CES 2025: Study Tour to investigate emerging technologies relevant to NZ Agriculture. PDF Free Download
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary: ............................................................................................ 4
Summary: Emerging Technology observed at CES 2025 and applications &
recommendations for NZ agriculture. ......................................................................... 6
Section 1 - CES 2025: Introduction, Mega Trends, Relevance for NZ Agriculture .... 15
What is CES? ........................................................................................................... 16
Mega Trends represented at CES ............................................................................... 17
Why evaluate CES for NZ Agriculture? ....................................................................... 19
Examining Global Technology Mega Trends - in a Context for New Zealand Agriculture . 19
Section 2 - Agriculture 4.0, the pace of change, and how New Zealand AgriTech
compares globally. ............................................................................................ 24
Agriculture 4.0 ......................................................................................................... 25
Relevance to New Zealand Agriculture: ..................................................................... 26
The Pace of Change – Technology advancement ......................................................... 26
Perspective - Evolution of Technology from CES 2016 to 2025 ...................................... 30
New Zealand’s AgriTech Adoption: A Mixed Picture .................................................... 35
New Zealand’s Agri-Tech capability compared to other leading countries .................... 36
New Zealand's Position ............................................................................................ 40
Section 3 - 26 Emerging Cross-Sector Technologies Applicable to New Zealand
Agriculture ........................................................................................................ 42
CES - Emerging Cross-Sector Technologies Applicable to New Zealand Agriculture ...... 43
Horizon Signals for Future AgriTech ........................................................................... 98
Summary of Emerging AgriTech Adoption Outlook (with NZ Ag Context) ..................... 101
Observed Cross-Cutting Themes and Strategic Implications ..................................... 106
The Key Broad Technology Categories Showcased at CES 2025 with NZ Relevance ..... 107
Section 4 - Top Priority Technology Domains for New Zealand Agriculture .......... 109
Top Priority Technology Domains for New Zealand Agriculture .................................. 110
Strategic Shifts Required ........................................................................................ 113
Strategic Recommendations and Implementation Pathways .................................... 114
Export Readiness and the Role of AgriTech .............................................................. 116
Section 5 - Accelerating Agricultural Technology Adoption in New Zealand ........ 117
Policy Discussion Paper: Accelerating Agricultural Technology Adoption in New Zealand
(2025–2035) ........................................................................................................... 118
National Policy Levers to Accelerate AgriTech Adoption ............................................ 118
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Section 6 - Te Ao Māori and Technology: A Perspective ...................................... 122
Te Ao Māori and the Future of Agricultural Technology: A Strategic Perspective (2025–
2035) ..................................................................................................................... 123
Te Ao Māori perspectives ........................................................................................ 125
Section 7 – Suggested Next Steps & The Role of AgriTech New Zealand (AgriTech NZ)
....................................................................................................................... 129
Suggested Next Steps – Turning Insight into Impact .................................................. 130
The Role of AgriTech New Zealand (AgriTech NZ) ...................................................... 133
Section 8 – APPENDIX ...................................................................................... 135
List of Tables ......................................................................................................... 135
List of Figures ........................................................................................................ 136
Glossary ............................................................................................................... 137
Glossary of Māori Terms ......................................................................................... 138
Figure 1 - The Author
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Executive Summary:
CES 2025 and what it tells us about the future of technology in
New Zealand Agriculture
This report summarises key findings from CES 2025 through the lens of the New
Zealand agricultural sector, examining how global technology trends can inform
strategy, investment, and innovation domestically.
Technologies once considered emerging—such as AI, robotics, precision automation,
and digital traceability—are now widely deployable and central to agri-food systems.
This marks a shift from incremental improvements to structural transformation in digital
agriculture.
These advancements are now actionable and New Zealand, with its high-integrity food
brand and climate-aware producers, is well positioned to lead. This report assesses 26
cross-sector technologies with immediate and long-term opportunities across areas
including autonomous vehicles, energy self-suiciency, sustainable biomanufacturing,
personalised nutrition, and Indigenous data sovereignty.
This report distils CES insights into five priority technology domains for New Zealand
agriculture:
1. Energy, Autonomy & Electrification
2. Climate & Ecosystem Intelligence
3. Biological & Digital Inputs
4. Transparent Supply Chains
5. Farmer-Centric Generative AI
To capitalise on these, the report outlines a set of policy enablers, R&D pathways, and
sectoral recommendations, with specific consideration for Māori agribusiness
aspirations.
Engaging with CES 2025 insights allows New Zealand agriculture to:
• Secure a competitive edge by adopting cutting-edge technologies early
• Future-proof value chains through sustainable and eicient practices
• Strengthen market position as a trusted supplier of high-value, sustainable food
and fibre
By systematically integrating these innovations, New Zealand can enhance its
agricultural sector’s resilience, productivity, and global competitiveness.
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The CES event reinforces the view that agriculture is no longer insulated from
technological disruption—it is central to it. With early engagement and collaborative
system design, New Zealand can be positioned as a global exemplar of digitally
enabled, climate-smart agriculture.
Figure 2 - Strategy flow from CES technology trends to on-farm application in the New Zealand context.
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Summary: Emerging Technology observed at CES 2025 and
applications & recommendations for NZ agriculture.
Purpose of the Project
This project was initiated to explore emerging global technologies relevant to New
Zealand agriculture, assess their applicability, readiness, and value, and inform
strategic planning across the agri-food sector. It draws insights from CES 2025 and
broader innovation trends, with a focus on climate resilience, productivity,
traceability, rural equity, and Māori agribusiness aspirations.
CES, Emerging Mega Trends & Relevance to NZ Agriculture (Section 1)
CES 2025 surfaced several global mega trends that carry strategic significance for New
Zealand’s primary industries. These trends reflect accelerating shifts in how food
systems are being digitised, decentralised, and decarbonised. Key themes identified
include:
• Electrification & Autonomy: Rapid maturation of battery-powered tractors,
autonomous machinery, and electrified utility vehicles suited to horticulture,
viticulture, and pastoral systems.
• Regenerative Intelligence: AI-enabled sensing, soil health monitoring, and
decision tools supporting climate-smart and low-input production models.
• Bio-Digital Convergence: Integration of synthetic biology, biological inputs, and
AI to enhance plant resilience, reduce chemical use, and improve production
eiciency.
• Transparent, Trusted Supply Chains: Blockchain-enabled traceability, smart
contracts, and digital passports responding to global demands for authenticity
and emissions accountability.
• Farmer-Centric Generative AI: New advisory tools, compliance support
systems, and knowledge interfaces designed for rural contexts, reducing
administrative load and supporting better decisions at the farm level.
These mega trends not only align with New Zealand’s natural advantages and export
aspirations but also present immediate opportunities for strategic investment, R&D
alignment, and system-wide transformation.
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Agriculture 4.0, and the pace of change (Section 2)
Agriculture 4.0 represents the convergence of digital, biological, and mechanical
innovation across the food and fibre system. CES 2025 highlighted how technologies
once at the fringe are now accelerating into core operations, with implications for skills,
infrastructure, and investment in New Zealand. Key signals include:
• Mainstreaming of Digital Agriculture: Tools like autonomous tractors, precision
sprayers, and AI-enabled robotics are moving from prototypes to commercially
available systems.
• Increased Velocity of Innovation: Technology cycles are shortening, with new
agri-focused platforms emerging every 6–12 months, requiring faster adoption
and continuous upskilling.
• Shifting Value Chains: Digital platforms, direct-to-consumer models, and
embedded compliance tools are changing how value is created and distributed
in the food system.
• Capital and Talent Realignment: Investment is shifting from traditional ag
machinery to agri-software, biomanufacturing, and farm-embedded AI systems,
bringing new players into the sector.
• Global Benchmarking Pressure: International producers—particularly in North
America and Asia—are deploying smart farm technologies at scale, challenging
New Zealand’s innovation edge.
For New Zealand, Agriculture 4.0 is not a future state but an accelerating present.
Responding to this pace of change will require agility in regulation, funding,
infrastructure, and skills development across the sector.
NZ AgriTech and how it compares (Section 2)
New Zealand’s AgriTech sector is respected for its practical, farm-adapted innovations
and deep connections to production systems. However, CES 2025 highlighted areas
where international counterparts are moving faster or scaling more aggressively. Key
comparative insights include:
• Strengths in Systems Thinking: NZ excels at integrated, whole-farm solutions—
particularly in pasture, water, and animal management—where global firms
often focus on discrete technologies.
• Lag in Commercialisation Velocity: Startups in North America and Europe
often scale faster due to deeper capital pools, stronger venture ecosystems, and
faster regulatory clearances.
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• Underserved Digital Infrastructure: Many rural NZ areas still lack robust
connectivity, constraining uptake of cloud-based, AI-enabled tools that were
standard among CES exhibitors.
• Global Shift Toward AI-First Farming: CES signalled a transition from tool-
based farming to intelligence-led systems. NZ firms are just beginning to explore
Gen AI applications in advisory, compliance, and planning workflows.
• Missed Visibility: Despite world-class science and innovation, NZ AgriTech
remains underrepresented on the global stage. Few local technologies were
visible in mainstream CES platforms.
This comparison suggests that New Zealand’s opportunity lies in leveraging its strong
agricultural foundation while accelerating digital maturity, capital access, and global
market positioning. Strategic collaboration between R&D, commercial, and policy
sectors will be key to bridging the gap.
Emerging Cross-Sector Technologies (Section 3)
Twenty-six cross-sector technologies were assessed at CES 2025 for their potential to
shape the future of New Zealand agriculture. Each was evaluated in terms of use cases,
relevance to local production systems, adoption challenges, and strategic value. These
technologies span six clusters:
• Wearables & Robotics: Smart glasses for hands-free compliance and training,
exoskeletons for physical support, and robotic quadrupeds for monitoring and
security tasks.
• Energy & Mobility: Battery-powered tractors, EV farm Utes, mobile microgrids,
and on-farm energy storage systems enabling low-emissions, o-grid operation.
• Automation & AI: Autonomous vehicles, AI-embedded hardware/software, and
on-farm generative AI tools that support decisions, automate workflows, and
reduce labour intensity.
• Environmental Technologies: Carbon accounting platforms, enteric methane
mitigation tools, and advanced irrigation technologies that respond to climate
and sustainability drivers.
• Data & Compliance: Blockchain, digital twins, smart contracts, and traceability
systems to meet market and regulatory demands for transparency and trust.
• Safety & Resilience: Health and safety wearables, modular infrastructure for
rural resilience, and climate adaptation tools for early warning and recovery
planning.
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These technologies are not isolated novelties—they are converging systems that align
closely with New Zealand’s needs and oer scalable, near-term pathways for
transformation across multiple agricultural sectors.
Horizon Signals for Future AgriTech (Section 3)
In addition to the 26 technologies assessed in detail, CES 2025 revealed a set of horizon
signals—emerging fields with long-term potential to reshape agriculture. These early-
stage innovations may not yet be ready for widespread adoption but are strategically
important for future-focused research, policy, and investment planning. Key signals
include:
• Neurotechnology and Cognitive Interfaces: Brain-computer interfaces and
neural wearables that could support farmer wellbeing, enhance remote training,
or enable assistive control in complex machinery environments.
• Soil Intelligence Platforms: Integrated systems combining spectroscopy,
microbiome analysis, and machine learning to provide continuous, in situ
insights into soil health and biological activity.
• Modular and Resilient On-Farm Infrastructure: Smart buildings, sensor-
integrated greenhouses, and deployable infrastructure designed to withstand
extreme weather and support distributed production models.
• Quantum Sensing 1and Edge Analytics: Ultra-sensitive quantum sensors
paired with low-latency edge computing, opening up new possibilities in crop
health detection, water monitoring, and biosecurity.
• Personalised Nutrition and Farm-to-Consumer Technologies: Platforms that
link production with individual dietary data, enabling on-farm tailoring of food
attributes and integration into health systems and direct-to-consumer models.
These horizon technologies are early but strategically significant. For New Zealand, they
oer an opportunity to shape the future of AgriTech—not just adopt it—through targeted
investment in R&D, capability development, and global partnerships.
1 Quantum sensors can detect extremely small changes in magnetic fields, temperature, acceleration,
pressure, electric fields, and other physical parameters. This makes them ideal for applications where
conventional sensors fall short.
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Technology Adoption Outlook (Section 3)
The adoption outlook for CES 2025 technologies in New Zealand agriculture is highly
variable, shaped by factors such as market readiness, infrastructure, regulatory
alignment, and cultural fit. The report categorises technologies into three adoption
horizons:
• Now (0–2 years): Technologies ready for immediate deployment, including
autonomous tractors, battery-powered Utes, irrigation optimisation platforms,
and health & safety wearables. These are commercially available and relevant to
current pain points, especially in horticulture, viticulture, and intensive systems.
• Next (3–5 years): Technologies with moderate readiness but requiring
infrastructure, training, or policy support. Examples include blockchain
traceability systems, enteric methane mitigation tools, digital twins, and
advisory-facing generative AI. These will scale as enabling systems mature.
• Horizon (5+ years): Early-stage technologies still in R&D or limited pilot
deployment. These include quantum sensing, soil microbiome platforms, neural
interfaces, and personalised nutrition systems. Strategic investment and long-
term capability-building will be needed to unlock their value.
Figure 3 - Technology adoption by horizon
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The adoption path is not linear—many technologies will leapfrog once market demand,
connectivity, and integration capabilities align. A proactive, system-wide approach will
be essential to ensure these innovations deliver value across diverse farming systems
and regions
Strategic Recommendations: Most Critical Technologies for NZ
(Section 4)
From the 26 cross-sector technologies assessed, five stand out as strategically critical
for accelerating innovation, resilience, and competitiveness in New Zealand agriculture.
These technologies are not only highly relevant to local conditions but also scalable,
investable, and aligned with national priorities:
(1) Generative AI for Farmers and Advisors: AI-enabled decision tools that reduce
compliance burdens, support on-farm planning, and enable more eective
advisory services in rural and remote areas.
(2) Battery-Electric and Autonomous Vehicles: Machinery and Utes that reduce
emissions, address labour shortages, and improve productivity across
horticulture, viticulture, and mixed systems.
(3) Advanced Irrigation and Water Intelligence: Tools that combine real-time
monitoring, automation, and AI analytics to optimise water use in the face of
increasing climatic volatility.
(4) Carbon and Environmental Accounting Platforms: Systems that enable farm-
level carbon tracking, enteric methane reduction, and ecosystem service
valuation—key to market access and regulatory preparedness.
(5) Modular Infrastructure and Resilience Technologies: Deployable, sensor-
integrated facilities and smart buildings designed to withstand extreme weather,
improve farm safety, and support decentralised production models.
These technologies should be prioritised for coordinated R&D investment, regulatory
readiness, skills development, and policy support. Their adoption will position New
Zealand as a global leader in digitally enabled, climate-resilient agriculture.
Policy & Government Engagement (Section 5)
Maximising the value of CES 2025 insights for New Zealand agriculture will require
deliberate policy alignment and government support. Technology alone will not drive
transformation without the right enabling environment. Key policy priorities identified
include:
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• Digital Infrastructure Investment: Accelerating rural broadband, IoT
connectivity, and edge computing capability to support real-time decision-
making and remote automation.
• Regulatory Readiness and Sandboxes: Creating agile regulatory frameworks,
including test beds for autonomous vehicles, smart contracts, and biological
inputs, to reduce time to market while managing risk.
• Skills and Workforce Development: Supporting new capability pathways in
Agri-digital, AI engineering, and on-farm tech integration to future-proof the
sector’s human capital.
• Incentives for Adoption and Integration: Targeted support for early adopters of
technologies with proven environmental or productivity value—especially in
water, emissions, and labour-reduction use cases.
• Māori Agribusiness Enablement: Ensuring policy settings support tino
rangatiratanga2 in technology design, data sovereignty, and IP ownership, aligned
with Māori-led innovation ecosystems.
• Cross-Ministry Coordination: Aligning strategies across MPI, MBIE, Te Puni
Kōkiri, and MFAT to position AgriTech as a strategic sector for economic and
climate policy.
A whole-of-system approach will be critical to ensure these technologies can be tested,
scaled, and trusted. Government engagement must not only enable innovation—it must
also steward it for long-term sectoral resilience.
Te Ao Māori Lens: Māori Agribusiness and Ag riTech Alignment (Section 6)
The integration of AgriTech with Māori agribusiness presents a powerful opportunity to
advance both economic and cultural aspirations. CES 2025 signals that future
agricultural systems must not only be productive and eicient, but also inclusive,
ethical, and aligned with Indigenous worldviews. Key principles and opportunities
identified include:
• Tino Rangatiratanga in Innovation: Māori agribusiness must lead the design,
governance, and deployment of technologies that impact whenua3, wai4, and
2 Tino rangatiratanga is a Māori term that translates to "absolute sovereignty" or "self-
determination." It is a significant concept in Māori culture and politics, representing the highest form
of chieftainship and the right to self-governance
3 Whenua commonly refers to land, often used to describe the physical land or territory
4 Wai means "water" in Māori.
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whakapapa5. This includes Māori data sovereignty, IP rights, and benefit-sharing
models.
• Whakapapa-Based Value Chains: Emerging technologies such as blockchain,
traceability platforms, and product passports can reinforce whakapapa,
provenance, and integrity in food and fibre exports.
• Mātauranga 6Māori and Technology Co-Design: The intersection of mātauranga
and digital tools (e.g. AI, environmental sensing) opens new pathways for land
stewardship, ecosystem monitoring, and culturally embedded decision support.
• Innovation on Māori Terms: Horizon technologies such as personalised
nutrition, smart infrastructure, and regenerative intelligence can be shaped to
reflect tikanga 7and intergenerational thinking.
• Partnerships and Policy Levers: Support is needed for Māori-led innovation
hubs, co-investment strategies, and cross-agency alignment to build capacity
and ensure Māori are not just technology users but developers and owners.
Embedding a Te Ao Māori lens in AgriTech strategy is not simply a cultural add-on—it is
central to achieving a just, resilient, and forward-looking agricultural economy for
Aotearoa.
Suggested Next Steps (Section 7)
Realising the opportunities presented by CES 2025 will require a coordinated national
response that blends innovation with practical implementation. The following actions
are recommended to ensure technology adoption delivers real and lasting value for the
agriculture sector, rural communities, and the New Zealand economy:
1. Establish a National AgriTech Foresight & Action Group
Create a cross-sector coalition including representatives from government, Māori
agribusiness, farmer organisations, research institutions, and AgriTech firms. Its
purpose: to track global trends, prioritise emerging technologies, and advise on timely
investment and regulation.
2. Prioritise Investment in Foundational Infrastructure
Accelerate investment in rural broadband, IoT networks, on-farm energy systems, and
cloud platforms—without which AI, automation, and data-centric systems cannot scale
equitably across regions or sectors.
5 Whakapapa is a central concept in Māori culture, referring to genealogy, lineage, and ancestry.
6 Mātauranga is a Māori term that broadly refers to knowledge, wisdom, and understanding.
7 Tikanga is a Māori term that refers to the customs, practices, and traditional values that have
developed over time and are deeply embedded in the social context of Māori culture.
