Claims that farmers are polluters of waterways and aquifers and 'don't care' still ring out from environmental groups and individuals. The phrase 'dirty dairying' continues to surface from time to time. But as reporter Peter Burke points out, quite the opposite is the case. He says, quietly and behind the scenes, farmers are embracing new ideas and technologies to make their farms sustainable, resilient, environmentally friendly and profitable.

Gene Technology Webinar

Gathering granular data regarding vineyard practices is a key step in cutting carbon emissions and assessing future electricity requirements, says Dr Seth Laurenson.

Felton Road Wines is using an electric drone sprayer to apply organic fungicides and monitor crops, cutting emissions and transforming management.

Biosecurity Planning Workshops

Watermetrics was formed as a water data collector and currently supplies and services modern technology such as flow meters, soil moisture and EC probes, weather stations, hydrostatic and ultrasonic level sensors nationwide.

Following 2023's inaugural Aotearoa New Zealand Chardonnay Symposium, Hawke's Bay Winegrowers expanded this year's event to two days of discussions and tastings centred on 'Sense of Place', the environmental and cultural landscapes that shape wine.

Reducing emissions in Tohu’s winery and vineyards is part of being good kaitiaki, says Dianne Brown, Manager of Wakatū Incorporation’s Whenua Ora sustainability programme.

Just like our rural communities, technology solutions need to rely on each other too.

The inaugural Research & Innovation Forum was a stimulating glimpse at the research, innovation and technology helping shape the future of New Zealand wine.