Search
Close this search box.
CU190 Logo 2

24-25 June 2025
Te Pae, Christchurch

Buy Ticket

primary industries new zealand summit & awards 2025

Feds BS logo

Federated Farmers & Brightstar proudly present the Primary Industries New Zealand Summit & Awards

The Primary Industries New Zealand Summit and Awards continues to bring together influential stakeholders and leaders from across of the primary sectors of New Zealand. Delivering strategic insights and celebrating our most successful and innovative primary industry producers and businesses. 

Going for Growth - Working Together to Turbocharge the Primary Sector

We live in a volatile world, where changing geo-politics and the shifting strategies of global agriculture and food businesses could directly impact on the fate of our critical primary industries. In this uncertain environment, the New Zealand primary sector has a bold ambition to significantly grow our exports. The Primary Industries New Zealand Summit will provide the insights and engagement that can support us to work together to turbocharge export growth in this increasingly inward-looking and resource constrained world.

The Summit, as always, features the very best leaders from across the spectrum of New Zealand farming and beyond, sharing their insights, guidance and scientific expertise and providing high level analysis so that we can develop a better understanding of the changing landscape.

Key Summit Themes 2025

  • Trump 2.0, tariffs and the dramatically shifting geo-political environment
  • Global consumer and customer market insights and megatrends
  • New Zealand trade and exports in a volatile world
  • Ownership and succession in New Zealand farming
  • Changing the narrative of global farming
  • Balancing environmental outcomes with productivity and using nature-based solutions to land use challenges
  • Research, science and agri-tech innovation – current, near term and future opportunities

Connect & Network

Join senior decision-makers and influencers from:

Agri-Tech, Telecommunication & Technology | Associations | Farmers and Producers | Primary Industry equipment and services | Corporate Farm holdings | Aquaculture & Fisheries | Forestry | Horticulture | Viticulture | Co-operatives and Producer Boards | Government Utilities | Insurance, Advisors, Chartered Accountants | Iwi | Co-operatives and Producer Boards | Rural Media | Wholesalers, Retails and Exporters | Science & Research | Investors

Primary Industries
New Zealand Awards
Ceremony Dinner

The Primary Industries New Zealand Awards provides
a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and recognise innovation,
excellence, collaboration and success across the primary industries.

view more

AWARDS DINNER SPONSOR

SFF logo lock-up BOX Silver Fern Farms brand logos

8:30

Registration and Coffee

8:45

Mihi whakatau 

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Summit MC

Rowena Duncum, Rural Lead, NZME 

9:05

Opening address from Federated Farmers

Wayne Langford, National President, Federated Farmers

9:20

Ministerial Address 

Hon Todd McClay, Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Forestry, Minister for Trade and Investment, and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs

9:40

Geopolitical keynote address: How much does Trump 2.0 change everything?

  • What does the changing geopolitical landscape and global trade environment mean for New Zealand and our primary industries – can we survive in a harsh new era of geostrategic competition?

  • Predicting the impact of potential US tariffs on global markets and trade – how will this effect New Zealand and how should we respond?

  • What are the signals we are seeing so far from business, capital and major companies around the world?

  • What impact will changing global geopolitical realities have on sustainability and decarbonisation ambitions of global food businesses?

Micheal Every, Global Strategist, Rabobank

10:10

Global consumer market insights and megatrends

  • Exploring the latest consumer food and drink trends – how can these inform your business and enable you to cater for developing consumer markets

  • Understanding the message from major global customers of the New Zealand primary industries – what do NZ producers need to know?

  • What does the market tell us about whether end users of New Zealand food and fibre products are willing to pay a premium for low footprint, sustainable products?

  • How are New Zealand products viewed by global markets

10:40

Morning break

11:10

Rabobank keynote address: Examining succession on farm

  • How do farmers and growers ensure the continuity of their farming businesses and get adequately rewarded for a lifetime’s work as the current cohort of owners grow older and seek to exit?

  • Analysing the data to sort fact from fiction and provide an accurate picture of changing land ownership in New Zealand agriculture

  • Understanding the primary sector workforce – exploring the demography, remuneration trends and enrolments in education and training

  • Headwinds and tailwinds – how other countries are tackling succession?

  •  Delivering succession - examining how to ensure the effective handover to future generations

  • What does the future hold and what do the next generation of farming leaders tell us they want?

Todd Charteris, Chief Executive Officer, Rabobank New Zealand

11:35

Panel discussion: Exploring the issues around ownership and succession in New Zealand farming

  • Analysing the evolving ownership base in NZ agriculture– how is this changing and what does that mean for the primary industries?

  • Exploring the transfer of ownership of natural capital assets that sustain our agricultural economy

  • How do different countries around the world approach farm ownership structures – what can we learn?

  • What has been the impact of high land/capital values had on succession within NZ farming

Sarah How, Co-Founder, Landify Ltd

Todd Charteris, CEO, Rabobank New Zealand

Peter Templeton, Nuffield Scholar and Southland dairy farm owner

Toby Williams, Meat & Wool Industry Group Chairperson & National Board Member, Federated Farmers

12:15

Primary sector leader interviews

In these interviews with the biggest New Zealand producers from across the dairy, red meat and horticulture sectors, leaders will share the key insights they are seeing from across global markets. Sharing their take on the trends that are developing, and explore how they have aligned their strategies to both take advantage of the opportunities emerging and mitigate the risks they are experiencing.

Dan Boulton, Chief Executive, Silver Fern Farms

Richard Allen, President Global Markets Ingredients, Fonterra

Tim Mackle, Acting Chief Operating Officer, Zespri

1:15

Lunch

2:15

Understanding what the changing global trade environment means for New Zealand

  • Analysing the threats and business risks in the current global trading environment

  • What lessons can we take from the first 6 months of the Trump administration – what impacts have we seen on global trade?

  • How exposed to tariffs is New Zealand currently – which of our industries are most at risk?

