UV-C Treatment: Viticulture game changer
A system that combines UV-C light for disinfection could provide chemical free treatment of plant pathogens and diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis on berry, vine and tree crops.
The National Fieldays brings together farmers, innovators, industry leaders, and rural enthusiasts.
It's not only the visitors who make Fieldays an unforgettable experience, there's a community of volunteer who work closely with the wider event team to ensure that everything runs smoothly. These valued volunteers dedicate their time and effort to ensure that visitors have a memorable experience and leave Fieldays having learnt something new.
Whether they have volunteered for more than 50 years or just lent a hand once, being part of the organising team for this event is an experience that leaves an indelible mark.
Chris Kay's six-year stint as a VIP driver in the Events Team has done just that. He relishes meeting different people and ensuring they enjoy their day, whether they're farmers taking a break from the farm or city dwellers exploring rural life.
But it's the volunteer get-togethers that Kay looks forward to the most - breakfasts, lunches, and shared moments of connection. His advice to future volunteers is simple: "Enjoy what you do and know you are making a difference in your community."
Alexandra Perry joined the Fieldays Event Team as a volunteer in 2016 and has been an integral part of it ever since. Assisting visitors at the Information Booth, a crucial place for seeking guidance, Alexandra shares that her passion for Fieldays runs deep.
"Since I was young, Fieldays has always been a special place for me. When I saw the opportunity to volunteer (2016 was the first year I was old enough), I knew I had to help out," says Perry.
Last year, she had the privilege of working closely with the team's second-in-command, which was another great learning experience. What she loves most about volunteering is the camaraderie, the chance to catch up with fellow volunteers and staff she's known since her very first event.
Phoebe Scherer, a technical manager from the Bay of Plenty, has won the 2025 Young Grower of the Year national title.
The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) celebrated the best of the best at the 2025 Fencing Industry Awards, providing the opportunity to honour both rising talent and industry stalwarts.
Award-winning boutique cheese company, Cranky Goat Ltd has gone into voluntary liquidation.
As an independent review of the National Pest Management Plan for TB finds the goal of complete eradication by 2055 is still valide, feedback is being sought on how to finish the job.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand has launched an AI-powered digital assistant to help farmers using the B+LNZ Knowledge Hub to create tailored answers and resources for their farming businesses.
A tiny organism from the arid mountains of mainland Greece is facilitating a new way of growing healthier animals on farms across New Zealand.