Friday, 14 February 2025 07:25

Potato growers eye innovation, growth

Written by  Kate Trufitt
Potato growers are excited about the many opportunities that lie ahead. Potato growers are excited about the many opportunities that lie ahead.

OPINION: As we look back on the past year, I am proud to reflect on the remarkable progress and achievements that have defined our success.

Through teamwork, strategic initiatives, and focused leadership, we have reinforced our position within the industry and set the stage for even greater accomplishments in the year ahead.

2024 in Review

1. United voice and working together

This year, we made it a priority to amplify the voice of our growers; effective communication is the backbone of any successful organisation. We held several meetings with government representatives and minister to ensure that the perspectives of New Zealand potato growers were heard and understood. In addition, our presence at the World Potato Congress allowed us to forge valuable international relationships that will benefit New Zealand's potato industry for years to come.

2. Leadership in the field

Potatoes New Zealand's commitment to advancing the potato and vegetable industries was highlighted by the launch of the $4.7 million Sustainable Vegetable Systems (SVS) project, which was officially endorsed by Minister Nicola Grigg. We also shared our knowledge and expertise across New Zealand, attending Vegetable Research Roadshows and showcasing key Potatoes New Zealand projects. On the international front, we launcheed the International Partnership for Research and Development at the World Potato Congress, opening doors for global collaboration.

3. Working together

2024 was also defined by valuable collaborations across the indusrtry. By partnering with other vegetable groups and key stakeholders, we were able to deliver stronger results for our members, leveraging shared resources and expertise to drive progress and address shared challenges.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look toward the coming year, we are excited about the many opportunities that lie ahead. Our focus will continue to be on growth, innovation, and building a strong, sustainable future for the New Zealand potato industry.

We have some exciting initiatives launching soon that align with our strategic goal of growing great people. Thank you for your ongoing support of the potato industry.

Kate Trufitt is chief executive of Potatoes NZ.

More like this

Peter Reynolds Awarded Horticulture NZ's Bledisloe Cup

Potatoes New Zealand has congratulated Peter Reynolds of TA Reynolds Ltd in Pukekohe on being awarded the Horticulture New Zealand Bledisloe Cup, recognising a lifetime of service and contribution to New Zealand horticulture.

Featured

Carrfields Marks 50 Years as Rural Health Programme Grows

Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.

Taupiri Farmers Chase Ownership After Awards Success

For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.

Ballance Urges Farmers to Plan Ahead for El Niño

With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.

National

Machinery & Products

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

'LinkedIn Greens'

OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…

UK Warning

OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter