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23 - 24 June 2026
Cordis, Auckland

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primary industries new zealand summit & awards 2026

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

Driving the future of the New Zealand primary industries

The Primary Industries New Zealand Summit and Awards continues to bring together the very best leaders from across the spectrum of New Zealand farming and primary sector business. This year the Summit will focus on understanding and seizing the opportunities of the future, with the event providing high level insights, analysis and debate around the key themes that will decide how effectively we meet the future challenges for the sector.

Key Themes

  • Examine the future of food and the high impact opportunities it will offer to New Zealand
  • Understand changing consumer and market trends to unlock high value future markets for NZ agriculture
  • Discuss how the sector can adapt and develop, deploying new business models and strategies to drive change through to 2025
  • Hear from political leaders in election year sharing their visions for the future of the primary industries
  • Hear the leaders of our major agricultural businesses sharing how their strategies for the future will drive sector growth
  • Explore the future of local government and review its role in supporting the development of changing rural communities and economies
  • Analyse the latest trade developments that will shape future market access
  • Learn how to leverage the new science, technologies, tools and innovations that will drive future productivity and growth

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

Thanks to our Diamond Sponsor

Agenda

Download agenda

8:30

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Mihi Whakatau

9:10

Opening remarks from Summit MC

Rowena Duncum, Client Propositions Manager - Engagement, FMG

9:15

Federated Farmers welcome address

Wayne Langford, President, Federated Farmers of New Zealand

9:30

Minister of Agriculture and Trade address

9:50

Keynote address: Understanding global geopolitical realities – strategies to weather the uncertainty of the current environment

  • Mapping the rupture of the global rules-based order and assessing its implications for New Zealand – can we be at the table or are we on the menu?

  • Is it possible to determine any core messages from the volatile geopolitical events of 2025 and 2026 that can inform the New Zealand primary sector’s strategic planning for the future?

  • What has been the impact of 18 months of US tariffs and foreign policy on global markets and trade – how is this effecting New Zealand and how should we respond?

  • How effectively is New Zealand and our primary industries surviving in the current unstable and harsh era of geostrategic competition?

  • Seizing opportunities from disruption – how can New Zealand take advantage of its assets against an ever-changing backdrop of shocks, change and uncertainty

Dr David Skilling, Director, Landfall Strategy Group

10:30

Morning break

11:00

Understanding global consumer and retail trends and how can be used to provide insights that can shape the future of New Zealand primary industries

  • Delivering predictive intelligence to map the future trends shaping the global food and drink industry so that you can place the consumer at the centre of your strategy and planning

  • Exploring the mega-trends and changing demographics that are driving global consumers – how can these inform your business and enable you to cater for developing consumer markets

  • Understanding how developing global regulatory environments are driving international agri-business and trade

  • What does the market tell us about whether end users of New Zealand food and fibre products are willing to pay a premium for credentialled, premium quality of New Zealand produced goods

  • Telling the story of the food, the people that produced it and the land from where it came to consumers

11:30

Rabobank keynote: Succession 2.0 – where to now for the agriculture sector on the journey to 2050

  • Future planning for the agriculture industry – how will things change between now and 2050 and how should we be preparing?

11:45

Rabobank panel: Rsponding to the challenges of the future now

  • Identifying, analysing and responding to the key challenges we will face

  • Examining the new farming systems, business models, tools and technologies that will be available to us to respond to future challenges

  • Understanding the markets and consumers that will drive our changing industry

  • How do we protect our intellectual property rights in a global marketplace?

  • Understanding the people requirements of our future industry – what do we need from our tertiary sector to ensure we have a workforce with the skills we need

12:30

Panel discussion: Exploring the future of the agricultural cooperative in New Zealand

  • Analysing the changes we have seen in recent years within the ownership of primary sector co-operatives – what do these mean for the future of the co-operative model in New Zealand agriculture?

  • Is the co-op business model broken?

  • Exploring the cumulative benefits of cooperative business models that allows them to remain competitive

  • How do cooperatives overcome the challenges of remaining profitable and raising new capital?

  • How do cooperatives continue to deliver value in the modern era and ensure that the reasons why a co-op was formed remain relevant and in the front of mind for new members and new generations?

  • Is there a better alternative?

Matt Bolger, MD Co-operative Affairs, Fonterra

Bruce Wills, Chairman of Board, Ravensdown

Saya Wahrlich, CEO, Cooperative Business NZ

1:00

Lunch

2:00

Analysing the latest developments in trade

  • Analysing the details of New Zealand and India Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

  • Understanding the valuable opportunities that The New Zealand-India FTA will create for New Zealand and Indian exporters to expand two-way trade

  • Examining the contribution that the new FTA will make to the goal of doubling the value of exports

  • Exploring the latest developments within other potential Free trade agreements and Bilateral deal negotiations

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

2:30

Global trade and export partner panel

  • Exploring the latest developments in key global export and trade markets and around international trade relationships

  • What impact is global uncertainty and instability relating to tariffs having on agricultural trade?

  • Examining environmental policies and regulatory settings related to them and the impacts this has on market access and the potential barriers to trade they introduce

  • Analysing the impact of international agricultural subsidies on global food sector productivity and competitivity

  • Linking geopolitics, national security and food security

3:15

Afternoon break

3:35

What does the new Fonterra mean for the sector?

  • Understanding what the co-operatives decision to sell its global consumer and associated businesses means for the business and for NZ farming

  • Exploring the strategic vision for the exciting new phase for Fonterra that the divestment will usher in

  • Outlining the value that the simplified and more focused business will deliver

4:05

Exploring the changing demographics of rural New Zealand

  • Analysing the population trends that we are seeing in rural areas and regions

  • Is regional New Zealand emptying out?

  • How is this likely to limit rural employers looking to fill vacancies – both now and into the future

  • What does this mean for the rural economy, the future economic viability of rural New Zealand and the primary industries that sustains it?

  • How can we attract urban people to New Zealand’s regions – are there lessons we can learn from overseas?

  • Do we have to rely on attracting and retaining immigrants?

  • How should this understanding inform the development of policy and drive investment in services and infrastructure for regional New Zealand – why would people choose to live and work in an area with no access to services?