  • Are there any opportunities that New Zealand can seize from changes in the shifting trade landscape

  • Sharing the latest updates from free trade negotiations:

  • Exploring the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates

  • Update on the New Zealand-Pacific Alliance free trade agreement

  • Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

  • Where are we now with India?

Vangelis Vitalis, Deputy Secretary Trade and Economic, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade

2.45

Panel discussion: New Zealand trade and exports in a volatile world

  • How can the New Zealand primary industries best respond to the changing trade and export environment

  • Market reports – what are we currently seeing in global product markets and what does this mean for our export strategies

  • What are the signals from the global marketplace around prices?

  • How do we manage the impact of changing global geopolitics on our crucial relationship with China?

  • How much of our hoped for doubling of primary sector exports is likely to come from established relationships and markets and how much do anticipate we can achieve by developing business with new customers

  • How do we build relationships with new trading partners – which markets represent our greatest opportunities?

Richard Allen, President Global Markets Ingredients, Fonterra

Tim Mackle, Acting Chief Operating Officer, Zespri

Hamish Marr, Special Agricultural Trade Envoy

Thomas Macdonald, Chief Operating Officer, Spring Sheep Milk Co

Suzannah Jessep, Chief Executive, Asia New Zealand Foundation

3:30

Afternoon refreshments

3:50

Keynote address: How can we change the narrative around farming?

  • How is agriculture globally responding to rising scrutiny - is there a need to transform our communications and advocacy strategies?

  • How can we ensure that farming voices are being heard and that we have place at decision-making tables – sharing examples of where this is happening

  • Sharing examples from around the world of where individuals and movements are repositioning themselves around more positive narratives

Claire Taylor, Agriculture Journalist and Nuffield Scholar

4:20


Panel discussion: Telling the story of New Zealand farming

  • What does the story we tell about ourselves say about NZ farming?

  • What stories about NZ farming do we need to get better at telling?

  • How can New Zealand farmers better communicate with global audiences?

  • Understanding that it’s not what we grow but how we grow it and the story behind it – how effectively are we able to communicate the point differentiation of NZ farming systems

  • How to tell an authentic and evidence-based provenance story that resonates with consumers

David Downs, Chief Executive, NZ Story

Dean Williamson, CEO and Publisher, AgriHQ

Claire Taylor, Agriculture Journalist and Nuffield Scholar

Sandra Faulkner, National Board Member, Federated Farmers

5:00

Chair’s summary remarks and end of day one followed by Networking Function

7:00

Primary Industries Awards Ceremony & Dinner

8:50

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Summit MC

9:05

Prime Ministerial Address (TBC)

9:30

MPI Address

  • How are the primary industries doing in accelerating the on-farm productivity that will enable the export double and allow us to remain internationally competitive?

  • Strategies to increase productivity within boundaries without sacrificing huge value of the pasture-based model

  • How much can we achieve through productivity improvements – how can we grow value?

  • Working to provide long term consistency to farmers around agricultural policy and reduce complexity and duplication

10:00

Rewiring the primary industries – electrifying farming in Aotearoa

  • Using, creating and storing more electricity on New Zealand’s farms to achieve the economic and environmental interests of the rural and energy sectors and New Zealand as a whole

  • Sharing the story of our electrification journey at Forest Lodge Orchard

  • Outlining the opportunity that on farm electrification represents to farming and farmers

  • Understanding the costs of delivering electrification on farm and the return on investment

  • Examining the role of low-cost finance in supporting this transition

  • Where to start with your on-farm electrification journey

  • Creating new diversified revenue streams by installing solar panels and batteries

  • What could we achieve if we mobilised at scale - exploring how farms could be the future power stations of Nex Zealand and bring down electricity prices for New Zealanders

Mike Casey, CEO, Rewiring Aotearoa

10:30

Morning break

11:00

Recloaking Papatūānuku

  • Recognising the need to meet big international climate liabilities and the rising cost of offshore carbon credits

  • Developing a programme to replant native forest in New Zealand to support our emissions reduction and achieve significant co-benefits

  • Building New Zealand’s climate and ecological resilience to reduce our increased vulnerability to growing climate-related risks

  • Deploying nature-based solutions to heal our damaged soils and waterways and restore and enhance our unique indigenous biodiversity and taonga species

  • Strengthening rural communities and creating regional employment opportunities

Andrew Grant, Trustee, Pure Advantage

11:30

Panel discussion: Nature-based solutions to land use challenges

  • Is New Zealand at a crossroads around the management of our natural resources and the environmental impact of our activities?

  • Recognising that NZ pasture-based farming does have a good story to tell on farm but that we have to be honest about challenges around water quality, soil health and the use of inputs

  • How do we best measure and value the natural capital on which our primary industries rely?

  • Tackling biodiversity – what is the role of business in this space? and how can they meaningfully embrace efforts to improve nature and biodiversity outcomes?

  • Understanding how global regulatory frameworks are driving companies globally to accelerate their action on the biodiversity agenda

  • How can we measure and manage and report nature-based impacts and material dependencies

  • Identifying the best nature–based solutions  - Showcasing where NZ farming is tackling key biodiversity challenges 

  • Exploring the development of nature and biodiversity credit schemes

Ngaio Neumegen, Independent sustainability consultant

Corina Jordan, Chief Executive, New Zealand Fish and Game Council

Nicola Toki, Chief Executive, Forest and Bird

Mark Hooper, National Board Member, Federated Farmers

12:15

Lunch

1:15

Balancing environmental outcomes with productivity in agriculture to improve freshwater ecosystem health

  • Can we achieve the long-term consistency of the regulatory approach that would provide farmers with the confidence to invest in sustainability outcomes?

  • How can we achieve the doubling of exports in agriculture and deliver the required acceleration of on-farm productivity while balancing environmental impacts on freshwater?

