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Pioneer potato growers the Balle family are taking their business a step further.
The family business, growing potatoes in and around Pukekohe and the Waikato for more than three generations, have teamed up with chipmakers to inspire a new brand.
The 'Chip Off the Old Block' range potato chips will be made using only their potatoes.
On each packet, you can find information about what variety of potato was used and where they were sourced from.
Dacey Balle, one of seven brothers from thirteen children to Bernie and Norah Balle, says the family takes its potatoes seriously.
"And surely, great chips need to start with great potatoes," he says.
"The 'Chip Off the Old Block' recipe is based on a few quality ingredients, just as you might find them in your own pantry – great potatoes, sunflower oil, natural seasonings – and that's it.
"And, as little as possible is done to them through the manufacturing process, for the flat cuts the skins are left on and potatoes are sliced nice and thick."
'Chip Off the Old Block' chips will be available in major supermarkets.
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) says a new report projects strong export growth for New Zealand's horticulture sector highlights the industry's increasing contribution to the national economy.
A brilliant result and great news for growers and regional economies. That's how horticulture sector leaders are describing the news that sector exports for the year ended June 30 will reach $8.4 billion - an increase of 19% on last year and is forecast to hit close to $10 billion in 2029.
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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.
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Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
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