RaboTalk – Growing our future

With 17,000 farm owners set to reach retirement age in the next decade, the future of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector depends on developing the next generation of farmers. In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Wendy Paul, CEO of Growing Future Farmers to learn how the programme is equipping young people with practical skills, values, and confidence to succeed in agriculture. Wendy explains how farmers can attract, support, and retain young talent, and why investing in people is not just good for business but also essential for succession planning and the wider rural community.Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show notes:The Challenge of SuccessionNew Zealand faces a looming wave of farm transitions, with billions in farm assets set to change hands. Wendy stresses that bringing young people into farming businesses isn’t only about filling labour gaps—it’s about succession, community resilience, and ensuring knowledge is passed between generations.The Growing Future Farmers ModelThe GFF programme places young people directly into farming businesses, providing hands-on training alongside mentoring and formal qualifications. Wendy highlights that the most successful placements are built on clear strategies, strong team cultures, and a commitment from farmers to nurture - not just employ - young people.What Farmers Can Offer Young PeopleFrom Wendy’s perspective, farmers play a vital role as mentors. Beyond teaching stockman-ship and practical skills, they provide boundaries, life lessons, and a sense of belonging. For many young people, particularly those from urban backgrounds, being welcomed into a farm team can be life-changing.Attracting and Retaining TalentWendy notes that young people want more than a pay cheque—they want to feel valued and supported. Farmers who create safe, respectful, and positive environments, while offering pathways for growth, are more likely to retain motivated staff. Opportunities for continued learning, community involvement, and access to modern technology are also key draw-cards.Technology as a Game-ChangerDigital tools are reshaping farming, making the sector more appealing to young people who value flexibility and real-time data. Wendy sees technology as not only improving productivity but also changing perceptions of farming as a lifelong career.Success StoriesFrom a fencing contractor who bought his first home before 25, to a young shearer who travelled to Mongolia with Rabobank’s support, Wendy shares stories of GFF graduates who have thrived well beyond the programme. These examples show the transformative impact of farmers who choose to invest in young people’s futures.Key TakeawayBringing young people into farm businesses is about much more than meeting today’s labour needs—it’s about succession, community, and the future of New Zealand agriculture. By mentoring, supporting, and empowering the next generation, farmers can leave a lasting legacy for both their businesses and the industry as a whole.

In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Jodie Goudswaard, DairyNZ's DairyBase Manager and recent Kellogg Rural Leadership scholar. Jodie’s research explored the values, mindsets, and practices of top-performing dairy farmers who are proving that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand. She shares what she learned from speaking directly with farmers, the role of community and data in decision-making, and why values-driven leadership may be the key to the sector’s future.Tune in to learn that profitability and sustainability are not opposing forces in dairy farming. Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show notes:Can dairy farmers be both highly profitable and environmentally sustainable? Challenging Old AssumptionsFor her Kellogg project, Jodie set out to test a common perception: that farmers can either focus on profitability or on environmental sustainability, but not both. By analysing DairyBase data and interviewing top-performing farmers, she discovered that the reality is very different. Farmers leading in both areas consistently operate from a clear set of values—particularly stewardship, resilience, and community connection.Family, Community, and SuccessionAcross her interviews, one theme was clear: these were family-owned farms, often run by couples, where succession planning was seen less as a legal exercise and more as a responsibility to future generations. Strong community networks and a willingness to learn from others also stood out as common threads.The Role of Data and Decision-MakingAll of the farmers Jodie spoke with used DairyBase, not as a compliance tool, but as a way to benchmark, measure progress, and guide decisions. They emphasised the importance of credible, evidence-based information and expressed a desire for stronger partnerships between farmers and scientists to build trust in the data driving change.From Research to Real ChangeJodie hopes her findings will encourage greater peer-to-peer learning, more opportunities for storytelling, and recognition of “values-led success” across the industry. She stresses that farmers don’t need blanket solutions or more regulation—they need good examples, support to share their journeys, and trust to adapt in ways that fit their businesses.Reflections from KelloggLooking back on the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, Jodie describes it as a transformative six months of learning, reflection, and growth. The challenge of writing a 15,000-word report, the support of her cohort, and lessons in adaptive leadership have all left a lasting mark. She now applies many of these tools with her DairyNZ colleagues and is committed to building stronger leadership skills for the future.Key Takeaway:Profitability and sustainability are not opposing forces in dairy farming—they are two sides of the same coin, united by farmers’ values. By celebrating stewardship, sharing credible science, and supporting farmer-to-farmer learning, the sector can thrive both financially and environmentally.

