CountryWide Summer 2026

If New Zealand’s horticulture sector is to thrive into the future, it must invest in one of the most valuable resources – people, and in particular, young people. Words Sharon Williamson.

Cam Speedy and John Bissell have spent decades helping farmers and conservation projects across the country make real headway against rats, stoats, possums, feral cats and ferrets. Words Allison Hess.

A seven-time world champion, accomplished leadership trainer and mental skills coach for Canterbury Rugby provides tips on balancing ambition, pressure and success for farmers to ‘level up’ beyond relentless grit. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

For two rural communities, the lyrics of an iconic Slim Dusty song, A Pub with no Beer, came mighty close without their loud cry to avoid last call. Renowned as heartland New Zealand in both islands, the Waikaka and Hunterville locals dug deep to ensure their towns mainstay would remain. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Now back farming with Align Farms, after a 6 year stint working in agronomy roles, Will Perriam-Lampp shares his thoughts on farmers taking ownership over their crops and farm systems to avoid being sold whatever drives up their driveway.

After her recent overseas trips and time spent in many governance roles, such as Deer Industry NZ and Wai Wānaka, Dr Mandy Bell, farming with her husband Jerry at Criffel Station near Wānaka, challenges our sector’s vision towards a healthy outcome.