Supporting quality nutrient advice for farmers

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is a proud supporter of the Nutrient Management Advisor Certification Programme (NMACP), a national certification scheme designed to lift the standard, credibility and consistency of nutrient management advice available to farmers.

image of two farmers discussing pasture

Choosing the right nutrient inputs is a critical part of running a productive and profitable farm business. Fertiliser plays a major role in driving pasture growth, which in turn supports animal performance and overall system efficiency.  

The Nutrient Management Advisor Certification Programme helps provide that confidence. The programme sets clear standards for nutrient management advisors and independently certifies those who meet them. Certified advisors must demonstrate strong technical knowledge, practical experience, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. 

“For farmers, this means they can have confidence they are receiving advice that is credible, consistent and fit for purpose,” says Jason Griffin, B+LNZ’s Extension Team Manager for the North Island.  

“B+LNZ supports NMACP because we see high-quality nutrient advice as a key enabler of good on-farm decision making. 

“Farmers are working in increasingly complex environments, balancing production goals with environmental responsibilities and regulatory requirements. Access to skilled, certified nutrient management advisors can help farmers navigate those challenges with confidence,” he adds. 

B+LNZ supports the programme through funding and is actively involved in its direction and governance. Griffin currently holds a seat on the NMACP Board of Directors, helping ensure the programme remains grounded in farmer needs and sector priorities 

B+LNZ also plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the certification standards. Jane Campbell, B+LNZ’s Policy Insights Manager, represents B+LNZ on the programme’s Standard Setting Group, contributing to the development and ongoing refinement of the standards that underpin certification. 

“By supporting NMACP, we’re backing a practical, industry-led approach that aligns closely with our broader commitment to supporting farmers with the tools, advice and systems they need to build resilient, productive and sustainable farm businesses,” says Jason. 

B+LNZ encourages farmers to consider working with a Certified Nutrient Management Advisor. Knowing your advisor meets nationally recognised standards can provide added assurance that nutrient decisions are well-informed and aligned with both production and environmental goals. 

Iran conflict – keep in contact with fertiliser supplier 

We know there’s a lot of concern among farmers about current and potential impacts of the Iran conflict and its impact on supply chains.  

Our advice is farmers should stay in close contact with key suppliers, including their fertiliser companies. 

We believe that this amplifies the need for access to high quality, evidence-based nutrient advice, helping farmers make confident, well-informed decisions despite external pressures out of their control. 

Learn more 

To learn more about the Nutrient Management Advisor Certification Programme and what certification means, visit the official website here

Keep a lookout on B+LNZ’s event webpage for B+LNZ’s ‘Making it Count’ Workshops covering smart use of fertiliser, or get in touch with your local Extension Manager