Distinguished Professor Emeritus Paul Spoonley, Senior Fellow, Koi Tū: Centre for Informed Futures & Honorary Research Associate, Massey University

4:35

Sharing New Zealand First’s vision to grow the rural economy and the regional communities that rely on it

  • Maximising the value of rural New Zealand to the growth of the New Zealand economy

  • Investing in rural and regional communities to drive the engine of growth

5:00

Summary remarks from the Summit MC followed by Networking Recption and Primary Industries New Zealand Awards Dinner and Ceremony

9:00

Welcome back from Summit MC

Rowena Duncum

9:05

Prime Minister’s address: Sharing the Government’s vision for the future of the primary industries

  • Driving New Zealand’s economy through record food and fibre exports 1

  • Boosting productive and sustainable growth by enabling more flexible land

9:35

MPI address: Supporting the primary industries to act now and secure a valuable position within a changing global food system

  • Sharing how MPI is preparing the sector to plan for the future of food

  • Providing information around the macroeconomic trends and the demand and supply side shifts that will impact global food markets

  • Identifying the high impact opportunities rising global food demand will present for New Zealand producers

  • Exploring mechanisms to boost production to meet rising global demand whilst delivering environmental credentials

10:05

Zespri – how we are driving the future of NZ horticulture

  • Outlining our future 2035 strategy - looking ahead at how we continue to deliver value over the next 10 years in a an increasingly competitive and complex global environment

  • Setting ourselves a bold and exciting ambition to become the world’s healthiest fruit brand at the forefront of the global fruit category by championing health and nutrition for our consumers

  • Creating the product portfolio of the future – How we are evolving to stay ahead of shifting consumer expectations, increasing competition, climate pressures, geopolitical uncertainty and accelerating technological change

  • Unleashing brand-demand and building a globally iconic fruit brand

  • Transforming global supply by establishing a responsive, resilient and reliable year-round supply chain

10:30

Morning break

11:00

Panel discussion: Exploring the future of local government and reviewing its role in supporting the development of changing rural communities and economies

  • Simplifying Local Government – exploring the Government’s proposals to strip out duplication in the system, standardise processes and drive down complexity and compliance costs

  • Assessing the requirements of the future streamlined planning system planning system with fewer plans, fewer consent categories, and fewer overall consents - what is the best way of delivering this?

  • Giving councils greater flexibility to balance environmental goals with economic impacts and providing them with the tools to improve environmental outcomes without unnecessarily harming businesses and the local economy

  • In the future how can local government best support the development of changing rural communities and the growth of the primary sector economies they rely on?

11:45

Exploring the state of NZ agricultural science and innovation

  • Is the merger of New Zealand major Agri-science institutions delivering for agriculture?

  • Building effective public /private mission focused science partnerships

  • Science and technology adoption – with the massive number opportunities, how can we ensure they are adopted so that we are able to leverage the new science, technologies, tools and innovations that will drive future productivity and growth?

  • Building for the future by modernising the primary industries and accelerating its transition to a data-driven, AI enabled enterprise that is agile and resilient enough to support continued growth

  • Exploring the role of innovation in shaping a more sustainable and productive future for our sector - enhancing value for producers and fostering a more resilient industry

12:15

Deploying Artificial Intelligence in agriculture

  • Analysing how AI is transforming the agricultural sector and driving innovation, productivity and sustainability on farms across New Zealand

  • Identifying the key AI technologies and innovations that will drive agriculture forward over the next 10 years

  • How to overcome barriers and key challenges potentially limiting larger scale adoption of AI within the primary sector – ethics, data transparency and ownership, connectivity

  • Exploring how the primary industries can deploy AI strategically and leverage its capabilities to enable the shift from volume to value and ensure our sustainable future

12:35

Sharing the Labour Party’s vision for the future of New Zealand farming

1:00

Lunch

2:00

Outlining the ACT parties’ positions and policies on the issues that matter to farmers, agriculture and rural New Zealand

Hon David Seymour. Deputy Prime Minister and Leader, ACT Party

2:20

Sliver Fern Farms vision for the future of red meat

  • Exploring our journey to nurture positive change and improve tomorrow for the next generation

  • Setting the world standard in red meat with innovation and sustainability from pasture to plate

  • Delivering responsibly raised, climate-conscious red meat from New Zealand's pastures directly to U.S. tables

2:40

Panel discussion: Dairy and beef integration – exploring the integrated future of farming

  • How can we effectively combine the two types of farming to increase efficiency, profitability and welfare

  • Dairy beef - Leveraging our increased understanding and expertise in genetics to develop a new stock class with traits that will work for dairy cows and have the best meat animal attributes

  • What are the challenges to putting systems into place to make a large-scale change in farming across New Zealand?

3:20

Closing keynote: A world without cows

  • Improving our scientific understanding of the role that cattle play in ecosystems and food systems

  • Analysing the crucial role that cows play in global food security

  • How is this likely to limit rural employers looking to fill vacancies – both now and into the future

  • Can we flip the narrative around the climate impact of cattle through a deeper understanding of the grazing -cattle carbon cycle?

5:00

Closing remarks from the Summit MC

Back to top

Speakers

Bruce Wills

Chair
Ravensdown
Bruce farms sheep and cattle near Napier having previously spent 20 years in banking and investment. Bruce is a past National President of Federated Farmers and holds a wide range of other Governance positions particularly in the areas of science and the environment.

Saya Wahrlich

CEO,
Cooperative Business NZ

Hon David Seymour

Deputy Prime Minister &
Leader, ACT Party

David Seymour grew up in Whangārei with two brothers, a Pharmacist Mum, and a draughtsman Dad. He was exposed to business from an early age, and has always volunteered in his community.

He studied electrical engineering and philosophy at the University of Auckland, his first job was working night shift at a sawmill, and his first full time job was on a design project for a fibre optic roll out.

He first joined ACT as a student, drawn by a deep belief in personal freedom and responsibility. He believes anyone can get elected promising one voter free money taxed off another. The challenge he gets up for is winning power without promising to hand out other people’s money. His OE took him to Canada, before he came home to serve in Parliament.

First elected by his Epsom Electorate neighbours in 2014, he has now been elected four times. That same year, he became ACT’s leader, bringing renewed energy and focus to the party.

David passed End of Life Choice Act, giving New Zealanders the right to make decisions about their own lives. It was a landmark law, passed by referendum in 2020. He’s just as determined when it comes to education, working to bring back charter schools, cut red tape, and protect every citizen’s freedom to make a difference in their own life, and the lives of those they care about.

Outside Parliament, you’ll often find David talking to locals about the real issues they face – he reckons there’s no better way to stay grounded. He bikes to work most days in Epsom, is a lifelong rugby fan, having coached seven seasons and played six. And yes, he had a crack at Dancing with the Stars – finishing fifth, not bad for a politician.