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3. Launch Regional AgriTech Adoption Pilots
Fund and support on-farm demonstration projects for priority technologies (e.g.
autonomous vehicles, AI irrigation tools, traceability systems). Focus on farmer-led co-
design and real-world integration with a strong emphasis on Māori land trusts and
collective entities.
4. Embed AgriTech in Climate, Export, and Skills Strategy
Position agriculture innovation at the heart of New Zealand’s climate response, export
brand strategy, and vocational pipeline. Ensure cross-ministry alignment between MPI,
MBIE, MFAT, Te Puni Kōkiri, and Education portfolios.
5. Support Māori-Led Innovation Pathways
Invest in Māori-led innovation hubs, kaupapa Māori 8R&D platforms, and IP frameworks
to ensure that technology deployment strengthens tino rangatiratanga and the unique
role Māori play in the future of agriculture.
6. Establish Regulatory Pathways for Frontier Technologies
Develop agile, sector-specific regulatory frameworks (e.g. for autonomous machines,
biological inputs, and carbon accounting) to reduce deployment friction while
maintaining safety, ethics, and trust.
7. Build a National AgriTech Capability Programme
Create dedicated funding and support for skills development in AI, digital agronomy,
farm systems integration, and smart infrastructure. Partner with industry bodies,
polytechnics, and universities to deliver regionally relevant training.
8. Define Metrics and Reporting for Adoption and Impact
Develop a national AgriTech adoption dashboard, tracking uptake, benefits, and barriers
across dierent farming systems. Ensure transparent measurement of social,
economic, and environmental impacts.
These next steps are not sequential—they are parallel, interdependent actions
requiring a whole-of-system response. With urgency, coordination, and a clear mandate
for innovation, New Zealand can lead in shaping the next era of sustainable, digitally
empowered agriculture.
End of Summary
8 Kaupapa Māori refers to a Māori approach or framework that respects and incorporates Māori
values, principles, and worldviews.
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Section 1 - CES 2025:
Introduction, Mega Trends,
Relevance for NZ Agriculture
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What is CES?
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the world’s largest and most influential
technology trade show, held annually in Las Vegas, USA. Organised by the Consumer
Technology Association (CTA), CES serves as the global stage for innovation—where
the latest in consumer and industrial technologies are unveiled, ranging from artificial
intelligence and robotics to smart cities, biotechnology, automotive tech, and digital
health.
After 58 years CES has evolved into a multi-sector global innovation summit,
reflecting the convergence of digital, physical, and biological technologies.
CES is not limited to consumer gadgets; it has become a launchpad for
transformational technologies across all sectors, including energy, mobility,
agriculture, manufacturing, and sustainability. It is where startups, major
multinationals, and research institutions come together to demonstrate how emerging
tech is shaping the future.
Key Statistics – CES 2025:
• CES (Consumer Electronics Show) has been running since 1967.
• Over 142,000 attendees from more than 150 countries
• 4,500+ exhibiting companies, including major global brands and 1,200+
startups
• Spanning 2.5 million+ square feet of exhibition space across Las Vegas
• More than 300+ conference sessions with 1200+ speakers, covering
megatrends like AI, climate tech, Web3, robotics, Agriculture, food and biotech
• Attendees include global CEOs, government leaders, investors, technologists,
and media from every major industry & 305 Fortune Global 500 companies
Why CES Matters:
CES is often described as the “World’s Innovation Showcase.” It provides a unique
opportunity to observe technology in its most advanced and applied forms, oering
critical foresight into where industries are heading. For decision-makers in sectors like
agriculture, energy, and food production, CES oers a lens into the global pace of
change and a chance to assess how frontier technologies can be leveraged locally.
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Mega Trends represented at CES
A summary of how the five global technology megatrends were represented at CES
2025, based on the general themes, innovations, and product launches from leading
companies:
1. Artificial Intelligence Everywhere
General Representation:
AI was deeply embedded across product categories—from consumer electronics and
mobility to healthcare and robotics. Companies showcased AI not as a standalone tool,
but as a foundational capability across devices, platforms, and services.
Examples:
• Samsung and LG demonstrated AI-powered smart home systems with
contextual awareness and adaptive controls.
• Intel and NVIDIA highlighted next-gen AI chips designed for edge devices and
real-time reasoning.
• John Deere and Hyundai Mobis unveiled AI-driven autonomous machines,
reflecting the convergence of AI and robotics.
2. Climate Tech and Environmental Sustainability
General Representation:
Sustainability was a defining theme, with numerous exhibitors focusing on energy
eiciency, electrification, and decarbonisation strategies. This was evident across
transportation, consumer devices, and industrial solutions.
Examples:
• Oshkosh Corporation showcased electric utility vehicles, including an electric
fire truck and garbage truck.
• Panasonic and Schneider Electric introduced smart energy systems for homes
and buildings, focusing on renewable integration and load balancing.
• Several startups demonstrated carbon capture, low-impact materials, and
water-saving technologies.
3. Bioengineering and the Biological Revolution
General Representation:
While less prominent than digital tech, CES 2025 featured a growing number of exhibits
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focused on personalised health, smart nutrition, and home biology. Bio-integrated
systems and devices were positioned at the intersection of health, environment, and
consumer technology.
Examples:
• Daedong’s AI Plant Box was an AI-driven appliance for growing food at home
under optimised biological conditions.
• Wearable health sensors by companies like Withing’s and Abbott oered bio-
data monitoring, often incorporating non-invasive biosensors for continuous
tracking.
4. Spatial Computing and Immersive Interfaces
General Representation:
AR, VR, and spatial computing were prominent, signalling a shift toward next-generation
human-machine interaction. These technologies were featured across sectors from
entertainment and retail to industrial applications and workforce training.
Examples:
• Sony and Meta introduced new AR/VR headsets with greater spatial awareness
and real-time 3D interaction.
• Vuzix and XREAL showcased smart glasses aimed at enterprise and field
applications, oering heads-up data display, telepresence, and gesture control.
5. Decentralised Systems and the Trust Layer (Web3)
General Representation:
While subdued compared to past years, blockchain and decentralised tech were
present in discussions around data integrity, digital identity, and trusted transactions—
particularly in sectors requiring transparency and traceability.
Examples:
• Companies like VeChain and IBM promoted blockchain-based supply chain
platforms.
• Web3 infrastructure providers focused on digital rights management and identity
verification using decentralised identifiers (DIDs).
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Observation:
CES 2025 underscored the convergence of these megatrends—not in isolation, but
through integrated ecosystems. For example, AI-enhanced smart glasses (spatial
computing + AI), electric autonomous vehicles (climate tech + AI), and blockchain-
backed identity systems (Web3 + spatial computing) show how these technologies are
evolving together.
Why evaluate CES for NZ Agriculture?
Attending CES 2025 was a strategically important step in understanding how global
technology megatrends are evolving and how they can be leveraged to future-proof New
Zealand’s agricultural sector. As these megatrends—Artificial Intelligence, Climate
Tech, Bioengineering, Spatial Computing, and Decentralised Systems—continue to
shape global industries, it is essential that New Zealand agriculture remains informed,
agile, and ready to adapt.
CES oered direct exposure to the cutting-edge applications of these technologies, not
in theoretical terms, but in tangible products, platforms, and systems that are entering
commercial deployment. Seeing autonomous machinery, AI-powered decision
systems, climate-smart infrastructure, and immersive interfaces in action enabled a
clearer understanding of what is technically feasible today—and what will be
economically viable tomorrow.
For New Zealand’s agricultural industry, which must balance environmental
stewardship, export competitiveness, and labour eiciency, these insights are
invaluable. CES provided early indicators of how these technologies can be localised—
for example, using AR smart glasses for remote farm advisory, blockchain systems for
export traceability, or low-emission technologies for methane reduction compliance.
In short, the visit to CES 2025 served not only to observe innovation but to evaluate the
trajectory of global transformation and to identify where and how New Zealand can
strategically align itself—ensuring our AgriTech sector doesn’t just adopt technology but
helps shape its application for the next generation of farming.
Examining Global Technology Mega Trends - in a Context for New
Zealand Agriculture
As the CEO of a New Zealand agricultural SaaS company committed to advancing the
sector through Technology and innovation, it is critical to recognise and understand
global technology megatrends. These trends—such as artificial intelligence, climate
technology, biotechnology, spatial computing, and decentralised systems—are not just
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abstract future concepts; they are reshaping how value is created, measured, and
sustained across all primary industries. For New Zealand, where agriculture remains a
cornerstone of the economy and a global export leader, understanding these trends
ensures we remain adaptive, competitive, and aligned with evolving market
expectations and environmental imperatives. By anticipating their implications and
tailoring their application to our unique landscapes, regulatory environment, and
cultural values, we can drive smarter, more sustainable growth for both farmers and the
broader Agri-tech ecosystem.
Before assessing relevance to NZ agriculture first we need to be cognisant of the
Technology trends that will impact all industries.
These emerging mega trends observed at CES 2025 can be reframed and summarised
for greater relevance – particularly in sectors like agriculture and food systems, and
then from a New Zealand perspective.
1. Artificial Intelligence Everywhere
General Agricultural Relevance:
• Precision agriculture: AI processes vast sensor, satellite, and drone data to
optimise inputs (water, nutrients, pesticides).
• Predictive modelling: Forecasts crop yields, pest outbreaks, and climate risks.
• Automation: Powers autonomous tractors, robotic harvesters, and smart
irrigation systems.
New Zealand Specific Relevance:
• Dairy optimisation: AI could enhance pasture management, milking schedules,
and animal health analytics.
• High-value crop management: Kiwifruit and viticulture operations benefit from
AI-based disease and canopy management.
• Labour substitution: Addressing seasonal worker shortages with autonomous
systems, especially in horticulture.
2. Climate Tech and Environmental Sustainability
General Agricultural Relevance:
• Emission reduction: Technologies such as low-emission feed, anaerobic
digesters, and carbon capture are being adopted on farms.
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• Water and energy eiciency: Smart irrigation, solar-powered operations, and
regenerative practices.
• Climate resilience: Tools for adapting to droughts, floods, and variable weather
patterns.
New Zealand Specific Relevance:
• Methane mitigation: Supports NZ’s agricultural emissions targets (e.g. methane
vaccines, low-emission ryegrass).
• ETS integration: Tools that measure and report carbon footprints for compliance
with the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme.
• Drought adaptation: Smart irrigation and moisture monitoring in drought prone
areas like North Canterbury and Hawke’s Bay.
3. Bioengineering and the Biological Revolution
General Agricultural Relevance:
• Gene-edited crops: Traits for drought tolerance, disease resistance, and higher
yields.
• Microbiome engineering: Custom soil microbes to enhance plant growth and
reduce synthetic inputs.
• Alternative proteins: Cultivated meat and precision-fermented dairy alternatives.
New Zealand Specific Relevance:
• Ryegrass & Clover innovation: Development of climate-adapted forage species
to reduce methane and increase productivity.
• Bio-inputs: Native microbial solutions to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers
in sensitive catchments.
• Diversification: Opportunities for NZ to lead in non-traditional proteins that align
with sustainability branding.
4. Spatial Computing and Immersive Interfaces
General Agricultural Relevance:
• AR/VR for training: Immersive, hands-on learning for equipment handling,
biosecurity, and safety protocols.
22
• Digital twins: Simulate farm systems for planning, resource use, and scenario
testing.
• Smart wearables: Clothing and glasses for real-time environmental monitoring
and remote collaboration.
New Zealand Specific Relevance:
• Remote advisory services: AR glasses enabling rural farmers to receive expert
support without travel delays.
• Training young farmers: Virtual reality tools to accelerate skills transfer amid an
ageing workforce.
• Safety monitoring: Wearables that track worker health and exposure in extreme
climates or isolated environments.
5. Decentralised Systems and the Trust Layer (Web3 Technologies)
General Agricultural Relevance:
• Blockchain traceability: Track provenance, quality, and sustainability claims
across global supply chains.
• Smart contracts: Automate payments, certifications, and compliance in trade
transactions.
• Data sovereignty: Empower farmers with ownership and control of operational
data.
New Zealand Specific Relevance:
• Export assurance: Traceability for manuka honey, wine, and grass-fed meat to
meet premium market demands.
• Farm-to-consumer transparency: Platforms enabling consumers to trace origin
and ethics of products.
• Decentralised finance (DeFi): Access to alternative financing tools for
smallholders and innovators outside traditional banks.
23
Summary:
Megatrend
NZ Agriculture Focus
AI Everywhere
Dairy optimisation, labour substitution, yield prediction
Climate Tech
Methane reduction, ETS compliance, drought
adaptation
Bioengineering
Low-emission forages, native bio-inputs, protein
diversification
Spatial Computing
Remote support, AR-based training, worker safety
Decentralised Systems
(Web3)
Product traceability, export certification, farmer-owned
data platforms
Table 1 - Technology Mega Trends
Figure 4 - Relationships between emerging megatrends of relevance to New Zealand agriculture
24
Section 2 - Agriculture 4.0, the
pace of change, and how New
Zealand AgriTech compares
globally.
25
Agriculture 4.0
Agriculture 4.0 refers to the next phase of agricultural evolution, characterised by the
integration of advanced digital technologies, automation, data analytics, and
connectivity into food and fibre production systems. This transformation is redefining
how agricultural operations are managed—from precision input application and real-
time environmental monitoring to autonomous machinery and decision-support
platforms powered by artificial intelligence. As global pressures intensify around
climate resilience, resource eiciency, and food security, the relevance of Agriculture
4.0 continues to grow. Attending CES 2025 oered a unique opportunity to engage
directly with the technologies that will underpin this transformation. It provides early
insight into emerging tools, platforms, and systems being developed across sectors—
many of which have the potential to be adapted or translated into the agricultural
domain, accelerating innovation and resilience in farming systems.
Defining Agriculture 4.0
Agriculture 4.0 is the fourth agricultural revolution, representing a fundamental
transformation toward smart, connected, and autonomous farming systems. Building
on the previous three agricultural eras, Agriculture 4.0 is broadly defined by the
integration of digital technologies and data-driven innovation.
Previous Agricultural Eras:
• Agriculture 1.0 – Traditional Farming: Manual labour, animal power, and
subsistence systems.
• Agriculture 2.0 – Mechanisation: Introduction of tractors, fertilisers, and large-
scale input use.
• Agriculture 3.0 – Precision Agriculture: GPS-enabled machinery, genetically
modified crops, and basic data analytics.
Key Characteristics of Agriculture 4.0:
• Artificial Intelligence for predictive analytics and autonomous decision-making.
• Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time environmental, animal, and crop sensing.
• Robotics and autonomous vehicles for planting, harvesting, and logistics.
• Blockchain for traceability, certification, and food provenance.
• Big data and cloud platforms for integrating geospatial, biological, and
operational datasets.
• Digital twins and simulation tools for scenario planning.
• Tools for emissions monitoring, carbon accounting, and ESG compliance.
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Relevance to New Zealand Agriculture:
Agriculture 4.0 aligns strongly with the priorities and constraints of New Zealand’s food
and fibre systems. It oers a pathway to:
• Boost productivity amid rising input costs and labour shortages.
• Meet stringent environmental standards and market-driven sustainability
expectations.
• Dierentiate high-value exports through verified traceability and environmental
performance.
CES 2025 provides a lens into Agriculture 4.0’s technological frontier, enabling
stakeholders to identify, trial, and adopt solutions that position New Zealand agriculture
at the leading edge of innovation and sustainability.
The Pace of Change – Technology advancement
The rate of technological advancement has significantly increased over the last 25
years, and especially in the past five years, we have witnessed an acceleration that is
both exponential and systemic.
Historical Perspective (1999–2024)
From the late 1990s through the 2010s, we observed steady progress in areas such as
computing power, mobile communications, and the internet. However, much of that
innovation was linear—each iteration improved on the last. The landscape began to
shift around 2015–2020, with the maturing of cloud computing, machine learning, and
connected devices.
The Last Five Years (2020–2025): A Phase Shift
In contrast, the 2020–2025 period marks a phase shift driven by:
• Generative AI: Large language models like GPT, image synthesis, and
autonomous decision systems have brought intelligence into tools, not just
automation.
• Decentralisation: Technologies like blockchain, decentralised identity, and edge
computing have fundamentally challenged centralised control models.
• Convergence of Fields: Bioengineering, AI, materials science, and quantum
computing are no longer progressing independently—they are interlinked and
mutually accelerating.
27
• Pandemic-era digitisation: COVID-19 acted as a global forcing function,
accelerating tech adoption across sectors that had previously lagged—
particularly in agriculture, education, and health.
The pace is no longer just faster, it is compounding - a defining feature of exponential
technologies.
Why It’s Important to Contextualise this Rate of Change
Understanding the velocity and trajectory of technological progress is crucial for four
reasons:
1. Strategic Readiness: Without appreciating the pace, businesses and sectors
(like agriculture) risk planning for a future that has already moved beyond their
assumptions. What was futuristic five years ago is now operational.
2. Investment Allocation: Fast-moving technologies demand shorter innovation
cycles, agile capital deployment, and frequent re-evaluation of priorities.
3. Policy and Regulation: Governments and industry leaders need to anticipate—
not react to—technological shifts to remain competitive, ethical, and
sustainable.
4. Workforce & Capability Planning: Skills, systems, and infrastructure must be
designed not for current demand, but for near-future environments that may
look radically dierent within a 2–5-year horizon.
We are living through an era not just of technological change, but of technological
acceleration. Recognising this rate of change isn’t just about keeping pace—it’s about
anticipating opportunity, managing disruption, and ensuring that sectors like New
Zealand agriculture are positioned to lead, not lag, in the global innovation economy.
For a small, export-dependent country like New Zealand—where over 80% of export
income is derived from primary industries such as agriculture, forestry, and food
production—understanding the rate of technological change is not just beneficial, it
is existentially important for the following reasons.
1. Competitive Relevance in Global Markets
Global competitors are rapidly adopting advanced technologies such as AI, automation,
gene editing, and traceability systems to increase productivity, reduce emissions, and
meet changing consumer expectations. If New Zealand’s primary industries lag in
adopting these tools, we risk becoming:
• Less cost-eicient compared to technology-augmented producers,
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• Non-compliant with emerging international sustainability standards,
• Invisible in supply chains that demand transparency, traceability, and verified
provenance.
2. The Innovation Premium and National Branding
New Zealand has long relied on a reputation for quality, purity, and sustainability. As
global consumers become more tech-savvy and data-driven, this reputation must be
backed by evidence, such as carbon metrics, digital traceability, and precision
sustainability practices. Without the right technology, the “Brand New Zealand”
promise could weaken, undermining our premium market access.
3. Risk of Structural Obsolescence
If New Zealand’s primary industries fail to keep pace with global innovation:
• Our infrastructure (processing, logistics, compliance) may become outdated.
• Our talent base may shift oshore or into other industries.
• Our policies and regulations may become reactive, rather than enabling.
In short, we risk becoming a price-taker rather than a value creator.
