RaboTalk – Growing our future

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Jun 2026

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RaboTalk’s Growing our future is all about equipping New Zealand’s farmers and growers with the knowledge to support resilient farming systems for the future. Using insights gathered from Aotearoa and across the world, Rabobank’s team of experts and connections offer up informed opinions and healthy discussion on the future of farming, and how to adapt farm strategies and systems to ensure our farms thrive in a fast-changing world. Disclaimer: This podcast has been prepared by Rabobank New Zealand Limited and Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. (New Zealand Branch) (Incorporated in the Netherlands) (collectively referred to as ‘Rabobank New Zealand’). The information and opinions contained in this publication have been compiled or arrived at from sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to their accuracy, completeness or correctness. This publication is for information purposes only and is not, and should not be construed as, an offer or a commitment by Rabobank New Zealand to enter into a transaction. This information is not professional advice and has not been prepared to be used as the basis for, and should not be used as the basis for, any financial or strategic decisions. This information is general in nature only and does not take into account an individual’s personal circumstances. All opinions expressed in this publication are subject to change without notice. Rabobank New Zealand does not accept any liability whatsoever for any direct, indirect, consequential or other loss or damage howsoever arising from any use of this publication or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith. This publication must not be reproduced or distributed without the prior written consent of Rabobank New Zealand. © 2026 Rabobank New Zealand Limited and Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. (New Zealand Branch) (Incorporated in the Netherlands). All Rights Reserved.

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June 12, 202640 min

Moving the Middle: How to enable widespread voluntary change on-farm with Suzie Greenhalgh

In this episode of RaboTalk Growing our Future episode, host Blake Holgate speaks with Suzie Greenhalgh, Project Lead for the Moving the Middle programme, a research project aimed at giving farmers the confidence to voluntarily improve their environmental performance on farms.Suzie discusses the findings from this multi-partner research project, which launched in 2020, to understand how to support the large group of farmers in the middle, who sit between the early adopters and those resistant to change.By analysing the complex network of pressures surrounding farmers, Suzie explains how industry bodies and policy makers can adjust their approach to support farmers and growers who want to make positive change but often feel constrained by competing pressures.Suzie challenges farmers to identify one positive environmental action they would not regret doing even if compliance rules changed tomorrow.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show NotesThe Moving the Middle ConceptThe program aims to give the majority of farmers the confidence to voluntarily improve their environmental performance. Suzie explains that many producers want to make positive changes but feel disempowered by competing industry pressures. The research focuses on how to intervene in the surrounding system to give farmers the headspace needed to move forward.A Systems Approach to ChangeLaunched during high regulatory uncertainty in 2020, the program covers four deep pressure points identified by farmers: policy interventions, debt and investment practices, trusted agents of change, and community narratives. An overarching systems piece ensures researchers capture how these distinct areas intersect to impact daily decision making.Moving Beyond Cookie-Cutter ExtensionNew Zealand has a habit of over-relying on single extension models, like flooding the sector with demonstration field days when they become popular. Suzie emphasises that a practice that is simple for one farm system can be incredibly difficult for another. Extension must be tailored to a farmer’s specific context rather than assuming non-adoption is simply a lack of willingness.Insights from Māori AgribusinessThe research highlights that Māori agribusiness cannot be treated as a single block. By mapping the distinct stages of the journey from emerging to thriving, the program identifies the exact resources needed at different times. Collaborative work on 100-year farm plans demonstrated how long-term thinking completely shifts short-term operational decisions.Shallow vs. Deep System LeversThe sector naturally defaults to shallow system interventions, like tweaking an advisory tool, because they offer quick wins. However, transformational change happens deeper in the system. The program works with schools, next-generation change makers, and banks to develop deep levers, such as cheap loans for on-farm environmental trials.Shifting from Policy to Farmer-Led ActionLooking ahead, Suzie envisions a sector where environmental progress is driven entirely by farmers rather than policy. For this to happen, technology providers and researchers must ensure new innovations actually fit existing farm systems, rather than blaming producers when uptake is slow.Final Advice: Make No-Regrets DecisionsSuzie challenges farmers to step back from the daily operational noise and give themselves the luxury of long-term planning. To regain agency in an uncertain regulatory environment, producers should identify one positive environmental action that they would not regret doing even if compliance rules changed tomorrow. Starting with a single, secure choice is the best way to build lasting confidence.

