success.
Through teamwork, strategic initiatives, and focused leadership, we have reinforced our position within the industry and set the stage for even greater accomplishments in the year ahead.
2024 in Review
1. United voice and working together
This year, we made it a priority to amplify the voice of our growers; effective communication is the backbone of any successful organisation. We held several meetings with government representatives and minister to ensure that the perspectives of New Zealand potato growers were heard and understood. In addition, our presence at the World Potato Congress allowed us to forge valuable international relationships that will benefit New Zealand's potato industry for years to come.
2. Leadership in the field
Potatoes New Zealand's commitment to advancing the potato and vegetable industries was highlighted by the launch of the $4.7 million Sustainable Vegetable Systems (SVS) project, which was officially endorsed by Minister Nicola Grigg. We also shared our knowledge and expertise across New Zealand, attending Vegetable Research Roadshows and showcasing key Potatoes New Zealand projects. On the international front, we launcheed the International Partnership for Research and Development at the World Potato Congress, opening doors for global collaboration.
3. Working together
2024 was also defined by valuable collaborations across the indusrtry. By partnering with other vegetable groups and key stakeholders, we were able to deliver stronger results for our members, leveraging shared resources and expertise to drive progress and address shared challenges.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we look toward the coming year, we are excited about the many opportunities that lie ahead. Our focus will continue to be on growth, innovation, and building a strong, sustainable future for the New Zealand potato industry.
We have some exciting initiatives launching soon that align with our strategic goal of growing great people. Thank you for your ongoing support of the potato industry.
Kate Trufitt is chief executive of Potatoes NZ.
Among the regular exhibitors at last month’s South Island Agricultural Field Days, the one that arguably takes the most intensive preparation every time is the PGG Wrightson Seeds site.
Two high producing Canterbury dairy farmers are moving to blended stockfeed supplements fed in-shed for a number of reasons, not the least of which is to boost protein levels, which they can’t achieve through pasture under the region’s nitrogen limit of 190kg/ha.
Buoyed by strong forecasts for milk prices and a renewed demand for dairy assets, the South Island rural real estate market has begun the year with positive momentum, according to Colliers.
The six young cattle breeders participating in the inaugural Holstein Friesian NZ young breeder development programme have completed their first event of the year.
New Zealand feed producers are being encouraged to boost staff training to maintain efficiency and product quality.
OPINION: The world is bracing for a trade war between the two biggest economies.
OPINION: In the same way that even a stopped clock is right twice a day, economists sometimes get it right.
OPINION: The proposed RMA reforms took a while to drop but were well signaled after the election.