Farmers back government’s RMA reforms
Farmers appear to be backing the Government's recent Resource Management Act (RMA) reforms announcement.
Regulation changes, future proofing the industry and ensuring fair returns are some of the challenges facing potato growers, according to Potatoes New Zealand chief executive Kate Trufitt.
She points out that while farmers love growing potatoes, those involved in the billion-dollar industry also need to see a fair return for their efforts.
Trufitt says this is currently being eroded by cost of compliance and limitations being set by local governments.
"Potatoes are not grown in isolation and tend to form part of a growing system, rotated with other crops or animal farming. This is not always recognised when rules are put in place," Trufitt told Rural News.
Trufitt, who completed one year in the role in August, says it has been an incredible journey championing the interests of potato growers.
"I'm honoured to lead such a dynamic industry and work alongside a team that shares my commitment to growth and excellence.
"The potato industry is crucial to New Zealand's economy, and I'm excited to continue advancing initiatives that support our growers, enhance our research and promote our potatoes, both locally and internationally."
Key highlights include a successful levy vote. PNZ secured an impressive 94.74% approval for the proposed commodity levy from the eligible voting growers, reflecting broad support.
Trufitt also played a key role in the development of Strategy 2028. She says the forward-looking strategy, shaped by extensive grower consultation and industry feedback, aims to guide the sector's growth and resilience over the coming years.
Despite various challenges, Trufitt believes the outlook for the New Zealand potato industry remains positive.
Her strategic vision is set to enhance key relationships, expand market opportunities, and strengthen the industry by directly visiting growers and stakeholders.
Trufitt also enthusiastic about expanding Potatoes New Zealand's international presence and further advancing practices that will benefit the industry for generations to come.
"There's so much more we can achieve. I'm excited about the future and the possibilities it holds for our industry.
"Together, we can ensure that New Zealand potatoes remain a staple on tables across the country and beyond."
The top three potato producing regions in New Zealand are Canterbury/Westland, Auckland and Manawatu. The domestic value of the New Zealand table potato sector comprises 36% of the total domestic potato sector value. In 2021-22, over $1 billion worth of potatoes were produced by NZ growers. However, this dropped to $931m in 2022-23.
Domestically consumed processed (crisps) and frozen/fries potatoes make up 62.5% of the total domestic industry value in 2023.
The export market accounts for 12.5% of total potato industry value for 2023, which is an increase from 8.3% in 2022.
Planted area has dropped 18.6% between 2018 and 2023, a loss of 1920 ha.
Total annual potato production has reduced by 107,990 tonnes between 2018 and 2023, a decrease of 20.5%.
Newly appointed National Fieldays chief executive Richard Lindroos says his team is ready, excited and looking forward to delivering the four-day event next month.
More than 70 farmers from across the North and South Islands recently spent a dayand- a-half learning new business management and planning skills at Rabobank Ag Pathways Programmes held in Invercargill, Ashburton and Hawera.
Government ministers cannot miss the ‘SOS’ – save our sheep call - from New Zealand farmers.
A tax advisory specialist is hailing a 20% tax deduction to spur business asset purchases as a golden opportunity for agribusiness.
Sheep and beef farmers have voted to approve Beef + Lamb New Zealand signing an operational agreement between the agricultural sector and the Government on foot and mouth disease readiness and response.
The head of the New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers organisation NZKGI says the points raised in a report about the sector by Waikato University professor Frank Scrimgeour were not a surprise.
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