4. Limited Scale, Greater Need for Agility
Unlike larger economies, New Zealand cannot rely on domestic scale to buer against
global shifts. This means we must be:
• Early adopters and fast integrators, not followers.
• Collaborators in global innovation ecosystems, ensuring we shape standards,
not just respond to them.
• Export agile, using technology to serve niche, high-value markets with speed
and precision.
5. Opportunity Cost of Inaction
Technologies such as AI-driven analytics, bioengineering, spatial computing, and
decentralised systems oer transformative potential—not only to improve eiciency,
but to create new products, new business models, and new export categories. The
longer we delay engagement, the more opportunity we forfeit to nations that are already
investing in next generation agrifood systems.
Conclusion
For New Zealand, understanding and acting upon the accelerating rate of technological
change is a matter of economic survival, strategic sovereignty, and long-term
prosperity. In a world where innovation defines competitiveness, we must move from
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being technology adopters of necessity to technology leaders by design. Remaining
static is not neutral—it is falling behind.
30
Perspective - Evolution of Technology from CES 2016 to 2025
I attended CES in 2016, nine years ago, and that experience has given me valuable
perspective on the trajectory of emerging technologies. At the time, many innovations
were in their infancy—some were experimental prototypes, while others were being
hyped as transformative solutions. Looking back, it is striking to see which of those
technologies have since become mainstream—such as voice assistants, drone
applications, and AI-driven analytics—and which have quietly faded from prominence.
The visit served as a useful baseline for understanding how technological momentum
builds, shifts, or stalls, and it reinforces the importance of continually scanning the
horizon to identify which developments are likely to shape the future in a meaningful
way.
Here’s a summary of how technology has evolved in the 9 years between CES 2016 and
CES 2025, particularly focusing on emerging technologies from 2016 that have now
become mainstream, with emphasis on potential agricultural relevance with a lens on
Software as a service (SaaS) an area of relevance to the author:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Then (2016):
AI was beginning to re-emerge as a key technology, but applications were largely
conceptual or confined to limited domains such as basic automation, voice assistants
(e.g. early Alexa, Siri), and early machine learning models.
Now (2025):
AI is deeply embedded across virtually every sector. Key mainstream applications
include:
• Generative AI for content, decision-support, and simulation.
• AI-powered robotics and drones in precision agriculture.
• Predictive analytics for crop yield forecasting and supply chain optimisation.
• Autonomous vehicles for farming and logistics.
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
AI underpins many decision-support systems and automated workflows in farming
platforms today, including pest prediction, irrigation optimisation, and climate risk
analysis.
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2. Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Sensors
Then (2016):
IoT was a major buzzword, with visions of connected homes and farms. However, actual
deployments were minimal and plagued by interoperability issues and high costs.
Now (2025):
IoT is mature, ubiquitous, and cost-eective. Advances in edge computing and LPWANs
9(e.g. LoRaWAN) have made rural deployments viable. Farms are increasingly using:
• Soil and moisture sensors
• Livestock tracking devices
• Connected weather stations
• Sensor-integrated machinery
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
Data from IoT devices is now a foundational input for many SaaS platforms, enabling
hyperlocal insights and operational automation.
3. Robotics and Automation
Then (2016):
Robotics was in early development for consumer and industrial use, with some
prototypes for agricultural automation (e.g. automated harvesters).
Now (2025):
Agri-robotics is a thriving sector. Advances in machine vision and AI have enabled:
• Autonomous tractors
• Robotic weeders and pickers
• Automated dairy operations
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
Integrations between robotics and farm management platforms are evolving, enabling
real-time monitoring and performance optimisation.
9 LPWANs: are wireless networks that allow long-range communication with low power
consumption, perfect for connecting devices like sensors over large distances
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4. Drones and Aerial Imaging
Then (2016):
Drone technology was promising but constrained by regulation, limited battery life, and
rudimentary imaging capabilities.
Now (2025):
Drones are widely adopted in precision agriculture for:
• Crop health analysis using multispectral imaging
• Automated spraying and seeding
• 3D mapping and terrain modelling
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
Aerial data is increasingly being integrated into farm management systems, with AI-
driven image analysis providing actionable insights.
5. Cloud Computing and Data Infrastructure
Then (2016):
Cloud adoption was growing, but many agribusinesses were still reliant on on-premise
solutions or hybrid systems.
Now (2025):
Cloud-native platforms dominate, enabling:
• Scalable data processing
• Real-time collaboration
• API-driven integrations across services
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
This shift has allowed Agri-SaaS providers to deliver more responsive, data-rich, and
interoperable solutions for farmers and agronomists.
6. Blockchain and Traceability
Then (2016):
Blockchain was primarily known through cryptocurrency, with speculative use cases in
supply chain transparency.
Now (2025):
Blockchain is being used for:
• Food provenance and traceability
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• Smart contracts for Agri-finance and insurance
• Carbon credit verification
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
New Zealand’s premium export markets (e.g., dairy, meat, wine) could benefit from
transparent, tamper-proof traceability solutions.
7. Sustainability and AgriTech Investment
Then (2016):
Sustainability was an emerging concern, but not a dominant driver of tech
development.
Now (2025):
Climate resilience and sustainability are central to innovation. Technologies now
mainstream include:
• Carbon accounting tools
• Water-eicient irrigation systems
• Circular economy platforms for waste reuse
Relevance to NZ Agri-SaaS:
NZ’s environmental leadership positions it to benefit from platforms that integrate
sustainability into operational and regulatory compliance frameworks.
Conclusion:
The technologies presented at CES 2025 reflect a transformative moment for global
agriculture. For New Zealand, the strategic adoption of these tools can strengthen the
resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of its farming systems. A coordinated
national eort involving government, industry, and the tech ecosystem will be essential
to realise this opportunity in full.
Attending CES provides unique strategic value to AgriTech leaders and policy makers.
As the world’s largest and most influential technology event, CES functions as a
bellwether for global innovation. It showcases not only near-commercial technologies,
but also early-stage concepts backed by substantial venture capital and industry
interest. By examining the full innovation pipeline—from prototypes to market-ready
products—New Zealand stakeholders can identify which solutions align with domestic
needs, regulatory trajectories, and export opportunities.
Importantly, CES also acts as a convergence point for cross-sector technologies that
increasingly impact agriculture: artificial intelligence, robotics, sustainability analytics,
34
cybersecurity, and decentralised data systems. Investigating these trends early enables
New Zealand to act proactively, ensuring that its farming systems remain globally
competitive while meeting high standards of environmental and social governance. The
presence of multi-national AgriTech and climate-tech firms at CES further reinforces its
role as a predictive platform for what is likely to become commercially viable and
globally scaled within the next 2–5 years.
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New Zealand’s AgriTech Adoption: A Mixed Picture
An objective appraisal of how New Zealand agriculture compares globally in terms of
technology adoption, innovation readiness, and integration capability:
1. Strengths – Global Leadership in Niche Areas
a. Environmental and Quality-Driven Systems:
New Zealand is widely recognised for high-quality, pasture-based livestock systems,
low-input horticulture, and rigorous food safety. These systems have nurtured a
proactive approach to traceability, sustainability, and compliance—especially for export
markets. This makes NZ a global reference for:
• Farm assurance systems (e.g. NAIT, FAP+, Lead with Pride)
• Animal genetics and performance monitoring
• Low-emissions research and on-farm GHG accounting
• Premium product provenance via traceability platforms
b. Innovation Ecosystem (Relative to Size):
Despite its scale, New Zealand punches above its weight in generating AgriTech startups
and public-private collaborations. Entities like Callaghan Innovation (now
disestablished) , AgriTech NZ, and the Sprout accelerator have nurtured globally minded
ventures. Some have been adopted in markets like the US, Australia, and Israel.
c. Policy and Market Alignment:
There is strong regulatory alignment between environmental policies (e.g. freshwater
reform, emissions pricing) and technology adoption incentives. This creates clear
market signals and demand for tools that measure, verify, and improve farm system
performance.
2. Weaknesses – Structural Constraints on Adoption
a. Fragmented and Heterogeneous Farm Base:
Unlike the US, Australia, or parts of Europe, New Zealand farms are often smaller, more
isolated, and highly variable in system design (e.g. hill country sheep/beef vs. intensive
dairy vs. orchards). This limits standardised technology rollouts and makes ROI
calculations harder for vendors.
b. Limited Infrastructure in Rural Areas:
Connectivity remains a bottleneck. While improving, many regions still lack reliable
broadband or LPWAN coverage, which constrains real-time data services, remote
sensing, and automated workflows—key pillars of Agriculture 4.0.
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c. Cultural Conservatism in Tech Adoption:
There is a pragmatic, risk-averse culture in many parts of NZ agriculture. Technology
adoption is often slower unless there is a clear regulatory driver, labour constraint, or
commercial advantage. This can result in cautious uptake of emerging innovations like
robotics, AI-based decision systems, or digital twins.
d. Lower Capital Intensity:
Compared to farms in North America or Europe, NZ farms often operate with lower
available capital, reducing their ability to invest in high-cost automation or integrated
systems—even if the long-term value proposition is clear.
New Zealand’s Agri-Tech capability compared to other leading
countries
When comparing New Zealand's AgriTech capability to leading countries globally, six
standout nations consistently demonstrate advanced, strategically integrated AgriTech
ecosystems. These countries lead due to a combination of high R&D investment, strong
public-private partnerships, robust digital infrastructure, and targeted national
strategies. Below is an overview of each and the key areas in which they excel:
1. Netherlands
Strengths: Controlled-environment agriculture, precision horticulture, Agri-logistics
Why they are ahead:
Despite its small size, the Netherlands is the world's second-largest exporter of
agricultural products by value. It has achieved this through high-eiciency greenhouse
systems, automated crop monitoring, vertical farming, and water-eicient
technologies. Wageningen University & Research plays a pivotal role as a global centre
for agricultural innovation, driving collaboration between academia, government, and
industry.
2. Israel
Strengths: Drip irrigation, water management, arid-zone agriculture, Agri-startups
Why they are ahead:
Israel transformed desert conditions into productive agricultural land through
innovations in irrigation and water reuse. It maintains one of the highest ratios of
AgriTech startups per capita, supported by strong venture capital and state-backed
innovation programs. Technologies developed in Israel often focus on climate resilience
and resource eiciency.
37
3. United States
Strengths: Ag biotech (e.g. CRISPR10, GMOs11), farm robotics, AI-driven analytics, large-
scale commercial farming
Why they are ahead:
The U.S. benefits from a diverse agricultural base, world-leading universities, and
significant investment in R&D from both the public (e.g., USDA12) and private sectors.
Silicon Valley's integration with agriculture has birthed companies pioneering in
robotics, satellite monitoring, and big data platforms for predictive farming.
4. Australia
Strengths: Remote sensing, extensive grazing systems, drought resilience, Agri-
software platforms
Why they are ahead:
With similar environmental challenges to New Zealand, Australia has leveraged its large
land mass to develop technologies around extensive farming, satellite-based land
management, and livestock tracking. Government initiatives such as Ag2030 and
dedicated research centres like CSIRO’s Data6113 have fostered innovation aligned with
export growth and climate resilience.
5. Germany
Strengths: Agricultural engineering, automation, sustainability standards, Agri-
mechatronics
Why they are ahead:
Germany leads in precision machinery, sensors, and robotics for high-eiciency
farming. Its strength lies in the integration of advanced manufacturing with agriculture
(e.g., CLAAS and John Deere’s German operations), supported by high standards for
sustainable production and traceability. Public investment is focused on sustainable
intensification and digital agriculture.
10 CRISPR is a technology that can be used to edit genes within living organisms.
11 A genetically modified organism (GMO) is defined as an organism whose genome has been
engineered in the laboratory to favour the expression of desired physiological traits or the production
of desired biological products
12 The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) is a federal agency responsible for developing
and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, rural economic development, and food.
13 CSIRO’s Data61 is the data and digital specialist arm of Australia’s national science agency,
CSIRO. It focuses on solving Australia's greatest data-driven challenges through innovative
science and technology.
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6. Denmark
Strengths: Livestock genetics, traceability, environmental monitoring, dairy automation
Why they are ahead:
Denmark has developed a highly eicient and traceable livestock sector, especially in
dairy and pork. The country's early adoption of digital farm management systems and
its rigorous environmental standards (e.g. nitrogen budgeting) have driven the
development of integrated data platforms and breeding technologies that are both
productive and sustainable.
Why China Was Not Included in the List
a. Domestic-Focused Innovation:
China’s AgriTech advancements are largely tailored to its vast and diverse
internal agricultural sector. While the country invests heavily in R&D, much of its
output is focused on domestic food security, rural revitalization, and eiciency
improvements in local supply chains, rather than exportable AgriTech platforms.
b. Limited Transparency and Collaboration:
Unlike countries like the Netherlands or Israel, China’s AgriTech innovation
ecosystem is less open to international collaboration and technology sharing. IP
protection, data transparency, and integration with global standards can be
barriers for comparative analysis and partnership.
c. Strategic Self-Suiciency:
China’s strategy is framed around agricultural independence, food sovereignty,
and rural development — which, while critical, shapes its innovation dierently
from market-oriented countries driving global AgriTech exports and influence.
Key AgriTech Advances in China
Despite the above, China is making remarkable strides in several AgriTech domains:
1. Smart Farming and Rural Digitisation
• Technologies: AI-powered monitoring systems, autonomous tractors, 5G-
enabled IoT devices, drone fleets for pesticide spraying.
• Drivers: State-led initiatives like “Digital Villages” and “Smart Agriculture
Demonstration Zones”.
• Example: Alibaba’s ET Agricultural Brain integrates satellite imagery, sensors,
and AI to manage entire farms digitally.
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2. Agricultural Robotics and Automation
• Rapid development in orchard robots, rice transplanters, and automated
sorting systems.
• Deployment in high-labour regions to oset rural workforce shortages due to
urbanisation.
3. Gene Editing and Molecular Breeding
• Leading research in CRISPR and hybrid seed development (e.g. hybrid rice
strains).
• Strong state support through institutions like the Chinese Academy of
Agricultural Sciences.
4. Vertical Farming and Urban Agriculture
• Urban AgriTech hubs emerging around megacities.
• Integration of LED lighting, hydroponics, and AI for high-eiciency production
in space-constrained areas.
5. Blockchain for Traceability
• Used to verify supply chains for food safety scandals, especially in pork and
dair y.
• Tied to consumer confidence and export competitiveness.
6. Precision Water and Soil Management
• Advanced sensor networks for real-time irrigation and soil health diagnostics.
• Driven by chronic water scarcity in northern provinces.
China is a formidable force in AgriTech, particularly in scale and pace of
implementation. However, its innovation ecosystem tends to operate in a more
nationally oriented, state-driven, and less export-focused context than the six
countries initially highlighted. That said, China’s investments in AI, automation, and
biotech are reshaping the AgriTech landscape — and could position it as a global leader
should it decide to scale its technologies beyond its borders more aggressively.
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New Zealand's Position
New Zealand has internationally recognised capabilities in pastoral farming, animal
health, and environmental management, but it generally lags behind these leading
countries in large-scale commercialisation of AgriTech, automation, and integration of
digital systems. However, it has a unique advantage in provenance, trust-based supply
chains, and regenerative practices. Leveraging its natural brand and improving
innovation-to-market pipelines could enhance its competitive position globally.
Comparative Benchmarking
Category
NZ Position vs.
Leading Countries
Commentary
Sustainability
Integration
Leading Edge
World-class emissions tracking,
traceability, water quality metrics.
AI & Analytics
Adoption
Moderate
Use in niche platforms, but broader
adoption is early stage.
Farm Automation /
Robotics
Behind
Israel, Netherlands, US, and Japan
lead in field-deployed robotics.
Digital
Infrastructure
Lagging but
improving
Rural connectivity a key limitation,
although investments ongoing.
Startup Ecosystem Competitive
Relative to size, NZ is a strong
incubator of novel AgriTech ventures.
Policy-Technology
Linkage
Progressive
Government alignment with tech-
based regulation is a global model.
Table 2 - NZ vs. other Countries
Conclusion:
New Zealand agriculture is globally respected for high-integrity production systems
and sustainability leadership, and its AgriTech sector is innovative relative to its size.
However, technology adoption on-farm lags behind global leaders in areas like
automation, AI-driven decision tools, and connectivity infrastructure. This gap is not
due to a lack of innovation, but rather a combination of structural, cultural, and
logistical barriers.
To compete globally and lead regionally, New Zealand must scale infrastructure, de-
risk adoption for farmers, and focus on fit-for-purpose tech that acknowledges its
diversified and decentralised farm systems. With coordinated eort, NZ has the
41
potential to be not just a fast follower, but a global testbed for regenerative, digitally
enabled farming.
42
Section 3 - 26 Emerging
Cross-Sector Technologies
Applicable to New Zealand
Agriculture
43
CES - Emerging Cross-Sector Technologies Applicable to New
Zealand Agriculture
This section provides a curated overview of 26 emerging technologies identified at CES
2025 that may influence the future of agriculture in New Zealand. Each technology is
described in terms of its capabilities, potential agricultural use cases, relevance to local
conditions, and the challenges that may aect adoption. These technologies span
digital, biological, energy, and mobility domains, oering a broad lens on innovation
across the global agri-food system.
Emerging Cross-Sector Technologies – Summary List (In Detail p.46)
Note: the order does not signify the relevance or importance
1. Smart glasses
Hands-free augmented reality devices for in-field decision support, diagnostics,
training, and compliance.
2. Gene Modification Technologies
These tools enable targeted, inheritable changes to an organism’s genome with
unparalleled precision, speed, and aordability.
3. New Human-Computer Interfaces
Moving beyond traditional form-based interfaces and tabular dashboards toward
more intuitive, immersive, and multimodal platforms
4. Smart Clothing
Wearable garments embedded with sensors for health monitoring,
environmental detection, and ergonomic analysis.
5. Home Food Factories
Compact, automated food production systems enabling localised, personalised,
and resilient nutrition.
6. Humanoid Robots and Robotic Quadrupeds ("Robo Dogs")
Autonomous, terrain-capable machines for surveillance, logistics, and labour
supplementation.
7. Sustainability Technologies
Tools for carbon tracking, renewable energy integration, water reuse, and circular
farming systems.
8. Health & Safety Technologies
Real-time biometric and hazard monitoring systems that enhance wellbeing and
compliance on-farm.
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9. Connectivity in Remote Regions
Satellite, private 5G, mesh networks, and local edge processing solutions to
close rural digital gaps.
10. Advanced Irrigation Technologies
AI-managed, sensor-integrated systems for ultra-eicient, real-time water
management.
11. Edge Energy Systems
Decentralised renewable energy units (solar, wind, hydrogen, battery) for rural
resilience and autonomy.
12. AI-Embedded Hardware
Low-power, on-device AI processors for autonomy, sensing, and local decision-
making in disconnected areas.
13. AI-Embedded Agricultural Software
Intelligent software platforms for planning, prediction, optimisation, and
compliance.
14. EV Farm Utes
Electric utility vehicles for low-emissions farm transport, power export, and
digital integration.
