Fruit fly controls lifted in South Auckland, dairy genetics group names experienced chair, and record exhibitor numbers for Northland Field Days.

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Fruit fly controls lifted in South Auckland

The Oriental fruit fly response in South Auckland has successfully concluded, with Biosecurity New Zealand lifting movement controls on fruit and vegetables in Papatoetoe. No further flies have been detected since a single male was found in early January.

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says the successful outcome protects New Zealand's $7 billion horticulture export industry, which could have been devastated by an established fruit fly population. He praised the swift response from Biosecurity New Zealand staff who launched operations during the Christmas holiday period.

The Papatoetoe community played a crucial role by cooperating with movement restrictions and allowing regular trap checks in their gardens. The minister highlighted this community support, alongside backing from the horticultural sector, as key factors in the successful response.

Biosecurity New Zealand maintains more than 7,800 fruit fly traps nationwide as part of its ongoing surveillance programme. The minister says the early detection in Papatoetoe demonstrates the effectiveness of this network in enabling rapid responses to potential threats.

The successful outcome reinforces the importance of New Zealand's biosecurity system in protecting valuable agricultural and horticultural exports, with surveillance continuing to guard against future incursions.

 

Dairy genetics group names experienced chair

Rebecca Keoghan has been appointed Independent Chair of the Animal Evaluation Governance Group, bringing extensive governance experience to drive improvements in New Zealand's dairy genetics system.

The experienced director, who currently chairs Fire & Emergency NZ and serves on the boards of Alpine Energy Limited and Gravity Dance, will lead efforts to accelerate genetic gain in the national dairy herd. Her appointment comes as the group tackles recommendations from the Industry Working Group's report which found New Zealand's genetic system was not fit-for-purpose.

Keoghan's governance group objectives include establishing a future-focused National Breeding Objective, developing a single Breeding Worth Index, improving data collection, and building farmer confidence in the system. The work aims to help New Zealand catch up with other advanced dairy industries through better use of genomics.

The fifth-generation dairy farmer brings significant recognition to the role, having been named Dairy Woman of the Year in 2016, receiving an MNZM in 2017 for services to business, and winning the Rural Westpac Woman of Influence award in 2018. Her previous roles include chairing Tai Poutini Polytechnic and serving as Deputy Chair of Timaru District Holdings.

The two-year appointment sees Keoghan join representatives from DairyNZ, LIC, CRV, and NZAEL on the governance group as they work to unlock increased profitability and improved environmental outcomes for the sector.

 

East Coast Farming Expo ready to showcase rural innovation

The East Coast Farming Expo, a key event for sheep and beef farmers, is set to kick off next Wednesday and Thursday at the Wairoa Race Course. The two-day gathering features an impressive lineup of speakers and technology displays aimed at East Coast farmers.

Rugby league legend Tawera Nikau headlines the Property Brokers Evening Muster, while Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer of the Year Ben Purua will share his journey to success. Hawke's Bay Forestry Group CEO James Powrie will discuss innovative woody debris projects and the Urban Kakabeak conservation initiative.

Technical presentations include Beef + Lamb New Zealand scientist Cara Brosnahan on facial eczema management, and hill country farmer James Parsons partnering with Mathew Barham to explore virtual fencing opportunities. Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard is scheduled to speak Thursday afternoon.

Event organiser Sue Wilson says trade space has hit record levels this year, reflecting strong industry support. The Wairoa Community Development Trust continues to deliver the event, focusing on connecting agribusinesses with sheep and beef farmers.

The February 19-20 program also features a women in farming panel with Nancy Crawshaw, Mickey Trotter, Alice Anderson and Ariana Hadfield.

 

Record exhibitor numbers for Northland Field Days

Meanwhile in Northland, a record number of exhibitors are set to showcase at this year's Northland Field Days, with all sites sold out a month before the February 27 opening in Dargaville. The three-day event has attracted more than 350 exhibitors, up from 300 last year.

Northland Field Days president John Phillips says strong dairy price forecasts and exhibitors' eagerness to connect with customers have driven the surge in numbers. The event has even attracted first-time exhibitors from as far as Fiordland.

Visitors will have three chances to win from a $20,000 prize pool donated by exhibitors, with daily draws planned for the first time. Prizes range from tool sets and barbecues to air conditioning units and wine packages.

Phillips says volunteers are putting final touches on the Awakino Point East Road site, with recent exhibitor income helping upgrade roads and fencing. However, organizers are watching weather conditions closely, as drought may force them to cart water for the event.

The field days continue their tradition of supporting local communities, with profits funding tertiary study grants for agriculture students, alongside donations to various community groups and projects.

 

Finalists named for New Zealand Rural Sports Awards

Nine of New Zealand's top rural athletes are in the running for major honours at the 2025 Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, set for Awapuni Racecourse on Friday, March 7. 

Timbersports champion Jack Jordan from Taumarunui leads the PTS Logistics New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year nominations alongside Gisborne fencer Tim Garrick and West Melton harness racing driver Blair Orange. 

In the RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year category, Tauranga tree climber Steph Dryfhout faces competition from Gisborne shearer Catherine Mullooly and Christchurch harness racing driver Samantha Ottley.

The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award sees Cambridge rodeo competitor Rylee Ward up against West Melton harness racing's Carter Dalgety and Raetihi motocross rider Karaitiana Horne.

The Palmerston North event, part of the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games Weekend, will also present awards for Rural Sportsperson with a Disability, Outstanding Contribution, Lifetime Legacy, and the Sir Brian Lochore Memorial Award.

One overall winner will be selected from all categories for the Ford Supreme New Zealand Rural Sportsperson Award at the gala dinner.

The gala event will feature presenters including Erica Dawson, Tim Southee, and Wayne Smith.

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