In this episode, host Katie Rodwell speaks with Laura Morrison, a sheep and beef farmer from Rangitikei and a passionate agri-sector leader. Earlier in the year Laura joined a cohort of food and fibre representatives on a leadership trip to Singapore, designed to challenge traditional thinking and foster new approaches to collaboration and innovation.She shares her reflections on the trip, what Singapore’s unified vision taught her, and why stronger connections across New Zealand’s value chain are key to a more resilient future.Tune in to hear Laura talk about how New Zealand’s agri-sector has strength in its people and products—but to remain globally competitive, we must embrace collective ambition. “Status quo is not what’s going to save us.”Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Full show notes for this episode:Farming and Leadership in RangitikeiLaura farms 270 hectares near Marton with her husband, Richard, including 70 hectares of native bush. Alongside raising two young boys, she’s actively involved in industry leadership, serving as vice chair of Manawatū-Rangitikei Federated Farmers, a national meat and wool executive member, a Beef + Lamb Farmer Council rep, and part of the AgriZero collective. She also chairs the steering group for Connector, a new Rural Women NZ initiative supporting rural community wellbeing.Why Singapore?Laura was part of a cohort representing all parts of the food and fibre value chain—farmers, processors, investors, iwi, researchers—on a trip to Singapore, organised by Food HQ with support from ASB and AgriZero. The goal: immerse themselves in a market known for its innovation, strategic partnerships, and food security solutions.A Culture of CohesionLaura was struck by Singapore’s collective mindset—“buy in or ship out”—which stands in stark contrast to what she sees in New Zealand’s fragmented agri-sector. With deep alignment across government, industry, and private investment, Singapore shows the power of unified effort. The trip highlighted for Laura the need to move beyond traditional, siloed thinking and toward genuine collaboration in New Zealand.Opportunities for New ZealandFrom coffee roasting to centralised food manufacturing and strategic export logistics, Singapore offered multiple examples of market innovation. Laura sees opportunities for New Zealand to pursue deeper partnerships, move beyond commodity exports, and embrace consumer-focused product development.Applying the Lessons at HomeLaura hopes to bring back a spirit of proactive engagement—calling on farmers to connect more with the wider sector, contribute to change, and avoid “head in the sand” attitudes. Through her leadership roles, she’s committed to fostering open-mindedness, collaboration, and a willingness to evolve.Key TakeawayNew Zealand’s agri-sector has strength in its people and products—but to remain globally competitive, it must embrace collective ambition. As Laura reminds us, “status quo is not what’s going to save us.”

With reports of some countries and companies stepping back from climate commitments, what’s really happening in global sustainability—and how does it affect New Zealand’s farmers and growers?In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate is joined by Marjan van Riel, Rabobank’s Global Lead of Climate and Sustainability, to unpack global sustainability trends, regulatory shifts, and value chain expectations. From decarbonisation and climate risk to consumer behaviour and technological innovation, this conversation highlights where the world is heading—and how New Zealand’s agri-sector is well positioned to respond.Tune in to learn how New Zealand’s agri sector can turn sustainability into a lasting competitive advantage by focusing on both compliance and opportunity. Like what you’ve heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.

With major change and challenge on the horizon, how do we bring young people into the fold and ensure their voices are shaping the future of our food and fibre sector? In this episode, Katie Rodwell speaks with Aimee Blake, co-founder of Girls Who Grow and co-chair of Future Farmers NZ. Aimee shares how a growing network of over 150 young people from across the value chain are coming together to build a resilient, prosperous future for New Zealand agriculture.They discuss how Future Farmers was formed, the importance of constructive cross-sector conversation, and how the group’s Statement of Hope is helping chart a positive path forward for policymakers and industry alike.Tune in to learn how Future Farmers NZ brings diverse voices together around a shared purpose, to create momentum for change.

As sustainability continues to shape the future of New Zealand agriculture, how does this compare across the ditch in Australia? In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Anna Drake, Sustainability Analyst at RaboResearch in Australia, to understand the drivers, challenges, and opportunities influencing Australian farmers' approach to sustainability. While Australia faces fewer regulatory pressures than New Zealand, similar market forces, climate concerns, and innovation needs are still in play. Anna shares insights into how Australian agriculture is responding to sustainability demands, what’s currently happening on farm, and where the sector is headed in the years to come.

On-farm efficiency is often hailed as the win-win strategy for delivering both profitability and environmental performance. But where are those gains going to come from next—and how do genetics and herd improvement fit in? In this episode of Growing Our Future, Blake is joined by David Chin, CEO of Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC), to explore how far New Zealand dairy farmers have come in improving herd efficiency and what new opportunities lie ahead.From traditional breeding to cutting-edge genomic selection and methane-reducing genetics, this conversation covers the science, strategy, and future potential of herd improvement in New Zealand.Join us to explore how genetics is shaping a more sustainable and productive future for dairy farming, driving efficiency, profitability, and environmental gains.