15. Exoskeletons
Wearable robotic frames to reduce strain, extend endurance, and prevent injury
during physical farm tasks.
16. Carbon Accounting Technologies
Systems to measure, report, and verify on-farm emissions and sequestration in
line with climate policy.
17. GHG Emission Reduction – Enteric Methane
Biological, dietary, and genomic interventions to reduce methane from
ruminants.
18. Autonomous Farm Vehicles & Machinery
Self-driving tractors, sprayers, and robots for precision and labour-eicient
farming.
19. Battery-Powered Farm Machinery & Equipment
Electrified implements and mobile equipment oering quiet, clean, and eicient
alternatives to diesel.
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20. Flying Vehicles for On-Farm Transportation
eVTOLs14 and cargo drones enabling fast personnel or supply transport in large or
rugged terrain.
21. Biological & Synthetic Inputs
Microbials, bio-stimulants, RNA-based controls, and synthetic biology tools for
regenerative productivity.
22. Digital Twin Systems
Real-time, AI-enhanced virtual models of farms for simulation, optimisation, and
climate resilience planning.
23. Generative AI for Rural Support
Language-based AI assistants for compliance, communication, document
generation, and decision-making.
24. Climate Adaptation Technologies
Tools and infrastructure for managing drought, flood, frost, and climate-driven
crop-livestock variability.
25. Advanced Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
Gesture, voice, haptic, and neural control systems for intuitive, accessible
interaction with machines.
26. Blockchain & Smart Contracts
Decentralised systems for traceability, compliance automation, peer-to-peer
transactions, and ESG verification.
14 electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft
46
1. Technology Trend: Smart glasses
Overview:
Smart glasses represent a maturing class of wearable augmented reality (AR)
technology. The latest CES demonstrations showed improved ergonomics, voice-
activated interfaces, real-time data overlays, and integration with cloud platforms and
AI assistants. They oer a hands-free, heads-up display of information in the user’s field
of vision, often linked to enterprise or field-specific applications.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Real-Time
Decision
Support
Display livestock metrics,
pasture growth rates, or
irrigation status while in-field.
Useful for dairy, viticulture, and
horticulture managers
conducting visual assessments
or route-based inspections.
Augmented
Field
Diagnostics
Overlay pest/disease ID, nutrient
maps, or soil sensor data during
scouting or monitoring.
Particularly eective in kiwifruit,
apples, and arable cropping
systems where early
intervention is critical.
Remote
Support &
Training
Enable remote agronomists or
technicians to “see what the
operator sees” and guide
interventions.
Highly valuable for dispersed
rural communities and seasonal
sta training in real time.
Compliance &
Traceability
Hands-free voice or gesture-
based data capture for welfare
checks, treatment logging, or
chemical application records.
Supports NZ’s traceability
frameworks and increasingly
regulated compliance
environments.
Task
Automation
Overlay
Integration with autonomous
tractors or drones to monitor
system status, alerts, or control
interfaces.
Complements on-farm robotics
and digital twins, especially in
mixed-enterprise operations.
Table 3 - Technology Trend: Smart Glasses
Challenges and Considerations:
• Cost and Durability: Devices must be robust enough for NZ’s outdoor, often
rugged conditions and justify their cost over mobile or tablet alternatives.
• Battery Life and Connectivity: High-bandwidth features may struggle in areas
with limited connectivity unless paired with local edge processing.
• User Acceptance: Requires user training and cultural change, particularly
among older or less digitally confident operators.
47
Conclusion:
Smart glasses oer hands-free, contextual computing that aligns with emerging
agricultural workflows—particularly in data-rich, labour-constrained, and
compliance-intensive environments. While adoption may begin with advisors,
contractors, or progressive operations, their use could expand across New Zealand’s
agricultural landscape as part of the broader move toward augmented, connected,
and decentralised decision-making.
Figure 5 – Meta Smart Glasses
At CES 2025, Meta and Ray-Ban unveiled the latest iteration of their Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, showcasing
significant advancements in design, functionality, and artificial intelligence integration.
Camera & Audio: Equipped with a 12MP camera, users can capture high-quality photos and 1080p videos. The
inclusion of five microphones enables spatial audio recording, enhancing the immersive experience.
AI Integration: The glasses feature Meta AI, allowing users to initiate sessions with voice commands like "Hey Meta."
During these sessions, the AI can identify objects in the user's environment and provide contextual information.
Additionally, real-time translation capabilities facilitate multilingual conversations, although some latency and
occasional inaccuracies were noted
48
2. Technology Trend: Gene Modification Technologies
Overview:
Gene modification (GM) technologies—spanning CRISPR-based editing,
synthetic biology, and trait-specific enhancements—were prominently
featured at CES 2025 in applications ranging from climate-resilient crops to
bioengineered livestock. These tools enable targeted, inheritable changes to an
organism’s genome with unparalleled precision, speed, and aordability.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Application Area
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Climate-Resilient
Crops
Drought, heat, or salinity-tolerant
cultivars tailored for changing
regional microclimates.
Addresses growing climate
volatility in arable and
horticultural sectors.
Pest and Disease
Resistance
Inbuilt genetic resistance
reduces chemical inputs and
yield losses.
Crucial for reducing
pesticide reliance in
vineyards, apples, and
pasture.
Animal Health &
Productivity
Genetic selection for disease
resistance, feed eiciency, and
low-emission phenotypes.
Potential applications in
low-methane dairy breeds
and animal welfare traits.
Nutritional
Enhancement
Crops or animal products
biofortified with essential
nutrients.
Aligns with premium, value-
added nutrition markets for
exports.
Table 4 - Gene modification uses cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Regulatory and Public Perception: New Zealand’s current regulatory framework
is cautious, and public resistance to GMOs remains significant.
• Trade Risk: Adoption may impact market access in jurisdictions with strict GMO
restrictions.
• Ethical and Cultural Factors: Gene modification intersects with ethical
concerns and cultural perspectives, particularly in relation to biodiversity and
indigenous values.
Conclusion:
Gene modification technologies hold transformational potential for increasing the
resilience, productivity, and sustainability of NZ agriculture. However, realising this
potential requires a measured, transparent approach involving public engagement,
rigorous science, and clear alignment with national values and trade policy. If regulatory
49
pathways evolve, New Zealand could selectively adopt these technologies to maintain
competitiveness while upholding its environmental and ethical credentials.
Figure 6 - Gene-Editing & The Future - Expert Panel.
This session, moderated by Vonnie Estes, explored how gene
-editing and advanced plant-breeding techniques are
revolutionizing agriculture. Panellists discussed
innovations such as non-browning apples and pink pineapples,
emphasizing the role of science in developing resilient crops and addressing climate change challenges.
50
3. Technology Trend: New Human-Computer Interfaces
Overview:
CES 2025 revealed a marked shift in how users interact with
software and digital systems, moving beyond traditional form-
based interfaces and tabular dashboards toward more intuitive,
immersive, and multimodal platforms. For agriculture, this evolution
could redefine the farmer–software relationship.
Emerging Interface Types and use cases:
Interface Description
Potential Impact in NZ
Agriculture
Voice-Activated
Interfaces
Integration of natural
language processing (NLP)
for hands-free data input,
querying, and instruction.
Enables real-time logging of
observations, compliance tasks,
or stock movements without
needing to stop work.
Gesture-Based
and Spatial
Interfaces
Devices that recognise
hand signals or body
movement to interact with
field equipment or
dashboards.
Ideal for operators in machinery
cabs or glasshouses, reducing
screen dependence and
increasing eiciency.
Augmented Reality
(AR) Dashboards
Field-of-view overlays that
display key data while
maintaining situational
awareness.
Allows visualisation of data
overlays (e.g. soil moisture, yield
maps) during field scouting or
machinery operation.
Conversational AI
Assistants
Task-specific AI agents that
guide users through
decision workflows or
system diagnostics.
Reduces training time and
supports precision in
compliance-heavy areas like
chemical application or eluent
management.
Multisensory
Haptics
Interfaces using vibration,
pressure, or feedback
signals to convey
information physically.
Could support blind alerts,
machine feedback, or safety
signals in noisy or complex field
environments.
Table 5 - Human-computer Use cases
Conclusion:
As farm systems become more connected, the ability to interface with digital tools in a
seamless, non-disruptive manner will be critical. Emerging interfaces enable more
natural, situationally aware, and inclusive engagement with technology, reducing
cognitive load and extending utility across a wider range of user demographics. These
innovations have the potential to improve decision accuracy, reduce friction in
51
software adoption, and enhance safety and productivity across the agricultural
workforce in New Zealand.
Figure 7 - Naqi Neural Earbuds
At CES 2025, Naqi Logix introduced the Naqi Neural Earbuds, a groundbreaking non-invasive neural interface
designed to revolutionize human-device interaction. These earbuds enable users to control various devices—such as
computers, smartphones, smart home systems, and even wheelchairs—without relying on voice commands,
touchscreens, or physical buttons.
During demonstrations at CES 2025, users showcased the ability to perform tasks such as turning lights on and o
with a jaw clench or changing light colours with a quick eye movement, highlighting the device's responsiveness and
potential for seamless integration into daily activities.
The Naqi Neural Earbuds represent a significant step forward in human-machine interfaces, oering a glimpse into a
future where technology responds intuitively to our intentions.
52
4. Technology Trend: Smart Clothing
Overview:
Smart clothing refers to garments embedded with sensors,
electronics, and communication capabilities that enable real-time
physiological, environmental, and biomechanical data collection. CES
2025 showcased significant advancements in textile-embedded biosensors, washable
conductive fabrics, and low-power wireless data transmission. New wearables featured
stretchable electronics for improved comfort, AI-enhanced health monitoring, and
seamless integration with smartphones or cloud dashboards. These garments are
increasingly targeted toward physically demanding or safety-critical environments,
including industrial, sports, and field-based workforces.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Health & Fatigue
Monitoring
Track heart rate, core body
temperature, hydration, and
fatigue indicators.
Supports wellbeing and safety for
farm workers during long shifts,
heatwaves, or calving season.
Environmental
Hazard Detection
Detect harmful gases, UV
exposure, or temperature
extremes through
embedded sensors.
Useful in enclosed spaces (e.g.,
dairies, sheds) or outdoor tasks
during seasonal extremes.
Ergonomics &
Injury Prevention
Monitor posture, repetitive
motion, and strain to inform
task redesign or alerts.
Relevant to horticulture,
viticulture, and shearing, where
musculoskeletal injuries are
common.
Safety Alerts &
Location
Integrate GPS and motion
sensors to trigger alerts in
case of falls, immobility, or
isolation.
Valuable for lone workers or
remote locations such as
backcountry grazing blocks.
Workforce
Analytics
Aggregate activity and
health metrics for
operational insights or
regulatory reporting.
Could support employment
relations, training, or compliance
under NZ’s Health & Safety at
Work Act.
Table 6 - Smart clothing Use Cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Durability and Washability: Agricultural clothing must withstand frequent
laundering, mud, chemicals, and physical wear typical in NZ farming operations.
• Privacy and Consent: Biometric tracking raises ethical and legal considerations,
especially with employee data.
53
• Connectivity Limitations: Some features depend on real-time data sync, which
may be hampered in rural areas without stable networks.
• Cost and Scale: High-spec smart garments may not yet be aordable for all
operations unless provided through leasing or collective investment.
Conclusion:
Smart clothing introduces a new interface between humans and agricultural systems by
embedding intelligence directly into what farm workers already wear. Its greatest near-
term potential lies in health, safety, and operational awareness—especially in roles with
high physical demand or isolation risk. While widespread adoption will require progress
in cost, durability, and data governance, early deployments in New Zealand could
emerge through government-backed safety initiatives, seasonal labour management, or
high-risk sectors like shearing and forestry.
Figure 8 - Voormi smart clothing.
At CES 2025, VOORMI unveiled its groundbreaking smart clothing line featuring Mij
™ technology, earning a
CES Innovation Award in the Fashion Technology category. This innovation integrates advanced sensor
-
based textiles into everyday garments, enabling real
-time monitoring of the wearer's thermal environment.
Thermal Stress Monitoring
: Mij™ is designed to track and optimize thermal stress—a critical metric that
traditional wearables often overlook. By continuously monitoring body temperature and humidity, it
provides users with insights into their personal thermal performance, aiding in bett
er health management.
Seamless Integration
: Unlike conventional wearables that may require bulky hardware, Mij™
technology is
seamlessly embedded into VOORMI's
garments, such as their Ultralight Tech Tees. This design ensures
comfort without compromising functionality.
54
5. Technology Trend: Home Food Factories
Overview:
Home Food Factories refer to compact, automated, and often
modular appliances designed to produce food in domestic or small-
scale environments. At CES 2025, these systems combined indoor
vertical farming, mycelium protein synthesis, precision fermentation,
and AI-driven recipe personalisation in countertop or cabinet-sized units. Innovations
showcased included AI-managed hydroponic pods, cultured dairy machines, and
multipurpose bioreactors capable of producing plant-based or cell-based proteins on
demand. These developments reflect growing consumer interest in food sovereignty,
sustainability, and personalised nutrition.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Urban & Remote
Food Security
Enable localised food
production in urban
apartments or remote rural
homes.
Aligns with NZ’s goals for regional
resilience, especially in isolated
communities or during supply
chain disruptions.
Consumer
Education &
Transparency
Allow consumers to engage
directly with food
production processes.
Supports NZ provenance
narratives and traceability in
education or tourism contexts.
Agri-Tourism &
Hospitality
Integrate into lodges, eco-
retreats, or cellar doors for
on-site, fresh ingredient
production.
Adds innovation value in high-end
food tourism and premium
product storytelling.
R&D for Future
Food Innovation
Serve as micro-labs for
testing plant varieties,
fermentation processes, or
recipes.
Relevant for NZ AgriTech startups,
tertiary institutions, or niche food
entrepreneurs.
Climate-Resilient
Food Models
Produce food indoors,
independent of weather,
land, or seasonal
constraints.
A tool for future proofing diets in
areas vulnerable to climate
change or natural hazards.
Table 7 – Home Food Factories - Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Displacement Perception: May be seen as a threat to traditional agriculture if
positioned as a replacement rather than a complement.
55
• Economic Accessibility: Current systems are high-cost and targeted at early
adopters or niche markets.
• Technical Complexity: Some systems require technical maintenance or inputs
(e.g., starter cultures, cartridges) that could limit adoption.
• Energy and Resource Use: Full life-cycle impact depends on how electricity and
water are sourced and managed—especially relevant in NZ’s renewable energy
context.
Conclusion:
Home Food Factories represent a convergence of food tech, automation, and consumer
empowerment, oering new ways to localise production and reduce dependency on
external supply chains. While unlikely to compete with large-scale agricultural
production, they may become part of NZ’s diversified food ecosystem—particularly in
education, tourism, remote resilience, and innovation settings. The trend also signals
consumer shifts that NZ producers and marketers may need to consider in future
product development and export narratives.
Figure 9 - SavorEat Robot Chef
SavorEat showcased its innovative
Robot Chef, a 3D food printing system designed to revolutionize plant-
based dining through
personalization and automation
Personalized Nutrition: Users can customize their meals by selecting preferred protein and fat levels, patty
size, and cooking preferences via a proprietary web application. The Robot Chef then prepares the meal
accordingly, ensuring it aligns with individual dietary needs.
Eicient Production
: The system can produce a customized plant-
based patty in approximately three minutes,
utilizing infrared cooking technology to achieve the desired doneness.
Commercial Deployment
: In partnership with Sodexo, the Robot Chef has been introduced to university
campuses in the United States, such as the University of Denver, providing students with on
-demand,
personalized plant
-based meals
56
6. Technology Trend: Humanoid Robots and
Robotic Quadrupeds (Robo dogs)
Overview:
CES 2025 highlighted major advances in general-purpose
humanoid robots and four-legged robotic platforms,
commonly referred to as “robo dogs.” These machines now feature improved mobility,
dexterity, object recognition, autonomous navigation, and environmental awareness.
Humanoids demonstrated walking on uneven terrain, handling tools, or performing
repetitive physical tasks with human-like movement. Robotic quadrupeds showcased
terrain agility, sensor payload versatility, and AI-enhanced environmental perception.
While current use cases remain exploratory, these platforms are rapidly progressing
toward roles in logistics, inspection, and unstructured environments.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Labour
Supplementation
Perform repetitive, hazardous,
or strenuous physical tasks—
e.g., lifting, weeding,
harvesting.
Potentially osets labour
shortages in horticulture,
viticulture, and seasonal
operations.
Safety Monitoring &
Security
Patrol farms, detect intruders,
identify hazards, and relay
alerts using sensors and
cameras.
Useful for biosecurity, theft
deterrence, and monitoring
remote infrastructure in NZ
farms.
Remote Inspection &
Data Collection
Navigate rough terrain to
inspect livestock, crops, or
assets using thermal, visual,
or multispectral sensors.
Supports surveillance of
backcountry grazing,
fencing, water systems, or
forestry blocks.
Biosecurity &
Environmental
Sensing
Detect disease outbreaks,
soil anomalies, or invasive
species via real-time sensing
and analysis.
Supports NZ’s national
biosecurity and
conservation goals in both
farmland and native areas.
Human-Robot
Collaboration
Work alongside humans for
complex or variable tasks—
e.g., precision pruning, tool
handling, or packing.
Could enable high-tech
packhouses or adaptive
tasks during harvest in
mixed enterprise systems.
Table 8 - Robot humanoids - Use cases
57
Challenges and Considerations:
• Cost and ROI: Current units are expensive; commercial agricultural deployment
will require robust, cost-justified business models.
• Ruggedisation: Devices must withstand NZ’s weather, mud, terrain variability,
and unpredictable biological environments.
• Ethical and Regulatory Readiness: Issues of liability, worker displacement,
animal interaction, and robotic autonomy require societal and legal adaptation.
• Cultural Fit and Trust: Widespread acceptance—particularly among rural
communities—will depend on perceived value, transparency, and control
mechanisms.
Conclusion:
While still at the frontier of robotics, humanoid and quadruped platforms are evolving
rapidly and hold transformative potential for agriculture. Their future roles may span
labour supplementation, biosecurity patrol, remote sensing, and complex task
assistance—especially in labour-constrained or geographically challenging
environments. For New Zealand, early exploration may focus on research farms,
AgriTech testbeds, or high-value operations where their agility and versatility can be
refined before broader adoption.
Figure 10 - Unitree Robotics
At CES 2025,
Unitree Robotics stood out for showcasing advanced humanoid robots and robotic dogs
with potential applications in agriculture and beyond.
G1 Humanoid Robot:
The G1 is a versatile, bipedal robot equipped with advanced sensors, including
LiDAR and depth cameras, allowing it to navigate complex environments. Its adaptability makes it suitable
for tasks such as crop monitoring, greenhouse management, and equipmen
t handling in agricultural
settings.