  • How have science, innovation and on-farm practices evolved in recent years to enable land use change while maintaining freshwater ecosystem health?

  • How can the agriculture sector demonstrate the freshwater outcomes required to maintain its social license and contribute to an honest conversation around water in New Zealand?

Bruce Thorrold, Chief Science Advisor, DairyNZ

David Burger, General Manager Farm Solutions and Policy, DairyNZ

1:45

Driving agricultural growth through smart water management – lessons from Tasmania

  • Achieving access to reliable water to secure the future of agriculture

  • Exploring the innovative solutions to complex water access and storage challenges that have transformed agriculture in Tasmania

  • Developing a model that blends public funding and private investment with long-term sustainability

  • Lessons from Tasmania for New Zealand that can enable livery of sustainable. high-reliability water at an affordable price

Andrew Kneebone, CEO, Tasmanian Irrigation

2:15

Research, science and agri-tech innovation

Science, technology, research and innovation have always been a key part of keeping NZ farming at the top of the world game. But how can we continue to leverage this capability and invest in the future products and systems that will support farming to improve on farm productivity, grow value and safeguard environmental outcomes. This session will showcase a range of technologies at different levels of maturity with a particular focus on how to better enable wide scale adoption.

  • Wearables – how do we maximise the value of these well-established technologies and mainstream them as new form of farming system that can deliver the improvements in productivity we seek

  •  GHG mitigation technologies – analysing the quantum of mitigation possible, costs and return on investment and the pathway to use on farm

  • ·AI applications in farming – whats happening already and whats the real scale of the transformation opportunities

2:45

A vision for the future of New Zealand farming from the next generation of farming leaders

3:10

Closing remarks from the MC and close of Summit

Back to top

2025 Speakers

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Hon Todd McClay

Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Forestry, Minister for Trade and Investment, and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs
Todd McClay is the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Forestry, Minister for Trade and Investment and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs. He has been the MP for Rotorua since 2008. Todd held several Ministerial roles in the Fifth National Government with portfolios including Trade, State-Owned Enterprises and Revenue. Todd has previously been a diplomat and was the Cook Islands and Niue Ambassador to the European Union. He has worked in business in Europe as well as government and public relations internationally.

Thomas Macdonald

Chief Operating Officer
Spring Sheep Milk Co
Thomas has been an integral part of Spring Sheep since its inception, driving innovation for our global sheep milk industry. As the recipient of the prestigious Zanda McDonald Award in 2018, he is recognized for his exceptional work with Spring Sheep. Leading teams across genetics, milk supply, manufacturing, and market access, he spearheads our commitment to innovation.

Michael Every

Global Strategist
Rabobank
Michael Every is a Global Strategist at Rabobank. He analyses major financial developments and contributes to the bank’s various economic research publications for internal and external customers and to the media. Michael has over two decades of experience working as an Economist and Strategist. Before Rabobank, he was a Director at Silk Road Associates in Bangkok, Senior Economist and Fixed Income Strategist at the Royal Bank of Canada in both London and Sydney, and an Economist for Dun & Bradstreet in London. Michael holds a Masters degree in Economics (with distinction) from University College London and speaks a smattering of languages, including Thai.

Mark Hooper

National Board Member
Federated Farmers

David Burger

General Manager Farm Solutions and Policy
DairyNZ
David leads a team that leverages DairyNZ’s farm systems capability across our solutions and development, policy, biosecurity, and farmer-facing teams. This team has a key role in strengthening our ability to positively influence farmer change for the future success of the dairy sector. He is passionate about ensuring New Zealand dairy farmers can continue to adapt their farm systems to remain sustainable, and competitive. David is a water quality scientist with more than 20 years of national and international experience in applied water resources management. He has held numerous roles since joining DairyNZ in 2013, including senior water quality scientist, environment manager, four years as strategy and investment leader for responsible dairying, and two years as general manager – sustainable dairy. He previously worked as a scientist and advisor for Deltares, an independent international water research institute based in the Netherlands and then Singapore. David holds a PhD in Limnology and a MSc in Freshwater Ecology from the University of Waikato.

Tim Mackle

Acting Chief Operating Officer
Zespri
Tim was appointed Acting Chief Operating Officer in July 2024, after joining Zespri in October 2023 as Head of Global Quality. Before joining Zespri, Tim was DairyNZ’s Chief Executive for more than 15 years, and prior to that he was Chief Executive of Dexcel Ltd. Tim was previously general manager of Fonterra subsidiary, Anchor Ethanol. He also worked in strategy for the New Zealand Dairy Board before taking a corporate role at Fonterra supporting the CEO during its establishment. Early in his career he was a nutrition and milk characteristics scientist with NZ Dairy Board subsidiary DRC. He has a PhD in animal, food and nutritional sciences from Cornell University, New York, and a Bachelor of Agriculture Science (Hons) from Lincoln University. Tim is excited to support New Zealand growers and farmers to take their premium food to the world.

Nicola Toki

Chief Executive
Forest and Bird
Nicola Toki is the Chief Executive of Forest & Bird. Before joining Forest & Bird in 2022, she held a senior leadership position at the Department of Conservation. Nicola has experience in leadership roles across public, private, and non-profit organisations. She studied zoology and law at the University of Otago and completed a postgraduate diploma in natural history film-making. Nicola is renowned for her proactive public engagement on conservation issues. She connects people to nature through storytelling in various media. She co-hosts Radio New Zealand’s “Critter of the Week” and the TV series “Endangered Species Aotearoa,” now in its second season.