May 26, 202629 min

Catchment Catch-Ups with Richard Kyte from Thriving Southland

In the first episode of RaboTalk Growing our Future’s new Catchment Catch-Ups series, host Blake Holgate sits down with Thriving Southland Project Lead, Richard Kyte to explore how farmer-led catchment groups are creating practical, locally driven solutions for some of the biggest challenges facing New Zealand farming today.From improving water quality and managing sediment, to building climate resilience and strengthening farm profitability, Richard shares why localised science, peer-to-peer learning and voluntary community action are so powerful. Featuring insights from New Zealand’s largest catchment collective, this episode is a valuable listen for farmers and growers wanting real-world ideas, optimism and inspiration from people making a difference on the ground.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:From the Lake District to Southland CollectiveRichard shares his background moving from mixed farming in the UK to the New Zealand dairy sector and his extension work with DairyNZ. Now leading Thriving Southland, he helps provide 37 independent catchment groups with the information and funding resources they need to own and drive their own environmental projects.The Power of Localised ScienceGeneric environmental rules often miss the mark, so Thriving Southland focuses on sub-catchments. Richard explains how using radiometric data to understand specific soil and water dynamics helped one community identify mobile soils as the root cause of an E. coli issue, allowing them to precisely target their sediment management and maximise their return on investment.Integrating Water Quality and Climate ResilienceWhile greenhouse gas emissions can feel like a harder sell on a day-to-day basis, Richard emphasises that climate resilience, farm profitability, and water quality are completely interlinked. Projects like Carbon Neutral Dipton allow sheep, beef, and dairy farmers to collaborate on emissions mitigations and land use optimisation without separate legislative mandates.The Extension Model and Peer LearningThe historic success of New Zealand agriculture relies on farmers talking to farmers. Catchment groups foster this extension model, allowing early adopters to pave the way while others observe and catch up. This peer-to-peer approach builds genuine confidence and drives world leading change at a manageable pace.The Value of a Cheese RollBuilding wide community engagement is less about rigid dictation and more about social connection. Richard notes that the real wins often happen over a cup of tea and a cheese roll, providing a vital social wellness forum for isolated farmers to realise they are not facing seasonal or regulatory challenges alone.Final Advice: Look Back to Move ForwardRichard encourages any farmer curious about their local catchment group to simply put their head in the door without fear of a heavy commitment. True progress is voluntary and takes time. By reflecting on how far practices like winter grazing have transformed the Southland landscape over the last decade, farmers can find the optimism needed to face today's challenges.

May 12, 202621 min

Is the time for on-farm solar now? with Chris McArthur

With power prices and weather disruptions putting new pressure on farm operations, this RaboTalk Growing our Future episode explores practical ways New Zealand farmers and growers can build energy resilience while improving the bottom line.Blake Holgate is joined by EECA’s Chris McArthur to discuss what the Solar on Farms programme is seeing across demonstration farms nationwide, including how today’s solar stacks up on cost and performance.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:EECA and the Energy TransitionChris explains the role of EECA in promoting energy efficiency and renewables. Growing up on a sheep and beef farm, he has seen solar technology become cheaper and more powerful, making it a practical choice for modern agriculture. The organisation focuses on providing impartial information to help farmers make strategic decisions.The Solar on Farms ProgrammeTo provide producers with up-to-date data, EECA has established 37 demonstration farms across various sectors and regions. These farms monitor performance and share the unvarnished truth about the installation process, helping other growers understand the benefits and barriers without the typical marketing noise.Building Resilience with BatteriesWhile solar saves money from day one, batteries provide critical resilience. Chris notes that a battery can prevent the chaos of power cuts during milking and highlights a 2025 Southland case study where a farm continued operating through major storms. While the upfront cost is higher, the ability to milk through an outage is a major risk mitigant.Sizing and System CostsInvestment levels vary significantly based on farm type. Systems range from small 10,000 dollar setups for sheep and beef units to large 500,000 dollar investments for high-use dairy and irrigation sheds. The goal is to right-size the system to match on-farm usage, as exporting excess power to the grid often yields lower financial returns.Avoiding Common PitfallsFarmers must consider dust management on panels, especially near unsealed roads, as it can significantly affect output. Another key consideration is the complexity of multiple electricity connections (ICPs). Chris recommends ensuring solar is installed on the meter with the highest load to maximise the return on investment.The Future: Electrification by 2035Looking ahead, Chris predicts a major shift toward the electrification of farm vehicles and heavy machinery. This transition will reduce reliance on long, volatile supply chains for liquid fuels, replacing them with locally produced on-farm energy that is visualised and managed through smart apps.Final Advice: Start Saving TodayChris encourages farmers not to wait for the next big technological leap. Solar technology is already at a compelling price point, and as soon as a system is switched on, it begins paying for itself. The best time to start locking in energy costs and building operational resilience is now.

