NZPPI NEWS

Webinar recap: exploring alternatives to synthetic fungicides for myrtle rust control

In a recent webinar Dr Rob Beresford of PFR shared interim findings from his research into non-synthetic fungicide options for controlling myrtle rust.

Smarter pest management at Rural Design

After significant crop losses, Rural Design nursery overhauled its pest management strategy. Read the case study by nursery manager Dani McBride on the nursery's road to improved IPM.

Young Plant Producer 2025 applications open today - March 10

Encourage your young stars to shine! 🌱✨ This year's competition takes place at Lincoln University on June 24th & 25th so encourage your younger team members to apply by March 31. If they’re 30 or under by December 31, 2025, and working in the plant production industry, they’re eligible to enter.

The latest edition of Plant Production Science out now

Plant Production Science Issue 5 highlights advances in plant genetics and breeding, crucial for New Zealand’s plant production sector.

A new direction for vocational education: Industry Skills Boards announced

Last year, NZPPI contributed to the consultation process on the Government’s proposed reforms to New Zealand’s vocational education and training system. On 20 December 2024, the Government revealed its plans, marking a significant shift in how vocational training will be structured.

NZPPI submits key recommendations on Xylella fastidiosa management

NZPPI has put in a formal submission to MPI supporting the ministry's proposal to improve the management of Xylella fastidiosa in imported nursery stock

Our 2023 Young Plant Producer Lydia O'Dowd recounts her international work travels

Lydia used her YPP and Young Hort winnings to visit overseas plant production operations and build on her horticultural knowledge.

Weekly NZPPI Disease Management emails achieving positive results for participating nurseries

Users of weekly disease risk forecast service, developed by NZPPI and HortPlus, are reporting significant benefits.

When the going gets tough 'Get Through' with Farmstrong

Farmstrong now offers new online hub with mental wellbeing tools and resources designed to help farmers and growers deal with the stress of adverse weather events

New Food and Fibre employer toolkit now available

The Food and Fibre CoVE has launched a new resource for employers, managers, and supervisors in the primary industries.

GIA is 10 years old: NZPPI is still committed

In this op-ed, NZPPI Chief Executive Matt Dolan reflects on the vital role of the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) in uniting New Zealand's primary industries to tackle biosecurity risks. He highlights the significance of NZPPI’s 2021 GIA Deed signing, which secures plant producers a seat at the decision-making table alongside government, councils and other industries.

Our Young Plant Producer of the Year, Anna England, is the 2024 Young Horticulturist of the Year

Our Young Plant Producer of the Year, Anna England, was named the 2024 Young Horticulturist of the Year at the event dinner in Auckland last night (Oct 31)

EECA-supported video showcases NZPPI Sustainable Futures Award winner

A new video, supported by EECA as part of its sponsorship of the NZPPI Sustainable Futures Award 2024, showcases the innovative sustainability practices of Van Lier Nurseries

National Gardening Week Celebrated with new online only Spring Edition of Go Gardening

Go Gardening has launched a special digital-only Spring Edition to mark National Gardening Week from 21 to 28 October.

NZPPI Board Member Nick Hoskins Recognised as Winegrowers Fellow

NZPPI board member Nick Hoskins of Riversun has been honoured as a 2024 New Zealand Winegrowers Fellow.

Owners of Ormonds Nurseries honoured for lifetime contribution to Marlborough wine industry

Ben and Frances Wickham have been recognised with a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

Girls Who Grow: Cultivating Future Leaders at Akura Nursery

As part of the "Girls Who Grow" programme, Rachel Scanlan, nursery manager at Akura Nursery in Masterton, is connecting young women with the plant production sector.

Govt apprentice boost payment to continue for plant producer employers

A recent Government announcement has confirmed that plant producers employers can still benefit from the Apprenticeship Boost initiative in 2025 but only for first year apprentices.

Free HortNZ managing risk workshops

HortNZ is offering free Introduction to Managing Risk in Horticulture workshops, designed to equip managers and owners with essential health and safety tools.

NZPPI Condemns Breach of Biosecurity Regulations

NZPPI has expressed disappointment following the recent conviction of Jeff Elliott, director of Elliott Wholesale Nursery, for a serious breach of New Zealand’s biosecurity regulations.