Corina Jordan

Chief Executive
New Zealand Fish and Game Council

Ngaio Neumegen

Independent sustainability consultant

Andrew Grant

Trustee
Pure Advantage

Mike Casey

CEO
Rewiring Aotearoa
Mike Casey is an entrepreneur and cherry orchardist from Central Otago who has electrified all the machines on his farm and demonstrated how the transition away from diesel can save farmers tens of thousands each year and significantly reduce emissions. He is also the CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, a New Zealand charity dedicated to electrifying millions of fossil fuel machines across the motu as quickly as possible. Rewiring Aotearoa’s Electric Homes report proved New Zealand had reached the electrification tipping point, where electric appliances and vehicles were cheaper than their fossil fuel equivalents over their lifetime, even with upfront costs and finance built in. The Electric Farms paper proved there are similar benefits for the rural sector if we can turn farms into power plants. It showed New Zealand’s farmers could reduce their operational costs by going electric and generating a lot of their own electricity through mid-scale solar and battery systems – and they can also make money by feeding electricity back into the grid at times of high demand. “Whether in the home or on the farm, electrification is a real win-win. It’s not just the right environmental decision anymore, it’s the right economic decision. It’s a no-brainer. We just have to figure out how to make it easy.”

Sandra Faulkner

National Board Member
Federated Farmers
Sandra Faulkner and her family run a farming business in Muriwai, Gisborne which includes sheep and beef, annual cropping and citrus. Wairakaia Partnership won the Supreme Award in the 2014 East Coast Balance Farm Environment Awards. Sandra is a Nuffield Scholar, a Kellogg Rural Leader and a member of the Institute of Directors. Alongside her Federated Farmers role, Sandra is Chair of the Gisborne/ Wairoa Rural Coordination Group, sits on the National Animal Walfare Advisory Committee, is President of Gisborne Riding for Disabled and a trustee for the Campaign for Wool NZ.   Having served on the Gisborne District Council, she is a strong advocate for keeping the local voice in Local Government. Across this varied portfolio of governance roles, her mission is always to increase stakeholder engagement through clear communication, strategic planning and actively seeking solutions. She brings a high level of energy, an eye for opportunities, wide networks and business experience. Sandra’s focus is on encouraging a positive primary industry perspective across local government, ministerial appointments, charitable and not-for-profit organisations. Supporting families on the land during the response to, and recovery from, Cyclone Gabrielle has been huge, ongoing learning curve for Sandra. She is now focused on ensuring a strong farming community voice in adverse event and emergency management legislation, planning and response. Sandra’s advocacy skills were forged at Federated Farmers, (she served as Gisborne/ Wairoa Provincial President and as Meat and Wool Provincial Chair and National Executive) always fighting to enable primary producers. Sandra is a farmer – in practice, profession, heart and soul.

Dean Williamson

CEO and Publisher
AgriHQ
Dean and Cushla Williamson own AgriHQ Limited, the Feilding-based home of their flagship national newspaper, Farmers Weekly. There are about 65 on the AgriHQ team, half of them full time and the rest freelance and part time. Every day they produce agribusiness news, insights and analysis through print, digital, podcasts, video, emailed newsletters and market reports. Dean also farms a 45ha sheep, beef and forestry block near Feilding. He began work life as a shearer, became a school teacher, traveled the world for three years, then started his career in rural media in 1992 as the livestock and stud stock manager for The New Zealand Farmer. When not publishing or farming, Dean is likely to be fishing, diving, hunting or sailing, most often with one or more of his and Cushla’s three adult sons.

David Downs

Chief Executive
NZ Story
David has held a portfolio of interests across international trade, technology, economic development, and charitable causes. He has held a number of General Management roles in New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, most recently working with the technology sector to help fast growing tech companies grow internationally and New Zealand companies adopt digital commerce channels to market. He has also held leadership roles at NZTE in products and services, customer and corporate services. Prior to this David had an extensive career in leadership roles with Microsoft in New Zealand and Asia Pacific.  David is a passionate New Zealander and storyteller by nature. He has successfully started businesses, been a comedian, TV and Radio actor, a talented author and semi-finalist for New Zealander of the Year. 

Claire Taylor

Agriculture Journalist and Nuffield Scholar
Claire Taylor grew up on a beef farm in Scotland where her family breed Belted Galloway Cattle. ​She is a passionate communicator, with a specialist knowledge in agriculture, food and rural affairs, clocking up over a decade of experience working in TV, radio, print and public relations. ​Claire first gained success as a producer on BBC election programmes, before going on to become a reporter and columnist across national magazine and broadsheet titles. She is a sought after speaker and conference MC, and can regularly be heard commentating on rural issues on TV and the radio. ​ Recently, Claire completed a Nuffield Farming Scholarship, which took her across Europe, Africa, South America, Australasia, and Asia to investigate anti-farming sentiment and how agriculture is responding to scrutiny. Her research emphasised the need for an overhaul in how the agricultural sector communicates and engages with the public and key decision-makers. ​Inspired by her Nuffield experience, Claire founded Agvocacy Consulting to help businesses and organisations better communicate their stories, build social license, and to amplify the voice of agriculture globally.

Toby Williams

Meat & Wool Industry Group Chairperson & National Board Member
Federated Farmers

Hamish Marr

Special Agricultural Trade Envoy
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade

Suzannah Jessep

Chief Executive
Asia New Zealand Foundation

Suzannah Jessep was appointed chief executive at the Asia New Zealand Foundation in January 2024.

Previously, she served as the Foundation’s director of research and engagement, and prior to that as a New Zealand diplomat. Suzannah is a board member of the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs (NZIIA) and sits on the Advisory Boards of the New Zealand Contemporary China Research Centre (NZCCRC) and the New Zealand India Research Institute (NZIRI).