David brings courage, clarity, and a no-nonsense commitment to making New Zealand freer and fairer, with equal opportunity for all. He’s exactly the kind of leader ACT supporters can be proud of.

Matt Bolger

Managing Director, Co-operative Affairs
Fonterra
Matt was appointed Managing Director, Co-operative Affairs at Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited in early 2025, overseeing Governance, Risk and Audit, Farm Source, Global Sustainability, Global External Affairs, Legal, and Māori Strategy. Matt returned to Fonterra after serving as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Waikato Management School at the University of Waikato for several years. From 2022 to 2024 Matt was also Chairman of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand. Matt spent the earlier part of his career working at Fonterra in a range of senior roles. These included time leading global sales teams based out of Chicago, commercialising food service ingredients, and driving innovation to support Fonterra’s farmer shareholders. He completed his business degree at Georgetown University in Washington DC, and also studied at Sophia University in Tokyo and Victoria University in Wellington.

Dr David Skilling

Director
Landfall Strategy Group

Dr David Skilling is the founding Director of Landfall Strategy Group, a research and advisory firm established in 2011 that provides insights on global economic, geopolitical, and policy developments to firms, investors, and governments.  David serves clients in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the US.

David served as Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade in New Zealand between 2011 and 2015, providing insight on global economic and political developments.  David also served as Senior Advisor to McKinsey & Co from 2011 until 2017, and was a Fellow at Singapore’s Civil Service College for several years.

Prior to founding Landfall Strategy Group in 2011, David was an Associate Principal with McKinsey & Company in Singapore, as well as being a Senior Fellow with the McKinsey Global Institute, McKinsey’s in-house economic think-tank.  Before joining McKinsey, David was the founding Chief Executive of the New Zealand Institute, a privately-funded think-tank.  Until 2003, David was a Principal Advisor at the New Zealand Treasury, advising on various strategic economic policy issues.

David writes a widely read note on global economic and political issues, and has written op-eds in publications such as the Straits Times, the Wall Street Journal, Project Syndicate, The Times, Foreign Affairs, Neue Zürcher Zeitung, and the Nikkei Asian Review.

David has a Ph.D. in Public Policy, and a Master in Public Policy degree, from Harvard University, as well as a Master of Commerce degree in Economics from the University of Auckland, New Zealand.  David was named as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2008.

Paul Spoonley

Senior Fellow, Koi Tū: Centre for Informed Futures &
Honorary Research Associate, Massey University
Distinguished Professor Paul Spoonley was previously Pro Vice-Chancellor of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University. Once he stepped down, he was appointed to advise the Police Commissioner (2022-25) as well as Co-Director of He Whenua Taurikura. the National Centre for Countering Violent Extremism (2022-23). Paul is a Fellow of the Auckland Museum and a Board member and a Visiting Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Religious and Ethnic Diversity, Germany. He was awarded the Science and Technology Medal by the Royal Society in 2009 for cross-cultural understanding and he was a Fulbright Senior Scholar at the University of California Berkeley. In 2025, he was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. He is the author or editor of 29 books, including the biography of Ranginui Walker, The “New” New Zealand. Facing Demographic Disruption (2021) and Histories of Hate. The Radical Right in Aotearoa New Zealand (2022).

Vangelis Vitalis

Deputy Secretary, Trade and Economic,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade
Vangelis Vitalis is Deputy Secretary, Trade and Economic at New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He is New Zealand’s Chief Negotiator for the NZ-India FTA and led key negotiations for agreements including the CPTPP, EUNZFTA, and AANZFTA. Vangelis chaired APEC and CPTPP Senior Officials’ Meetings, overseeing major initiatives like the APEC Aotearoa Plan and UK’s CPTPP accession. A former Ambassador to the WTO and EU, he has also worked at the OECD and with the World Economic Forum. Vangelis is a leading voice in sustainable trade, digital economy agreements, and inclusive trade policy.

Rowena Duncum

Client Propositions Manager - Engagement
FMG

Awards are open. Enter or nominate today!

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

Enter or Nominate Here

Nominations Open

29 January 2026

Nominations Close

1 April 2026

Judges Collaborate

6 May 2026

Finalists Announced

12 May 2026

Winners Announced

23 June 2026

Awards Categories

Federated Farmers and Brightstar are pleased to announce 3 new award categories for 2026

Agricultural Communicator of the Year Award 

This award recognises an outstanding communicator in New Zealand’s primary sector. The entrant is to have made a significant and sustained contribution by effectively conveying key issues, events and information that matter to rural audiences and the wider community. The recipient will have demonstrated excellence in communication, clarity, and real impact through media, events, digital platforms, and/or public engagement – helping to inform, connect and strengthen New Zealand’s agricultural sector. This category is open to individuals, groups or organisations.

Membership of the New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists & Communicators is encouraged.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why was this individual/group/organisation nominated?
  • How have they demonstrated excellence in effective communication?
  • How widely known are they within New Zealand agriculture?
  • What has been the impact of their communication?
  • How have they demonstrated a commitment to the agricultural industry?

2026 Winner: XXX 

2026 Sponsor:

Rural Woman of the Year Award 

This inaugural award recognises an exceptional woman who has made a significant contribution to agriculture, agribusiness or New Zealand’s rural communities. The recipient will have demonstrated clear and sustained excellence in leadership, advocacy or grassroots community involvement, and has made a meaningful impact. Nominees will have clear evidence of how this woman has helped lead, inspire, connect, or strengthen New Zealand’s rural communities and the wider agricultural sector.

This category is only open to individual women based in New Zealand. 

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why was this woman nominated?
  • What is her connection to New Zealand’s rural communities?
  • How has she demonstrated excellence in leadership, advocacy, or grassroots community involvement?
  • What has been the tangible impact of her work for rural New Zealand?
  • How has she demonstrated a commitment to supporting or empowering rural communities or the wider agricultural industry?

2026 Winner: XXX 

2026 Sponsor:

The Excellence in Agricultural Journalism Rongo Award 

This prestigious award recognises excellence in agricultural journalism demonstrated by a New Zealand-based journalist, media team or outlet in the previous 12 months. The recipient will have produced outstanding journalistic work demonstrating exceptional storytelling, depth of research and real impact through insightful agricultural reporting. This category celebrates the ability to inform, engage and educate both rural and wider audiences – strengthening public understanding of and connection to New Zealand agriculture. 
Submissions must include at least two feature stories on separate subjects, or a single-theme series, published or broadcast within the last 12 months.

