The secrets behind keeping New Zealand farmers and growers as world leaders in producing nutritious, healthy foods with a more sustainable footprint will be delved into by Dr John Roche, Ministry for Primary Industries chief science advisor at Wednesday morning’s Expo seminar.

His presentation is a two-fold affair, discussing the future of food but also showcasing one of his pet projects, On Farm Support.

“Farmers and growers are often told they need to change and that consumers are demanding it,” Dr Roche says. “My presentation will examine how the consumer thinks, how their standards continue to evolve, and how we, as food exporters, will need to change to meet these growing demands.”

On Farm Support helps farmers and growers access support, information and advice to meet their business and personal goals. It’s a free service, that takes a region-by-region approach and has established teams across New Zealand including Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. 

The teams have local knowledge, connections and expertise to provide tailored on-the-ground assistance. 

Last year, On Farm Support joined MPI’s wider effort to assist farmers, growers and their communities in the emergency response to Cyclone Hale and Cyclone Gabrielle. 

Teams have been building relationships in the primary sector, participating in a range of events including the FMG Young Farmer of the Year regional competitions and Ballance Farm Environment Awards. 

Dr Roche says events like the ECFE are important for those in the food and fibre sector to connect and collaborate.

“It’s important we get off farm and meet our farming peers and recognise that we’re all facing similar challenges and opportunities – a problem shared, is a problem halved,” Dr Roche says. 

Dr Roche will speak at 11am on Wednesday.

On Farm Support services include:

• Farm planning support - helping farmers and growers gain access to farm planning support and advice.
• Access to existing services - making it easier for farmers and growers to find and apply available advice and guidance.
• Funding and support - providing farmers and growers with a clear understanding of available funding and support options.
• Innovation and tools - helping support innovative farming practices by providing access to tools and resources.
• Applying farmer insights - gathering information and insights from farmers and growers in the regions to inform MPI's wider organisation, advice, and operations.

For more information about On Farm Support email onfarmsupport@mpi.govt.nz , visit www.mpi.govt.nz/on-farm-support or call 0800 707 133