Go2 Robotic Dog: An agile quadruped robot capable of traversing various terrains. The Go2's mobility and
sensor suite enable it to perform tasks like field inspections, livestock monitoring, and perimeter security
on farms
58
7. Technology Trend: Sustainability Technologies
Overview:
Sustainability was a central theme across CES 2025, with
innovations spanning carbon capture, renewable energy systems,
circular economy platforms, low-impact manufacturing, and AI-driven
sustainability analytics. Exhibitors showcased smart water reuse systems, solar-to-
hydrogen converters, real-time environmental dashboards, biodegradable packaging
solutions, and modular systems for decentralised energy and waste management.
Many of these technologies are designed to address regulatory pressures, ESG
(Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting demands, and consumer expectations
for climate-positive products.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Carbon Monitoring
& Reduction
Use IoT, AI, and satellite-
linked systems to measure
and manage on-farm
emissions.
Supports NZ’s environmental
goals and Climate Change
Commission pathways for ag
emissions.
Energy
Decentralisation
Integrate microgrids, solar-
hydrogen, and battery storage
for on-farm energy
independence.
Enhances resilience in o-grid
rural operations and reduces
dependency on fossil fuels.
Circular Waste
Systems
Convert farm waste into
usable energy, fertiliser, or
packaging through modular
systems.
Aligns with circular economy
goals in dairy, horticulture,
and viticulture.
Precision Water
Management
Apply AI-enhanced water
capture, recycling, and
distribution systems.
Particularly relevant in
drought-prone regions like
Hawke’s Bay and Canterbury.
ESG & Traceability
Infrastructure
Embed sustainability
credentials in product supply
chains using IoT and
blockchain.
Valuable for export-facing
producers seeking market
access under evolving global
standards.
Table 9 - Sustainability Technology Uses cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Integration Complexity: Eective deployment often requires system redesigns
and interoperability across legacy infrastructure.
• Economic Viability: Technologies must be cost-eective at small to medium
scales typical of NZ farms and orchards.
59
• Data Overload: Real-time sustainability monitoring can overwhelm unless well-
managed and clearly actionable.
• Verification Standards: Many systems rely on emerging carbon or water
accounting standards, which may evolve over time.
Conclusion:
Sustainability technologies are moving from aspirational to operational. As global
markets, regulators, and consumers push for verifiable sustainability, these tools will
become increasingly core to New Zealand’s agricultural competitiveness. While early
adoption may be led by exporters and integrated operations, the trend is likely to
cascade across the sector, particularly as digital infrastructure improves and co-
investment models emerge.
Figure 11 - MCE’s Styrofoam Upcycling
MCE Inc. introduced an innovative solution addressing both plastic waste management and sustainable agriculture.
Their technology involves converting Styrofoam into organic fertilizer through a process utilizing mealworms.
The system operates by processing Styrofoam into feed blocks, which are then consumed by mealworms. These
mealworms can digest up to 92% of the Styrofoam, transforming it into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer within 24 hours.
This method significantly reduces environmental impact, achieving a 93% reduction in carbon emissions compared
to traditional recycling and over 99% compared to incineration.
The resulting fertilizer enhances soil health, promoting sustainable farming practices. This approach aligns with
global eorts to improve food security and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers.
60
8. Technology Trend: Health & Safety Technologies
Overview:
Health and safety innovations at CES 2025 focused on proactive
risk detection, real-time health monitoring, predictive analytics,
and AI-driven response systems. Key technologies included
wearable biosensors, autonomous alert systems, computer
vision for workplace safety compliance, fall detection, and
environmental hazard monitoring. These solutions are increasingly embedded in smart
clothing, mobile platforms, or edge devices, enabling continuous oversight of human
wellbeing in dynamic and hazardous environments.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Worker Vital Sign
Monitoring
Detect heat stress, fatigue, or
abnormal biometrics through
wearables or smart apparel.
Supports early intervention
during high-risk periods such
as calving, harvest, or
mustering.
Lone Worker Safety
Trigger automated alerts for
falls, immobility, or dangerous
conditions via mobile or
wearable devices.
Enhances safety for isolated
rural workers, particularly in
hill country and remote areas.
Environmental
Hazard Detection
Monitor for harmful gases, UV
radiation, chemical exposure,
or extreme weather events.
Useful in confined spaces
(e.g., sheds) or volatile
microclimates typical of NZ
farms.
Machinery
Proximity &
Collision Alerts
Use geofencing, radar, or
vision AI to prevent accidents
between workers and
equipment.
Particularly relevant in
packhouses, orchards, and
multi-operator farm
machinery environments.
Health & Safety
Compliance
Automation
Automate incident logging,
hazard identification, and
safety checklists via mobile or
voice interfaces.
Supports NZ’s Health and
Safety at Work Act and
reduces administrative
burden.
Table 10 - Health & Safety Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Adoption Barriers: Uptake may be limited by cost, data privacy concerns, or
lack of digital literacy among some farm operators.
• Connectivity Gaps: Real-time monitoring depends on reliable cellular or mesh
networks, which may be lacking in rural areas.
61
• Alert Fatigue: Systems must be carefully calibrated to avoid excessive
notifications or false positives.
• Integration Needs: Many technologies work best when embedded into broader
workforce or asset management systems.
Conclusion:
Health and safety technologies are becoming more intelligent, connected, and
preventative. For New Zealand agriculture, these tools oer critical value in protecting
people working in physically demanding, remote, and often unpredictable
environments. Early implementation may focus on high-risk or large-scale operations,
but as systems become more accessible, they are likely to be standard tools across the
sector—contributing to both worker wellbeing and compliance assurance.
Figure 12 - Nomo Smart Care.
Nomo Smart Care, introduced at CES 2025, is a privacy-focused, AI-powered monitoring system designed to enhance
safety and well-being in home environments. While initially developed for eldercare, its features can be adapted to
agricultural settings to support the health and safety of farm workers.
This system uses a hub, satellites, and tags to monitor daily activity, including detecting falls and flagging irregularities
in routines, with alerts sent to caregivers via the Nomo app.
Potential Applications in Agriculture include: Worker Safety: Monitoring the well-being of farm workers, especially
those operating heavy machinery or working in isolated areas. Health Monitoring: Tracking vital signs and activity
levels to prevent heat-related illnesses or overexertion. Emergency Response: Quickly identifying accidents or
health emergencies and alerting supervisors or emergency services. Privacy Preservation: Ensuring workers' privacy
while maintaining safety through non-invasive monitoring methods.
62
9. Technology Trend: Connectivity in Remote Regions
Overview:
CES 2025 demonstrated continued innovation in extending high-speed,
reliable digital connectivity to underserved and geographically remote
areas. Key technologies included next-generation low-earth orbit
(LEO) satellite internet, private 5G networks, long-range Wi-Fi, and
mesh networking systems. New oerings featured ruggedised edge computing nodes,
plug-and-play base stations, and multi-band connectivity solutions that seamlessly
switch between terrestrial and satellite networks. These technologies aim to close the
rural connectivity gap and enable real-time data flows essential for automation, safety,
and productivity.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Remote Asset
Monitoring
Enable real-time data
collection from pumps, tanks,
gates, and remote sensors.
Critical for hill country farms,
back-blocks, and forestry
areas beyond cellular
coverage.
Smart Farm
Infrastructure
Support IoT systems for
irrigation, livestock tracking,
pasture analytics, and weather
data.
Enhances productivity and
resilience across mixed-
enterprise NZ farming
systems.
Remote Work and
Advisory Services
Facilitate remote agronomy
consultations, telehealth, and
compliance reporting.
Reduces geographic
disadvantage for rural
communities and service
providers.
Edge-AI for
Autonomous
Systems
Allow drones, robots, and
machinery to function with
minimal latency and localised
processing.
Enables precision ag and
robotics even in regions with
intermittent broadband
access.
Community
Connectivity &
Education
Improve access to online
learning, training, and digital
extension services.
Addresses the digital divide in
rural NZ, especially for Māori
landowners and
smallholders.
Table 11 - Remote Region connectivity Use Cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Installation and Maintenance Costs: Even as hardware prices drop, initial
setup and ongoing support remain barriers in sparsely populated areas.
63
• Bandwidth vs. Demand Mismatch: Some platforms still struggle under real-
time video, sensor-rich, or multi-user demands.
• Data Security & Sovereignty: Expanded connectivity raises concerns about
ownership, control, and export of farm-level data.
• Technology Fragmentation: Multiple overlapping standards (Wi-Fi, LoRa,
cellular, satellite) require strategic coordination to avoid siloed systems.
Conclusion:
Robust, rural-ready connectivity is foundational to the digital transformation of
agriculture. Emerging solutions showcased at CES 2025 oer practical paths to bridging
New Zealand’s rural connectivity gaps—enabling everything from smart farming
systems to remote safety alerts and workforce engagement. Strategic deployment,
supported by public-private investment and community-level coordination, will be
essential to unlocking their full potential across the agricultural sector.
Figure 13 - Morse Micro WiFi HaLow router
At CES 2025, Morse Micro introduced a groundbreaking Wi-Fi HaLow router capable of delivering connectivity over
distances up to 9.9 miles (approximately 16 kilometres). Operating in the sub-1 GHz frequency band, this technology
oers extended range and superior penetration through obstacles compared to traditional Wi-Fi, making it
particularly suitable for expansive and challenging environments like agricultural settings.
The capabilities of Wi-Fi HaLow technology can be leveraged in various agricultural applications: Precision Farming:
Enables real-time monitoring of soil conditions, crop health, and environmental factors through widespread sensor
networks. Livestock Management: Facilitates tracking and health monitoring of animals over large grazing areas
using connected devices. Equipment Monitoring: Allows for the tracking and management of agricultural machinery
across extensive fields. Remote Surveillance: Supports the deployment of security cameras and sensors in remote
locations without relying on cellular networks.
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10. Technology Trend: Advanced Irrigation Technologies
Overview:
CES 2025 highlighted a new wave of intelligent irrigation systems
designed to optimise water use eiciency and improve yield
sustainability. These technologies integrate real-time environmental
sensing, AI-based decision support, precision hardware, and
autonomous control. Demonstrated systems included self-adjusting
driplines, AI-coordinated irrigation drones, and cloud-connected moisture monitoring
networks. Advances in edge computing and wireless mesh networks have enabled
ultra-localised irrigation at the plant or tree level, even in disconnected or rugged areas.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Precision Irrigation
Scheduling
Use real-time data (soil
moisture, weather, crop
type) to tailor water delivery.
Reduces water use while
optimising growth in
Canterbury, Hawke’s Bay, and
Central Otago.
Crop-Zone Specific
Application
Apply variable rates based
on microclimate, crop
health, or topography.
Addresses the variability found
in vineyards, orchards, and
mixed-contour fields.
Autonomous
Irrigation Drones
Deploy drones for aerial
irrigation in targeted zones
or inaccessible terrain.
Oers flexibility for high-value
crops in terrain-challenged
areas such as Marlborough
hillsides.
Leak and Eiciency
Monitoring
Detect anomalies,
blockages, or over-irrigation
in real time.
Reduces maintenance costs
and water waste across dairy
and arable systems.
Integration with
Sustainability
Metrics
Link irrigation data to water
use reporting or regenerative
practice dashboards.
Supports NZ’s freshwater
reforms and market-facing
sustainability claims.
Table 12 - Use Cases for advanced irrigation technologies
Challenges and Considerations:
• Infrastructure Compatibility: Retrofitting legacy systems can be complex or
costly without broader digital integration.
• Sensor Reliability: Sensors must maintain accuracy across diverse NZ soils and
weather extremes.
• Connectivity Dependencies: Real-time systems often require strong network
connectivity; edge solutions may be needed in remote zones.
65
• Farmer Engagement: Successful implementation depends on trust in
recommendations and intuitive interfaces for users.
Conclusion:
Advanced irrigation technologies are rapidly maturing, oering fine-grained control over
one of agriculture’s most critical resources—water. In New Zealand, where irrigation
intersects with environmental regulation and climate volatility, these tools oer clear
economic and ecological value. Their adoption is likely to expand through high-value
horticulture and regulated catchment areas, potentially supported by co-funding
models and sustainability-driven market incentives.
Figure 14 – Farmonaut
At CES 2025, several advanced irrigation technologies were unveiled, oering promising applications for horticulture,
viticulture, and broader agricultural practices. Notably:
Farmonaut showcased its suite of precision agriculture tools aimed at enhancing irrigation efficiency
Satellite
-Based Monitoring: Provides real-time data on crop health and soil moisture levels.
AI Advisory System
: Offers recommendations for optimal irrigation scheduling based on collected data.
Water Efficiency
: Implementing Farmonaut's technology has led to a reported 40% reduction in water usage
through smart sensor integration.
66
11. Technology Trend: Edge Energy
Overview:
Edge Energy refers to decentralised, often modular energy systems
capable of producing, storing, and managing power at or near the point
of use. CES 2025 showcased compact hybrid systems combining solar,
wind, hydrogen, and battery storage, integrated with AI for load balancing and predictive
maintenance. Many platforms were designed for o-grid or edge-of-grid scenarios, with
plug-and-play microgrids, containerised energy pods, and peer-to-peer energy trading
capabilities. These systems align with a shift toward energy autonomy, resilience, and
sustainability—particularly in remote, high-demand, or climate-exposed environments.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
On-Farm
Renewable
Generation
Generate power using solar,
wind, or hybrid systems
directly on-farm.
Reduces diesel reliance in
remote dairy sheds, irrigation
pumps, and outlying
infrastructure.
Microgrid
Resilience
Enable farms or clusters of
properties to operate
independently from the main
grid.
Critical for resilience in storm-
prone regions or during
national energy supply
fluctuations.
Edge-Based IoT
and Automation
Support
Provide stable local power for
precision ag systems,
sensors, and autonomous
machinery.
Power distributed systems in
areas like hill country or large
horticultural blocks.
Electrification of
Mobile Assets
Support charging of e-
tractors, e-bikes, or
autonomous field robots on-
site.
Aligns with NZ’s agricultural
decarbonisation strategies and
emerging electric machinery
trends.
Peer-to-Peer
Energy Trading
Sell surplus energy within
rural communities or
cooperatives via blockchain-
enabled systems.
Encourages local value
creation and farmer-led energy
innovation, especially in o-
grid regions.
Table 13 - Edge Energy Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Capital Cost and Payback: While costs are falling, upfront investment remains
high without subsidies or co-investment.
• Technical Integration: Systems must interface reliably with farm operations,
legacy grid connections, and digital tools.
67
• Maintenance Requirements: O-grid solutions may require new skills or
support models, particularly for hydrogen systems.
• Policy and Market Alignment: Energy regulation and incentive schemes must
support decentralised models in rural areas.
Conclusion:
Edge Energy systems oer a transformative opportunity for New Zealand agriculture to
become more energy-resilient, carbon-eicient, and autonomous. With increasing
climate variability, grid pressure, and emissions targets, these technologies can serve
as foundational infrastructure for the digital farm of the future. Their relevance is
strongest in remote, high-energy-use, or sustainability-driven operations—particularly
where energy security and environmental stewardship are paramount.
Figure 15 - Agrivoltaics solar panels
At CES 2025, there were numerous examples of on-farm renewable generation like HydGene Renewable's system for
converting agricultural waste into green hydrogen, biogas production from cow manure, and "agrivoltaics" integrating
solar panels with grazing or crop fields, all showcasing sustainable practices.
.
68
12. Technology Trend: AI-Embedded Hardware
Overview:
AI-embedded hardware refers to devices that incorporate
artificial intelligence directly into physical components—
such as chips, sensors, cameras, and control systems—
allowing real-time, on-device decision-making without relying on cloud connectivity.
CES 2025 featured ultra-low-power AI chips, edge-AI sensor modules, autonomous
vision processors, and purpose-built agri-robotics boards. These systems deliver faster
processing, greater data privacy, and robust performance in field environments,
particularly where network infrastructure is limited or intermittent.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Autonomous
Equipment
Navigation
Enable tractors, drones, and
robots to process visual and
spatial data on-device.
Critical for precision farming in
areas with poor connectivity or
complex terrain (e.g., hill
country).
On-Animal
Sensing and
Behavioural AI
Use lightweight AI hardware in
ear tags or collars to monitor
health, movement, and
welfare.
Supports real-time livestock
decision-making in extensive
NZ pasture systems.
Pest and Disease
Detection
Equip field-deployed cameras
with AI to detect early signs of
crop stress or infestation.
High relevance for kiwifruit,
viticulture, and horticulture
sectors focused on quality and
yield.
Resource Control
Optimisation
Use embedded AI to manage
irrigation, fertiliser, or
chemical application based
on sensor feedback.
Enhances water and nutrient
use eiciency in Canterbury,
Hawke’s Bay, and other
irrigated zones.
On-Farm
Processing and
Grading
Deploy smart cameras and
sensors in packhouses for
real-time sorting and quality
control.
Valuable in apple, kiwifruit, and
vegetable packing operations
aiming to reduce waste and
improve margins.
Table 14 - AI embedded hardware Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Device Interoperability: Many systems are proprietary; integration into farm-
wide platforms remains complex.
• Power Supply and Durability: Field-deployed AI hardware must be rugged and
operate in diverse climatic conditions, often o-grid.
69
• Skill Requirements: Managing, calibrating, and maintaining embedded AI
systems may require new training for rural workforces.
• Cost Justification: Some applications are still emerging and must demonstrate
ROI for small to mid-scale operations.
Conclusion:
AI-embedded hardware marks a pivotal shift from cloud-dependence to local
intelligence, enabling smart, responsive systems that operate at the edge—where
agricultural action happens. For New Zealand, where connectivity gaps and operational
diversity are major factors, such technologies can unlock automation, early
intervention, and system resilience. Their deployment is likely to begin in targeted, high-
value operations, but as costs decrease and interoperability improves, they will become
a foundational layer in the digital infrastructure of future farms.
Figure
16 - AI embedded Ag Hardware
S
everal companies unveiled AI-embedded hardware products with potential applications in agriculture,
particularly in horticulture, viticulture, and broad
-acre farming. Notable innovations included:
John Deere
– Autonomous Tractors with AI Integration
KIOTI/Daedong
– Multifunctional Agricultural Robot
Kubota
– Smart Autonomous Sprayer
These AI
-embedded hardware solutions demonstrated at CES 2025 highlight the integration of advanced
technologies in agriculture, aiming to enhance productivity, sustainability, and eiciency across various farming
practices.
70
13. Technology Trend: AI-Embedded Agricultural Software
Overview:
AI-embedded agricultural software refers to digital platforms
that integrate machine learning, predictive analytics, and
autonomous decision-making capabilities directly into on-
farm or cloud-connected software tools. CES 2025 revealed a
new generation of "invisible AI" platforms — embedded within farm management
systems, robotics, digital twins, and geospatial tools — designed to learn from and
optimise operations continuously. These systems move beyond static data visualisation
to provide real-time insights, automated prescriptions, and adaptive decision support.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Adaptive Farm
Management
Platforms
Automatically adjust plans for
irrigation, grazing, spraying, or
feeding based on real-time data.
Enables dynamic responses
to NZ’s variable weather,
terrain, and regulatory
conditions.
Predictive Yield
and Health
Models
Use AI to predict crop or animal
performance based on historical
and sensor data.