April 28, 202631 min

How Pāmu is balancing profit and climate adaptation with Sam Bridgman

In this RaboTalk Growing our Future episode, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Sam Bridgman, Head of Sustainability at Pāmu, about how New Zealand’s largest farming corporate is making sustainability practical and profitable across 112 farms.Sam outlines the five key drivers shaping Pāmu’s approach and shares how strategy is being turned into on-farm action through tailored farm environment plans and regional sustainability support. In this episode, you’ll hear real examples of building income resilience through diversification and how Pāmu is mapping climate risks for every property out to 2050 and sharing these learnings with the wider sector.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes: The Pāmu Mandate and PurposeAs a state owned enterprise, Pāmu must be a successful business that is profitable, efficient, and socially responsible. Sam explains their purpose: leading the delivery of sustainable agricultural solutions for future generations across a diverse portfolio including sheep, beef, dairy, deer, forestry, and horticulture.Five Drivers of SustainabilitySam identifies the key buckets driving their work:Market Requirements: Meeting low emission and nature-based standards for international customers.Compliance: Meeting domestic policy and local regulatory requirements.Risk and Opportunity: Accessing cheaper capital and managing long-term climate risks.Environmental Stewardship: Prioritising pest control and biodiversity protection.Brand and Reputation: Maintaining social license within rural communities.Turning Strategy into Operational ActionPāmu uses a regional model where sustainability advisors work alongside farm teams to implement national goals locally. Every farm operates under a tailored farm environment plan, providing a consistent baseline for regulatory and market assurance.Diversification and Income ResilienceStrategic land use changes, such as transitioning a Northland property from dairy to avocados and berries, help stabilise income. These decisions are based on long-term climate scenarios and the opportunity to participate in high-value, diversified markets.Climate Adaptation and Future MappingPāmu has developed climate outlooks for every property through to 2050. These reports identify vulnerabilities like drought or extreme rainfall. This data is being shared with the wider sector via MPI to help all New Zealand farmers prepare for increasing volatility.Collaboration and Research TrialsThrough the St Kilda Feed Efficiency site and partnerships with AgriZero, Pāmu tests methane genetics and new emission-reduction tools. This acts as a bridge between lab research and commercial reality, getting practical solutions into farmers' hands sooner.Future Trends: Nature as the Value AddClimate resilience is becoming essential for accessing capital and insurance. Sam believes that while carbon is now the baseline, nature-positive credentials offer the next big opportunity for New Zealand to differentiate its products globally.Final Advice: The Nature OpportunitySam’s message is one of practical optimism: sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand. By focusing on climate resilience and nature-based data, farmers can turn environmental challenges into a competitive advantage. Carbon is the minimum standard, but proving our nature-positive impact is where the future value lies.

