On 20-21 May, the NZ Plant Producers Conference & Awards hosted a standout crowd of 170 members, sponsors and industry partners in Auckland. This year’s event celebrated 10 years of NZPPI and more than 100 years of the industry.
“Over two days the delegates enjoyed field trips, thought-provoking presentations and a memorable social and industry awards programme,” says NZPPI Chief Executive Matthew Dolan.
The conference showcased how some of the world’s best plant nurseries are tackling the opportunities and staying on top in this period of rapid change. The programme was fast-paced, including bus trips and parallel breakout sessions.
“The feedback from sponsors and delegates has been overwhelming,” Matthew says. “One attendee told me it was the best industry event they had attended in years.”
Programme highlights
Held every two years, the conference is a highlight on the industry calendar. This year’s programme appealed to a broader cross-section of New Zealand’s plant production and greenlife sector, including growers, retailers, suppliers, consultants and sector leaders.
Field trips, including the Greenlife/Landscape tour (in association with Registered Master Landscapers) and the Plant Production tour, demonstrated first-hand and up close how New Zealand operations are adopting technology, working across industry systems, and developing new skills and knowledge.
Helen van Orton from Directorly Ltd delivered an entertaining and educational AI Masterclass. Attendees left with skills and tools they could apply straight away in their own businesses.
Other highlights include a round table discussion of the ambitious plan to take National Gardening Week to the next level in 2026. Agrecovery launched a pot recycling service. Further details on these initiatives will be shared with industry in the coming months.
The NZ Young Plant Producer of the Year was held as part of the conference, with competition challenges running parallel to the main programme. Delegates flocked to the standing-room-only young plant producer speeches, after a panel of previous contestants celebrated 30 years of this important competition (previously known as Young Achievers).
One of the most important moments came when the NZPPI Board asked attendees: after 10 years, what's next for our industry body, including asking if it is time to consider an industry levy.
“It was an opportunity to reflect on where we have come from and on the next generation carrying it forward,” says Matthew. “There was a positive energy throughout the event and genuine excitement about what comes next.”
Industry awards
The conference wrapped up with an unforgettable evening celebrating outstanding industry contributions at the Awards Dinner. Inspired by the venue – the premium Karaka Pavilion thoroughbred auction house – the theme was horse racing, including giving everyone the chance to win with a ‘virtual’ bet on the horses.
“Our 'Night at the Races' theme brought plenty of laughs and generosity, with race winnings being donated to Big Jim's Garden Centre's Pink Ribbon fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ,” says Matthew.
“To our sponsors, members, speakers, young plant producers, judges and partners: thank you. Your support made this event possible, and memorable. We look forward to building on this momentum.”
Visit the NZ Plant Producers Conference & Awards website to see photos from the event.
NZPPI AWARDS 2026
NZ Young Plant Producer of the Year 2026 (Organised by IPPS and NZPPI)
- Winner: Clayton Hart, Rainbow Park Nurseries, Auckland
- Runner-up: Matt Loan, Southern Woods Nursery, Christchurch
- Finalist: Bianca Kitchin, Plant Hawke’s Bay
- Finalist: Michael Blair, Tharfield Nursery, Bay of Plenty
Fraser Award
Awarded for leadership qualities and an enthusiasm for developing knowledge, the Fraser Award scholarship supports the next stage of career building.
- Winner: Keenan Tuwhangai, Annton Nursery
Sustainable Futures Award
- Winner: Rainbow Park Nurseries (accepted by General Manager Andrew Tayler)
The impressive scale of change at Rainbow Park Nurseries is reducing energy use, cutting emissions and building a more sustainable future.
Industry Award
- Winner: Des Snell, Commercial Horticulture
For 46 years Des has published Commercial Horticulture, never missing an issue, organised Trade Day events, diligently maintained the iconic Nursery Register, and become part of the fabric of our industry.
Life Member Award
NZPPI inducted Mike Simpson from Waimea Nurseries as a Life Member. He received a standing ovation for his outstanding contribution to the plant production industry.