Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Arrives in New Zealand
While hybrids and PHEVs have not usually been the focus of farmers and rural dwellers, the current Iranian-driven fuel crisis has pushed up fuel costs and created a new interest in the genres.
Toyota's massive site in the automotive precinct at Fieldays will showcase its extensive range of SUVs.
From the trendy C-HR to the powerful V8 Land Cruiser 200, these vehicles build on a 60 year heritage.
A notable SUV addition will be the Next-Gen RAV4 including for the first time a hybrid electric version to complement the hugely popular Adventure models.
The Kiwi icon and mainstay of rural NZ, the Toyota Hilux, will be hot to see, and site visitors can try their hand at the Hilux ‘Spin to Win’ game which might win them a 4WD trip with a Toyota Ambassador.
Getting its first public outing will be the new look Hiace van with lots of new technology expected to cement its position as NZ’s favourite van.
Visitors can learn more about Toyota technology in the Innovation Zone.
For example, the company says “augmented reality is the best way for people to understand how the self charging hybrid electric system and the Safety Sense package work in the new Corolla hybrid”.
For a breather, visitors can enjoy Toyota’s ‘Drive Happy’ hospitality -- coffee and toasted sandwiches to combat the winter chill.
Site: corner of I Road and C Street in the automotive precinct.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.

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