​Join us at the Agri-Innovation Summit, a pioneering event focused on on-farm diversification. Update: photos!

Join us at the Agri Innovation Summits to delve into on-farm diversification. 

The evening will start with Cameron Bagrie, who will offer invaluable insights into current economic trends. Following this, three expert speakers will present practical approaches for generating additional income streams within sheep and beef farming. They will cover a range of topics, including solar energy, agri-tourism, and developing a farm-to-plate brand. 

Each speaker will share innovative strategies and real-world examples for reducing costs and creating supplementary revenue. Dinner provided with drinks generously sponsored by Bayleys! 

Guest speakers

Cameron Bagrie – Bagrie Economics
Cameron Bagrie, a renowned economist with a deep understanding of New Zealand's agricultural sector, will provide an economic outlook for the farming industry. His insights will help attendees understand market trends, financial risks, and opportunities for growth. Cameron's expertise is instrumental for farmers looking to navigate the complex economic landscape and make informed decisions.

Duncan Humm – local farmer creating additional revenue through solar
Duncan Humm, a deer farmer from Mt Somers in Mid Canterbury, who will be speaking about his innovative journey into land-use diversification. Duncan has successfully leased part of his family's 150ha dryland farm for solar farming, partnering with HES Aotearoa and Solar South West to develop a 35ha solar farm. He will share insights into how this sustainable approach not only supports renewable energy but also allows for simultaneous crop production and livestock grazing under the solar panels. Don’t miss his valuable perspectives on sustainable and profitable farming practices.

 Duncan Smith & Annabel Tapley-Smith – Waipawa Butchery 
Duncan Smith and Annabel Tapley-Smith farm Patangata Station in Central Hawkes Bay and have diversified their operations by acquiring Waipawa Butchery. They will share their journey of integrating farm production with retail, offering a unique perspective on adding value to farm products. Their story is an inspiring example of on-farm diversification.

Marijke Dunselman - Agritourism NZ
Marijke Dunselman, founder of Agritourism New Zealand, is a seasoned professional in (agri)tourism business and marketing consulting. Having worked with hundreds of farmers and tourism businesses as a consultant and trained thousands of businesses for over 26 years, she has a  profound understanding of the (agri)tourism sector. In 2019, Marijke took her passion for the field a step further by establishing Agritourism New Zealand. The organisation seeks to uplift farming communities by promoting agritourism opportunities, fostering income diversification, and enhancing resilience. This is achieved through the development of training programmes, speaking engagements, networking, advocacy & research, and marketing.

Register for the Canterbury event (in Methven) event on the 28th of August 2024

Register for the Otago Event (in Alexandra) on the 30th of August 2024