This end-of-year RaboTalk Growing our Future episode features Blake Holgate and Katie Rodwell reflecting on a year that has challenged our food and fibre sector to adapt. They share insights from conversations they’ve held with farmers and industry leaders and discuss key themes which have ranged from farmer resilience, the value of open dialogue, the power of working with family and how sustainability conversations have matured.This episode wraps up the year with optimism for the future as they discuss opportunities ahead, especially with on farm efficiencies and agri tech.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:In this special end-of-year episode, Blake and Katie look back on a busy 2024 for food and fibre, discuss the key themes that emerged from conversations with farmers and industry leaders, and share what they’re looking forward to in 2025. From farmer resilience and market shifts to the role of teamwork in good business, this episode wraps up the year with honest reflections and optimism for the future.A Year of Rapid Change in Food and FibreBlake and Katie open by acknowledging how turbulent the past year has been across the rural sector. Policy shifts, fluctuating markets and a challenging operating environment have shaped decision-making on farm and prompted farmers to rethink aspects of their business. Despite that volatility, both hosts heard strong examples of farmers adapting, up-skilling and staying focused on what they can control.Leadership and Learning Through ConversationOne of the standout themes for Blake this year has been the value of conversation. Through interviewing a range of guests, he’s noticed that many of the most effective operators share a commitment to listening, asking questions and continually learning. Katie agrees, reflecting on how different perspectives from across the value chain have broadened her thinking and highlighted the importance of open dialogue during change.The Power of Diverse VoicesKatie’s highlight has been the number of younger and emerging leaders stepping forward. Whether through Future Farmers NZ, Nuffield scholars or on-farm innovators, she’s encouraged by the energy and purpose coming from the next generation. Both hosts note that having a mix of ages, backgrounds and roles at the table leads to better decisions and a more resilient sector.Taking a Team ApproachAnother recurring insight is the strength that comes from teamwork. Guests repeatedly emphasised the importance of bringing partners, staff, advisers and family along for the journey. Blake notes that the most successful farm businesses are not solo efforts; they’re built on clear communication, shared goals and backing each other through the tough periods.Opportunities on the HorizonLooking ahead, Blake is optimistic about the opportunities in front of New Zealand farmers. Market signals continue to evolve, and while pressure remains, he believes the sector is well-positioned to capture value through efficiency, quality and strong relationships with consumers and processors. Katie adds that she’s excited to keep telling stories of innovation and progress, especially as agri-tech solutions become more accessible and farmers look for tools that support better decision-making.Appreciating the Rural CommunityBoth hosts close by acknowledging the privilege of sitting down with so many farmers and sector leaders throughout the year. The generosity, honesty and passion of the rural community continue to inspire them. They express their thanks to listeners for tuning in, sharing feedback and helping shape the direction of the podcast.Key TakeawayDespite a challenging year, there is...