Supports better planning
and risk management in
horticulture, viticulture, and
dairy sectors.
Digital
Compliance &
Auditing
Automate documentation,
traceability, and alerting to meet
compliance and assurance
standards.
Aligns with NZ’s regulatory
and export certification
frameworks (e.g., FAP+,
NAIT).
Integrated
Decision Support
Dashboards
Fuse data from multiple systems
(sensors, weather, finance,
inventory) into contextualised
recommendations.
Valuable for farm advisors,
consultants, and corporate
ag managers navigating
complexity.
Self-Learning
Robotics and
Autonomy
Embed AI models within robotics
to improve task execution over
time (e.g., weeding, spraying).
Reduces manual labour
requirements and enables
site-specific action in
labour-constrained regions.
Table 15 - AI embedded software Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Data Governance and Sovereignty: Ensuring farmers retain ownership and
control over their operational data.
• Trust and Transparency: Black-box AI models may generate decisions that are
not easily explained or trusted by users.
71
• Interoperability with Existing Systems: Many NZ farms use diverse digital and
analogue systems—seamless integration is essential.
• Digital Literacy: Eective use of AI-enhanced tools depends on user
understanding and ongoing support, particularly in SMEs.
Conclusion:
AI-embedded agricultural software represents a shift from decision support to decision
enablement, oering a way to scale precision agriculture, reduce cognitive load, and
future-proof operations. For New Zealand, these platforms can help reconcile
sustainability mandates with productivity goals and are likely to find early traction in
sectors with high compliance demands or tight labour availability. As AI becomes more
context-aware and explainable, its value will expand across advisory networks,
producer groups, and farm businesses of all scales.
Figure 17 – Software based Smart Agriculture
At CES 2025, several AI
-embedded software solutions were showcased, oering significant advancements for the
agricultural sector. Notable examples include
d:
• MetaFarmers with TapFarmers,
• Farmonaut’s Climate-Smart Farming Platform,
• Kubota’s AI-Driven Crop Imaging and Analysis,
• John Deere’s Autonomous Operations and AI Integration.
72
14. Technology Trend: EV Farm Utes
Overview:
Electric farm utility vehicles (EV Utes) are entering the
mainstream, with CES 2025 highlighting robust, all-terrain
models tailored for rural and agricultural applications. These vehicles feature enhanced
torque delivery, regenerative braking, extended battery ranges, and modular energy
systems. Many models showcased onboard power export capabilities, smart telemetry,
over-the-air diagnostics, and compatibility with digital farm management platforms.
Built for both performance and sustainability, EV Utes are positioned as multipurpose
tools that go beyond transport—functioning as mobile energy and data platforms for
connected farms.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Daily Farm
Operations
Provide clean, quiet, and high-
torque transport for daily use
across paddocks and races.
Reduces diesel use and
emissions on NZ farms,
particularly where Ute usage is
frequent and short-range.
Power Export for
Remote Tools
Supply electricity for fencing
tools, pumps, or temporary
field infrastructure via onboard
outlets.
Valuable in remote areas
lacking mains power, such as
backcountry grazing blocks or
vineyards.
Integration with
Farm Software
Use GPS, sensors, and
wireless data to sync
movements and tasks with
farm management systems.
Supports traceability,
compliance, and asset tracking
on mixed-enterprise NZ farms.
Low-Carbon
Transport
Reporting
Automatically log vehicle
usage for environmental
audits and carbon footprint
calculations.
Aligns with NZ’s environmental
goals and market-facing
sustainability certifications.
Assisted or
Autonomous
Capabilities
Enable future features such as
semi-autonomous navigation
on repetitive farm routes.
Useful for tasks like feed runs or
towing across large farms,
especially during sta
shortages.
Table 16 - EV Farm Ute Use Cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Range and Terrain Performance: Some early models may struggle with heavy
loads, rough terrain, or long backcountry routes.
73
• Charging Infrastructure: Limited rural charging options require planning or
supplementary energy systems (e.g., solar-battery units).
• Upfront Capital Cost: EV Utes remain more expensive than ICE 15equivalents;
TCO 16savings depend on energy pricing and use patterns.
• Ruggedisation and Trust: Models must prove durability under NZ’s conditions—
mud, water crossings, frost, and salt exposure.
Conclusion:
EV farm Utes are an emerging solution that merges the goals of decarbonisation,
operational eiciency, and digital integration. While full rural adoption in New Zealand
will require further ruggedisation, infrastructure development, and economic
incentives, early adopters—particularly in high-use, short-haul, or sustainability-led
operations—stand to benefit significantly. Over time, EV Utes will become central to
farm logistics, on-site power delivery, and carbon reporting frameworks.
Figure 18 - Scout Terra, an all-electric pickup truck
Scout Motors introduced the Scout Terra, an all-electric pickup truck designed with a rugged, body-on-frame
platform. The Terra oers both fully electric and range-extended versions, providing up to 500 miles (800 km) of range.
Its o-road capabilities and durable construction make it suitable for agricultural tasks requiring reliable and
sustainable transportation.
John Deere presented its first-ever electric pickup concept, aiming to extend its expertise in agricultural machinery to
on-road utility vehicles. While specific details are limited, the concept emphasizes integration with John Deere's
existing ecosystem, potentially oering features tailored for agricultural use.
15 Internal combustion engine
16 Total cost of Ownership
74
15. Technology Trend: Exoskeletons
Overview:
Exoskeletons are wearable robotic systems designed to augment
human strength, endurance, and posture control. At CES 2025,
exoskeletons were presented in lighter, more ergonomic formats
with passive (mechanical support), powered (motorised
assistance), or hybrid designs. Innovations include AI-assisted motion sensing, load
balancing, and adaptive torque systems that respond in real-time to user movement.
Originally developed for industrial and medical settings, exoskeletons are now targeting
fieldwork applications in agriculture, construction, logistics, and manufacturing.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Musculoskeletal
Injury Prevention
Reduce strain on the back,
shoulders, and knees during
repetitive or strenuous tasks.
Relevant in sectors like
shearing, horticulture, and
viticulture where physical
load is high.
Task Endurance and
Fatigue Reduction
Extend the duration workers
can perform tasks like
pruning, picking, lifting, or
milking.
Supports productivity and
safety during seasonal
peaks such as harvest or
lambing.
Workforce
Inclusivity
Enable older or physically
limited workers to participate
in manual agricultural roles.
Addresses labour shortages
and supports ageing rural
populations across NZ.
Safety in Sloped or
Uneven Terrain
Provide balance and support
during tasks on hillsides or
irregular topography.
Applicable to hill country
sheep farms or sloped
vineyards in regions like
Central Otago.
Robotics-Human
Integration
Assist with tasks where full
automation is not feasible, but
augmentation improves
eiciency.
Useful in mixed cropping or
tasks requiring dexterity,
judgement, and strength in
tandem.
Table 17 - Exoskeleton Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Cost and Accessibility: While prices are declining, exoskeletons are still an
investment and may require leasing or pooling models.
• User Training and Comfort: Adoption depends on ease of use, adjustability, and
sustained comfort during long tasks.
75
• Durability and Maintenance: Devices must withstand weather, dust, moisture,
and intensive fieldwork environments.
• Cultural Fit: Acceptance may vary based on perception of robotics, especially in
traditional farming cultures.
Conclusion:
Exoskeletons oer a pragmatic step toward human-machine collaboration in
agriculture—enhancing safety, reducing fatigue, and expanding workforce capability
without full automation. In New Zealand, they are particularly suited to sectors with
high manual workload, seasonal intensity, and constrained labour supply. As costs fall
and wearability improves, exoskeletons may find broader acceptance not only among
farm workers but also within Agri-tourism, research farms, and innovation-driven
producers.
Figure 19 - XoMotion by Human in Motion Robotics
At CES 2025, several exoskeleton technologies were
showcased, oering potential applications in agriculture by
enhancing worker safety, reducing fatigue, and improving
eiciency. Notable innovations include:
XoMotion
is a self-balancing, hands-free exoskeleton that
mimics natural human movement. It is designed to assist
individuals with mobility impairments but also has potential
applications in agriculture by reducing the physical burden
on workers during repetitive
tasks. Its omnidirectional
movement capability allows for complex ambulatory tasks,
enhancing versatility in various farming operations.
The
Hypershell Carbon X is a lightweight, AI-powered
exoskeleton designed for outdoor use.
Weighing just 2.4 kg, it
provides up to 800W of assistive power, increasing lower
limb strength by 40% and reducing physical exertion by 30%.
Its AI
Motion Engine algorithm detects movements and
adjusts support in real
-time across 10 assistance modes.
With IP54 dust and water resistance, it is suitable for various
agricultural tasks, such as harvesting and fieldwork
.
The
Apogee Ultra by German Bionic oers up to 36 kilos of
dynamic lift assistance, significantly reducing strain on the
lower back during heavy lifting tasks. It also assists with
walking, making long distances feel shorter. This
exoskeleton is particularly beneficial for labour
-intensive
agricultural activit
ies, such as loading and transporting
produce.
These exoskeletons represent a growing trend in integrating
wearable robotics into agriculture, aiming to improve worker
well
-being and operational eiciency.
76
16. Technology Trend: Carbon Accounting
Overview:
Carbon accounting technologies focus on the measurement, reporting,
and verification (MRV) of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and carbon
sequestration across supply chains. At CES 2025, the emphasis was on
automation, granularity, and integration. New platforms showcased embedded IoT
sensors, satellite and drone-based monitoring, AI-driven emissions modelling, and
blockchain-secured reporting. These systems aim to support compliance with
regulatory frameworks, inform sustainability strategy, and enable access to carbon
markets through transparent, auditable data streams.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
On-Farm
Emissions
Measurement
Quantify methane, nitrous
oxide, and CO₂ emissions from
livestock, fertiliser, and
machinery.
Directly supports NZ’s
environmental stance and
future pricing mechanisms.
Carbon
Sequestration
Modelling
Track soil carbon levels, forestry
osets, and regenerative
practice outcomes.
Aligns with pastoral and
forestry landowners
participating in ETS or
biodiversity credits.
Automated
Reporting and
Audit Trails
Streamline compliance
documentation for
environmental schemes and
export market requirements.
Useful for producers in
audited supply chains or
exporting to regulated global
markets.
Input and Activity
Tracking
Integrate fertiliser use, grazing
management, feed types, and
energy sources into a carbon
model.
Enables farm-level
benchmarking and
mitigation planning.
Market Access
and Certification
Link emissions data to ESG
metrics, ecolabels, or voluntary
carbon oset programs.
Strengthens NZ’s “clean and
green” narrative in high-
value global food markets.
Table 18 - Use case for Carbon accounting
Challenges and Considerations:
• Data Accuracy and Verification: Ground-truthing, calibration, and model
transparency are essential for trust and compliance.
• Farmer Burden and Usability: Tools must be simple and actionable—ideally
integrated into existing farm management systems.
77
• Cost of Measurement: High-resolution monitoring (e.g., LIDAR, lab-based soil
tests) can be expensive without subsidies or shared platforms.
• Evolving Policy Environment: NZ’s emissions framework is still developing;
technology must adapt as rules and incentives evolve
Conclusion:
Carbon accounting technologies are becoming an operational necessity for agriculture,
not only as a compliance tool but as a pathway to market dierentiation and financial
resilience. In New Zealand, where emissions from agriculture are both high-profile and
politically sensitive, credible, automated carbon measurement is essential. These tools
will underpin the sector’s ability to respond to policy shifts, participate in ecosystem
services markets, and demonstrate global leadership in sustainable farming.
Figure 20 – D-Carbonize booth at CES
S
everal technologies relevant to carbon accounting and sustainability were showcased, oering potential applications
in agriculture and related sectors. While specific carbon accounting tools tailored
exclusively for agriculture were not
prominently featured, the event highlighted various innovations that contribute to sustainable farming practices and
environmental monitoring.
The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices for real
-time emissions monitoring was a significant focus. Such
systems enable continuous tracking of greenhouse gas emissions, facilitating more accurate carbon accounting and
compliance with environmen
tal regulations.
The event
also highlighted advancements in sustainable energy, including battery and energy storage technologies,
green hydrogen, and small modular nuclear reactors. These innovations aim to support the transition to zero
-carbon
energy sources, contributing to overall ca
rbon reduction eorts.
78
17. Technology Trend: Greenhouse Gas Emission
Reduction – Enteric Methane
Overview:
A growing number of CES 2025 exhibitors presented
technologies aimed at reducing agricultural greenhouse gas
emissions—particularly enteric methane from ruminants, a major
contributor to climate impacts in livestock-based systems. Solutions span feed
additives, biologics, genetic selection platforms, digital monitoring, and microbiome
modulation. Emerging approaches integrate real-time emissions tracking with precision
nutrition and smart delivery mechanisms, targeting mitigation without compromising
animal health or productivity.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Methane-
Reducing Feed
Additives
Inhibit methanogenesis in the
rumen via compounds (e.g., 3-
NOP, red seaweed, probiotics).
Suitable for dairy and beef
farms seeking to reduce
emissions intensity while
maintaining performance.
Selective Breeding
and Genomics
Identify and promote low-
methane-emitting livestock
lines through AI-assisted trait
analysis.
Aligns with NZ’s pastoral
genetics programmes and
long-term mitigation strategy.
Smart
Supplement
Delivery
Use precision hardware (e.g.,
boluses, dispensers, drones) to
target high-impact animals or
stages.
Valuable in extensive sheep
and beef operations with
minimal daily handling.
Rumen
Microbiome
Engineering
Alter microbial populations
using biologics or engineered
probiotics to reduce methane
output.
Represents a frontier
opportunity for NZ’s research-
driven Agri-biotech
ecosystem.
Digital Methane
Measurement &
Models
Combine sensor data, diet
inputs, and biometric analytics
to model and verify reductions.
Enables certification,
traceability, and participation
in future methane oset
markets.
Table 19 - GHG reduction use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Delivery at Scale: Many solutions require regular administration or
infrastructure that may not exist on extensive or low-input farms.
79
• Cost and Adoption Incentives: Without strong economic signals or policy
frameworks, voluntary uptake may remain limited.
• Animal Health and Productivity: Long-term impacts of additives and
interventions must be carefully assessed and monitored.
• Verification and Trust: Market and regulatory acceptance depends on robust
measurement, reporting, and validation mechanisms.
Conclusion:
Enteric methane reduction technologies are at the nexus of climate policy, agricultural
innovation, and food system transformation. For New Zealand—where pastoral farming
underpins exports and national emissions—these tools are mission-critical. Their
integration into production systems will require a combination of science, subsidy, and
system design, but oer a powerful lever for climate-aligned farming and market
leadership in low-carbon food production.
Figure 21 - Methane Reduction
At CES 2025, several innovations targeting the reduction of enteric methane emissions from livestock were
showcased, reflecting the agricultural sector's commitment to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Notable
developments include:
FutureFeed,
developed by Australia's CSIRO, is a livestock feed supplement derived from the red seaweed
Asparagopsis taxiformis. Incorporating a small percentage of this seaweed into cattle diets has been shown to
reduce methane emissions by over 80% without affectin
g meat or milk quality. FutureFeed holds the global
intellectual property rights for this application and has licensed production to partners in Australia, the U.S., and
New Zealand.
Researchers from the
USDA Agricultural Research Service and Iowa State University presented studies
utilizing generative AI to expedite the discovery of solutions for reducing enteric methane emissions in cattle. By
analysing extensive datasets, AI models can identify promising feed additives and management pr
actices more
efficiently, accelerating the development of effective mitigation strategies.
80
18. Technology Trend: Autonomous Farm Vehicles & Machinery
Overview:
Autonomous agricultural machinery was prominently featured at
CES 2025, reflecting a maturing class of self-driving tractors,
harvesters, sprayers, and specialised field robots. These
systems combine GPS guidance, computer vision, LIDAR, radar,
and AI-based path planning to perform field operations with
minimal or no human intervention. Emerging platforms are modular, electric or hybrid-
powered, and capable of operating collaboratively as fleets. Many now integrate with
digital farm maps, remote operation dashboards, and real-time telemetry systems,
enabling 24/7 task execution under variable field conditions.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Autonomous
Tractors and
Implements
Perform tillage, planting,
fertilising, or mowing without
an onboard driver.
Addresses labour constraints
and allows continuous
operation during critical
weather windows.
Robotic Sprayers
and Weeders
Conduct ultra-precise,
targeted application of
agrichemicals or mechanical
weeding.
Valuable for viticulture, arable,
and vegetable production—
especially where chemical use
is regulated.
Driverless
Harvest Platforms
Automate fruit or vegetable
harvesting using machine
vision and AI-based picking
logic.
Supports labour-intensive
industries such as kiwifruit,
apples, and wine grapes.
Multi-Vehicle
Coordination
Operate fleets of smaller
machines collaboratively for
tasks like spreading, mowing,
or baling.
Suited to NZ’s mixed-contour
paddocks and medium-scale
enterprises that lack large
machinery.
Tele-Operation
and Remote
Oversight
Enable operators to control,
monitor, or intervene in
multiple machines remotely.
Useful in dispersed or
backcountry locations where
skilled labour is sparse or
costly.
Table 20 - Autonomous vehicles Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Terrain and Weather Adaptation: NZ’s hilly, variable landscapes and weather
pose navigation and safety challenges.
81
• Regulatory and Safety Frameworks: Current road and workplace safety laws
may need to evolve to accommodate full autonomy.
• Upfront Investment and Retrofitting: New machinery can be costly, and
retrofitting legacy equipment is not always feasible.
• Connectivity Requirements: Continuous operation may depend on reliable
GPS and data links, requiring edge computing or mesh networks.
Conclusion:
Autonomous vehicles and field machinery are reshaping the concept of agricultural
labour and equipment utilisation. In New Zealand, their adoption will be driven by the
need to address labour shortages, increase precision, and reduce operational risk.
While full autonomy may initially be limited to flatter regions and high-value operations,
semi-autonomous tools and remote-controlled platforms could scale more quickly.
Over time, these systems will underpin a transition toward more adaptive, data-
integrated farm ecosystems.
Figure
22 - Kubota Agri-Concept 2
At CES 2025, Kubota unveiled the
Agri Concept 2.0, an evolution of its previous autonomous tractor prototype,
showcasing advancements in electrification, automation, and artificial intelligence aimed at sustainable
agriculture.
Featuring:
Dual Operation Modes
: Oers both manual and autonomous driving options, providing flexibility for various
farming tasks.
Electric
Powertrain: Fully electric with rapid charging capabilities, achieving a 10% to 80% charge in
approximately six minutes.
AI Integration: Utilizes artificial intelligence for real-time data collection and analysis, enhancing decision-
making processes in the field.
Versatile Design
: Equipped with a standard three-point hitch and six independent drive motors, allowing
compatibility with existing implements for tasks like mowing and tilling.