April 14, 202625 min

Farming by satellite - what geospatial tech means for farmers with Matt Lythe

In this RaboTalk Growing our Future episode, host Katie Rodwell chats with Matt Lythe, Managing Director of Prism Earth, to discuss how geospatial technology – a combination of satellite imagery, spectral data and AI – is rapidly becoming a practical tool for New Zealand farms. This technology is moving beyond simple mapping, to measure and manage a farm’s “natural capital” like carbon, biodiversity and soil health.Matt shares what the latest data can reveal about pasture and soil stress, how farmers can meet new EU deforestation-free requirements to protect market access, and what climate projections to 2060 mean for shifting pasture growth and rising extreme-weather risk.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show NotesFrom navigating strict new EU deforestation rules to predicting how climate change will shift pasture growth by 2060, the conversation highlights how data-driven insights can turn environmental compliance into a competitive advantage. Matt offers a vision of a ‘mosaic landscape’, where technology empowers farmers to diversify their income streams and build long-term resilience against an increasingly volatile climate.From Antarctica to Agriculture: Matt Lythe’s BackgroundMatt shares his unique journey from a ‘townie’ remote sensing scientist to a polar researcher in Antarctica, eventually applying his expertise to New Zealand’s primary sector. Through a partnership with Silver Fern Farms, his company Prism Earth now uses AI and satellite data to help farmers measure and manage their land's natural assets.Geospatial Tech 101Geospatial technology (or GIS) is all about location. While the tech has been around since the 70s, it’s now everywhere thanks to cloud computing and mobile devices. For a farmer, it’s about understanding the spatial relationship between soil, productive land, waterways, and animals to optimise every hectare.The Satellite RevolutionThe last five years have seen a ‘sensor explosion’, with a proliferation of commercial satellites, we can now monitor farms with finer detail than ever before. This isn't just about photos; satellites use spectral data to measure leaf health, soil moisture stress, and even the texture of the pasture canopy.Mapping Natural CapitalMatt discusses the patterns emerging across the New Zealand landscape:Carbon Stocks: Steep gullies on sheep and beef farms often hold significant carbon and biodiversity value.Biodiversity Opportunities: Flat, lowland areas like Canterbury have high potential for new canopy and indigenous vegetation.The Mosaic Landscape: Moving toward a farm layout that integrates shelter, shade, and soil stability through a mix of native and exotic trees.Climate Risks: Looking Toward 2060The data shows significant shifts in seasonality. While warmer winters may boost early spring growth, summers are becoming drier and more drought-prone, particularly in the North and East. Matt warns that extreme events like Cyclone Gabrielle may become more frequent, requiring farmers to use data to build more resilient land-use strategies.Meeting Global Standards: The EU ConnectionWith the EU demanding deforestation-free supply chains, geospatial tech has become a vital proof point. Matt explains how they use satellite data to verify that New Zealand beef hasn't been raised on deforested land, ensuring our products remain competitive in premium overseas markets.The Future: Live Maps and AI AgentsThe next decade will move toward live farm maps. Matt envisions a world where wearable tech (like Halter) and AI work together to move herds automatically based on real-time weather forecasts and pasture growth. This shifts the farmer’s role toward more strategic thinking and animal welfare.Final Advice: Embrace the DataMatt’s message is one of optimism: New Zealand farms are inherently nature positive. By using the data available - often for free through co-ops or agencies like NIWA - farmers can turn environmental reporting into a tool for diversification and long-term profit. Don't be scared of the tech; use it to prove your greatness.

March 31, 202631 min

How farmers can shift from price-takers to premium value creators with Dr Victoria Hatton

In this episode of RaboTalk Growing our Future episode, host Katie Rodwell talks with Dr Victoria Hatton, CEO of FoodHQ, about why New Zealand’s food and fibre sector is still running on a 100-year-old “commodity operating system” despite our premium reputation, driving export growth through volume rather than value and leaving farmers exposed to competitors who can simply produce it cheaper. Victoria argues the real opportunity is playing the long game in premium markets by building what customers really want not just shipping what we produce, with fast-growing potential in functional foods and targeted nutrition as consumer needs shift toward “food as medicine” and nutrient-dense products.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show NotesIn this episode, Katie speaks with Dr. Victoria Hatton, CEO of FoodHQ, in a deep dive into the ‘commodity versus premium’ debate currently facing New Zealand’s food and fibre sector. Victoria shares insights from her extensive career to explain why New Zealand remains stuck in a volume-driven operating system despite our world-class reputation. The Commodity Operating SystemA key tension exists: New Zealand is a premium country operating on a 100-year-old commodity system. Victoria argues that our recent export growth has come from added volume, not added value. As long as farmers remain price-takers feeding a bulk ingredient engine (like milk powder), we remain vulnerable to competitors who can simply produce it cheaper.The Long Game in Premium MarketsShifting to premium isn’t a quick fix; it requires ‘dogged determination’. Victoria cites Quality New Zealand in India as an example of a 10-year journey to build a market. She highlights the need for empathy for the customer - understanding exactly what they want rather than just shipping what we produce.Functional Foods and the Future ConsumerThe consumer of 2030 isn't just looking for "milk" or "meat." There is a massive opportunity in:Functional Foods: High-protein whey, amino acids for skincare, and "food as medicine."Targeted Nutrition: Serving an aging population or consumers on GLP-1 (weight-loss) medications who want smaller, highly nutrient-dense portions.Traceability: Data as Your Best Marketing ToolWhile measuring on-farm metrics can feel like a political burden, Victoria views it as the proof of provenance. Consistent, scientifically robust data is what allows New Zealand to tell a unified story at the trade table. It’s the difference between a "clean green" claim and a proven, high-value brand.Capturing Your Fair ShareThe conversation addresses the frustration that value isn't always returned to the farm gate. Victoria points to direct-to-consumer success stories like Hamish Best (beef and lamb) and Honest Wolf (wool) as examples of how producers can bypass processors to capture premium margins.The Risk of Staying Volume-FocusedRelying on volume carries significant risks:Economic Vulnerability: Dependence on volatile commodity prices.Market Access: Global regulations are hardwiring sustainability into import rules.Social License: The risk of asking too much of our land and water for a low-margin return.Final Advice: Don’t Fear the MeasureVictoria’s parting message to farmers is one of optimism: "Don’t be afraid to measure and record what you’re doing." Measurement is a cheap way to market your product, benchmark your greatness, and ensure the New Zealand story remains credible on the world stage.