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why has this journalist, media team or outlet been nominated?
  • How have they contributed to the advancement and understanding of agriculture?
  • What specific work have they produced in the last 12 months that deserves recognition?
  • How have they gone above and beyond with their research, accuracy or storytelling?
  • How have they brought a fresh perspective or originality in their coverage of an issue?

2026 Winner: XXX 

2026 Sponsor:

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

2025 Winner: Bridie Virbickas, Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty Sharemilker Chair 

2026 Sponsor:

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

2025 Winner: Dr Robyn Dynes, Principal Scientist and Farmer Engagement Specialist, AgResearch 

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 success.

2025 Winner: Fonterra, Ballance, Ravensdown, and LIC for the open data sharing ecosystem 

Technology & Collaboration Project Award 

This 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 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 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.

2025 Winner: FAR for combine workshops

2026 Sponsor:

Food, Beverage and Fibre Product Award 

2025 Winner: Chia Sisters

The award recognises and celebrates a standout product in the New Zealand Primary sector. The food, beverage or fibre product 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 to 18 months. The applicant/s 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 product?
  • 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 and product contribute to New Zealand’s marketing image?

2026 Sponsor:

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?

2025 Winner: Pacificvet and co-founder Kent Deitemeyer

2026 Sponsor:

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.

There are no finalists for this award. The recipient will be selected by the 2026 judging panel.

2025 Winner: Eric Roy, Southland Farmer and NZ Pork Chair 

2026 Sponsor:

Awards Judges 2026

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. His earlier career as a consulting officer and farm consultant has led to a life long interest in working to develop New Zealand’s dairy sector and he appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Primary Industry Awards in 2025.

Alan Emerson

Alan Emerson started his agricultural journalism career in 1973 working for television and national and commercial radio presenting rural programmes. In 2003 he purchased a farm in coastal Wairarapa. He served on the provincial executive of Federated Farmers for three years until writing commitments presented a potential conflict of interest. Since 2004 he has been a columnist for Farmers Weekly, (since its inception), never missing an edition over that time. He has edited and co-written three books on agriculture. In 2024 he was awarded the Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year.

Justin Courtney

Chair
Metris
Justin Courtney is the Chair of weather data provider Metris. Metris provides weather insights to the horticulture, viticulture and construction sectors, and has recently received international awards for its forecast services and its innovative in-orchard technology. Justin is also the founder of Dawn Chorus Consulting which provides advice to companies in the food and fibre sector. Justin’s 25-year career in agribusiness started with the Victorian Farmers Federation and has spanned work in the UK, EU and Middle Eastern markets. On returning to New Zealand he worked in the dairy industry before leading Silver Fern Farms communications and sustainability efforts for close to a decade.

Kazi Takaska

General Manager
Onions New Zealand
Kazi Talaska is the General Manager of Onions New Zealand, working to support the growth and success of New Zealand’s onion and wider vegetable industries. Originally from Indonesia, Kazi has built her career in horticulture industry support and today works closely with growers, exporters, and government agencies to strengthen market access, grower research, and enhance the competitiveness of New Zealand’s onion exports. She also manages several pan-sector vegetable initiatives, including Te Ahikawariki – The Vegetable Industry Centre of Excellence (VICE), which is a proof-of-concept research farm for vegetable growers. Beyond her industry role, Kazi serves as Chair of the Food and Fibre Youth Network, supporting the next generation of leaders across the food and fibre sectors.

Steve Wilkins

Steve Wilkins is a farmer based in Athol, Northern Southland. He manages a mixed cropping and livestock family farming business, growing a variety of  arable crops including wheat, barley, peas, beans, and grass seed. Additionally, the business is involved in finishing lambs, breeding cattle and deer, and providing dairy support. Steve holds several leadership roles in the agricultural sector. He is the Vice Chair for the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) and the Chair for the Otago/Southland Arable Research Group. He is also a Director of United Wheat Growers and a Trustee for theNew Zealand Rural Leadership Trust. As a Nuffield Scholar, Steve gained valuable insights into global food production systems through extensive international travel and developed a vast network across the globe. Steve attended the Advanced Agricultural Business Management Program at    the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester England and is a member of The Worshipful Company of Farmers. Steve is passionate about developing leadership within agriculture to address future challenges in the primary industries.

Richard Mcintyre

Richard and his wife Emma are herd-owning sharemilkers in the Horowhenua where they milk 830 cows across two farms, rear 700 calves, and lease a 180ha dry stock farm as they work their way towards farm ownership. They have two teenage children, Olivia and Matthew. Richard is a farmer elected director of DairyNZ and is a former Federated Farmers Dairy Chair and Board Member.

Karen Williams

Chief Executive
Irrigation New Zealand
Karen Williams is the Chief Executive of Irrigation New Zealand, a role she commenced in February 2025. She leads a committed and high-performing team focused on ensuring New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors have reliable, long-term access to water. Her work spans advocating for new water storage solutions, supporting the sustainability of existing water users, and helping shape national conversations on freshwater management. Guided by Irrigation New Zealand’s vision of “water to nourish our community, environment and economy,” Karen champions the productive and sustainable use of water – balancing economic growth with positive outcomes for both communities and the environment. Karen also serves as a Trustee of the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, which oversees the nationwide Ballance Farm Environment Awards and promotes and celebrates excellence in environmental stewardship and enhancement on New Zealand farms and orchards. Before joining IrrigationNZ, Karen held senior roles across the rural sector, including National Rural Propositions Manager at FMG and National Vice President and Arable Industry Chairperson at Federated Farmers New Zealand. Karen and her husband Mick farm a 520-hectare irrigated property in the Wairarapa, specialising in mixed cropping and beef and lamb finishing. Their operation has been recognised for environmental leadership, winning the Wellington Regional Supreme Award in the 2013 Ballance Farm Environment Awards and receiving the Environmental and Sustainability Award at the 2022 New Zealand Arable Awards. Karen is a graduate and passionate advocate of the Agri-Women’s Development Trust Escalator Programme and was named Biosecurity Farmer of the Year in 2019 for her leadership during the pea weevil biosecurity incursion.

