Out the Gate 2025 powered by the B+LNZ Farmer Council and Kāhui, held on 26 March, gathered sheep, beef and dairy-beef farmers to explore all things on-farm productivity, the importance of people within the industry, and the technology and tools available to tackle changes in our sector with confidence.
The event had around 240 attendees, the majority of whom were farmers, alongside rural professionals and a group of top-performing agriculture students from Napier Boys High School.
There was plenty of optimism in the room, helped by a positive reinforcement from market expert Simon Quilty’s outlook as summarised below. A couple of key ‘hot topics’ included trade with the United States (U.S.) in the current political landscape and the importance of investing in people for the future of farming.
NZ well placed to take advantage from the global market ripple effect
The session opened with Simon Quilty from Global Agritrends Downunder, who explored the ripple effect in global red meat markets. He provided insights into how shifting supply and demand dynamics are shaping pricing and opportunities for New Zealand beef and lamb.
Simon highlighted the exceptionally tight global protein supply, particularly for beef, which is driving strong demand and higher prices. He emphasised that the U.S. has a critical need for New Zealand’s lean beef, with grinding meat playing a major role in meeting demand. The rising cost of US protein has also lifted lamb prices, creating further opportunities for New Zealand farmers.
He pointed to Australia’s recent liquidation of its breeding flock as a key factor in supply tightening, predicting a significant rebound as the country begins rebuilding. This tightening supply is “music to New Zealand farmers’ ears,” as it supports stronger pricing.
An Economist lens on people shaping our future
Another keynote speaker, Shamubeel Eaqub, Chief Economist at Simplicity, examined the economic landscape and its impact on sheep and beef farming. He discussed major global shifts, including geopolitics, trade disruptions, and climate challenges, noting that while New Zealand remains relatively stable, it is not immune to these pressures.
Shamubeel suggested the best solution to weathering these pressures is the importance of investing in people – good management, strong workplace culture, and ongoing training are essential for securing a skilled workforce in the face of an ageing population.
His insights underscored the importance of maintaining social license, adapting to productivity challenges, and focusing on real profitability rather than just revenue.
Deep dive sessions focused on productivity, people and technology
The day also featured several deep-dive breakout sessions, providing attendees with practical insights into on-farm productivity, people shaping the future and technology.
One session led by Dr Mhairi Sutherland (B+LNZ Senior Scientist – Animal Health and Welfare) and Dr David Scobie (Lincoln University) focused on improving lamb survival and unlocking new farm management opportunities. They highlighted upcoming resources that will be available for farmers soon such as a podcast series about the issue.
Daniel Carson used his Mīti meat snacks as a case study to explore innovative ways to add value to New Zealand red meat, reinforcing the country’s reputation for premium products. Co-products, such as low-carbon leather, were also highlighted as a significant growth opportunity.
Another session, led by Stu Ellingham, delved into the importance of eating quality in New Zealand beef and lamb, reinforcing that New Zealand producers are among the best in the world, but we need to be able to measure it.
Networking dinner with plenty of laughs
The day was capped off with a lively gala dinner featuring motivational powerhouse David Letele, who shared his inspiring story of adversity and reinvention. He shared how he used adversity to drive him and encouraged others to do the same – he said you need to ‘just start’ and don’t overthink things!
Recordings coming soon
B+LNZ recorded Simon and Shamubeel’s presentations and will be sharing their insights soon. Keep a lookout on social media and in e-diaries.
A special thank you
B+LNZ thanks its Farmer Council and Kāhui (Māori Advisory Group) for driving this event, Craigs Investment Partners for sponsoring the day and the B+LNZ Awards Partner Farmlands, and Award Category Sponsors (AgResearch, Alliance Group, Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Datamars Livestock, FMG, Gallaghers, Rabobank, Silver Fern Farms) for their continued support.
Out the Gate 2025 was powered by the B+LNZ Farmer Council and Kāhui.
