New Zealand’s first Agritech Unleashed event – hyper-focused on the advancement of agritech innovation in the food and fibre industries – will be held at Foodeast Haumako in Hastings in May.
The inaugural national event, organised by AgriTechNZ, will bring together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors to explore the future of agritech in New Zealand; at the same time showcasing Hawke’s Bay – one of New Zealand’s critical food-producing regions to visitors from across the country.
Attendees will gain expert insights, engage with industry leaders through panel discussions, and get a taster of Hawke’s Bay’s finest produce, said AgriTechNZ chief executive Brendan O’Connell.
We’re thrilled to kick off the Agritech Unleashed series in Hawke’s Bay, with strong support from Foodeast Haumako and their community. Every region has distinct agricultural priorities, challenges, stakeholders, and infrastructure which all shape the inspiration, uptake, interoperability, and scaling of agritech innovation. This event is a powerful example of how local leadership and collaboration can help unlock national and global impact.
Brendan O’Connell
The event reflects the collaborative, cross-disciplinary approach to developing agritech in New Zealand, with an impressive line-up of speakers at the forefront of agritech innovation. Among them will be SmartMachine Chief Executive Andrew Kersley, whose pioneering work in agricultural robotics is helping redefine automation in orchards and vineyards; Chelsea Hirst, Head of Acceleration and Engagement at Sprout Agritech, who will bring deep expertise in founder support and start-up growth in the food and fibre sectors, and Bridgit Hawkins, Chief Sustainability Officer at CropX Technologies and Chair of AgriTech New Zealand, who will offer insights into how data-driven solutions are transforming climate-smart agriculture.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Agritech Unleashed to Foodeast Haumako,” said Foodeast Haumako Chief Executive Michael Bassett-Foss. “Hosting events like these aligns perfectly with our mission to be a leading catalyst for commercially successful food innovation. It’s also an opportunity to showcase our region’s strengths and foster collaborations that drive the future of food and agritech.”
- Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
- Location: Foodeast Haumako, 4 Hanui Road, Tomoana, Hastings
- Tickets: $99 for members, $179 for non-members via Agritech NZ: Agritech Unleashed: Hawkes Bay 2025 – AgriTech New Zealand