82
19. Technology Trend: Battery-Powered Farm Machinery & Equipment
Overview:
Battery-powered agricultural machinery is gaining
momentum, with CES 2025 spotlighting electric alternatives
to traditionally diesel-powered equipment. Exhibits included
compact and full-sized e-tractors, electric ATVs, robotic
harvesters, and battery-integrated implements. Key advances
featured fast-charging systems, swappable battery modules, solar-assisted charging,
and integration with smart energy platforms. These machines are designed for quieter,
cleaner, and lower-maintenance operation, often accompanied by telematics and
digital management interfaces.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Electric Tractors
and Implements
Perform cultivation, mowing,
spraying, and haulage with
zero on-site emissions.
Ideal for flat to gently rolling
terrain in dairy, viticulture, and
arable cropping.
E-ATVs and Utility
Vehicles
Provide farm mobility for
inspections, livestock
checking, and light transport.
Useful on small to medium
farms or for short-range use
around sheds, tracks, and
paddocks.
Robotic and
Handheld
Equipment
Electrify tools such as pruners,
weeders, and packhouse
machinery.
Reduces fuel use and noise in
orchards, vineyards, and
post-harvest operations.
Mobile Charging
Infrastructure
Deploy solar-powered or
trailer-mounted chargers for
o-grid or remote area
operations.
Enables battery use even in
locations without grid
access—valuable in back
blocks or forestry.
Energy Integration
and Management
Link equipment to on-farm
renewable energy systems or
microgrids for closed-loop
eiciency.
Supports NZ’s low-emissions
farming objectives and energy
self-suiciency in rural areas.
Table 21 - Battery powered equipment - use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Range and Power Limitations: Current battery capacity may not yet support
large-scale, high-duty tasks typical on extensive NZ farms.
• Charging Logistics: Requires investment in charging infrastructure, spare
batteries, and operational planning for long workdays.
83
• Capital Costs: Upfront equipment prices remain higher than diesel
counterparts, though lifetime savings may oset this.
• Ruggedisation and Reliability: Battery systems must be designed to withstand
water, dust, and rugged outdoor conditions.
Conclusion:
Battery-powered machinery is a cornerstone of decarbonised, digitally managed
farming. While full replacement of diesel equipment is still emerging, electric
alternatives are already viable for light to mid-duty applications—particularly in flat or
semi-intensive systems. In New Zealand, early uptake is likely in horticulture,
viticulture, and progressive dairy farms with access to renewable energy and ESG
reporting needs. With ongoing improvements in energy density, durability, and cost,
battery-powered equipment will play an increasingly central role in the future farm fleet.
Figure 23 - Kubota Mini Electric Excavator
Several companies showcased battery-powered farm machinery and equipment, highlighting advancements in
electrification and automation aimed at enhancing sustainability and eiciency in agriculture.
Electric Mini Excavator KX038-4e: This zero-emission mini excavator caters to both agricultural and construction
needs, aligning with Kubota's commitment to sustainable machinery solutions
John Deere introduced the E-Power, a 130-horsepower battery-electric tractor equipped with a 100 kW continuous
output battery. Designed for high-value crops like vegetables and grapes, it is autonomy-ready and currently
undergoing orchard testing.
Also, a John Deere fully electric, battery-powered mower was presented, capable of autonomous operation. It
features integrated batteries, reduced noise and emissions, and o-board charging options.
84
20. Technology Trend: Flying Vehicles for On-Farm Transportation
Overview:
Flying vehicles—including electric vertical take-o and
landing (eVTOL) craft, drone taxis, and autonomous cargo
drones—were prominent at CES 2025. Designed for short- to
mid-range mobility, these vehicles combine electric
propulsion, advanced navigation systems, lightweight
materials, and AI-based flight control. While primarily targeted at urban air mobility,
emerging agricultural concepts include autonomous aerial logistics, remote inspection,
and personnel transport across large or diicult terrain. These systems promise to
reduce ground transport time, enable access to hard-to-reach areas, and introduce
aerial mobility to commercial farms.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Rapid Intra-Farm
Personnel
Transport
Move workers, vets, or
equipment across large farms,
hill country, or isolated farm
blocks.
Useful in high-country sheep
and beef stations or large-
scale dairy operations.
Aerial Logistics
and Supply Drops
Deliver tools, animal health
supplies, or urgent inputs to
remote areas.
Reduces time and labour in
diicult terrain or during
adverse conditions.
Emergency
Access and
Evacuation
Provide rapid response in case
of medical emergencies,
floods, or other on-farm
incidents.
Enhances health and safety for
remote or lone workers in NZ’s
rugged agricultural regions.
Drone-Based
Inspections and
Mapping
Supplement UAVs with larger
craft that can carry heavier
sensors or operate longer
distances.
Applicable in forestry, large-
scale pastoral farms, or
environmental monitoring
projects.
Integration with
Autonomous
Systems
Coordinate with ground-based
robotics for eicient
intermodal task execution.
Supports advanced smart
farm ecosystems with both
ground and aerial automation.
Table 22 - Flying Vehicles use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Regulatory Approvals: Airspace access, flight safety, and licensing
requirements are significant and evolving in NZ.
• Weather Dependency: Wind, rain, and rugged microclimates can limit reliability
in some regions and seasons.
85
• Payload and Range Limits: Current platforms have limited capacity for heavier
tools or extended farm use without recharge.
• Infrastructure and Skills: Landing zones, battery management, and pilot
training (even for autonomous vehicles) may be required.
Conclusion:
Flying vehicles for on-farm transport represent a futuristic but increasingly viable
mobility solution for large, remote, or hard-to-access agricultural properties. While still
early in adoption, they oer promise for improving response time, operational
eiciency, and worker safety in the right contexts. In New Zealand, their use may first
emerge in remote hill country, extensive pastoral systems, and high-value research or
demonstration farms—particularly where aerial access can overcome ground-based
limitations.
Figure 24 - XPENG AEROHT - Modular Flying Car
At CES 2025, XPeng AeroHT unveiled its Land Aircraft Carrier, a modular flying car system that integrates a six-
wheeled electric ground vehicle with a detachable electric vertical take-o and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Ground Vehicle ("Mothership"): An 18-foot-long, six-wheeled electric vehicle inspired by lunar rover designs. It
houses the eVTOL aircraft in its rear compartment, featuring a semi-transparent glass design for visibility.
Air Module (eVTOL): A two-seat aircraft equipped with six foldable rotors, capable of both manual joystick control
and autonomous flight.
86
21. Technology Trend: Biological & Synthetic Inputs
Overview:
Biological and synthetic inputs refer to a growing class of tools
derived from living organisms or engineered through advanced
biosciences, including microbiology, synthetic biology, and
biochemistry. These technologies oer alternatives to
conventional agrichemicals by enhancing plant and animal
productivity while reducing environmental impacts. CES 2025
and its adjacent biotech showcases introduced next-generation microbial inoculants,
RNA-based pest controls, bioengineered probiotics, enzyme-based soil activators, and
synthetic seed coatings — many enhanced through AI-designed formulations and
precision delivery systems. These innovations are being designed not just as products,
but as biological platforms that adapt to changing climate, soil, and production
systems.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Microbial Soil
Enhancers
Improve nutrient cycling, soil
structure, and plant-microbe
symbiosis using beneficial
bacteria/fungi.
Enhances productivity and
resilience in NZ’s pasture-
based systems and depleted
cropping soils.
Methane-
Reducing Rumen
Biologics
Inhibit methanogenic archaea
in ruminants using engineered
probiotics or phage
technologies.
Aligns with NZ’s need to
reduce enteric methane while
maintaining pastoral
productivity.
RNAi-Based
Biopesticides
Use gene-silencing RNA
molecules to target specific
pests without harming
beneficial species.
Oers precision pest control
for kiwifruit, apples, and
vegetables with minimal
residue risks.
Bio-Stimulant
Seed Coatings
Enhance early plant
establishment and stress
tolerance using coated
biological agents or enzymes.
Valuable for spring and
autumn sowing in regions
with erratic moisture or
temperature.
Synthetic
Nitrogen-Fixing
Organisms
Deliver engineered microbes
that fix atmospheric nitrogen in
non-legume crops (e.g., maize,
cereals).
A frontier opportunity to
reduce synthetic fertiliser use
in arable and mixed systems.
Table 23 - Biological & synthetic input Use cases
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Challenges and Considerations:
• Validation and Local Adaptation: Many products are developed in the Northern
Hemisphere and must be trialled under NZ conditions and regulations.
• Consistency and Shelf Life: Biologicals can be sensitive to storage,
temperature, and application methods—aecting farmer trust.
• Regulatory Pathways: NZ’s EPA17and MPI must balance innovation with
biosecurity and environmental safety, potentially slowing adoption.
• Education and Extension Needs: Farmers and consultants require training on
how and when to apply these inputs eectively within existing systems.
Conclusion:
Biological and synthetic inputs represent a transformative shift toward “living
technologies” that support soil health, input eiciency, and climate goals. For New
Zealand agriculture, they oer a strategic path to align productivity with sustainability,
especially in sectors under pressure to reduce chemical use or greenhouse gas
emissions. Early adoption may focus on horticulture, high-value arable systems, and
innovation-driven pastoral enterprises—particularly where biological performance can
be demonstrated through trusted, locally validated trials.
17 Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of New Zealand
Figure 25 - Nanomik’s Microsome
Nanomik’s proprietary
Microsome™ technology utilizes biodegradable, edible biopolymers to encapsulate plant-
derived antimicrobial compounds. This innovation allows for controlled release of active ingredients, enhancing their
stability and eicacy while avoiding the use of microplastics
. The technology is applicable across various sectors,
including crop protection, food preservation, and animal health
The broader industry trend at CES 2025 highlighted the integration of
bio inputs—such as biopesticides, biofertilizers,
and
bio stimulants—into mainstream agriculture. These products, often derived from natural sources, aim to improve
soil health, enhance plant growth, and reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals. The adoption of such inputs aligns
with global eorts to promote sustainable fa
rming practices. These innovations reflect a growing movement towards
sustainable agriculture, oering tools that can
be adapted to various farming contexts, including those in NZ
88
22. Technology Trend: Digital Twin Systems
Overview:
Digital twin systems create real-time, data-driven virtual
representations of physical assets, environments, or
processes. These twins are continuously updated using live
sensor data, spatial mapping, and AI modelling, enabling
predictive simulation, system optimisation, and decision
support. At CES 2025, digital twin technologies were prominently applied across
industrial, energy, and smart city domains, with increasing relevance to agriculture
through integrated farm platforms, asset lifecycle management, and environmental
monitoring. The convergence of IoT, GIS, edge computing, and cloud analytics now
enables highly granular modelling of entire farming systems — from soil and crop
dynamics to packhouse performance and greenhouse gas emissions.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Whole-Farm
System
Simulation
Model interactions between
pasture growth, livestock
movement, emissions, and
water usage.
Supports integrated
management planning in dairy
and sheep-beef systems
under regulation pressure.
Infrastructure &
Land Planning
Visualise irrigation networks,
drainage patterns, fencing
layouts, and access paths in 3D.
Enables better capital
investment planning in hill
country and irrigation-
intensive regions.
Crop and
Horticulture
Twins
Digitally replicate orchard
blocks or vineyards for canopy
management, yield prediction,
and pest monitoring.
Helps optimise labour, inputs,
and harvest timing in high-
value perennial systems.
Packhouse and
Shed Operations
Monitor and simulate
temperature, humidity, flow of
goods, and energy use in post-
harvest facilities.
Improves traceability, reduces
spoilage, and supports
compliance in horticulture
and dairy.
Climate and Risk
Scenarios
Assess the impact of drought,
floods, or policy changes
through forward simulations.
Critical for regional councils,
iwi land trusts, and climate-
sensitive producers planning
long-term.
Table 24 - Digital Twin Use cases
89
Challenges and Considerations:
• Data Integration Complexity: High-quality digital twins require continuous,
harmonised input from multiple data sources (e.g., weather, GPS, IoT sensors,
satellite imagery).
• Cost and Expertise Barriers: Building and maintaining digital twins requires
technical skills and capital investment — potentially limiting access for smaller
farms.
• Connectivity Requirements: Real-time functionality depends on strong and
stable rural internet infrastructure, especially for cloud-connected twins.
• Model Validity and Interpretation: Farmers and advisors need to believe that
the model’s results are both correct and useful—otherwise, they’ll stick to the
way things have always been done.
• Conclusion:
Digital twin systems oer a powerful way to visualise, understand, and optimise
complex agricultural systems — particularly under the mounting pressures of
climate variability, compliance, and resource constraints. For New Zealand, their
value lies in enabling farms and advisory networks to simulate trade-os,
forecast outcomes, and manage uncertainty at a whole-system level. Early
adoption will likely focus on high-value or large-scale operations, catchment
management projects, and research-extension partnerships, with broader
uptake as tools become more user-friendly and interoperable with farm
management software.
Figure 26 - Agricultural Digital Twins
At CES 2025, several companies showcased digital twin technologies with applications in
agriculture, aiming to enhance sustainability, eiciency, and decision-making in farming practices
90
23. Technology Trend: Generative AI for Rural Support
Overview:
Generative AI refers to advanced artificial intelligence
systems that can generate human-like responses, content,
and analysis based on natural language prompts. These
systems, such as large language models (LLMs), are now
being embedded into digital tools, mobile apps, and farm management platforms to
provide real-time support in decision-making, communication, documentation, and
translation. CES 2025 featured a new generation of generative AI tools designed for
domain-specific applications — including agriculture — oering personalised, always-
available assistance. These systems are capable of processing complex, context-
sensitive queries, generating documents or reports, and providing task-specific support
across a wide range of operational and regulatory scenarios.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
AI Copilots for
Farm Operations
Provide real-time responses to
questions about pasture
management, grazing rotations,
feed planning, etc.
Supports time-poor or less
digitally fluent farmers
needing quick, tailored
guidance.
Regulatory &
Policy
Interpretation
Summarise compliance rules,
translate environmental plans,
or assist with report writing.
Valuable under NZ's complex
freshwater, climate,
biodiversity, and emissions
frameworks.
Multilingual
Worker
Assistance
Translate instructions, safety
materials, or SOPs18 across
languages used in seasonal
workforces.
Supports communication in
multicultural teams,
particularly in horticulture
and dairying.
Document
Generation &
Admin Support
Automatically draft health &
safety documents, grant
applications, animal welfare
logs, or traceability forms.
Reduces paperwork burden
and increases accuracy in
audit-heavy farm systems.
Virtual Advisory
Assistant
Provide a conversational
interface for training,
compliance queries, or farm
planning tasks.
Extends extension and
consultancy capacity to
isolated or under-served rural
communities.
Table 25 - AI for rural support Use cases
18 SOP’s = Standard Operating Procedures
91
Challenges and Considerations:
• Trust and Accuracy: Generative AI may occasionally provide incorrect or
oversimplified answers; users must verify critical outputs.
• Data Privacy and Security: On-farm data input into AI systems must be securely
managed, especially if tools are cloud-based.
• Customisation for NZ Conditions: Many generative models are developed for
global markets and may need adaptation to NZ farming systems, language, and
regulations.
• Digital Access and Literacy: Successful adoption depends on internet access,
smartphone or device availability, and basic digital skills.
Conclusion:
Generative AI tools oer transformative potential for improving accessibility, eiciency,
and inclusivity in New Zealand agriculture. From simplifying compliance to supporting
communication and decision-making, these tools act as digital assistants that reduce
cognitive and administrative burden. Their low cost, mobile accessibility, and
multilingual capacity make them particularly powerful in small to medium-sized farms,
seasonal operations, and remote areas. As tools continue to improve in accuracy and
local relevance, generative AI may become a core component of digital extension
services and on-farm knowledge systems.
Figure 27 - AI Empowered Advisors
Several companies showcased generative AI technologies designed to support agricultural advisors and rural
communities. These innovations aim to enhance decision-making, optimize resource management, and improve
sustainability in farming practices.
Use Case: Gen AI empowered Agronomy Advisor for Dairy and Pastoral Farming – Scenario: A farm advisor in the
Waikato is working with 20 dairy farms, each with dierent pasture conditions, fertiliser regimes, and stock rotations.
Traditionally, their recommendations rely on a combination of farmer input, spreadsheets, past reports, and periodic
92
pasture measurement. Gen AI assists in: Situation Analysis and Summarisation, Tailored Recommendations,
Scenario Simulation, Communication Support, Continuous Learning.
24. Technology Trend: Climate Adaptation Technologies
Overview:
Climate adaptation technologies are designed to help farming
systems anticipate, respond to, and recover from the impacts
of climatic variability and extreme weather events. At CES 2025,
these solutions featured prominently in response to growing global
disruptions from drought, floods, fires, and shifting seasonal patterns. Innovations
included AI-enhanced climate forecasting, modular physical infrastructure, risk-
modelling software, and nature-based solutions that buer environmental stress.
Unlike mitigation technologies, which reduce long-term emissions, adaptation tools are
focused on immediate, practical resilience — making them highly relevant for primary
industries operating in areas prone to large climatic variations.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
AI-Enhanced
Climate
Forecasting
Combine localised sensor
networks, satellite imagery,
and machine learning to
deliver accurate, farm-scale
forecasts.
Supports proactive decision-
making in regions prone to
drought (e.g. Northland) or
flooding (e.g. Hawke's Bay /
Gisborne).
Modular Shade,
Shelter &
Drainage
Deploy adaptive structures
(e.g., retractable shade, flood-
resilient culverts, mobile
animal shelters).
Improves animal welfare and
crop survival in response to
heatwaves, cold snaps, or
heavy rain events.
Climate-Risk
Scenario
Planning Tools
Use digital twins and scenario
modelling to assess the impact
of extreme weather on yield,
inputs, and financial
outcomes.
Supports regional councils,
catchment groups, and iwi-
owned land planning under
variable climate futures.
Resilient
Genetics and
Planting Systems
Optimise crop or pasture
species and sowing strategies
based on forecasted seasonal
conditions.
Supports climate-informed
rotations, particularly in
regions experiencing new
pest/disease pressures.
Community-
Based Early
Warning Systems
Integrate farm and local
council data into shared alert
platforms for floods, fires, and
extreme weather.
Enhances collective response
capacity, especially in isolated
or co-managed landscapes.
Table 26 - Climate technology Use cases
93
Challenges and Considerations:
• Forecast Resolution and Reliability: Models must deliver actionable insights at
farm-level scale, not just regional trends.
• Infrastructure Investment Requirements: Adaptation may involve significant
changes to drainage, water storage, or shelter systems.
• Farmer Decision Fatigue: Overwhelming or inconsistent information can
reduce the likelihood of adaptive action.
• Knowledge Transfer and Extension: Uptake depends on trust, demonstration,
and the co-design of solutions with local stakeholders.
Conclusion:
Climate adaptation technologies are becoming critical enablers of farm viability in a
world of increasing climatic volatility. In New Zealand, these tools are particularly
important for regions already experiencing disruptive events — from cyclone damage to
unseasonal frosts and droughts. Their successful deployment will require alignment
across farm, regional, and national levels, with emphasis on local validation,
collaborative planning, and integration with resilience funding. As the climate challenge
intensifies, these technologies oer practical pathways for protecting both productivity
and rural community wellbeing.
