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Massey Ferguson has announced the extension of their longterm brand partnership with rugby union icon Sam Whitelock as their brand ambassador for New Zealand, extending the role he has held since 2019 through to March 2025.
Said to share the same values and passion for agriculture as the iconic farm machinery brand, Whitelock embodies the ‘Born to Farm’ spirit.
“So we’re excited to continue our partnership with Sam, who is a bona fide champion on the field with an impressive track record,” says Haydn Reeves, senior manager – marketing, Massey Ferguson Australia, New Zealand and Far East. “Not only an on-field champion, Sam Whitelock is highly regarded off the playing field as someone who has a strong passion for farming and the rural community in general.”
Regarded as one of the greats of New Zealand Super Rugby, having played in three Rugby World Cups and with over 138 Test caps to his name, Whitelock’s impressive list of global achievements include being the youngest New Zealander in history to reach 100 tests, a key member of the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cupwinning teams, the 2nd most capped player in history and the record as the fastest player ever to reach 100 international appearances.
As a third-generation dairy farmer from the Manawatu region, farming is in the blood, with a strong connection to the land and a leadby- example mentality, Whitelock aligns with the values of Massey Ferguson, embodying the brand’s hard work, reliability and commitment to the task ahead.
Whitelock is an upstanding leader who is honest and dedicated to giving his all.
His commitment to giving back to the farming community is evidenced by his involvement with Farm Strong, a notfor- profit organisation focused on providing farmers with the skills and resources needed to live well and keep well.
In his role as brand ambassador for Massey Ferguson, Whitelock will feature in media campaigns and promotional events throughout the duration of his ambassadorship, allowing the Kiwi farming community to have an opportunity to connect with one of the country’s national icons through a shared love of the land.
More than 1200 exhibitors will showcase their products and services at next month’s National Fieldays, with sites nearly sold out.
Despite difficult trading conditions for European machinery manufacturers brought about conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, alongside the United States imposing punitive tariffs, Italian manufacturer Maschio Gaspardo, has seen turnover increase 12% in 2025 to €390 million (NZ$775m) with a net profit of €11.2 million (NZ$22.3).
New Zealand innovation company Techion, best known for its animal diagnostics platform, FECPAK has signed an exclusive strategic partnership with Farmlands to bring independent animal health disease intelligence to its customers.
Zespri says it welcomes the recently signed Western Bay of Plenty Regional Deal, describing it as an important step towards supporting growth in the region and for New Zealand's kiwifruit industry.
Troubled milk processor Synlait has lost its third chief executive in five years.
Westgold butter has been named New Zealand's tastiest in a blind tasting conducted by Consumer New Zealand.

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