Early drought fears ease in Hawke’s Bay, but caution remains
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Formed in 1995 by 14 consultants with a shared vision of independence and pracitcality, AgFirst has grown into a nationwide network of over 100 specialists. Its expertise spans sheep and beef, dairying, engineering, horticulture, environmental management, and valuation - with many consultants bringing more than 20 years' experience to their work.
"Our strength lies in our independence, our experience, and our commitment to helping clients succeed," says Erica van Reenen, AgFirst chair.
"For 30 years, we've stood alongside farmers, agribusinesses, and industry organisations to help them navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their goals."
From Cape Reinga to Bluff, the AgFirst team work directly with farmers and growers to improve productivity, profitability, and sustainability.
Alongside client services in governance, HR, compliance, and financial planning, the team also partners with industry and government to deliver research, technical expertise, and policy support.
A hallmark of AgFirst's story is the continuity of its leadership. Of the 14 original shareholders, nine remain active today - still working directly with clients and mentoring the next generation.
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Founding member Ross Wilson reflected: "Us old buggers had a vision, and 30 years later that vision is front of us - a team of dynamic, skilled, and passionate agribusiness professional all striving towards the vision of leading a successful New Zealand primary industry. It is now time to pass the baton, and we implore the new wave of AgFirst leaders to strive to reach heights that we could only dream of being possible."
To mark the milestone, the AgFirst team gathered in Taupo recently for their annual conference. The celebrations provided time to reflect on progress, share insights on the future of farming, and acknowledge the people who have shaped the business.
Another founding member Peter Livingston told the conference that for the originals, AgFirst has always been more than a business - it's been an extension of our families.
"We've shared professional successes and personal milestones, and it's special to see the next generation coming through, with some of the originals' children now part of the business."
AgFirst says the night was a fitting tribute to the journey so far, as consultants from across the country came together to honour the contribution of both and past and present team members - while also turning their sights to the future.
That future is increasingly shaped by agri-technology and artificial intelligence, from precision feeding and environmental monitoring to data-driven financial modelling, it says.
AgFirst is working alongside clients to trial and adopt these tools, ensuring they deliver practical value on-farm while supporting sustainability and efficiency.
"As we celebrate 30 years, we've focused on the future," said James Allen, AgFirst chief executive.
"Our vision remains clear - to lead a smarter, sustainable, high-performing primary sector. The challenges ahead are significant, but so are the opportunities. We're excited to continue working alongside our clients and industry partners for the next 30 years and beyond."
