Episodios
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In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate talks with Nicholas Jolly, Senior Trade Policy Advisor for the Environment at Beef and Lamb New Zealand, to unravel how sustainability standards are reshaping international trade.
From navigating regulatory landscapes to advocating for sustainable farming practices, this episode offers insights into the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand farmers amidst evolving global trade policies.
Join us as we delve into the future of trade agreements and the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of agriculture.
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In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Michael ‘Woody’ Woodward, a forward-thinking farmer from Otorohanga. Woody shares his hands-on experience and insights from participating in a collaborative project between Synlait, Danone, AgResearch and MPI’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, which aims to access the impact of regenerative agri on soil health, farm resilience and environmental outcomes.
He talks about the practical approaches to sustainable farming, the challenges and triumphs of innovative soil management, and what New Zealand farming will look like in the future. Woody’s insights offer valuable lessons for farmers seeking to enhance soil health and build resilient farming systems.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Paul Ensor from Glenaan Station up the Rakaia Gorge in the South Island. The Ensors are fourth generation farmers and are merino wool advocates, passionate about biodiversity and sustainable farm practices. Paul talks to us about his high-country merino sheep and cattle operation, and discusses the focus on sustainability and regenerative practices, as well as his involvement in a new business venture, Hemprino.
Katie and Paul discuss embracing sustainability with an open mind. Paul emphasises the value of curiosity and exploration of new and old ideas on farms. This curiosity has led to a new venture, Hemprino, that Paul is involved with alongside two other farming families. Hempreno blends merino wool with hemp to create unique and sustainable knitwear. Paul discusses the challenges and opportunities of this direct-to-consumer business model.
If you're a New Zealand farmer or grower with a business idea, Paul encourages you to reach out and start exploring its potential!
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Todd Charteris, CEO of Rabobank New Zealand. Blake and Todd discuss the two sets of climate and sustainability related reports that Rabobank has recently published. The first is a climate-related financial disclosures statement, that all large financial intuitions in New Zealand are now required to submit. Todd discusses the significance of this report, emphasising the need to align banking practices with the transition to a low-emission, climate-resilient future. He explains the four main sections of the disclosure, including governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics/targets. One of the take ways of this report is the value of scenario analysis in assessing risks and opportunities. Todd highlights the importance of strategic planning and transition plans in navigating climate uncertainties.
Blake and Todd also discuss the voluntary Sustainability report Rabobank has submitted. This report covers Rabobank's broader approach to sustainability, focusing on environmental, economic, and social factors. Todd explains how the Sustainability report champions some of the great work Rabobank's clients and teams are doing to transition to more sustainable food production systems more broadly. Todd discusses the importance of collaboration across the agricultural supply chain in adopting sustainable practices. He underscores the role of Rabobank in supporting farmers and growers to adapt to changing environmental and market dynamics. Todd encourages listeners to focus on progress rather than perfection and emphasises the resilience and adaptability of New Zealand farmers and growers in navigating the complexities of climate change and sustainability.
Links to these reports can be found on the Rabobank New Zealand Website - Sustainable Farming | Rabobank NZ
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Dr Anneline Padayachee. Dr Anneline is a highly sought after thought leader with a reputation of mixing food and nutrition science with human physiology, consumer behaviour, and anthropology. This episode focuses on how alternative proteins are complementary to animal proteins and how farmers are one of the most important parts of the human health food chain.
Katie and Dr Anneline discuss how to effectively communicate the benefits of meat, dairy and fish in a world increasingly focused on alternative proteins. Dr Anneline helps us understand the factors that affect bioavailability and how much of our food is being absorbed to help farmers understand what they produce from a nutritional perspective. This episode emphasises that consumers still value delicious, high-quality food. By clearly communicating the benefits of whole animal protein and embracing their roles as stewards of nutrition, New Zealand farmers can continue to be a vital part of a healthy and sustainable food future.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Alex Worker. Alex has an international background in agriculture, food technology innovations and business ventures. Alex and Katie discuss how disruptive climate technology and food technology could reshape the industry and the opportunities and challenges New Zealand faces as it navigates a changing global food landscape.
New Zealand's agricultural sector has traditionally thrived on exports. Alex paints a picture of a potential future where this model evolves. Instead of solely focusing on exporting produce, New Zealand could develop, and license intellectual property related to cutting-edge food technologies. The road ahead isn't without its hurdles. Alex and Katie explore the challenges and decisions New Zealand needs to address, such as balancing embracing new technologies whilst maintaining export focus, creating a clear vision and strategy, navigating regulatory hurdles, access to funding to scale up innovations and collaborating with farmers in the food tech sector. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of food, agriculture, and New Zealand's role in the global food system.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Rabobank’s Dutch based global Dairy analyst Richard Scheper. Richard and Blake discuss how global dairy companies are addressing climate change. They dive into emission reduction targets, the challenges and opportunities for farmers, and what the future holds for sustainable dairy practices.