When change is needed on-farm, how do we better understand what kind of change we're dealing with—and what it takes to support it effectively? In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate talks to Geoff Kaine, Landcare Research Senior Researcher in economics, about farmer behaviour, decision-making, and the types of change they encounter. They explore why some shifts are easier, how support varies, and why understanding each farmer’s situation is key to effective industry and policy action.Geoff introduces a framework categorizing farm system changes as simple, complex, tactical, or strategic. Simple changes are low-risk and one-off, while complex ones require planning. Tactical shifts adjust production methods, whereas strategic changes redefine what is produced, such as switching from dairy to horticulture. Decision-making depends on mindset, system boundaries, and support networks, particularly for complex or strategic transitions.Tune in to this engaging conversation to learn how both Blake and Geoff emphasize the importance of understanding the type of change a farmer is navigating before offering advice or support. They also highlight that for farmers facing big transitions, industry and government must invest in research and create viable options to support system-level change.

Most farmers and growers have some form of relationship with a bank, but the nature of that relationship can vary significantly. From a simple transactional connection to a deeper partnership, how can farmers maximize the value of their banking relationship? In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with Bruce Weir, Rabobank's General Manager for Country Banking, to discuss what a strong bank-client relationship looks like, key considerations when assessing financial partnerships, and how farmers can position themselves for long-term success.The key to a successful banking relationship is proactivity, transparency, and long-term planning. By building trust, understanding their financial position, and fostering a strong relationship with their bank, farmers can ensure their businesses remain resilient and well-positioned for future opportunities. Tune in to this insightful discussion to learn how you can maximise the value of your banking relationship and set your farming business up for lasting success.

 In this episode of Growing Our Future, Blake sits down with Robert Siveter, Senior Manager, Sustainability Risk at Rabobank, to discuss the evolving climate risks facing New Zealand farmers. They explore how climate change impacts farming systems, the role of technology in mitigating risks, and the broader economic and market changes farmers need to consider. The conversation also highlights the opportunities that come with these changes and how farmers can position themselves to capitalise on them. Tune in to hear more about how farmers can navigate these challenges and position themselves for success in an evolving climate landscape.

In this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell chats with David Williams, head of on-farm excellence at Synlait, about a pioneering soil health project in New Zealand. The project, a collaboration between Synlait, Danone, AgResearch, and MPI’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, aims to assess the impact of regenerative agriculture on soil health, farm resilience, and environmental outcomesDavid shares insights on the project's goals, methods, and early results, emphasising the importance of practical, farmer-centric solutions for sustainability and climate adaptation. He is optimistic about the potential for New Zealand agriculture to lead in sustainability and underscores the importance of collaboration, communication, and a proactive approach to sustainability. David believes New Zealand farmers are already performing well on a global scale but must continue to adapt to meet evolving demands. Tune in to learn how innovative soil health practices can shape the future of New Zealand agriculture.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with KPMG’s Director Private Enterprise, Nick Swallow, about his Cambridge University Master’s research into New Zealand farmers' perceptions of low-carbon farming. They discuss the global forces driving emissions reductions, the challenges farmers face, and how to align sustainability goals with on-farm priorities like productivity, resilience, and intergenerational success. Nick shares insights into global market trends and the opportunities for farmers to adapt and lead in sustainable agriculture.Learn how connecting emissions reduction efforts to tangible benefits can empower New Zealand farmers for the future.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, Blake Holgate speaks with Neal Wallace, a respected agricultural journalist, about his recent travels through Europe, Asia, the US, UK and Middle East, exploring how global food companies are approaching sustainability and product sourcing. Neal’s trip was funded by Rabobank, Silver Fern Farms, Alliance, Beef+Lamb NZ and the Meat Industry Association to understand exactly what these “markets” are demanding from their farmer suppliers.Neal shares what he learned from Nestlé, Mars, and major retailers driving the conversation around food production and environmental responsibility and provides his perspective on the future market expectations New Zealand farmers may face.

In this episode, Blake Holgate is joined by Rabobank’s very own ‘Senior Animal Protein’s Analyst’ Jen Corkran, to discuss the global market forces shaping New Zealand's sheep sector. They explore the external pressures driving sustainability efforts, the need for farmers to adapt to evolving requirements, and the opportunities to leverage New Zealand’s unique production systems for future market success.Jen suggests stagnation is not an option in the farming industry, especially in sheep farming. By embracing change and reframing sustainability as an opportunity rather than a burden, farmers can ensure the long-term viability of their businesses.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate speaks with John Burke, who, alongside his brother Rick, has spent over 20 years improving the environmental health of their farm. Their hard work was recognised earlier this year when they were awarded the inaugural Cawthorn National Freshwater Champions Award.John Burke's story is a powerful example of how long-term commitment and strategic planning can lead to both environmental and economic benefits on the farm. His insights offer valuable guidance for any farmer looking to enhance nature values on their property.

In this episode of RaboTalk’s Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate looks into Fonterra's 2030 emissions intensity target. He is joined by Malcolm Ellis, a fourth-generation farm owner and Fonterra's strategic advisor, to specifically look at the opportunities for available to farmers for improving on-farm emissions efficiency.

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.

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.

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!

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