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.
Technology to help fruit and vegetable growers now and in the future will be demonstrated at the Horticulture Conference in Hamilton later this month.
“We’ve gone all out to ensure that this year’s conference features demonstrations of technology that can help growers tackle some of the challenges that they face,’ says Horticulture New Zealand chief executive, Mike Chapman.
“From biological control products for crop protection to robots for asparagus harvesting and greenhouse spraying, they will all be demonstrated during the morning of second day of the conference.
“We have several demonstrations lined up. This is in addition to a biosecurity response stimulation, and field trips to Zealong Tea Plantation and Hill Laboratories.
“In other words, this year’s conference will not only feature great local and international speakers, it will be highly interactive, taking advantage of the Mystery Creek venue and its location.”
The conference, to be held between 31 July and 2 August at Mystery Creek, Hamilton, has the theme “Our Food Future”.
While demand for healthy, New Zealand grown food is high, the challenges that growers face are significant as they battle for land to grow on, access to water, and capable people to help the industry thrive.
The conference will focus on solutions, several of which need to be found fast. Some solutions will come from better collaboration while others will come from being creators and early adopters of science, technology and innovation.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.
Rural retailer Farmlands has reported a return to profitability, something the co-operative says shows clear progress in the second year of its five-year strategy.
According to a new report, the Safer Rides initiative, which offered farmers heavily discounted crush protection devices (CPDs) for quad bikes, has made a significant impact in raising awareness and action around farm vehicle safety.
OPINION: In the past weeks, much has been said and written about one of New Zealand's greatest prime ministers, James Brendan Bolger, who died just a few months after his 90th birthday.
Following recent storms in the region, the 69th edition of the Tour of Southland cycling event has been postponed.

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