Robyn Dynes

Principal Scientist and Farmer Engagement Specialist
AgResearch
Dr Robyn Dynes (FNZIAHS) is a farming systems scientist with AgResearch based at Lincoln.  Her science in farming systems includes emissions to air and water and the current and future challenges facing our farming systems.  She has governance roles across arable, S+B and dairy sectors. Robyn spent her early years in Southland on a sheep and beef farm, followed by a Canterbury mixed cropping farm, she started her science career with CSIRO in Western Australia before returning to AgResearch.  Her passion is working with farmers to bring science to the questions that matter to farmers.

Dean Williamson

CEO and Publisher
AgriHQ
Dean and Cushla Williamson own AgriHQ, 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, travelled 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.

2026 Sponsors

Diamond Sponsor

Rabobank

Gold Sponsor

Dairy NZ

Silver Sponsor

Landcorp

Awards Sponsors

Rabobank

Kotahi

Asure Quality

Lincoln University

FarmersWeekly-stacked_Positive_RGB

Farmers Weekly

Ravensdown

Ministry Primary Industries

Exhibitors

Quest Logo

Quest

Map of Ag

Lanyard Sponsor

Rabobank

The Supporting Organisations in 2025

FAR

Export NZ

Agri Tech New Zealand

Mia

Dairy Womens Network

Animal & Plant Health

NZ Pork

NZIPIM

NZKGI

Horticulture
New Zealand

New Zealand Avocado

NZ Landcare Trust

NZ Landcare Trust

Summerfruit New Zealand

Potatoes New Zealand

Onions New Zealand

AWDT

Rural Women New Zealand

Fertiliser New Zealand

The Food & Fibre Youth Network

Irrigation New Zealand

NZ Young Farmers

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

Driving the future of the New Zealand primary industries

The Primary Industries New Zealand Summit and Awards continues to bring together the very best leaders from across the spectrum of New Zealand farming and primary sector business. This year the Summit will focus on understanding and seizing the opportunities of the future, with the event providing high level insights, analysis and debate around the key themes that will decide how effectively we meet the future challenges for the sector.

Key Themes

  • Examine the future of food and the high impact opportunities it will offer to New Zealand
  • Understand changing consumer and market trends to unlock high value future markets for NZ agriculture
  • Discuss how the sector can adapt and develop, deploying new business models and strategies to drive change through to 2025
  • Hear from political leaders in election year sharing their visions for the future of the primary industries
  • Hear the leaders of our major agricultural businesses sharing how their strategies for the future will drive sector growth
  • Explore the future of local government and review its role in supporting the development of changing rural communities and economies
  • Analyse the latest trade developments that will shape future market access
  • Learn how to leverage the new science, technologies, tools and innovations that will drive future productivity and growth

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

Thanks to our Diamond Sponsor

Agenda

Download agenda

8:30

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Mihi Whakatau

9:10

Opening remarks from Summit MC

Rowena Duncum, Client Propositions Manager - Engagement, FMG

9:15

Federated Farmers welcome address

Wayne Langford, President, Federated Farmers of New Zealand

9:30

Minister of Agriculture and Trade address

9:50

Keynote address: Understanding global geopolitical realities – strategies to weather the uncertainty of the current environment

  • Mapping the rupture of the global rules-based order and assessing its implications for New Zealand – can we be at the table or are we on the menu?

  • Is it possible to determine any core messages from the volatile geopolitical events of 2025 and 2026 that can inform the New Zealand primary sector’s strategic planning for the future?

  • What has been the impact of 18 months of US tariffs and foreign policy on global markets and trade – how is this effecting New Zealand and how should we respond?

  • How effectively is New Zealand and our primary industries surviving in the current unstable and harsh era of geostrategic competition?

  • Seizing opportunities from disruption – how can New Zealand take advantage of its assets against an ever-changing backdrop of shocks, change and uncertainty

Dr David Skilling, Director, Landfall Strategy Group

10:30

Morning break

11:00

Understanding global consumer and retail trends and how can be used to provide insights that can shape the future of New Zealand primary industries

  • Delivering predictive intelligence to map the future trends shaping the global food and drink industry so that you can place the consumer at the centre of your strategy and planning

  • Exploring the mega-trends and changing demographics that are driving global consumers – how can these inform your business and enable you to cater for developing consumer markets

  • Understanding how developing global regulatory environments are driving international agri-business and trade

  • What does the market tell us about whether end users of New Zealand food and fibre products are willing to pay a premium for credentialled, premium quality of New Zealand produced goods

  • Telling the story of the food, the people that produced it and the land from where it came to consumers

11:30

Rabobank keynote: Succession 2.0 – where to now for the agriculture sector on the journey to 2050

  • Future planning for the agriculture industry – how will things change between now and 2050 and how should we be preparing?

11:45

Rabobank panel: Rsponding to the challenges of the future now

  • Identifying, analysing and responding to the key challenges we will face

  • Examining the new farming systems, business models, tools and technologies that will be available to us to respond to future challenges

  • Understanding the markets and consumers that will drive our changing industry

  • How do we protect our intellectual property rights in a global marketplace?

  • Understanding the people requirements of our future industry – what do we need from our tertiary sector to ensure we have a workforce with the skills we need

12:30

Panel discussion: Exploring the future of the agricultural cooperative in New Zealand

  • Analysing the changes we have seen in recent years within the ownership of primary sector co-operatives – what do these mean for the future of the co-operative model in New Zealand agriculture?

  • Is the co-op business model broken?

  • Exploring the cumulative benefits of cooperative business models that allows them to remain competitive

  • How do cooperatives overcome the challenges of remaining profitable and raising new capital?

  • How do cooperatives continue to deliver value in the modern era and ensure that the reasons why a co-op was formed remain relevant and in the front of mind for new members and new generations?

  • Is there a better alternative?

Matt Bolger, MD Co-operative Affairs, Fonterra

Bruce Wills, Chairman of Board, Ravensdown

Saya Wahrlich, CEO, Cooperative Business NZ

1:00

Lunch

2:00

Analysing the latest developments in trade

  • Analysing the details of New Zealand and India Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

  • Understanding the valuable opportunities that The New Zealand-India FTA will create for New Zealand and Indian exporters to expand two-way trade

  • Examining the contribution that the new FTA will make to the goal of doubling the value of exports

  • Exploring the latest developments within other potential Free trade agreements and Bilateral deal negotiations

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

2:30

Global trade and export partner panel

  • Exploring the latest developments in key global export and trade markets and around international trade relationships

  • What impact is global uncertainty and instability relating to tariffs having on agricultural trade?

  • Examining environmental policies and regulatory settings related to them and the impacts this has on market access and the potential barriers to trade they introduce

  • Analysing the impact of international agricultural subsidies on global food sector productivity and competitivity

  • Linking geopolitics, national security and food security

3:15

Afternoon break

3:35

What does the new Fonterra mean for the sector?