In this episode of Growing Our Future, Katie Rodwell catches up with Scott Champion CEO of the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) to chat about New Zealand’s arable sector. Scott explains that having a wide range of crops is what helps the sector stay strong and flexible, and that arable farmers play a crucial role in the bigger food and fibre picture. Their ability to adapt, try new things, and work alongside livestock farming really sets New Zealand’s approach apart from the rest.In this episode, Scott introduces the new “New Zealand Grown Grains Mark,” designed to boost local grain awareness and support growers. By connecting people across the sector, turning research into practical solutions, and supporting local grain, FAR is making sure arable farming stays at the heart of a strong and sustainable food system.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:Building Connections Across SectorsScott highlights the importance of collaboration and information-sharing in supporting on-farm change. Many farmers are looking to diversify or explore new opportunities but lack the networks to connect into other sectors like horticulture. FAR is helping bridge these gaps by building knowledge pathways and creating access to trusted people and data, ensuring farmers can make informed decisions about future systems.Adapting to Climate VolatilityWith increasing climate variability and severe weather events, FAR is helping growers adapt through practical, research-backed strategies. Scott discusses how the organisation draws from its extensive research back catalogue to provide relevant, timely insights - whether it’s managing water use during droughts or establishing crops after wet winters. By linking local data with regional recovery efforts, FAR supports growers to get back on their feet and build resilience for the future.Balancing Environmental Expectations and ProfitabilityEnvironmental and market expectations are growing - from residue limits and chemical exclusions to broader social licence concerns. FAR plays a key role in helping farmers navigate these pressures through science and collaboration. Projects like A Lighter Touch, co-funded by MPI, explore lower-impact cropping systems that maintain profitability while reducing environmental footprints.Introducing the New Zealand Grown Grains MarkScott also introduces the newly launched New Zealand Grown Grains Mark, a brand helping consumers identify products made with locally grown grains. With only 40% of the country’s milling wheat produced domestically, the mark aims to raise awareness, support local growers, and give consumers confidence in buying New Zealand grain. Early industry response has been positive, with the first products already carrying the mark.Looking Ahead with OptimismDespite current challenges, Scott remains optimistic about the arable sector’s future. Its diverse systems, technical capability, and integration with livestock create a strong foundation for growth. He sees New Zealand’s farmers as adaptable, skilled, and well-positioned to seize new opportunities as they emerge.Key TakeawayNew Zealand’s arable sector is built on diversity, collaboration, and innovation. By strengthening sector connections, applying research to real-world challenges, and championing local grain production, FAR is helping ensure that arable farming remains a cornerstone of a resilient and sustainable food

New Zealand’s horticulture sector continues to grow in value and ambition, contributing billions to the economy and employing tens of thousands nationwide. In this episode of Growing Our Future, Blake Holgate sits down with Kate Scott, Chief Executive of Horticulture New Zealand, to explore the sector’s progress, resilience after recent weather events, and the strategic challenges ahead. From the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan to labour shortages and diversification opportunities, this conversation looks at what’s shaping the future of horticulture.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show NotesNew Zealand’s horticulture sector continues to grow in value and ambition, contributing billions to the economy and employing tens of thousands nationwide. In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Kate Scott, Chief Executive of Horticulture New Zealand, about the sector’s progress, challenges, and the opportunities shaping its next chapter.A Strong Yet Complex SectorThe horticulture industry remains one of New Zealand’s most resilient performers, with export growth driven by success stories like kiwifruit and wine. But Kate notes a mixed picture, with some crops still recovering from recent weather events and profitability pressures. Despite this, she says the sector remains optimistic - grounded in innovation, adaptability, and a shared commitment to sustainable growth.Resilience and RecoveryFollowing Cyclone Gabrielle and flooding in Nelson Tasman, growers have shown remarkable resilience. Kate highlights the industry’s ability to collaborate, share lessons, and rebuild stronger, noting that this collective approach will be crucial as extreme weather events become more common.Strategic Challenges AheadKate points to rising input costs, access to energy, and infrastructure as key hurdles — especially for indoor growers reliant on gas. She emphasises the need for long-term planning to ensure affordable, sustainable energy options and smarter regulatory settings that balance environmental and economic goals.The Aotearoa Horticulture Action PlanA major focus for Horticulture New Zealand is the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan, which aims to double the sector’s farm gate value by 2035. Built around five pillars; sustainability, value, people, Māori participation, and science - the plan provides a roadmap for collaboration across growers, industry groups, Māori agribusiness, and government.Labour, Technology, and SuccessionLabour remains a critical issue for growers, with shortages continuing across both seasonal and permanent roles. While automation is helping in pack-houses, Kate says more innovation is needed in the field. She also highlights the importance of creating clearer succession and ownership pathways to attract the next generation into horticulture.Diversification for the FutureKate sees diversification as a key strategy for resilience, both within horticulture and across the wider food and fibre sector. Integrating horticulture with livestock or mixed-farming systems can unlock efficiencies, strengthen land use, and provide new income streams. These diverse models, she says, will help shape a more resilient and sustainable future for New Zealand growers.Key TakeawayNew Zealand horticulture stands at a pivotal point; optimistic but evolving. Collaboration, innovation, and forward planning will be essential to help growers remain profitable, sustainable, and well-positioned for the opportunities ahead.