Richard Allen

President Global Markets Ingredients
Fonterra
Richard was appointed President of the Global Ingredients business in August 2024, following the Co-op’s shift to divest Fonterra’s consumer brands and concentrate on high value ingredients. Richard brings to the role a track record of global strategic delivery. In addition to overseeing sales, manufacturing and sourcing operations for the business, Richard is at the forefront of fostering growth and fortifying partnerships with some of the world’s leading global food, beverage and nutrition companies. Since joining Fonterra in 2008, Richard has developed deep experience and knowledge of the company’s international value chain and operations. His tenure in his previous appointment as President of the Atlantic region is marked by significant performance improvement in the Americas and Europe. Richard has also lead Farm Source – the Co-op’s team of farmer engagement, sustainability and milk specialists – and the Farm Source rural retail network in New Zealand, along with time transforming Fonterra’s Foodservice business across Greater China. Richard is passionate about supporting the growth of New Zealand business globally.

Dan Boulton

Chief Executive
Silver Fern Farms
Dan took up the role of Chief Executive of Silver Fern Farms in February 2024. He is responsible for leading the company, the delivery of strategy and financial performance, and engaging with customers, staff, farmer suppliers, and shareholders. Under Dan’s leadership, Silver Fern Farms is well-positioned to fulfil its purpose to create goodness from the farms the world needs. Silver Fern Farms has an exceptional brand, and has a talented and passionate group of people working hard to execute its market-led strategy. Dan initially joined Silver Fern Farms in 2017, eventually becoming the Chief Supply Chain Officer where he led the livestock procurement, non-livestock procurement, logistics and planning functions. Supplementing his extensive understanding of the business, Dan brings a strong primary industry set of experiences in operations, commercial, procurement, supply chain and leadership. He was previously with Sealord for seven years in supply chain and commercial roles and, prior to Sealord, held a variety of roles at the Wilcox Group of companies and before that at Carter Holt Harvey Forests.

Peter Templeton

2024 Nuffield New Zealand Farming Scholar
Peter Templeton is a 5th generation dairy farmer based on the south coast of Southland. 32 years old, Peter is passionate about southland dairy farming. Peter has been dairy farming for 11 seasons, working his way up from 2IC to farm manager before returning to the family farm in 2016. Peter began his ownership journey as a 50/50 sharemilker for five seasons, before leasing the farm for two seasons and finally owning the farm in August 2023. Peter is interested in focusing on the future of farming, what it is likely to look like on an individual farm basis – in particular on new technologies to implement on farm. “I am always curious to see other systems and challenging myself to see what I could use in my own environment.” Peter also states he is excited to see and gain a better understanding of New Zealand’s value chains, understand how they intend to innovate to compete

Sarah How

Co-Founder
Landify Ltd
Sarah is from a proud, mixed arable farming family in Mid Canterbury. She has worked on-farm, in advisory roles, and in research and development. Joining forces with her good mate from uni, Tara, she wants to build something that matters to the community and the next generation of farmers.

Todd Charteris

CEO
Rabobank New Zealand
Todd has headed Rabobank, New Zealand’s only specialist food and agri bank, since January 2018. He leads a team of more than 500 banking professionals, backed by a global research team of 75 experts, supporting food and agri producers through a network of 30 offices and offering online retail savings and deposit services. Todd served more than 15 years in regional roles in New Zealand and as a former National Manager of Country Banking in Australia. He brings a wide knowledge of diverse farming systems, the realities facing producers and the importance of sustainability for the sector as it responds to a changing environment. Todd grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Otago. He joined Rabobank in 2000, following his Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) studies at University of Otago and early career experience as a livestock agent, and in investment banking in London.

Wayne Langford

President
Federated Farmers

Rowena Duncum

Rural Lead
NZME
Rowena Duncum is a former dairy farmer and 2013 Taranaki Farm Manager of the Year.  In 2014, she swapped corralling cows for corralling Jamie Mackay as BDM, then Executive Producer of The Country – NZME’s long-standing rural radio show. Rowena’s recently taken up the role of Rural Lead at NZME, and provides the daily rural update on NewstalkZB’s ‘The Hour’ – hosted by Simon Barnett and James Daniels, is a regular rural correspondent for Newshub’s AM Show, as well as being the fill-in host of The Country. She’s also the current World Runner-up Boot-throwing champion and on the board of the Whanganui Rugby Union and NZ Masters Games, Dunedin.

The Primary Industries New Zealand Awards

Federated Farmers & Brightstar proudly present the Primary Industries Awards Ceremony on 24 June at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre.

The Primary Industries NZ Summit Awards are open to individuals, teams and companies from any producer groups working within the primary sector or in support of the primary sector. The Awards Ceremony on provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and recognise innovation, excellence, collaboration and success across the primary industries.

Awards Timeline

Awards open

30 January 2025 

Nominations close

24 March 2025 

Finalists announced

13 May 2025 

Finalist Interviews

20 May 2025 

Awards Ceremony

24 June 2025 

View judges
ENTER OR NOMINATE NOW
view 2024 finalists & winners
buy ticket

2025 Categories

Are you interested in sponsoring an Award for 2025? Contact the team for this showcasing opportunity.
Email: sponsorship@brightstar.co.nz

Emerging Leader Award

This award recognises an emerging leader who is new (started in the industry within the last 2 -5 years) to the New Zealand primary sector. The recipient must be an individual who demonstrates commitment, passion and leadership in their chosen career within the primary industries. Nominations should demonstrate leadership the individual has shown and their impact on the industry. Those nominated should also demonstrate their commitment to the primary industries and how they have made and can make, develop and progress the sector.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why is this person nominated for the award?
  • Show proven evidence of their commitment and passion for their organisation and the wider sector
  • What is it about this person’s commitment to business and their community that proves they deserve this award?
  • Explain the leadership qualities this individual has displayed and the impact this has on the primary sector

Champion Award

This award recognises a New Zealand-based individual’s unwavering commitment to the rural sector on a specific area or cause. This will be someone who has spearheaded a project, initiative and/or event which has had a significant and positive impact on the Primary Sector. This person is known to overcome challenges and attain a high level of success in educating others about the importance of rural New Zealand.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why have you nominated this person?
  • What initiative/s did this individual “champion” “front foot” and what were the positive impacts and benefits on the primary sector and rural communities?
  • What challenges did this individual face and how did educating others play a part in the ability to succeed?
  • What specifically makes their contribution to the Primary industries significant
 

Team & Collaboration Award

This award recognises a team of New Zealand-based agricultural professionals who have actively participated in collaborative problem solving and worked together to overcome obstacles. The team have collaborated and advocated for New Zealand’s primary industries and achieved successful outcomes on an issue or problem facing the wider agricultural community. The team can consist of people from multiple organisations and must have a minimum of three people.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why was this team/collaboration nominated?
  • What was the issue/problem/obstacles facing the agricultural community?
  • How did the team come together to collaborate and set out to resolve the issue?
  • Show evidence of how the team has collaborated to achieve the desired outcome and what was measure of successle.
 

