10 Oct 2025

Agri-tech now big business but more investment needed

From Nine To Noon, 9:20 am on 10 October 2025
Halter chief executive Craig Piggott.

Halter chief executive Craig Piggott. Photo: Supplied

From virtual fences to collars monitoring an animal's health to robotics in horticulture, New Zealand's agri-tech sector is now a major earner.

Last year, the sector had revenue of two-point-five billion dollars. And it's not just New Zealand farmers taking up the tech - it's a significant export.

Agritech NZ which represents the sector, says there is no shortage of excellent, smart tech solutions but finding capital to grow these businesses here is a challenge.

Kathryn speaks with Chief Executive Brendan O'Connell.