At the end of 2023 Fonterra announced a target of a 30% intensity reduction in on-farm emissions. This has potentially significant implications for NZ dairy farmers – which poses the question – what climate related actions are other global dairy companies undertaking – and how will this ultimately impact the competitiveness of NZ’s dairy sector. Blake and Richard delve into the complexities of measuring and achieving emission reductions across diverse farm systems (pasture-based vs. indoor) and company structures (cooperatives vs. private companies). While efficiency gains have played a role, new technologies may be needed to meet future targets. As the industry moves towards result-based incentives, data collection and reporting on farm emissions becomes increasingly important. Richard highlights the need for farmers to invest in this area and embrace change to position themselves for a sustainable future.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Damian and Jane Roper. From early in their career, the Ropers have had a passion for the environment they live and work in, and since moving from share-milking to farm ownership, the couple have been slowly transforming their dairy farm into a thriving ecosystem. This episode focuses on their connection to nature, the challenges this system brings, and driving positive change from within the farm gate.
Katie and the Ropers discuss how shifting the focus of their farming practices has led to a surprising increase in profitability. By reducing cow numbers and improving feed utilisation they emphasise the feasibility of a modern dairy farm being both profitable and environmentally friendly. Expanding their farm to include a non-profit native tree nursery in recent years has been a greatly rewarding, fostering greater connection between the farm and the community and inspiring other farmers to do their own planting. Looking ahead, the Ropers have a vision for diverse and resilient dairy farm they can leave for future generations, and a community and industry transformed for the better.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Tre' Cates. Tre' is a managing director of nRhythm, and an expert in regenerative practises in agriculture and business. This episode focuses on creating healthy workplaces, and creating business models to optimise productivity and efficiency.
Katie and Tre' discuss how he got into this niche line of work, and how Regenerative Design Principals are changing the corporate world. Tre' outlines how management is a living system, and should be treated as such; how businesses across all sectors can learn from farming systems; and how to create more resilience in businesses through people. Tre' shares his journey teaching companies to embrace the principles of pasture, and gathering insights from nature to unlock business potential. As a thought leader in this space, he provides a unique, valuable insight into holistic business management.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Andy Caughey. Andy is the CEO of Wool Impact, an advocacy group for the uses and benefits of wool. This episode focuses on the strong wool industry, and the work they are doing to promote 'the best natural fibre in the world.
Katie and Andy discuss how Wool Impact came to be, and where they are trying to steer the industry for the future. Andy outlines the hurdles kiwi farmers are facing in getting their wool out the farm gate for a fair price; the growing consumer awareness of the benefits of using wool; and the commercial businesses that are pushing back on synthetic fibres. Andy shares the positive legislation Wool Impact is advocating for, which is promoting wool as the fibre of choice. He encourages farmers to stick with wool production, sharing his vision for an innovative and profitable sector of the future.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Adam and Laura Cullen. Adam and Laura own and operate a 220-ha dairy farm in Kaipara, focusing on maintaining profitability while farming regeneratively and responsibly. This episode focuses on using soil health to create financial value, looking for wins outside of the numbers, and how they're changing the game from within their farm gate.
Katie, Adam, and Laura discuss leaving the land in a better state for their children, their goal of a carbon-neutral farm, and managing the setbacks that come with farming. Laura shares her love for involving the birds and trees into their day-to-day operations; farming true to your values; letting data lead the way when planning for the future; and sustainability through people, the environment, and the business. Adam outlines their strategies for targeting better soil health; the performance they've seen since investing in the environment around them; and fostering pride and resilience throughout the rural community. Together, they look towards 2050, with the opportunity to support new generations of innovation and energy across the sector.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Wayne McNee. Wayne is the Chief Executive of AgriZero NZ, a partnership between government and private agribusinesses aiming to reduce on farm emissions in a profitable, productive manner. This episode focuses on AgriZero's purpose in this space, and what they are hoping to deliver to the rural sector.
Katie and Wayne discuss the road which lead him AgriZero, the ambitions they have for this partnership, and tools they hope to deliver to farmers. Wayne outlines the investments they are making into exciting new technology; the growing role that market pressure is playing in this space; the competitive edge that this partnership gives New Zealand; and the results they are hoping to accomplish from this work. Wayne gives his perspective on the global and domestic future of agricultural emissions, and gives some practical, optimistic advice to farmers on taking control of new technology and information.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, Blake Holgate and Katie Rodwell reflect on the highlights and learnings from 2023.
2023 was a year of uncertainty in the rural sector, and this was a common theme running through many of our episodes. Through this uncertainty, some of our guests have provided great insights into looking to the long term, and the value of having a strategy. The growing role of sustainability on farm has been reiterated by all our guests, but topics such as data, markets, risk, and the future were also a focus last year.
