Programme

Interactive and engaging exhibitors will provide a lively atmosphere, while growers can explore new technology, products, services, and machinery demonstrations, all in one convenient location.

Up to eight technical and specialist sessions will run throughout the two days to provide in-depth analysis and discussions, before the always-anticipated awards dinner caps off a busy two days.

Keep an eye on this page for exciting updates on content and speakers.

Day One: 22 July

0900	Registration
Expo open all day for viewing
1000	Welcome/powhiri
1015	Principal Sponsor Address
1045	Adopting Research into Practice An international grower perspective on R&D and what to expect in the next 20 years. Followed by a panel discussion of NZ growers examining the benefits of research and development, and how to put results into practice.
1230 - 1330	Lunch
1400-1500	Guest speaker: Jarred Mair, Chief Insights Officer, Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) The future of the apple and pear industry
1515 - 1545	Afternoon Tea
1600	AGM
1700 - 1830	Drinks and canapes Sponsored by Women in Horticulture

Free Evening:

Queenstown offers a wide variety of dining options. Take a look at a selection of wonderful cafes, restaurants and bars at the link below.

Day Two: 23 July

Please join us in thanking Day Two's Session Sponsors

0830	Arrival tea and coffee available
EXPO open all day for viewing
0915 - 1000	Session 1 – Sponsored by Hill Labs Money matters: From planting to profitability and doubling exports Both the Government and NZAPI have set targets to double sector exports within 10 years. But what might that actually look like? Delve into money matters with two presentations looking into orchard financials and big picture double export strategy.
1000 - 1045	Session 2 – Sponsored by Croplands Money matters: Making it count Putting strategy to action, an industry panel reviews the data and discusses the real-world implications. What translates? What doesn’t? And how can growers focus on growth and productivity in ways that make every dollar count.
1045 - 1130	Morning Tea
1130 - 1215	Session 3 – Sponsored by Prevar Creating a legislative and operating framework that helps our growers prosper A panel discussion - what levers can politicians/government pull to support our growers?
1215 - 1300	Session 4 – Sponsored by Syngenta NZ Trade Strategy - Looking ahead Vangelis Vitalis, Deputy Secretary, Trade and Economic, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), and New Zealand’s Chief Negotiator for the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement.
1300 - 1400	Lunch
1400 - 1430	Session 5 – Sponsored by AgFirst BMSB – it would be stink if we got it here! NZAPI is preparing for BMSB by being involved in multiple activities that ensure readiness for any future responses. By working together with MPI, Industry, and growers, we aim to ensure a successful response in the event of an incursion. This session will include lessons learned from simulations, investigations and surveillance, and details what growers could expect if a BMSB was found in their orchard.
1430 - 1530	Session 6 The future of breeding This future-focused panel explores where to next for apple and pear breeding, looking closely at what different stages of the value chain really want from future varieties. The discussion will look at priority traits, emerging themes, and how emerging tools could reshape decision‑making, speed and outcomes.
1530	PRIZE DRAWS
1545	Poroporoaki
1600	EXPO Closes
1800-2200	Industry Awards Dinner The Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Awards Dinner

1800-2200:

Dinner in at The Millennium Hotel Queenstown, 32 Frankton Road, Queenstown 9300

Presentation of the NZ Apples and Pears Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry.

If you know of anyone who might jump at the chance to be the evening's official sponsor, securing a table of their own and the opportunity to speak directly to hundreds from the industry (plus more!), please be in touch with jan@applesandpears.nz

Disclaimer

Programme details are subject to change without prior notice. The organisers reserve the right to make adjustments to the schedule, speakers, or content as necessary.