Potatoes New Zealand Marks Milestone as Sector Faces Rising Pressure
Potatoes New Zealand has become much more than a grower body, according to Pukekohe grower Bharat Bhana.
Six months into the Potatoes New Zealand chief executive role and Kate Trufitt has embraced the challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm.
With a wealth of experience in the horticulture industry spanning over 20 plus years, Trufitt is making her mark in the horticulture industry. She has travelled the length and breadth of New Zealand engaging with growers and industry partners.
"This opportunity has allowed me to really utilise all my expertise and expertise developed over time," she says.
"Working with industry it is clear that Potatoes New Zealand needs to really drive the industry strategy with guidance from our board and for the benefit of our growers."
Trufitt adds that she is encouraged by what the future holds and the direction New Zealand's potato industry is heading.
Heading up a team of six experienced staff, Trufitt says she is committed to listening, enabling and promoting better outcomes for the New Zealand potato industry.
As the focus for the Potatoes New Zealand team shifts to the year ahead, one of their primary goals includes garnering member support for the levy order.
There is also presenting the finalised strategy and business plans to propel the industry in the right direction.
With the levy order vote scheduled for April - May 2024, Trufitt and her team are rallying grower members to actively participate in shaping the future of New Zealand's potato industry.
Trufitt is optimistic about the vision for the NZ potato sector: 'End to End Value Creation'.
She adds that there will be no resting for the Potatoes New Zealand team as in the coming months they will be working towards the industry's objectives.
Safer Farms Regional Champions are putting Crush Protection Devices (CPDs) through their paces and sharing their first-hand experiences with other farmers.
New Zealand rural apparel brand Back Country is inviting Kiwis to part ways with tired, holey socks at Fieldays with a giant 'Sock Swap Fence' inspired by one of New Zealand's iconic rural roadside landmarks.
Federated Farmers says the Government's announcement of $79 million in funding for wilding pine control marks a major breakthrough.
A recent Beef + Lamb New Zealand quad safety field day, held along the rugged Whanganui river valley at Kakatahi, focused on identifying risks and taking appropriate actions to minimise unplanned accidents.
Healthy snacking company Rockit has announced Wang Yibo, one of China's most influential celebrities, as its new brand ambassador.
Rabobank has celebrated the tenth anniversary of its AgPathways Programme, with 23 farmers from Otago and Southland gathering for two-and-a-half days to learn new business management and planning skills.

OPINION: The old saying 'a new broom sweeps clean' doesn't always hold up, if you ask the Hound.
OPINION: This old mutt went to school to eat his lunch, but still knows the future of the country, and…