Around 175 people attended B+LNZ's Sheep Breeder Forum in Christchurch last month. Recordings of the sessions are now available to watch online.
The Sheep Breeder Forum brought together 175 breeders, scientists and industry professionals from across the country, with a clear message: collaboration and alignment play a key role in unlocking the next phase of progress for New Zealand’s sheep sector.
This year, the Forum was combined with B+LNZ’s Out the Gate farmer event and Awards dinner, creating even more opportunities to learn, connect with peers, and celebrate the work shaping the future of sheep and beef farming.
Aligning the future: genomics and a shared direction
B+LNZ Chief Executive Alan Thomson opened the forum, outlining the organisation’s focus for 2026/27. He highlighted the significant impact of genetics, noting that over the past 25 years productivity has increased by 51% through genetic gains, despite declining sheep numbers.
Looking ahead, he outlined Vision 35, an ambitious goal to double export revenue to $23 billion by 2035. This will be driven through three core areas: technology and future-ready farm systems, leveraging genomics, and improved parasite management.
Genomics in particular was positioned as a transformative tool, capable of accelerating genetic gain and enabling progress in hard‑to‑measure traits such as disease resistance, methane emissions, and meat quality.
Across discussions, there was strong recognition that genetics cannot operate in isolation. Success will depend on integrating genetics with farm management, strengthening connections across the value chain, and building industry capability.
nProve Tracker launched
A highlight of the forum was the launch of nProve Tracker, B+LNZ’s new genetics tool. The tool helps farmers to track the impact of sire genetics within their flock, showing how those genetics flow through their replacement ewe flock, as well as their flock’s genetic progress over time. A hands-on workshop in the afternoon gave delegates the opportunity to try the tool, drawing positive feedback as a practical step toward quantifying and visually communicating the value of good genetics.
Building capability through connection
A consistent theme throughout the day was the importance of people - developing skills, sharing knowledge, and strengthening connections across the industry. Initiatives to support young people and encourage greater engagement were widely welcomed. In particular, a group of 20 young delegates supported to attend the event through B+LNZ’s Genetics Scholarship were recognised.
The Forum reflected this focus, providing time for open discussion, knowledge-sharing, and new connections between breeders, researchers and industry professionals. As the industry looks to the future, this collective approach - linking science, data and farming - will be key to driving continued progress and maintaining confidence in the industry.
Watch videos from the Sheep Breeder Forum
A number of sessions were recorded at the Forum. You can watch these below:
- B+LNZ’s focus for 2026/27 – Alan Thomson, Beef + Lamb New Zealand
- Sheep genetics review: findings and implications – Dr Robert Banks, University of New England
- From review to roadmap: B+LNZ’s sheep genetics strategy –Dr Jason Archer, Beef + Lamb New Zealand
- New Zealand Genetic Evaluation update – Multiple speakers
- Funding the future of genomics – Dr Robert Banks, University of New England
Read a summary of Out the Gate
Out the Gate 2026 brought together around 700 farmers and rural professionals in Christchurch, making it B+LNZ’s biggest event yet. Read a wrap-up of the farmer event, including links to interviews with speakers and photos. Read more
Photos from Sheep Breeder Forum
Check out B+LNZ Genetics Facebook Album for photos from the Sheep Breeder Forum.