Technology Innovation Award

The Technology Innovation Award aims to recognise and celebrate professionals working on primary sector projects that focus on supporting rural communities – including producers, scientists, investors, industry bodies, external providers and sector leaders. This award recognises people who have worked on an innovative technology project /projects designed to make New Zealand agriculture more efficient and effective.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why was this project nominated?
  • Explain the detail of the project and its potential positive impact on New Zealand Primary Industries
  • Explain how this technology innovation will support New Zealand Agriculture to be more effective and efficient, whilst adding value.
  • Show evidence of how this technological innovation has been instrumental in satisfying the rural/farming sector.
 

Food, Beverage and Fibre Producer Award

The award recognises and celebrates a standout producer in the New Zealand Primary sector. The food, beverage or fibre producer can be an individual, team or company which has shown success and or considerable growth in either product sales or consumer engagement within the last 12 months – 18 months. The producer must demonstrate a sustainable approach to their production processes show evidence of working closely with those in and across the primary sector.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why have you nominated this producer?
  • Provide evidence of considerable growth in either product sales or consumer engagement within the last 12 to 18 months
  • How is the business model sustainable and how does this benefit the production of their product?
  • What are the reputable business practices and how does the brand story contribute to New Zealand’s marketing image as a producer?
 
Sponsored by: Kotahi

The award recognises and celebrates a standout producer in the New Zealand Primary sector. The food, beverage or fibre producer can be an individual, team or company which has shown success and or considerable growth in either product sales or consumer engagement within the last 12 months – 18 months. The producer must demonstrate a sustainable approach to their production processes show evidence of working closely with those in and across the primary sector.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why have you nominated this producer?
  • Provide evidence of considerable growth in either product sales or consumer engagement within the last 12 to 18 months
  • How is the business model sustainable and how does this benefit the production of their product?
  • What are the reputable business practices and how does the brand story contribute to New Zealand’s marketing image as a producer?
 
Sponsored by: Kotahi

Guardianship & Conservation Award (Kaitiakitanga Award)

This award recognises an exceptional primary industry conservation project/initiative. The winner will be emblematic of the true spirit of guardianship over natural resources and native ecosystems for the ongoing and continued benefit of future generations, while demonstrating leadership and commitment to the primary industries.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why has this person/people been nominated?
  • What is the conservation project/body of work that is emblematic of and supports natural resources, native ecosystems? Does this influence climate change mitigation?
  • How was leadership and commitment to the primary industries demonstrated?
  • How will this project/body of work benefit future generations?
  
Sponsored by: Rabobank

Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand’s Primary Industries Award

The award enables the primary industries community to recognise and appreciate the efforts of one of its own. This award will go to a long-standing hero who has continuously supported both their rural community and their given rural industry with commitment and dedicated service. The winner of this award consistently supports their local community and goes above and beyond for others in times of extreme and challenging times.

The recipient is selected by the 2025 judging panel and is at their discretion. However, if you believe you know a worthy candidate please drop us a line and let us know why you think they should be considered. Email Sharon at: sgrundy@fedfarm.org.nz

Plus! Celebrating a 'Rural Hero of the Year'

An industry acknowledgement will also be made, announcing a ‘Rural Hero of the Year’ for their commitment and impactful contributions to New Zealand’s rural communities.

Recognizing an individual who has sparked action at the grassroots level, through selfless serving of their community whether through innovative farming, conservation, or community education. They’ve overcome challenges and inspired change, strengthening the fabric of our rural sector and making a lasting impact from the ground up.

Finalists come from those who have been granted the Rural Hero of the Week award on SENZ The Rural Roundup in the previous 12 months. 

Fern_Logo_RGB Positive

Awards Dinner Sponsor

Established in 1948, Silver Fern Farms is a market-led food company, supplying nutritious and delicious, sustainably and ethically raised grass-fed red meat and other natural products, from Aotearoa to the world. We are New Zealand’s leading processor, marketer and exporter of premium quality lamb, beef and venison and associated products to over 60 global markets.

We are deeply connected to the rural communities of New Zealand. In peak season, we employ over 6,000 people globally and connect to a network of over 16,000 farmer suppliers nationwide.

More details to come on the Ambassador Chef for the 2025 menu.

SFF_Flat Logo_horz_POS

spacer line

The 2025 Judges

Claire Williamson

Claire is a passionate advocate for rural businesses and communities. She launched Velma & Beverley, a fashion brand using strong-wool fibre from a Wairarapa farm. Claire co-hosts the Black Heels and Tractor Wheels podcast and has served on the Rural Women NZ Board. She is also a trustee of the Rural Communities Trust and was awarded the PINZ 2024 Emerging Leader Award. Claire lives on a Waikato beef farm.

Corrigan Sowman

Corrigan is a 3rd generation dairy farmer and Chairman of the breeding cooperative LIC. He farms in partnership with his wider family in Golden Bay on a 450ha dairy farm. He is a past Kellogg and Nuffield Scholar, former member of Fonterra’s Sustainability Advisory Panel, past Deputy Chair of DairyNZ Environment Leaders program and past Chair of the SIDE and SIDDC.