March 17, 202624 min

On farm action through catchment communities with Ben Ensor

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, Katie talks with North Canterbury farmer Ben Ensor, chair of the Hurunui District Landcare Group, about how farmer‑led catchment groups are helping rural communities make environmental change with confidence.Drawing on a decade of hands‑on experience, Ben explains the role of Catchment Communities Aotearoa in connecting more than 200 catchment groups nationwide, sharing knowledge, and giving farmers a stronger collective voice.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:In this episode, Katie speaks with North Canterbury farmer, and chair of the Hurunui District Landcare Group, Ben Ensor, about the role of catchment groups and the work of Catchment Communities Aotearoa (CCA).Ben shares insights from his experience farming in Cheviot and his involvement in catchment groups over the past decade. The conversation explores how farmer-led collaboration is helping rural communities respond to environmental expectations, build confidence, and create meaningful change on the ground.Farming in North CanterburyBen farms 1,400 hectares of hill country in Cheviot with his wife and daughter. Their sheep and beef operation runs Quarter-bred ewes and Angus cattle, with additional irrigated finishing land for livestock. While the farm is busy producing quality meat and livestock, Ben has also spent the past ten years heavily involved in catchment group initiatives that support environmental improvements and farmer collaboration.How Catchment Groups BeganBen’s involvement began with the Hurunui District Landcare Group, which formed around a decade ago in response to major regulatory changes affecting local farmers. Those changes highlighted the need for farmers to have a stronger voice in environmental discussions and policy decisions.Catchment groups provided a platform for farmers to share their stories, communicate the good work already happening on farms, and better understand their environmental impacts. Over time, similar groups formed across New Zealand, leading to the creation of Catchment Communities Aotearoa to represent them nationally.What Catchment Communities Aotearoa DoesCCA acts as a national body connecting catchment groups and giving them a stronger collective voice. Today the organisation represents around 220 catchment groups covering approximately 12 million hectares across New Zealand.Rather than directing how individual groups operate, CCA focuses on supporting them through coordination, sharing resources, and helping connect communities facing similar challenges. This national platform also allows catchment groups to engage more effectively with government, regional councils, and other stakeholders.Supporting Farmers and Building ConfidenceOne of the biggest impacts of catchment groups has been improving farmer confidence. Over recent years, farmers have faced increasing environmental regulation, social pressure, and uncertainty about what changes were required on their farms.Catchment groups bring communities together to better understand environmental expectations, explore solutions, and support each other through change. This collaborative approach helps farmers take practical action such as improving riparian management, planting, fencing waterways, or establishing wetlands.While environmental improvements like water quality take time to measure, Ben says the visible progress in on-farm actions and community engagement has already been significant.Looking Ahead for Catchment GroupsCatchment groups have grown rapidly, but they are entering a new phase. Some government funding that helped establish groups during the COVID recovery period is reducing, meaning groups must adapt to operate with more sustainable funding models.Despite these challenges, Ben believes catchment groups remain in a strong position because they are built on community leadership. Their grassroots approach ensures solutions are locally relevant and widely supported.Key TakeawayFor Ben, success in the coming years will mean catchment groups being recognised as trusted partners in environmental improvement. By empowering farmers and communities to work together, catchment groups have the potential to deliver lasting environmental progress while maintaining strong, resilient farming businesses.