Blake and Katie touch on the power of a positive mindset, having resilience, and focusing on what is inside your control. There are so many changes happening across the industry, and with the right support these can create great opportunities. This episode wraps up with our hosts sharing their optimism for the future, and the value of the diversity and adaptability that the sector continues to show.
Thank you to everyone that tuned in from the tractor, the ute, or the office last year. The Rabobank Growing our future team hope you are having a safe and happy holidays, and we are looking forward to joining you in 2024.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Richard Lorraway. Richard is the Chief Risk Officer at Rabobank, and has almost 30 years' experience in the banking sector. This episode focuses on risk in banking, and the growing role sustainability is playing in this space.
Blake and Richard discuss the how the bank is approaching climate risk, what it is, and how it is likely to impact clients into the future. Richard outlines Rabobank's internal client evaluation tools, how sustainability ties into this evaluation; and the importance of starting transition-focused discussions. Richard highlights the need for collaboration between farmers, banks and stakeholders, and encourages everyone to get engaged in sustainability to continue taking steps towards the best possible farming systems.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Richard Green. Richard sits on the board of multiple New Zealand agribusinesses, and has a wealth of experience in the corporate, rural sector. This episode focuses on the importance of taking a strategic approach to dealing with the changes, challenges & opportunities facing agri-businesses. There are some great takeaways on managing business for all those in the primary sector.
Blake and Richard focus on strategic planning for farming businesses, through a discussion on creating sustainable growth; on-farm diversification and risk management; thinking like a CEO rather than a famer; and the importance of surrounding yourself with good people. Richard highlights the lessons he has learnt over his career, benefits of goal setting, and taking control of the business direction. His optimism on the future of New Zealand agriculture is obvious, emphasising the changing landscapes and many opportunities for growth.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by AgFirst Consultant and recent university graduate, Chelsea Hopkins. Chelsea is Manawatu born and bred, currently working as an Agribusiness and Environmental Consultant at one of New Zealand's leading consultancy firms. This episode is a must listen for anyone beginning their career in a rural support role, or for anyone wanting to get their kids more involved in agriculture through school.
Katie and Chelsea discuss her time at Feilding High School, and the Agribusiness in Schools program; the value of diverse work experience through university; the role of mentors as a young person; and the need for a better connection between the rural and urban sector from early childhood. Chelsea highlights the challenges being faced by Manawatu farmers, changing environmental trends, and the opportunities for diversification in farming. Chelsea sees a future with technology playing a greater role in farming, a diverse workforce, sustainability, and changing markets.
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In this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, Katie Rodwell is joined by James Robertson. James is a Fonterra Trade Strategy Manager for Asia, based in Shanghai. Living in the world's largest dairy consuming region has given him a unique perspective of New Zealand, on an international scale.
This episode focuses on James's role navigating sustainability, regulation, culture, and markets. Katie and James discuss his background growing up on a Waikato dairy farm and winning the New Zealand Young Farmer of the Year; the challenges he faces operating in such a physically and culturally diverse region; the growing demand for dairy products he is witnessing; and the perception of New Zealand dairy farmers across Asia. James shares his thoughts on the global future for New Zealand dairy, and the opportunities still to come.
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In this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, Katie Rodwell is joined by Reuben Casey. Reuben is the COO of Craigmore Sustainables, a kiwi company working to connect farmers and investors across the agricultural, horticultural, and forestry sectors.
This episode focuses on Craigmore's business drivers and focus, and with such a wide scope of sectors it is something that almost every farmer and grower can relate to. Katie and Reuben discuss Reubens background in the corporate, retail world and the lessons he's brought to the primary industry; the holistic, sustainable business model Craigmore has, which is setting them up for the future; how the investors see success and understand farming isn't an overnight win; and how the goals of the business influence their decisions on the ground. Reuben shares his thoughts on the biggest threats and opportunities that are facing commercial farms, orchards and forests in the future.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by Rhys Roberts. As the CEO of Align Group, Rhys keep's himself busy overseeing seven farms, a market garden, a yogurt brand and milk processing facility.
This episode focuses on Rhys regenerative farm trials compared to his conventionally run farms, and on using the data that comes out of it. Katie and Rhys discuss the benefits and quirks that come with publishing your farm data online; the difficult nature of adding value to food production; how he defines success; and what gets him out of bed each day. Rhys shares his insights about looking through all the noise, and what he sees the food and fibre sector looking like in 2050.
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On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Cheyenne Wilson. Cheyenne was previously Chair of the Food and Fibre Youth Network, and is an advocate for young people wanting to enter or advance in the rural sector.
This episode focuses on the future of New Zealand agriculture, and on the young people who are moving into the sector. Blake and Cheyenne discuss the work she has done in the Food and Fibre Youth Network; the passion and skills she has seen coming through the next generation of farmers and rural professionals; how the industry can better attract talent from outside the sector; and the pathways for young people wanting to get into the primary industries.
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