  • Understanding what the co-operatives decision to sell its global consumer and associated businesses means for the business and for NZ farming

  • Exploring the strategic vision for the exciting new phase for Fonterra that the divestment will usher in

  • Outlining the value that the simplified and more focused business will deliver

4:05

Exploring the changing demographics of rural New Zealand

  • Analysing the population trends that we are seeing in rural areas and regions

  • Is regional New Zealand emptying out?

  • How is this likely to limit rural employers looking to fill vacancies – both now and into the future

  • What does this mean for the rural economy, the future economic viability of rural New Zealand and the primary industries that sustains it?

  • How can we attract urban people to New Zealand’s regions – are there lessons we can learn from overseas?

  • Do we have to rely on attracting and retaining immigrants?

  • How should this understanding inform the development of policy and drive investment in services and infrastructure for regional New Zealand – why would people choose to live and work in an area with no access to services?

Distinguished Professor Emeritus Paul Spoonley, Senior Fellow, Koi Tū: Centre for Informed Futures & Honorary Research Associate, Massey University

4:35

Sharing New Zealand First’s vision to grow the rural economy and the regional communities that rely on it

  • Maximising the value of rural New Zealand to the growth of the New Zealand economy

  • Investing in rural and regional communities to drive the engine of growth

5:00

Summary remarks from the Summit MC followed by Networking Recption and Primary Industries New Zealand Awards Dinner and Ceremony

9:00

Welcome back from Summit MC

Rowena Duncum

9:05

Prime Minister’s address: Sharing the Government’s vision for the future of the primary industries

  • Driving New Zealand’s economy through record food and fibre exports 1

  • Boosting productive and sustainable growth by enabling more flexible land

9:35

MPI address: Supporting the primary industries to act now and secure a valuable position within a changing global food system

  • Sharing how MPI is preparing the sector to plan for the future of food

  • Providing information around the macroeconomic trends and the demand and supply side shifts that will impact global food markets

  • Identifying the high impact opportunities rising global food demand will present for New Zealand producers

  • Exploring mechanisms to boost production to meet rising global demand whilst delivering environmental credentials

10:05

Zespri – how we are driving the future of NZ horticulture

  • Outlining our future 2035 strategy - looking ahead at how we continue to deliver value over the next 10 years in a an increasingly competitive and complex global environment

  • Setting ourselves a bold and exciting ambition to become the world’s healthiest fruit brand at the forefront of the global fruit category by championing health and nutrition for our consumers

  • Creating the product portfolio of the future – How we are evolving to stay ahead of shifting consumer expectations, increasing competition, climate pressures, geopolitical uncertainty and accelerating technological change

  • Unleashing brand-demand and building a globally iconic fruit brand

  • Transforming global supply by establishing a responsive, resilient and reliable year-round supply chain

10:30

Morning break

11:00

Panel discussion: Exploring the future of local government and reviewing its role in supporting the development of changing rural communities and economies

  • Simplifying Local Government – exploring the Government’s proposals to strip out duplication in the system, standardise processes and drive down complexity and compliance costs

  • Assessing the requirements of the future streamlined planning system planning system with fewer plans, fewer consent categories, and fewer overall consents - what is the best way of delivering this?

  • Giving councils greater flexibility to balance environmental goals with economic impacts and providing them with the tools to improve environmental outcomes without unnecessarily harming businesses and the local economy

  • In the future how can local government best support the development of changing rural communities and the growth of the primary sector economies they rely on?

11:45

Exploring the state of NZ agricultural science and innovation

  • Is the merger of New Zealand major Agri-science institutions delivering for agriculture?

  • Building effective public /private mission focused science partnerships

  • Science and technology adoption – with the massive number opportunities, how can we ensure they are adopted so that we are able to leverage the new science, technologies, tools and innovations that will drive future productivity and growth?

  • Building for the future by modernising the primary industries and accelerating its transition to a data-driven, AI enabled enterprise that is agile and resilient enough to support continued growth

  • Exploring the role of innovation in shaping a more sustainable and productive future for our sector - enhancing value for producers and fostering a more resilient industry

12:15

Deploying Artificial Intelligence in agriculture

  • Analysing how AI is transforming the agricultural sector and driving innovation, productivity and sustainability on farms across New Zealand

  • Identifying the key AI technologies and innovations that will drive agriculture forward over the next 10 years

  • How to overcome barriers and key challenges potentially limiting larger scale adoption of AI within the primary sector – ethics, data transparency and ownership, connectivity

  • Exploring how the primary industries can deploy AI strategically and leverage its capabilities to enable the shift from volume to value and ensure our sustainable future

12:35

Sharing the Labour Party’s vision for the future of New Zealand farming

1:00

Lunch

2:00

Outlining the ACT parties’ positions and policies on the issues that matter to farmers, agriculture and rural New Zealand

Hon David Seymour. Deputy Prime Minister and Leader, ACT Party

2:20

Sliver Fern Farms vision for the future of red meat

  • Exploring our journey to nurture positive change and improve tomorrow for the next generation

  • Setting the world standard in red meat with innovation and sustainability from pasture to plate

  • Delivering responsibly raised, climate-conscious red meat from New Zealand's pastures directly to U.S. tables

2:40

Panel discussion: Dairy and beef integration – exploring the integrated future of farming

  • How can we effectively combine the two types of farming to increase efficiency, profitability and welfare

  • Dairy beef - Leveraging our increased understanding and expertise in genetics to develop a new stock class with traits that will work for dairy cows and have the best meat animal attributes

  • What are the challenges to putting systems into place to make a large-scale change in farming across New Zealand?

3:20

Closing keynote: A world without cows

  • Improving our scientific understanding of the role that cattle play in ecosystems and food systems

  • Analysing the crucial role that cows play in global food security

  • How is this likely to limit rural employers looking to fill vacancies – both now and into the future

  • Can we flip the narrative around the climate impact of cattle through a deeper understanding of the grazing -cattle carbon cycle?

5:00

Closing remarks from the Summit MC

Back to top

Speakers

Bruce Wills

Chair
Ravensdown
Bruce farms sheep and cattle near Napier having previously spent 20 years in banking and investment. Bruce is a past National President of Federated Farmers and holds a wide range of other Governance positions particularly in the areas of science and the environment.