Clear and compelling communication has never been more important in agriculture. In this episode, host Katie Rodwell talks with Claire Taylor, agricultural communicator, journalist, and Nuffield farming scholar, to discuss how storytelling can help bridge the growing disconnect between farmers, consumers, and policymakers. They discuss ways farmers can share their stories with confidence, why understanding audiences matters, and what New Zealand can learn from international examples of agri-communication done well.Tune in to learn how New Zealand farmers can strengthen trust, understanding and pride in the sector by sharing authentic, values-driven stories to ensure the industry’s future is not only productive, but also well-understood and respected.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:Clear and compelling communication has never been more important in agriculture. In this episode, host Katie Rodwell sits down with Claire Taylor, agricultural communicator, journalist, and Nuffield farming scholar, to discuss how storytelling can help bridge the growing disconnect between farmers, consumers, and policymakers. Together they explore how farmers can share their stories with confidence, why understanding audiences matters, and what New Zealand can learn from international examples of agri-communication done well.The Power of Connection Through CommunicationClaire explains that communication isn’t just about conveying facts — it’s about connection. She believes that the future of farming depends on the sector’s ability to build understanding and trust beyond the farm gate. Farmers, she says, already have powerful stories to tell about stewardship, care for animals, and innovation; they just need to find the language and channels that resonate with their audiences.From Journalist to Advocate: Claire’s Journey in Agri-CommunicationDrawing on her background as a journalist and communicator, Claire shares how her passion for agriculture has shaped her career - from writing about farming issues to helping the sector find its collective voice. Her Nuffield scholarship took her around the world, where she studied how other countries connect their rural and urban communities through storytelling and public engagement.What New Zealand Can Learn From Global VoicesThrough her travels, Claire found that farmers overseas often face similar challenges - balancing productivity with perception. But she also discovered inspiring examples where strong communication strategies have built pride and public support for agriculture. She highlights how coordinated, authentic messaging can make a real difference in how food producers are valued and understood.Practical Tips for Farmers to Share Their StoryClaire encourages farmers to start small - whether that’s a social media post, a farm open day, or simply talking with local school groups. She notes that the most impactful stories are those grounded in honesty and everyday experience. By focusing on shared values like care for animals, the environment, and community, farmers can help build a more informed and supportive public conversation about food and farming.Key TakeawayCommunication is a powerful tool for shaping agriculture’s future. As Claire puts it, “If we don’t tell our own story, someone else will tell it for us.” By sharing authentic, values-driven stories, New Zealand farmers can strengthen trust, understanding, and pride in the sector - ensuring the industry’s future is not only productive, but also well-understood and respected.