Alan Emerson

Alan Emerson began his career in agricultural journalism in 1973, working in television and radio. He co-founded Communications Trumps in 1984, where he led campaigns for Federated Farmers. After selling the agency in 2003, he purchased a farm and became a columnist for Farmers Weekly. Alan has also edited three agriculture books and speaks regularly at industry events. In 2024, he was awarded Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year.

Emma Boase

Emma (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe) transitioned from city life to the primary industries, drawn to its global opportunities. She holds a degree in Agribusiness and Food Marketing from Lincoln University and a Master’s in Ag Economics from the University of Missouri. Emma now works at PwC, supporting clients in the Food and Fibre sector, leveraging her expertise in the global food system.

Tangaroa Walker

Tangaroa is the much-loved face of social media channels Farm4Life and education platform The Hub that delivers NZQA qualifications. Tangaroa contract milks a 650 cow dairy farm in Southland. He milked his first cow when he was 13 and won the inaugural Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award and Southland Primary ITO Trainee of the Year Award. He is also passionate about making memories with his 2 sons, fiancée Courtney, and whanau!

Vera Power

Dr Vera Power is the Chief Executive at The Fertiliser Association. She has worked internationally in agricultural research, assessment of environmental impacts and regulation of intensive agriculture. She has government policy experience on both water and climate.

Dean Williamson

Dean & Cushla Williamson own AgriHQ, the Feilding-based home of their flagship national newspaper, Farmers Weekly and agribusiness news, insights and analysis. Dean also farms a 45ha sheep, beef and forestry block near Feilding. When not publishing or farming, Dean is likely to be fishing, diving, hunting or sailing, most often with one or more of his and Cushla’s three adult sons.

Justin Courtney

Justin Courtney is the Chair of weather data provider Metris. He is also the founder of Dawn Chorus Consulting which provides advice to companies in the food & fibre sector. His 25-year career started with the Victorian Farmers Federation and has spanned work in the UK, EU and Middle Eastern markets. On returning to NZ he worked in the dairy industry before leading Silver Fern Farms communications and sustainability efforts.

Steve Wilkins

Steve Wilkins is a farmer in Athol, Southland, managing a mixed cropping and livestock business. He grows crops like wheat and barley and raises lambs, cattle, and deer. As Vice Chair of FAR and Chair of the Otago/Southland Arable Research Group, he also serves as a Director of United Wheat Growers and a Trustee of the NZ Rural Leadership Trust. A Nuffield Scholar, Steve focuses on leadership development in agriculture.

2024 Finalists & Winners

Emerging Leader Award

Sponsored by: Lincoln University

The 2024 Emerging Leader Award Finalists were:
Claire Williamson, Velma & Beverley 
Jordi Hoult, Ministry for Primary Industries 
Sam Waugh, Donald’s Farm 
WINNER: Claire Williamson, Velma & Beverley 

Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand’s Primary Industries Award

Sponsored by: AgResearch

The 2024 Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand’s Primary Industries Award Finalists were:

Julian Raine, Dairy & Horticulture Farmer/Grower 
Jamie Mackay, Presenter, The Country, NZME 
Vangelis Vitalis, Deputy Secretary of Trade and Economic, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 

WINNER: Julian Raine, Dairy & Horticulture Farmer/Grower

Champion Award

Sponsored by: Farmers Weekly

The 2024 Champion Award Finalists were:

Dr Warren Parker (Posthumous), Pāmu Farms of New Zealand 
Dr Stuart Davis, LeaderBrand Produce 
Cameron Taylor, Taylor Corporation 

WINNER: Dr Warren Parker (Posthumous), Pāmu Farms of New Zealand

Team & Collaboration Award

Sponsored by: BASF

The 2024 Team & Collaboration Award Finalists were:

Agrisea – Rere ki uta rere ki tai : Sea soil to society. A collaborative project funded by Our Land and Water National Science Challenge under the Revitalising te Taio research program, hosted by AgriSea.

Tanya Pouwhare, New Zealand Ethical Employers

The organisations for the CRA3 Lobster Biotoxin Response: Ministry for Primary Industries; Seafood Standards Council;

New Zealand Rock Lobster Industry Council; Crayfish Area Management Committee; Licensed Fish Receivers 

WINNER: Tanya Pouwhare, New Zealand Ethical Employers

Science & Research Award

Sponsored by: Beef + Lamb

The 2024 Science & Research Award Finalists were:

ESR Groundwater Team and DairyNZ 
Dr Gale Brightwell, AgResearch – for the Food Integrity Team
Paul Dalziel, Agribusiness & Economics Research Unit, Lincoln University

WINNER: ESR Groundwater Team and DairyNZ

Technology Innovation Award

Sponsored by: AsureQuality Kaitiaki Kai

The 2024 Technology Innovation Award Finalists were:

Liam Beattie, bidr 
Samantha Tennent, WelFarm 
John Schol, Farm 4 Life HUB

WINNER: John Schol, Farm 4 Life HUB

Food, Beverage and Fibre Producer Award

Sponsored by: Kotahi 

The 2024 Food, Beverage and Fibre Producer Award Finalists were:

New Image International 
Repost 
Southern Pastures/Lewis Road Creamery 

WINNER: Southern Pastures/Lewis Road Creamery

Guardianship & Conservation Award (Kaitiakitanga Award)

Sponsored by: Rabobank 

The 2024 Guardianship & Conservation Award (Kaitiakitanga Award) Finalists were:

Dr Adrian Cookson, AgResearch for the eDNA Water Quality Team
Jane & Damian Roper, Farm Owners
Otago South River Care for the Catchment Collective Team 

WINNER: Jane & Damian Roper, Farm Owners

Plus! Celebrating a 'Rural Hero of the Year'

Sponsored by: Overseer 

The Rural Hero of the Year Finalists were:

Alastair Macgregor, Farmy Army
Craig Hickman, DairymanNZ
Cara & John Gregan, supporters to Meat the Need 