Saya Wahrlich

CEO,
Cooperative Business NZ

Hon David Seymour

Deputy Prime Minister &
Leader, ACT Party

David Seymour grew up in Whangārei with two brothers, a Pharmacist Mum, and a draughtsman Dad. He was exposed to business from an early age, and has always volunteered in his community.

He studied electrical engineering and philosophy at the University of Auckland, his first job was working night shift at a sawmill, and his first full time job was on a design project for a fibre optic roll out.

He first joined ACT as a student, drawn by a deep belief in personal freedom and responsibility. He believes anyone can get elected promising one voter free money taxed off another. The challenge he gets up for is winning power without promising to hand out other people’s money. His OE took him to Canada, before he came home to serve in Parliament.

First elected by his Epsom Electorate neighbours in 2014, he has now been elected four times. That same year, he became ACT’s leader, bringing renewed energy and focus to the party.

David passed End of Life Choice Act, giving New Zealanders the right to make decisions about their own lives. It was a landmark law, passed by referendum in 2020. He’s just as determined when it comes to education, working to bring back charter schools, cut red tape, and protect every citizen’s freedom to make a difference in their own life, and the lives of those they care about.

Outside Parliament, you’ll often find David talking to locals about the real issues they face – he reckons there’s no better way to stay grounded. He bikes to work most days in Epsom, is a lifelong rugby fan, having coached seven seasons and played six. And yes, he had a crack at Dancing with the Stars – finishing fifth, not bad for a politician.

David brings courage, clarity, and a no-nonsense commitment to making New Zealand freer and fairer, with equal opportunity for all. He’s exactly the kind of leader ACT supporters can be proud of.

Matt Bolger

Managing Director, Co-operative Affairs
Fonterra
Matt was appointed Managing Director, Co-operative Affairs at Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited in early 2025, overseeing Governance, Risk and Audit, Farm Source, Global Sustainability, Global External Affairs, Legal, and Māori Strategy. Matt returned to Fonterra after serving as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Waikato Management School at the University of Waikato for several years. From 2022 to 2024 Matt was also Chairman of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand. Matt spent the earlier part of his career working at Fonterra in a range of senior roles. These included time leading global sales teams based out of Chicago, commercialising food service ingredients, and driving innovation to support Fonterra’s farmer shareholders. He completed his business degree at Georgetown University in Washington DC, and also studied at Sophia University in Tokyo and Victoria University in Wellington.

Dr David Skilling

Director
Landfall Strategy Group

Dr David Skilling is the founding Director of Landfall Strategy Group, a research and advisory firm established in 2011 that provides insights on global economic, geopolitical, and policy developments to firms, investors, and governments.  David serves clients in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the US.

David served as Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade in New Zealand between 2011 and 2015, providing insight on global economic and political developments.  David also served as Senior Advisor to McKinsey & Co from 2011 until 2017, and was a Fellow at Singapore’s Civil Service College for several years.

Prior to founding Landfall Strategy Group in 2011, David was an Associate Principal with McKinsey & Company in Singapore, as well as being a Senior Fellow with the McKinsey Global Institute, McKinsey’s in-house economic think-tank.  Before joining McKinsey, David was the founding Chief Executive of the New Zealand Institute, a privately-funded think-tank.  Until 2003, David was a Principal Advisor at the New Zealand Treasury, advising on various strategic economic policy issues.

David writes a widely read note on global economic and political issues, and has written op-eds in publications such as the Straits Times, the Wall Street Journal, Project Syndicate, The Times, Foreign Affairs, Neue Zürcher Zeitung, and the Nikkei Asian Review.

David has a Ph.D. in Public Policy, and a Master in Public Policy degree, from Harvard University, as well as a Master of Commerce degree in Economics from the University of Auckland, New Zealand.  David was named as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2008.

Paul Spoonley

Senior Fellow, Koi Tū: Centre for Informed Futures &
Honorary Research Associate, Massey University
Distinguished Professor Paul Spoonley was previously Pro Vice-Chancellor of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University. Once he stepped down, he was appointed to advise the Police Commissioner (2022-25) as well as Co-Director of He Whenua Taurikura. the National Centre for Countering Violent Extremism (2022-23). Paul is a Fellow of the Auckland Museum and a Board member and a Visiting Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Religious and Ethnic Diversity, Germany. He was awarded the Science and Technology Medal by the Royal Society in 2009 for cross-cultural understanding and he was a Fulbright Senior Scholar at the University of California Berkeley. In 2025, he was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. He is the author or editor of 29 books, including the biography of Ranginui Walker, The “New” New Zealand. Facing Demographic Disruption (2021) and Histories of Hate. The Radical Right in Aotearoa New Zealand (2022).

Vangelis Vitalis

Deputy Secretary, Trade and Economic,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade
Vangelis Vitalis is Deputy Secretary, Trade and Economic at New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He is New Zealand’s Chief Negotiator for the NZ-India FTA and led key negotiations for agreements including the CPTPP, EUNZFTA, and AANZFTA. Vangelis chaired APEC and CPTPP Senior Officials’ Meetings, overseeing major initiatives like the APEC Aotearoa Plan and UK’s CPTPP accession. A former Ambassador to the WTO and EU, he has also worked at the OECD and with the World Economic Forum. Vangelis is a leading voice in sustainable trade, digital economy agreements, and inclusive trade policy.

Rowena Duncum

Client Propositions Manager - Engagement
FMG

Awards are open. Enter or nominate today!

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

Enter or Nominate Here

Nominations Open

29 January 2026

Nominations Close

1 April 2026

Judges Collaborate

6 May 2026

Finalists Announced

12 May 2026

Winners Announced

23 June 2026

Awards Categories

Federated Farmers and Brightstar are pleased to announce 3 new award categories for 2026

Agricultural Communicator of the Year Award 

Details for this award will be published very soon.

This award is   .

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why

2026 Winner: XXX 

2026 Sponsor:

Rural Woman of the Year Award 

Details for this award will be published very soon.

This award is   .

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why

2026 Winner: XXX 

2026 Sponsor:

The Excellence in Agricultural Journalism Rongo Award 

Details for this award will be published very soon.

This award is   .

Nominations must address the following:

  • Why

2026 Winner: XXX 

2026 Sponsor:

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

2025 Winner: Bridie Virbickas, Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty Sharemilker Chair 

2026 Sponsor:

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

2025 Winner: Dr Robyn Dynes, Principal Scientist and Farmer Engagement Specialist, AgResearch 

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 success.