Family businesses are at the heart of New Zealand farming, but combining blood ties with business decisions can create unique challenges. In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Philip Pryor, a business advisor, author and former psychologist who specialises in family business dynamics. Philip shares how rural families can navigate succession, manage conflict, and strengthen relationships across generations. He provides insights from his decades of experience working with farming families, offering practical tools to ensure both the farm and the family thrive for generations to come.Philip believes it takes courage, honesty, and early action to keep both the family and the business strong. As Philip puts it, “Act early, face the issues, and have faith in your family. When you do, both the people and the farm will thrive.”Philip reference’s his latest new book: Risking it all – the essential guide to navigating the challenges all family businesses face.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:Family businesses are at the heart of New Zealand farming, but combining blood ties with business decisions can create unique challenges. In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Philip Pryor, a specialist in family business dynamics, about how rural families can navigate succession, manage conflict, and strengthen relationships across generations. Philip shares insights from his decades of experience working with farming families, offering practical tools to ensure both the farm and the family thrive for generations to come.Start Early and Act with IntentionPhilip emphasises that successful succession isn’t a single event, it’s a process that should begin long before a handover takes place. Families that start conversations early are better equipped to handle challenges around ownership, leadership, and lifestyle. Even informal discussions or simple notes can help clarify expectations and prevent misunderstandings down the track. “Write it down, even if it’s in the back of a notebook,” he advises.Understanding the Fear FactorFear often underlies tension in family businesses, fear of losing control for one generation, or fear of being left out for the next. Philip encourages families to gently acknowledge these feelings, rather than bury them. In his experience, conversations that seem daunting often go far more smoothly than expected once they begin. If discussions stall, bringing in a neutral facilitator or mediator can help families move forward constructively.The Strengths of Family Farming BusinessesDespite the challenges, Philip is quick to point out that the family business model remains one of New Zealand agriculture’s greatest strengths. Shared values, deep trust, and a willingness to work hard together create resilience that’s hard to match. “When there’s a crisis, family are the first to pull together,” he says. Long-term thinking, stewardship, and a sense of legacy underpin why most New Zealand farms remain family owned and operated.Balancing Fairness and FeelingsFairness is a recurring theme in farming families, particularly when dividing assets or managing expectations among siblings. Philip notes that perceived unfairness, not just financial imbalance, is often what leads to conflict. Transparent communication and recognising everyone’s emotional connection to the land are key. As one of his client stories shows, understanding and inclusion can matter more than equal financial outcomes.Being the Best GenerationPhilip challenges both generations to “be their best generation.” For the current owners, that means planning their next chapter...

In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Maury Leyland Penno, co-founder of Leaft Foods. Maury explains how Leaft Foods extracts the enzyme rubisco from lucerne to produce a highly functional, nutritionally rich plant-based protein—one that also contributes to solving environmental challenges. She shares insights into the science, the market potential, and why diversification matters for the future of New Zealand agriculture. Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:What if New Zealand farmers could help feed the world with a protein source that is both sustainable and profitable? Turning Lucerne into a High-Value Crop Leaft Foods has developed technology to extract Rubisco protein - the most abundant protein on earth - from lucerne. For farmers, this means an alternative arable crop with reliable cash flow, nitrogen-fixing benefits, and efficiency in water use. Maury highlights how the system also produces valuable co-products, such as protein-optimised silage that supports milk production while reducing nitrous emissions, and a lucerne-based concentrate that can displace imported feeds like molasses and PKE.Opportunities for FarmersArable farmers, in particular, are showing strong interest in lucerne as part of their crop rotations. With its environmental benefits and proven adaptability, lucerne fits naturally into existing farm systems while offering new revenue streams. Maury notes that the farmer partnerships they’ve built so far have been crucial in refining crop quality and ensuring Leaft’s system integrates seamlessly into New Zealand farming.Meeting Global Protein DemandLeaft’s first consumer product, ‘Leaft Blade’, is a concentrated protein drink aimed at high-performance athletes. With digestibility superior to whey and a rapid uptake, it provides athletes with an edge during training and competition. Beyond sports nutrition, the company is also developing a protein isolate for food manufacturers, with applications in baking and plant-based milks. Its ability to replace egg protein and improve plant milk nutrition positions it strongly in global markets.Scaling Up for Impact Commercialising such a breakthrough is not without challenges, but Maury and her team bring deep expertise in scaling food manufacturing. Their facilities are built with industrial-grade equipment designed for growth, and they are already exporting to the US with FDA approval. With carbon emissions 97% lower than global whey benchmarks and a zero-waste production system, Leaft Foods is proving that protein innovation can be both commercially viable and environmentally sound.A Message of Optimism Maury stresses that diversification is essential for the future of New Zealand farming. She encourages farmers to remain optimistic and open to opportunities, reminding listeners that the sector has the skills and creativity to move beyond traditional models and succeed in new, sustainable markets.Key Takeaway: Leaft Foods is showing how New Zealand farmers can diversify, reduce emissions, and tap into global demand for sustainable protein. By embracing innovation and new market opportunities, farmers can help shape a future where profitability and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