March 3, 202633 min

Why better soil leads to better business with Conan Moynihan

In this episode, RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Katie Rodwell talks with Conan Moynihan, an experienced farm consultant from Canterbury. Conan shares insights from his experience as a sheep and beef farmer, environmental engineer, and farm advisor, and has recently stepped into his new role as co-founder and CEO of GroundShift.Conan discusses balancing farm profitability with environmental resilience, and how better grazing management and soil biology can lift long‑term performance.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:From Farm Life to Consulting and BackConan’s career has spanned hands-on farming, environmental engineering, and consultancy. Growing up on a South Canterbury sheep and beef farm, he initially explored other career paths before returning to agriculture. Through his consultancy, Conan supports farmers nationwide, focusing on business strategy, soil health, agronomy, and grazing management. His experiences highlight the value of informed decision-making, patience, and long-term planning in farming.Profitability as a Foundation for Environmental and Community HealthA central theme of the discussion is that profitable farms create opportunities for environmental stewardship and thriving rural communities. Conan emphasises that financial performance and ecological function are closely linked. By understanding the ecological limits of a farm and improving soil health, farmers can increase land productivity, reduce input costs, and build long-term resilience. He stresses that these improvements take time but yield compounding benefits similar to investing in a savings account.Soil Health: The Overlooked AssetConan explains why soil biology has historically been undervalued in New Zealand. Unlike minerals, soil biology is complex and difficult to measure or commercialise. Many farmers have been cautious due to past ‘quick-fix’ solutions that failed. However, knowledge is growing rapidly, and managing soils as a dynamic, living system can enhance profitability, water retention, pasture growth, and carbon storage.Practical Opportunities for FarmersConan identifies key areas where farmers can make meaningful improvements today:Grazing management – optimising how stock graze pastures improves soil biology, pasture growth, and profitability.Soil biology and carbon storage – building soil health increases productivity and supports climate resilience.Organic farming – potential for higher profitability with lower inputs.Social media and knowledge sharing – building personal and farm brands can create alternative revenue streams, partnerships, and market opportunities.Mindset and CollaborationA recurring barrier Conan sees is mindset. Limiting beliefs about markets, regulation, or conventional practices can prevent farmers from embracing new opportunities. Supporting one another, remaining curious, and learning from diverse experiences are essential for personal and farm growth. Collaboration and openness to innovation are critical to building resilient farm systems.Key TakeawayConan’s advice for farmers is to stay curious, continually learn, and explore new ideas. By combining profitable management, strong soil health, and community support, farmers can develop resilient systems that sustain both people and the land for generations to come.

February 17, 202627 min

How innovation could reduce antibiotic use on farm with Leon Spurrell

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Katie speaks with agri‑innovator Leon Spurrell about an implant technology that manages udder health and antibiotic use. Backed by Lincoln University trials and strong farmer feedback, the implant works by strengthening cows’ natural defences, helping prevent mastitis, maintaining milk quality and extending an animal’s productivity.Leon shares how the technology is delivering promising results and offers a cost‑effective alternative to traditional treatments for dairy systems. For farmers and growers interested in practical innovation and reduced antimicrobial reliance, this episode offers compelling insights into the future of animal health and welfare.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Katie sits down with Leon Spurrell, founder and agri-innovator, to discuss a pioneering implant technology that could change how farmers approach udder health and longevity in dairy cows. Developed through extensive research and supported by Lincoln University trials, the implant offers a sustainable alternative to antibiotics - extending cow lifespans, improving productivity, and leaving no residue in milk.A New Frontier in Udder HealthLeon explains how his team’s implant technology helps prevent mastitis by strengthening the cow’s natural defences rather than relying on antibiotics or teat sealants. The goal is simple yet ambitious - to help cows stay in the herd for several extra lactations while maintaining milk quality and animal welfare.Early trials have shown strong results. “We’ve seen implants still working beautifully after two years,” Leon says. “If we can extend a cow’s life by a couple of lactations without antibiotics, that’s a win for everyone - farmers, processors, and consumers.”Backed by Research and Farmer FeedbackIndependent studies with Lincoln University have confirmed promising levels of activity in the implants, validating their performance under New Zealand conditions. Farmers involved in early trials have also been enthusiastic, describing the results as “game-changing” and the costs surprisingly low - around $120 per cow.With production currently spread across the United States, Canada, and China, Leon hopes to bring full-scale manufacturing home to New Zealand. “We’ve got the capability now,” he says. “If we find the right partner, we can produce everything locally.”Innovation with Global PotentialWhile initially designed for dairy cows, the implant’s benefits may extend further. Leon, who even trialled it on himself for joint inflammation, says the technology shows promise in reducing inflammation and improving metabolic function. “It’s working beautifully,” he laughs. “It could have applications beyond animal health - maybe even for people.”As demand grows, automation and robotics are being integrated into production to ensure scalability while maintaining quality. Leon stresses the importance of partnering with organisations committed to reducing antimicrobial use and supporting sustainable farming systems worldwide.Overcoming Industry BarriersDespite the strong potential, Leon acknowledges that disruption comes with resistance. “The biggest barrier will be existing players in the industry,” he says. “But innovation has to move forward. My goal is to get this technology into the world - not to see it shelved.”He believes that collaboration, transparency, and a focus on shared value will be key to success. “If more people benefit from it, then we’re winning,” he concludes.Key TakeawayLeon Spurrell’s work highlights how farmer-led innovation can deliver practical, science-backed solutions for animal health and sustainability. His vision - reducing antibiotics, extending productivity, and improving welfare - reflects the future of responsible, resilient dairy farming.

