Research blossoms at Te Ahikawariki spring summit

The Te Ahikawariki spring summit, held in Pukekohe in early September, showcased a strong line-up of applied research that will deliver practical outcomes for New Zealand’s vegetable growers.

The summit highlighted Te Ahikawariki’s core mission: connecting growers with the latest research in a commercial context.

Across the day, speakers presented findings from pest and disease trials, soil and nutrient management projects, and crop improvement studies – each with a clear focus on profitability, sustainability and resilience.

Feedback from the event was positive, with attendees rating the event 8.5 out of 10 in terms of satisfaction. Many participants commented on the variety of topics that were covered, and how they got value out of topics that they would not normally encounter. One hundred percent of responders said they would recommend this event to others in the industry.

Early warnings through smart trapping

Chris Lambert (Fruitfed Supplies) kicked off with results from trials comparing traditional bucket traps with AI-enabled ScoutLabs smart traps for corn earworm (Helicoverpa armigera). The smart traps provided pest counts three days earlier than conventional methods. This timeliness means growers can act sooner, often with softer insecticides such as Bt. With interest already building among growers, this technology is now being expanded to target potato tuber moth.

Strengthening brassica establishment

Paul Hassan (Syngenta) presented on Durivo® insecticide drench trials in cabbage seedlings. The work demonstrated consistent control of diamondback moth larvae for up to 26 days after transplanting, allowing young plants to establish before foliar sprays are needed. Aphid control and plant vigour were also strong. Importantly, Hassan highlighted the need for careful resistance management, including that Durivo® should not be followed by Group 28 foliar sprays in the same crop, and Durivo® should be limited to the 1 December – 31 March planting window.

Managing tomato leaf mould risk

Greenhouse tomato growers heard from Francis Ferrada-Hartley (T&G Global/Massey University), who is studying the prevalence of Fulvia fulva strains in New Zealand. This pathogen is breaking resistance in tomato cultivars worldwide. By sequencing local strains, the project will identify which resistant varieties remain effective and assess the risk of more aggressive strains. The work will give growers better tools to plan, prepare and manage leaf mould, before outbreaks occur.

Variety insights in the field

A field walk led by Steve Slack, and DeAdre Hoete (Seed & Field NZ) gave growers the chance to see current and experimental varieties in situ. This hands-on session allowed participants to get outside and see how the Te Ahikawariki site is being used by industry partners.

Breeding for stability in squash

Hugh Richardson (Enza Zaden/ Massey University) turned the spotlight onto buttercup (kabocha) squash, a key export crop to Japan. His research will examine how plant architecture and flowering traits influence yield stability and marketable quality across multiple environments. For growers, the goal is clear: consistent A-grade squash, regardless of seasonal conditions, strengthening New Zealand’s position in the highly demanding Japanese market.

Soil and nutrient management innovations

Two presentations by Dan Bloomer (LandWISE) focused on practical tools for soil health and nutrient management. The SLAKES app allows growers to quickly test soil aggregate stability in the field, while the Nitrachek device provides a low-cost method for nitrate testing. With correct calibration, both tools can offer reliable, grower-friendly alternatives to lab testing.

Matt Norris (Bioeconomy Science Institute) explored the challenge of “legacy phosphorus” in high-P soils. Trials showed that withholding P on soils with Olsen P above 80 did not reduce lettuce yields, suggesting that many growers could cut fertiliser inputs without sacrificing production. Regional surveys have reinforced that many cropping soils carry excess P, highlighting an opportunity to save costs and reduce nutrient losses.

Adoption and diversification

Cover cropping was another hot topic, with Dan Bloomer presenting survey findings on grower motivations and barriers. While soil health benefits are well recognised, adoption remains limited, with challenges around timing, grazing, and costs. Work is ongoing to develop strategies that encourage uptake.

Katherine Martin (PerrinAg) closed with a discussion on crop stacking, layering multiple crops to improve profitability and resilience, an emerging opportunity for New Zealand growers, which has already seen a reduction in nitrogen losses by 30% while boosting crop resilience.

Growers interested in exploring these projects further can visit the Te Ahikawariki website at www.vegcentreofexcellence.nz. This is also where resources, trial updates, and extension materials will be available.

Follow Te Ahikawariki on LinkedIn and YouTube, or contact the team directly at VICE@hesl.co.nz.