WINNER: Alastair Macgregor, Farmy Army

2025 Sponsors

Diamond Sponsor

Rabobank

Awards Dinner Sponsor

SFF_Flat Logo_horz_POS

Silver Fern Farms

Gold Sponsor

Dairy NZ

Awards Sponsors

Rabobank

Kotahi

AsureQuality

Fern_Logo_RGB Positive

Fern Energy

AgResearch

Lincoln University

BASFo_wh100dg_3c

BASF

Exhibitors

Map of AG

Quest Logo

Quest

BASFo_wh100dg_3c

BASF

Supporting Organisations

FAR logo diamond only - CMYK

FAR

ExportNZ

AgriTech

MIA Final logo

Mia

Deer Industry

Dairy Women’s Network

APHNZ logo AW-RGBv2

Animal & Plant Health

NZ Pork Logo_Box

NZ Pork

NZIPIM

HortNZ Logo Colour

Horticulture
New Zealand

NZAI Logo No Byline

New Zealand Avocado

NZLT LOGO 2022 Full colour_vertical

NZ Landcare Trust

Vegetables 
New Zealand

Summerfruit 
New Zealand

AWDT_Logo Stacked RGB

AWDT

RWNZ logo 2018 (jpg)

Rural Women
New Zealand

Onions New Zealand

Fertiliser New Zealand

The Food & Fibre Youth Network

NZ Young Farmers

Irrigation New Zealand

Gallery pics from 2024

Ticket options

Individual
Tickets

Summit and Awards Dinner Tickets

Summit Only

Dinner Only

Farmer & Producer Tickets

Summit and Awards Dinner Tickets

Summit Only

Multi-Buy 3+
Tickets

All Access

Summit Only

Awards Dinner
Tickets

Individual Awards Dinner Tickets

Group of 10 Awards Dinner Tickets

2 for 1 Pre-Sale

Individual ticket (Summit & Awards Dinner)

2 for 1 Pre-Sale: Summit & Dinner

$2659
$ 1459
50
per person + gst
  • 2 for 1 Pre-Sale: Individual ticket rate (Summit & Awards Dinner). Ticket price displayed is the effective rate per person, with a minimum purchase of 2 tickets. Payment by 14 March, 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit Only

2 for 1 Pre-Sale: Summit Only

$2399
$ 1199
50
per person + gst
  • 2 for 1 Pre-Sale: Individual ticket rate (Summit only). The price displayed is the effective rate per person, based on a minimum purchase of 2 tickets equaling 1 full price ticket. For valid ticket/s, payment by 14 March 2025.
Buy ticket

Individual Tickets

Summit & Awards Dinner Ticket

Summit & Awards Dinner: Individual Ticket - Super Saver

$2659
$ 2159 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 7 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit & Awards Dinner: Individual Ticket - Early Bird

$2659
$ 2359 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 30 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit & Awards Dinner: Individual Ticket - Full Price

$ 2659 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 24 June 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit Only

Summit Only: Individual Ticket - Super Saver

$2399
$ 1899 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 7 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit Only: Individual Ticket - Early Bird

$2399
$ 2099 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 30 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit Only: Individual Ticket - Full Price

$ 2399 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 24 June, 2025.
Buy ticket

Independent Farmer & Producer - Individual Tickets

Summit & Awards Dinner Tickets

Independent Farmer & Producer: Summit & Awards Dinner: Individual Ticket - Super Saver

$1259
$ 1059 + gst
  • Must be a full-time independent farmer or producer – registrations subject to verification. For valid ticket, payment by 7 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Independent Farmer & Producer: Summit & Awards Dinner: Individual Ticket - Early Bird

$1259
$ 1159 + gst
  • Must be a full-time independent farmer or producer – registrations subject to verification. For valid ticket, payment by 30 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Independent Farmer & Producer: Summit & Awards Dinner: Individual Ticket - Full Price

$ 1259 + gst
  • Must be a full-time independent farmer or producer – registrations subject to verification. For valid ticket, payment by 24 June 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit Only.

Independent Farmer & Producer: Summit Only Individual Ticket - Super Saver

$999
$ 799 + gst
  • Must be a full-time independent farmer or producer – registrations subject to verification. For valid ticket, payment by 7 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Independent Farmer & Producer: Summit Only Individual Ticket - Early Bird

$999
$ 899 + gst
  • Must be a full-time independent farmer or producer – registrations subject to verification. For valid ticket, payment by 30 May 2025.
Buy ticket

Independent Farmer & Producer: Summit Only Individual Ticket - Full Price

$ 999 + gst
  • Must be a full-time independent farmer or producer – registrations subject to verification. For valid ticket, payment by 24 June 2025.
Buy ticket

Multi-buy 3+ Tickets

All Access - Summit & Awards Dinner

Multi-buy 3+ Tickets -
All Access

$ 1959 per person + gst
  • Must be from the same organisation and book at the same time. For valid ticket, payment by 24 June 2025.
Buy ticket

Summit Only

Multi-buy 3 + Tickets -
Summit Only

$ 1699 + gst
  • Must be from the same organisation and book at the same time. For valid ticket, payment by 24 June 2025.
Buy ticket

Awards Ceremony Dinner

Awards Dinner Only -
Individual Ticket

$ 260 + gst
  • For valid ticket, payment by 24 June 2025.
Buy ticket

Awards Dinner Tickets -
Table of 10

$ 2600 Table of 10. Price +GST
  • For valid group booking, payment by 24 June 2025. Tables sales are for 10 people per table.
Buy ticket

Make an enquiry

General Contact

This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Tagged , , , ,

Want to know more?

Ask us about any of our events by getting in touch below.

Contact us
Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Events by sector
Our events
About us
Copyright © 2024 Conferenz Ltd, trading as Brightstar. All rights reserved. Website by Harper Digital.