February 3, 202634 min

How live data is shaping efficiencies in beef systems with Marcus Peacock

Discover how virtual fencing is transforming livestock farming in New Zealand.In this episode of Growing Our Future, Katie Rodwell speaks with Hawkes Bay farmer Marcus Peacock who shares his hands-on experience with Halter’s technology for beef systems. From calmer, better-performing stock to smarter pasture management and real-time decision-making, Marcus explains how digital tools have freed him from routine constraints, boosted productivity, and restored enjoyment to farming.Packed with practical insights on training, data use, and ROI, this conversation is a must-listen for farmers looking for technology solutions to unlock efficiency.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:Training and Adapting to Virtual FencingMarcus explains that the collars themselves are straightforward, and the cattle adapt remarkably quickly. While the human learning curve is often bigger than the animals’, he describes training mobs in just a few days, including young stock. Even dairy-beef crosses and bulls prove easy to manage once temperament settles under consistent feeding and routine. For Marcus, virtual fencing removes many of the frustrations associated with break-feeding, fencing failures, and time-consuming stock shifts.Changing Temperament and Stock BehaviourOne of the most striking differences Marcus sees is the behavioural shift. Well-fed animals, moved twice daily and kept in consistent groups, develop calmer temperaments and more uniform performance. He compares it to a dormitory where everyone becomes part of the same team. The system helps reduce stress events, maintain consistency and, in his view, even makes intensive systems workable for classes like bulls.Restoring Time, Reducing Stress, and Improving Decision-MakingVirtual fencing has fundamentally changed Marcus’ daily rhythm. Instead of driving around checking breaks or repairing wires, stock movements now take minutes. Decisions can be made in real time using accurate pasture and animal data rather than assumptions. With fewer firefighting tasks and more confidence in what’s happening remotely, Marcus has found more enjoyment in farming than at any point in his career. He describes it as taking the subconscious weight of constant management off his shoulders.Pasture Insight Through Live DataThe technology’s ability to measure growth rates, track grazing pressure, and analyse pasture quality has been a major advantage. Satellite-based pasture readings allow Marcus to understand growth trends, react to weather changes, and fine-tune rotations. By pairing these insights with rumination and grazing behaviour, he is now exploring new pasture species and feed strategies tailored to Wagyu performance targets, something he believes will only accelerate as AI tools evolve.Animal Health Monitoring and On-Farm ObservationWhile some farmers worry that less time on-foot could lead to reduced observation, Marcus finds the opposite. The system highlights early signs of health issues by tracking drops in rumination or changes in behaviour, allowing intervention before problems escalate. With no fences to open or relocate, he can move through mobs easily and still maintain practical stockmanship.Cost, Value, and Return on InvestmentAlthough virtual fencing represents a significant investment, Marcus sees strong returns through increased productivity, reduced labour, fewer repairs, and better utilisation of feed. For his system, the annual cost per hectare is outweighed by gains in liveweight production and time savings. He believes success relies on fully embracing the technology and adjusting farm practice, rather than treating it as a plug-in tool.Key TakeawayMarcus’s experience shows how virtual fencing can free farmers from routine constraints, improve stock performance, and strengthen decision-making. With accurate data, calm animals and flexible grazing, the technology offers a genuine shift toward smarter, more enjoyable farming.