Roadmap set to double hort exports by 2035
It's critical that the horticulture sector works together as part of a goal to double the sector’s exports by 2035.
Two new grower board members have been elected to the Horticulture New Zealand board.
Northland kiwifruit grower David Kelly has been re-elected for what will be his third and final term.
Hawke's Bay's Hugh Ritchie will be a newcomer to the board. Hugh is managing director of Drumpeel Farms. He grows various crops including cereals, seed, and process vegetables.
They have each been appointed to serve for a three year term, beginning on August 4.
"I am thrilled with both appointments and I believe both Dave and Hugh will make substantial contributions," HortNZ president Julian Raine says.
"Between them they have extensive governance skills, and a good understanding of what the growers want and need. Dave has a very sound understanding of how HortNZ operates, and Hugh will bring an infusion of new blood, which is always valuable."
Pukekohe tomato grower Lex Dillon was the unsuccessful third candidate in this year's election.
"We thank Lex for his enthusiasm and commitment to the election process," Raine says.
With the current situation in the European farm machinery market being described as difficult at best, it’s perhaps no surprise that the upcoming AgriSIMA 2026 agricultural machinery exhibition, scheduled for February 2026 at Paris-Nord Villepinte, has been cancelled.
The Meat Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) has launched the first in-market activation of the refreshed Taste Pure Nature country-of-origin brand with an exclusive pop-up restaurant experience in Shanghai.
Jayna Wadsworth, daughter of the late New Zealand wicketkeeper Ken Wadsworth, has launched an auction of cricket memorabilia to raise funds for I Am Hope's youth mental health work.
As we move into the 2025/26 growing season, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that the third quarter results for the year to date is showing that the stagnated tractor market of the last 18 months is showing signs of recovery.
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown is urging dairy farmers to participate in the 2026 Levy vote, to be held early next year.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is calling for nominations for director roles in the Eastern North Island and Southern South Island electoral districts.

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