With 17,000 farm owners set to reach retirement age in the next decade, the future of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector depends on developing the next generation of farmers. In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Wendy Paul, CEO of Growing Future Farmers to learn how the programme is equipping young people with practical skills, values, and confidence to succeed in agriculture. Wendy explains how farmers can attract, support, and retain young talent, and why investing in people is not just good for business but also essential for succession planning and the wider rural community.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show notes:The Challenge of SuccessionNew Zealand faces a looming wave of farm transitions, with billions in farm assets set to change hands. Wendy stresses that bringing young people into farming businesses isn’t only about filling labour gaps—it’s about succession, community resilience, and ensuring knowledge is passed between generations.The Growing Future Farmers ModelThe GFF programme places young people directly into farming businesses, providing hands-on training alongside mentoring and formal qualifications. Wendy highlights that the most successful placements are built on clear strategies, strong team cultures, and a commitment from farmers to nurture - not just employ - young people.What Farmers Can Offer Young PeopleFrom Wendy’s perspective, farmers play a vital role as mentors. Beyond teaching stockman-ship and practical skills, they provide boundaries, life lessons, and a sense of belonging. For many young people, particularly those from urban backgrounds, being welcomed into a farm team can be life-changing.Attracting and Retaining TalentWendy notes that young people want more than a pay cheque—they want to feel valued and supported. Farmers who create safe, respectful, and positive environments, while offering pathways for growth, are more likely to retain motivated staff. Opportunities for continued learning, community involvement, and access to modern technology are also key draw-cards.Technology as a Game-ChangerDigital tools are reshaping farming, making the sector more appealing to young people who value flexibility and real-time data. Wendy sees technology as not only improving productivity but also changing perceptions of farming as a lifelong career.Success StoriesFrom a fencing contractor who bought his first home before 25, to a young shearer who travelled to Mongolia with Rabobank’s support, Wendy shares stories of GFF graduates who have thrived well beyond the programme. These examples show the transformative impact of farmers who choose to invest in young people’s futures.Key TakeawayBringing young people into farm businesses is about much more than meeting today’s labour needs—it’s about succession, community, and the future of New Zealand agriculture. By mentoring, supporting, and empowering the next generation, farmers can leave a lasting legacy for both their businesses and the industry as a whole.

In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Jodie Goudswaard, DairyNZ's DairyBase Manager and recent Kellogg Rural Leadership scholar. Jodie’s research explored the values, mindsets, and practices of top-performing dairy farmers who are proving that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand. She shares what she learned from speaking directly with farmers, the role of community and data in decision-making, and why values-driven leadership may be the key to the sector’s future.Tune in to learn that profitability and sustainability are not opposing forces in dairy farming. Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show notes:Can dairy farmers be both highly profitable and environmentally sustainable? Challenging Old AssumptionsFor her Kellogg project, Jodie set out to test a common perception: that farmers can either focus on profitability or on environmental sustainability, but not both. By analysing DairyBase data and interviewing top-performing farmers, she discovered that the reality is very different. Farmers leading in both areas consistently operate from a clear set of values—particularly stewardship, resilience, and community connection.Family, Community, and SuccessionAcross her interviews, one theme was clear: these were family-owned farms, often run by couples, where succession planning was seen less as a legal exercise and more as a responsibility to future generations. Strong community networks and a willingness to learn from others also stood out as common threads.The Role of Data and Decision-MakingAll of the farmers Jodie spoke with used DairyBase, not as a compliance tool, but as a way to benchmark, measure progress, and guide decisions. They emphasised the importance of credible, evidence-based information and expressed a desire for stronger partnerships between farmers and scientists to build trust in the data driving change.From Research to Real ChangeJodie hopes her findings will encourage greater peer-to-peer learning, more opportunities for storytelling, and recognition of “values-led success” across the industry. She stresses that farmers don’t need blanket solutions or more regulation—they need good examples, support to share their journeys, and trust to adapt in ways that fit their businesses.Reflections from KelloggLooking back on the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, Jodie describes it as a transformative six months of learning, reflection, and growth. The challenge of writing a 15,000-word report, the support of her cohort, and lessons in adaptive leadership have all left a lasting mark. She now applies many of these tools with her DairyNZ colleagues and is committed to building stronger leadership skills for the future.Key Takeaway:Profitability and sustainability are not opposing forces in dairy farming—they are two sides of the same coin, united by farmers’ values. By celebrating stewardship, sharing credible science, and supporting farmer-to-farmer learning, the sector can thrive both financially and environmentally.

