New Research Reveals How Kiwis Really Like Their Hot Chips
New nationwide research has revealed exactly how Kiwis like to enjoy hot chips, with a simple sprinkle of salt coming out on top.
An international potato industry expert has praised New Zealand’s world-leading research during a visit to speak at the Potatoes New Zealand Inc. annual conference.
Professor Gary Secor, of the Plant Pathology Department at North Dakota State University, will be a keynote speaker at the two-day event, which begins in Ashburton today.
“New Zealand has world recognised research, including on powdery scab and psyllids and zebra chip, and a good potato breeding programme that serves the industry well,” says Secor.
“I have read several research publications that have established New Zealand as a leader in potato research.”
Secor’s presentation to the conference will include an ‘all of industry’ session on disease management and a workshop with seed growers on seed development and handling. He is also keen to know more about the farming practices that New Zealand growers use to manage crop diseases.
“Farmers always have good and clever ways of managing disease, so that interests me. I am also interested in potato variety development and would like a better understanding of planting practices in New Zealand.”
Champak Mehta, chief executive of Potatoes NZ Inc., says the organisation is delighted to welcome Secor to the conference.
“Gary is world renowned for his work and we very much look forward to him sharing his knowledge with our delegates and to showing him some of the very good work being done in New Zealand.”
Fellow speakers include Ron Greentree, from New South Wales, Australia’s single biggest wheat farmer.
For more details about the conference, see www.potatoesnz.co.nz.
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.
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.
West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.
OPINION: As the general election approaches, political parties are churning out policies in the hope of attracting more votes.
An LIC bull, Tronnoco AR Sadio-ET S3F, bred by Tony and Keri O'Connor of Tronnoco Farming Co Ltd near Timaru, has won the 2026 Mahoe Trophy.
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.

OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…