Potatoes New Zealand and Garden to Table Partner to Inspire Future Food Leaders
Potatoes New Zealand and Garden to Table have partnered together to celebrate a versatile vegetable and the people behind it.
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.
Horticulture New Zealand’s Board has welcomed the re-election of grower-elected directors Alistair Petrie and Doug Brown.
The bright ideas of New Zealand's primary sector have been celebrated with an announcement of the winners of the 2026 Innovation Awards.
Newly appointed Federated Farmers vice president Sandra Faulkner says she is honoured and excited to hold the role.
New Zealand's top fencers were out in force at National Fieldays this month, demonstrating their skills with the ever-reliable number 8 wire.
New Federated Farmers president Colin Hurst says he will ensure that farmer voices are heard loud and clear wherever decisions are being made.
Paynes Titus Excelsior ET, an LIC bull bred by Brad Payne and Claire Brodie in the Waikato, has won the JT Thwaites Sire of the Season 2026 Award.