In this episode, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Laura Morrison, a sheep and beef farmer from Rangitikei and a passionate agri-sector leader. Earlier in the year Laura joined a cohort of food and fibre representatives on a leadership trip to Singapore, designed to challenge traditional thinking and foster new approaches to collaboration and innovation.She shares her reflections on the trip, what Singapore’s unified vision taught her, and why stronger connections across New Zealand’s value chain are key to a more resilient future.Tune in to hear Laura talk about how New Zealand’s agri-sector has strength in its people and products—but to remain globally competitive, we must embrace collective ambition. “Status quo is not what’s going to save us.”Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Full show notes for this episode:Farming and Leadership in RangitikeiLaura farms 270 hectares near Marton with her husband, Richard, including 70 hectares of native bush. Alongside raising two young boys, she’s actively involved in industry leadership, serving as vice chair of Manawatū-Rangitikei Federated Farmers, a national meat and wool executive member, a Beef + Lamb Farmer Council rep, and part of the AgriZero collective. She also chairs the steering group for Connector, a new Rural Women NZ initiative supporting rural community wellbeing.Why Singapore?Laura was part of a cohort representing all parts of the food and fibre value chain—farmers, processors, investors, iwi, researchers—on a trip to Singapore, organised by Food HQ with support from ASB and AgriZero. The goal: immerse themselves in a market known for its innovation, strategic partnerships, and food security solutions.A Culture of CohesionLaura was struck by Singapore’s collective mindset—“buy in or ship out”—which stands in stark contrast to what she sees in New Zealand’s fragmented agri-sector. With deep alignment across government, industry, and private investment, Singapore shows the power of unified effort. The trip highlighted for Laura the need to move beyond traditional, siloed thinking and toward genuine collaboration in New Zealand.Opportunities for New ZealandFrom coffee roasting to centralised food manufacturing and strategic export logistics, Singapore offered multiple examples of market innovation. Laura sees opportunities for New Zealand to pursue deeper partnerships, move beyond commodity exports, and embrace consumer-focused product development.Applying the Lessons at HomeLaura hopes to bring back a spirit of proactive engagement—calling on farmers to connect more with the wider sector, contribute to change, and avoid “head in the sand” attitudes. Through her leadership roles, she’s committed to fostering open-mindedness, collaboration, and a willingness to evolve.Key TakeawayNew Zealand’s agri-sector has strength in its people and products—but to remain globally competitive, it must embrace collective ambition. As Laura reminds us, “status quo is not what’s going to save us.”

With reports of some countries and companies stepping back from climate commitments, what’s really happening in global sustainability—and how does it affect New Zealand’s farmers and growers?In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Marjan van Riel, Rabobank’s Global Lead of Climate and Sustainability, to unpack global sustainability trends, regulatory shifts, and value chain expectations. From decarbonisation and climate risk to consumer behaviour and technological innovation, this conversation highlights where the world is heading—and how New Zealand’s agri-sector is well positioned to respond.Tune in to learn how New Zealand’s agri sector can turn sustainability into a lasting competitive advantage by focusing on both compliance and opportunity. Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.