Episode 59 - How land use is changing in NZ agriculture

In this episode, we explore a shift from traditional dairy to innovative crops in New Zealand agriculture. Lee Matheson, Managing Director of Perrin Ag, discusses the challenges and opportunities of land use change, focusing on crops like hemp and chestnuts. Gavin Tayles, COO of FarmRight, shares insights on their transition to high-value horticulture, particularly large-scale apple orchards. Red Martin, General Manager of Pipfruit at FarmRight, talks about modern growing systems and new apple varieties. Together, they highlight how strategic investment, advanced technology, and sustainable practices are reshaping the agricultural landscape in New Zealand.

 

Guests include:

1. Lee Matheson, Managing Director, Perrin Ag
2. Gavin Tayles, Chief Operating Officer, FarmRight
3. Red Martin, General Manager of Pipfruit, FarmRight

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Lee Matheson, Managing Director of Perrin Ag, leads discussions on land use change in New Zealand agriculture, balancing profitability, diversification, and sustainability. While dairy remains viable, emissions targets push farmers toward alternatives. Matheson identified challenges in scaling new crops like hemp and blueberries, from infrastructure gaps to market uncertainty. Now, he works to bridge these barriers, advocating for investment, bank lending, and co-operative collaboration. He stresses urgent action to align land use with climate goals, seeing innovation as key to a sustainable, profitable future—provided the right policies and financial support are in place.

Gavin Tayles, COO of FarmRight, is leading New Zealand’s shift from dairy to high-value horticulture. While dairy remains vital, climate change and sustainability demands drive diversification. Since 2018, he has expanded FarmRight into apples, kiwifruit, and hops, transforming 250 hectares of dairy land into a large-scale apple orchard for the NZ Superfund. Tayles navigates challenges like upfront costs and environmental risks through strategic investment and technology. With plans for 900,000 trees, the orchard will be NZ’s largest pipfruit site. He believes smart investment and policy can ensure a profitable, sustainable agricultural future.

Red Martin, GM of Pipfruit at FarmRight, is transforming Canterbury’s apple industry, overseeing one of New Zealand’s largest pipfruit operations. With decades of expertise, he leads orchard development and modern growing systems. FarmRight’s 250-hectare, fully netted orchard will house 900,000 trees, producing 1.47 million cartons annually. Using the V trellis system and high-yield varieties like Rocket and Jole, Martin maximises efficiency. He navigates financial hurdles, including costly proprietary variety licenses. The shift from dairy to apples will cut carbon emissions by 81%, nitrogen losses by 82%, and water use by 40%, ensuring a more sustainable future.

 

Listen to the first five episodes of Agraforum’s newest podcast series, Where Inches Matter, here

 

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