2025 Winner: Fonterra, Ballance, Ravensdown, and LIC for the open data sharing ecosystem 

Technology & Collaboration Project Award 

This 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 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 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.

2025 Winner: FAR for combine workshops

2026 Sponsor:

Food, Beverage and Fibre Product Award 

2025 Winner: Chia Sisters

The award recognises and celebrates a standout product in the New Zealand Primary sector. The food, beverage or fibre product 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 to 18 months. The applicant/s 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 product?
  • 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 and product contribute to New Zealand’s marketing image?

2026 Sponsor:

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?

2025 Winner: Pacificvet and co-founder Kent Deitemeyer

2026 Sponsor:

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.

There are no finalists for this award. The recipient will be selected by the 2026 judging panel.

2025 Winner: Eric Roy, Southland Farmer and NZ Pork Chair 

2026 Sponsor:

Awards Judges 2026

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. His earlier career as a consulting officer and farm consultant has led to a life long interest in working to develop New Zealand’s dairy sector and he appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Primary Industry Awards in 2025.

Alan Emerson

Alan Emerson started his agricultural journalism career in 1973 working for television and national and commercial radio presenting rural programmes. In 2003 he purchased a farm in coastal Wairarapa. He served on the provincial executive of Federated Farmers for three years until writing commitments presented a potential conflict of interest. Since 2004 he has been a columnist for Farmers Weekly, (since its inception), never missing an edition over that time. He has edited and co-written three books on agriculture. In 2024 he was awarded the Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year.

Justin Courtney

Chair
Metris
Justin Courtney is the Chair of weather data provider Metris. Metris provides weather insights to the horticulture, viticulture and construction sectors, and has recently received international awards for its forecast services and its innovative in-orchard technology. Justin is also the founder of Dawn Chorus Consulting which provides advice to companies in the food and fibre sector. Justin’s 25-year career in agribusiness started with the Victorian Farmers Federation and has spanned work in the UK, EU and Middle Eastern markets. On returning to New Zealand he worked in the dairy industry before leading Silver Fern Farms communications and sustainability efforts for close to a decade.

Kazi Takaska

General Manager
Onions New Zealand
Kazi Talaska is the General Manager of Onions New Zealand, working to support the growth and success of New Zealand’s onion and wider vegetable industries. Originally from Indonesia, Kazi has built her career in horticulture industry support and today works closely with growers, exporters, and government agencies to strengthen market access, grower research, and enhance the competitiveness of New Zealand’s onion exports. She also manages several pan-sector vegetable initiatives, including Te Ahikawariki – The Vegetable Industry Centre of Excellence (VICE), which is a proof-of-concept research farm for vegetable growers. Beyond her industry role, Kazi serves as Chair of the Food and Fibre Youth Network, supporting the next generation of leaders across the food and fibre sectors.

Steve Wilkins

Steve Wilkins is a farmer based in Athol, Northern Southland. He manages a mixed cropping and livestock family farming business, growing a variety of  arable crops including wheat, barley, peas, beans, and grass seed. Additionally, the business is involved in finishing lambs, breeding cattle and deer, and providing dairy support. Steve holds several leadership roles in the agricultural sector. He is the Vice Chair for the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) and the Chair for the Otago/Southland Arable Research Group. He is also a Director of United Wheat Growers and a Trustee for theNew Zealand Rural Leadership Trust. As a Nuffield Scholar, Steve gained valuable insights into global food production systems through extensive international travel and developed a vast network across the globe. Steve attended the Advanced Agricultural Business Management Program at    the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester England and is a member of The Worshipful Company of Farmers. Steve is passionate about developing leadership within agriculture to address future challenges in the primary industries.

Richard Mcintyre

Richard and his wife Emma are herd-owning sharemilkers in the Horowhenua where they milk 830 cows across two farms, rear 700 calves, and lease a 180ha dry stock farm as they work their way towards farm ownership. They have two teenage children, Olivia and Matthew. Richard is a farmer elected director of DairyNZ and is a former Federated Farmers Dairy Chair and Board Member.

Karen Williams

Chief Executive
Irrigation New Zealand
Karen Williams is the Chief Executive of Irrigation New Zealand, a role she commenced in February 2025. She leads a committed and high-performing team focused on ensuring New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors have reliable, long-term access to water. Her work spans advocating for new water storage solutions, supporting the sustainability of existing water users, and helping shape national conversations on freshwater management. Guided by Irrigation New Zealand’s vision of “water to nourish our community, environment and economy,” Karen champions the productive and sustainable use of water – balancing economic growth with positive outcomes for both communities and the environment. Karen also serves as a Trustee of the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, which oversees the nationwide Ballance Farm Environment Awards and promotes and celebrates excellence in environmental stewardship and enhancement on New Zealand farms and orchards. Before joining IrrigationNZ, Karen held senior roles across the rural sector, including National Rural Propositions Manager at FMG and National Vice President and Arable Industry Chairperson at Federated Farmers New Zealand. Karen and her husband Mick farm a 520-hectare irrigated property in the Wairarapa, specialising in mixed cropping and beef and lamb finishing. Their operation has been recognised for environmental leadership, winning the Wellington Regional Supreme Award in the 2013 Ballance Farm Environment Awards and receiving the Environmental and Sustainability Award at the 2022 New Zealand Arable Awards. Karen is a graduate and passionate advocate of the Agri-Women’s Development Trust Escalator Programme and was named Biosecurity Farmer of the Year in 2019 for her leadership during the pea weevil biosecurity incursion.

Robyn Dynes

Principal Scientist and Farmer Engagement Specialist
AgResearch
Dr Robyn Dynes (FNZIAHS) is a farming systems scientist with AgResearch based at Lincoln.  Her science in farming systems includes emissions to air and water and the current and future challenges facing our farming systems.  She has governance roles across arable, S+B and dairy sectors. Robyn spent her early years in Southland on a sheep and beef farm, followed by a Canterbury mixed cropping farm, she started her science career with CSIRO in Western Australia before returning to AgResearch.  Her passion is working with farmers to bring science to the questions that matter to farmers.

Dean Williamson

CEO and Publisher
AgriHQ
Dean and Cushla Williamson own AgriHQ, 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, travelled 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.

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The Supporting Organisations in 2025

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New Zealand Avocado

NZ Landcare Trust

NZ Landcare Trust

Summerfruit New Zealand

Potatoes New Zealand

Onions New Zealand

AWDT

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The Food & Fibre Youth Network

Irrigation New Zealand

NZ Young Farmers

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