Figure 28 - Climate change Risks / Opportunities
At CES 2025, several organizations introduced advanced climate-risk scenario planning tools designed to assist
decision
-makers in navigating the uncertainties of climate change. These tools are particularly relevant for sectors
like agriculture, finance, and infrastructure, where understanding potential climate impacts is crucial for strategic
p
lanning.
94
25. Technology Trend: Advanced Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
Overview:
Advanced human-machine interfaces (HMIs) refer to new
ways of interacting with machines, systems, and digital
environments that go beyond touchscreens or buttons. At
CES 2025, innovations included gesture control, voice-driven
command systems, wearable haptics, brain-computer interfaces
(BCIs), and context-aware AI assistants. These technologies aim to simplify
complex tasks, reduce physical interaction with devices, and enable hands-free or
multimodal control. In agriculture, advanced HMIs can improve usability, safety, and
inclusivity — particularly in dynamic, hands-on environments where traditional
interfaces are impractical.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Voice-Controlled
Machinery and
Tools
Operate equipment or activate
functions using spoken
commands, even in noisy or
dusty conditions.
Increases safety and usability
during fieldwork, especially in
dairy sheds and shearing
sheds.
Gesture-Based
Controls
Use hand or body gestures to
control autonomous vehicles,
machinery, or drones without
physical touch.
Valuable where hands are
occupied or gloves make
touchscreen use diicult —
e.g., in horticulture.
Wearable
Haptics and
Alerts
Deliver tactile feedback through
gloves, vests, or wristbands to
alert users of hazards or
instructions.
Supports health and safety in
noisy or high-risk
environments like forestry or
packhouses.
Context-Aware
Interfaces (Edge-
AI)
Use proximity sensors, eye
tracking, or environmental cues
to trigger interface changes or
notifications.
Useful in ergonomically
complex environments such
as cab-based operations or
confined spaces.
Brain-Computer
Interface
(Exploratory)
Enable disabled or limited-
mobility users to interact with
systems via neural input.
A longer-term frontier that
could improve inclusivity for
injured or ageing farmers.
Table 27 - Human-machine interface Use cases
Challenges and Considerations:
• Environmental Reliability: Many advanced HMIs are sensitive to noise, light,
dust, or movement—requiring ruggedisation for agricultural use.
95
• User Training and Acceptance: Farmers may be slow to adopt unfamiliar
interaction modes without clear, practical value.
• Cost and Complexity: HMI systems often require specialised hardware, which
may be cost-prohibitive for smaller operators.
• Integration with Legacy Systems: Compatibility with existing machinery and
software platforms is essential to realise full benefits.
Conclusion:
Advanced human-machine interfaces are redefining how humans interact with
agricultural technology—enabling more intuitive, accessible, and responsive control. In
New Zealand, where physical labour, weather extremes, and remote operations present
real challenges, these technologies could reduce fatigue, enhance worker safety, and
broaden access to digital tools. Their greatest value may lie in sectors requiring high
dexterity and awareness (e.g., horticulture, viticulture, precision livestock), with future
potential for wider uptake as interfaces become more rugged, aordable, and
seamlessly integrated.
Figure 29 – MouthPad
The
MouthPad^ is an innovative, hands-free input device developed by Augmental, a spin-
o from the MIT Media Lab.
Designed to fit comfortably on the roof of the mouth like a dental retainer, it enables users to control digital devices
—
such as smartphones, tablets, and
computers—using tongue and head gestures
96
26. Technology Trend: Blockchain & Smart Contracts
Overview:
Blockchain is a decentralised digital ledger technology
that records transactions in a secure, transparent, and
tamper-proof manner. At CES 2025, blockchain
platforms demonstrated improved scalability, energy
eiciency (e.g. proof-of-stake and zero-knowledge rollups), and
integration with IoT, AI, and cloud systems. Smart contracts — programmable
agreements that automatically execute when predefined conditions are met — are
increasingly being deployed in logistics, compliance, and sustainability markets. In
agriculture, these technologies oer trusted digital infrastructure for traceability,
certification, market access, and collaborative transactions.
Agricultural Use Cases in the NZ Context:
Use Case
Value Proposition
NZ-Specific Relevance
Supply Chain
Traceability
Record every step from farm to
market, including inputs,
animal treatments, transport,
and processing.
Enhances product integrity in
export markets where
provenance and
environmental claims matter.
Smart Contracts
for Compliance &
Auditing
Automate recordkeeping and
certification for emissions,
animal welfare, or organics.
Supports NZ producers facing
growing environmental and
market-based audit
requirements.
Peer-to-Peer
Transactions
Facilitate direct sales or
leasing arrangements between
farmers, contractors, or co-
ops.
Reduces administrative
burden and builds trust in
decentralised rural networks.
Sustainability
Claims & Carbon
Credits
Securely record and verify
emissions reductions or
biodiversity gains for ESG
reporting or carbon trading.
Aligns with NZ’s ETS,
regenerative agriculture
initiatives, and global food
assurance schemes.
Financial
Instruments & Risk
Sharing
Enable automated insurance
payouts, revenue-sharing, or
investment models based on
verified data.
Innovative potential for
drought insurance or
performance-linked
sustainability finance in NZ.
Table 28 - Blockchain & smart contract Use cases
97
Challenges and Considerations:
• Adoption Barriers and Complexity: Blockchain systems require digital literacy
and often introduce new workflows that must be understood and trusted by end
users.
• Interoperability with Legacy Systems: Integration with existing farm
management and ERP systems is necessary for practical implementation.
• Regulatory Uncertainty: Legal recognition of smart contracts and decentralised
records is still evolving in NZ’s financial and agri-environmental policy
landscape.
• Cost and Scalability: While more eicient platforms are emerging, blockchain
systems can still incur transaction costs and technical overhead at scale.
Conclusion:
Blockchain and smart contracts oer a robust digital foundation for enabling trust,
transparency, and automation in increasingly complex agricultural supply chains. For
New Zealand, these tools are particularly relevant in high-value export sectors where
provenance, compliance, and sustainability claims must be proven to discerning global
consumers. As regulatory frameworks mature and digital infrastructure spreads,
blockchain could underpin a new era of digitally trusted, decentralised agriculture —
with smart contracts automating everything from sustainability rewards to collaborative
land management.
Figure 30 - Blockchain in Ag
At CES 2025, several companies showcased emerging blockchain and smart contract technologies with significant
applications in agriculture. These innovations aim to enhance transparency, eiciency, and sustainability in farming
practices
For example, Researchers presented AgroChain, a blockchain-based system utilizing smart contracts to manage
agricultural supply chains. Built on the Ethereum-oriented Quorum network, AgroChain separates the registry of
agricultural records from the records themselves, enhancing scalability and privacy.
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Horizon Signals for Future AgriTech
The following list also highlights five emerging technology domains that sit just beyond
mainstream agricultural adoption but hold significant strategic relevance for New
Zealand. These “horizon signals” point to high-impact opportunities in resilience,
productivity, inclusion, and premium market positioning. While not always represented
directly at CES 2025, they are converging with agri-food innovation globally and warrant
early attention from researchers, policymakers, and forward-thinking producers.
1. Neurotechnology and Cognitive Interfaces
Overview:
Neurotechnology is advancing toward real-time measurement and interpretation of
brain signals to enhance human-machine interaction. Brain-computer interfaces
(BCIs), cognitive fatigue sensors, and neural intent recognition were featured at CES
2025 in experimental formats, with applications in healthcare, defence, and elite sports.
Potential Use Cases in NZ Agriculture:
• Assistive interfaces for older or mobility-impaired workers (e.g., hands-free
control of gates, tools, or UTVs).
• Cognitive workload monitoring for fatigue prevention during long shifts or high-
risk tasks.
• Advanced remote operation of robots or machinery via neural intent mapping
(long-term horizon).
NZ Relevance:
Supports rural health, safety, and inclusion. May benefit high-risk or ageing workforces
in sectors like shearing, forestry, and backcountry farming.
2. Soil Intelligence Platforms
Overview:
Beyond conventional sensors, new platforms are emerging that integrate biological,
chemical, structural, and hydrological data into unified “soil intelligence engines.”
These combine in-field diagnostics, AI modelling, and microbiome mapping to oer a
dynamic understanding of soil health.
Potential Use Cases in NZ Agriculture:
• Real-time decision support for fertiliser, irrigation, and regenerative practices.
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• Carbon sequestration verification for environmental markets or regulatory
reporting.
• Soil quality benchmarking across catchments or iwi-managed land holdings.
NZ Relevance:
Highly aligned with regenerative agriculture, nitrate regulation, and the need to improve
soil performance in both intensive and marginal systems. Critical for long-term
productivity, environmental stewardship, and participation in outcome-based
regulation or carbon markets.
3. Modular & Resilient On-Farm Infrastructure
Overview:
Triggered by climate disasters, modular and mobile infrastructure systems are being
developed for rapid deployment, recovery, and adaptability. These include
containerised processing units, solar-powered micro-grids, and prefab field shelters.
Potential Use Cases in NZ Agriculture:
• Rapid recovery post-cyclone, flood, or wildfire — especially in isolated or
vulnerable regions.
• Seasonal worker accommodation or hygiene facilities with o-grid utilities.
• Pop-up packhouses or milking sheds for mobile or multi-site operations.
• Co-use between neighbouring properties or seasonal sites.
NZ Relevance:
Aligns with NZ’s growing climate resilience agenda and the need for flexible
infrastructure investment in hazard-prone zones.
4. Quantum Sensing and Edge Analytics
Quantum technologies, while early-stage, are pushing the boundaries of sensing
precision and edge-based data processing. Quantum magnetometers, gravimetric
sensors, and ultra-accurate geolocation systems are in early agricultural research
applications.
Potential Use Cases in NZ Agriculture:
• Ultra-precise soil composition or pest detection without invasive sampling.
• Climate and weather prediction using quantum-enhanced atmospheric sensing.
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• Border biosecurity and early detection of disease vectors.
NZ Relevance:
Could radically improve environmental monitoring and unlock new biosecurity,
productivity, and spatial planning capabilities in sensitive regions.
5. Personalised Nutrition & Farm-to-Consumer Technologies
Overview:
Consumer-facing technologies for health tracking, microbiome mapping, and
personalised nutrition are growing rapidly. These trends intersect with traceable,
functionally enhanced foods linked to on-farm production systems.
Potential Use Cases in NZ Agriculture:
• Development of farm-level value chains around personalised milk, meat, or
produce (e.g., low-inflammation, gut-health focused).
• Direct marketing interfaces that link provenance to individual health profiles.
• Micro-packaging and product customisation platforms.
NZ Relevance:
Strong fit with premium exports, Māori food innovation, and health-and-wellness
branding. Reinforces NZ’s position in trusted, functional food systems.
Final Note:
These horizon signals are not yet widespread on farms, but they reflect the direction of
long-term innovation and investment. Their inclusion in foresight and strategy
processes can help ensure New Zealand’s agri-food system remains not just eicient
and compliant — but globally competitive and future-fit.
Technology
Adoption Horizon
Likelihood
Rationale
Smart glasses Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Already enterprise-ready; aligns with advisory, inspection, and
remote support workflows.
Smart Clothing Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Technically feasible but adoption depends on cost, durability,
and user comfort in rural field conditions.
Home Food Factories Long-Term (by 2035) Doubtful
More relevant to urban or consumer settings than commercial
agriculture; limited on-farm application but could disrupt
supply chains.
Humanoid Robots & Robotic
Quadrupeds Long-Term (by 2035) Doubtful
Progressing rapidly but prohibitively costly and complex for
most NZ farm environments in the near term.
Sustainability Technologies Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Strong policy and market drivers; increasingly embedded in
mainstream operations across sectors.
Health & Safety Technologies Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Immediate relevance to regulation, workforce wellbeing, and
lone worker monitoring in rural NZ.
Timeframes KEY
Near-Term (by 2027)
Mid-Term (by 2030)
Long-Term (by 2035)
Summary of Emerging AgriTech Adoption Outlook (with NZ Ag Context)
Below is a strategic foresight table forecasting likely mainstream adoption timelines for each
of the 26 emerging technologies and the 5 Horizon Signals. These are presented through the
lens of an agricultural futurist, considering technological maturity, infrastructure readiness,
economic drivers, regulatory momentum, and cultural acceptance within New Zealand’s
diverse agricultural sector.
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Technology
Adoption Horizon
Likelihood
Rationale
Connectivity in Remote Regions Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Satellite and rural 5G rollout accelerating; foundational for
other technologies.
Advanced Irrigation
Technologies Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
High ROI and water policy pressure making precision irrigation
standard practice.
Edge Energy Systems Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Early signs of growth, particularly in o-grid and energy-
resilient farm designs; incentives will drive uptake.
AI-Embedded Hardware Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Maturing quickly; broader adoption depends on integration
with machinery and rural service ecosystems.
AI-Embedded Agricultural
Software Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Already scaling in decision support, compliance, and planning
applications across the sector.
EV Farm Utes Mid-Term (by 2030) Certain
EV options improving rapidly; widespread uptake expected
with infrastructure buildout and cost parity.
Exoskeletons Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Niche value in high-labour or injury-prone tasks; adoption may
be limited by cost and usability perception.
Carbon Accounting
Technologies Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
High certainty due to regulatory and market-driven need for
verifiable emissions data.
GHG Reduction – Enteric
Methane Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Science progressing, but mainstream adoption depends on
delivery mechanisms and regulatory alignment.
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Technology
Adoption Horizon
Likelihood
Rationale
Autonomous Farm Vehicles &
Machinery Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Increasingly available; terrain and workforce trust remain
barriers to universal deployment.
Battery-Powered Farm
Machinery & Equipment Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Strong potential in light-duty applications; scaling depends on
charging infrastructure and heavy-duty capabilities.
Flying Vehicles for On-Farm
Transport Long-Term (by 2035) Doubtful
Uncertain economic and regulatory environments make
widespread farm adoption unlikely this decade.
Biological & Synthetic Inputs Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Technologically strong; adoption depends on regulatory
approvals and demonstrated consistency in local conditions.
Digital Twin Systems Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Early uptake in large enterprises and research farms; broader
adoption hinges on ease of use and data integration.
Generative AI for Rural Support Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
High accessibility and versatility; fits the NZ context of
dispersed knowledge needs and compliance overload.
Climate Adaptation
Technologies Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Climate-driven urgency and practical deployment are already
visible in aected regions.
Advanced Human-Machine
Interfaces Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Voice/gesture likely to be adopted first; neural interaction still
experimental.
Blockchain & Smart Contracts Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Trusted traceability and ESG reporting use cases are
emerging; success depends on system integration.
Table 29 - Adoption Outlook & likelihood
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Horizon Signals
Horizon Signal
Adoption Horizon
Likelihood
Rationale
Neurotechnology & Cognitive
Interfaces Long-Term (by 2035) Doubtful
Still experimental in agriculture; may emerge in assistive
roles or health and safety applications over time.
Soil Intelligence Platforms Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Strong technical trajectory; pilot projects and AI
convergence likely to drive early uptake in regen and
regulated farming contexts.
Modular & Resilient On-Farm
Infrastructure Near-Term (by 2027) Certain
Immediate relevance due to recent climate events; already
emerging in recovery and preparedness eorts.
Quantum Sensing & Edge
Analytics Long-Term (by 2035) Doubtful
High-impact potential, but technology maturity and
infrastructure are still over a decade away from mainstream
deployment.
Personalised Nutrition & Farm-to-
Consumer Interfaces Mid-Term (by 2030) Possible
Fast-growing global trend; NZ’s premium food producers are
well-placed to capitalise if infrastructure and demand align.
Table 30 - Technology Horizon Signals
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Summary Table: Technologies with Likely Mainstream Adoption
Time Horizon
Near-Term (by 2027)
Smart glasses, Health & Safety Tech, Sustainability Systems, Advanced Irrigation, Rural
Connectivity, Generative AI, Climate Adaptation, Carbon Accounting, Modular Infrastructure
Mid-Term (by 2030)
EV Utes, AI Hardware & Software, Exoskeletons, Bio Inputs, Blockchain, Soil Intelligence, GHG
Reduction Tools, Digital Twins, Battery Machinery, Human-Machine Interfaces
Long-Term (by 2035)
Humanoid Robots, Flying Vehicles, Neurotech, Quantum Sensing, Personalised Nutrition Interfaces
Table 31 - Likely mainstream adoption
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Observed Cross-Cutting Themes and Strategic Implications
The technologies identified in section 3 point to several unifying trends that have
implications for strategy, investment, and readiness within New Zealand’s agricultural
sector:
1. Convergence of Digital and Physical Systems
Technologies such as digital twins, AI-embedded machinery, and blockchain are
bridging physical farming activities with high-resolution digital management. This
enables real-time optimisation, scenario modelling, and trusted data sharing across the
value chain.
2. Rise of Human-Centric Automation
Wearables, exoskeletons, advanced HMIs, and generative AI are expanding how
humans interact with machines—augmenting labour rather than replacing it. These
tools oer immediate relief in labour-constrained environments and improve workforce
wellbeing and inclusivity.
3. Climate and Compliance-Driven Innovation
Climate adaptation tools, carbon accounting, enteric methane interventions, and
sustainability-focused platforms reflect a strong alignment between emerging
technologies and New Zealand’s regulatory and environmental imperatives.
4. Decentralisation of Infrastructure
Edge energy systems, remote connectivity, EV farm vehicles, and battery-powered
equipment point toward a decentralised farm model — where power, data, and
decision-making occur locally, independently of centralised grids or cloud reliance.
5. Trust, Traceability, and Transparency
Blockchain, smart contracts, and AI-powered compliance platforms support
transparent, auditable systems — increasingly required by export markets, certification
schemes, and ESG investors.
6. Customisation and Localisation as Success Factors
While many technologies originate globally, their success in New Zealand depends on
their adaptability to diverse terrain, regulatory environments, cultural expectations, and
infrastructure realities. Local validation, co-design, and pilot testing will be essential.
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The Key Broad Technology Categories Showcased at CES 2025
with NZ Relevance
This section outlines the most relevant technological innovations presented at CES
2025, with an emphasis on applications in agriculture and potential adaptation within
the New Zealand farming context.
1. Autonomous and Electric Farm Vehicles
A new generation of autonomous, electric-powered tractors and utility vehicles were
prominently featured. These systems combine AI navigation, LiDAR, and advanced
terrain analysis to operate safely and eiciently without human input. Some models are
designed specifically for small and mid-sized farms, addressing a key gap for New
Zealand producers.
NZ Relevance: Reduced labour reliance, lower emissions, and suitability for mixed
terrain farming make these vehicles highly applicable to both conventional and
regenerative farming systems in New Zealand.
2. Climate-Responsive Crop Management Platforms
Startups and major tech firms alike are focusing on adaptive platforms that use real-
time weather, soil, and plant health data to guide decisions. These platforms
incorporate satellite data, IoT inputs, and AI-based modelling to recommend
interventions with precision.
NZ Relevance: With increasing climate volatility, these platforms oer value in
viticulture, arable, and horticulture systems where timing of inputs is critical.
3. Regenerative Agriculture Monitoring Tools
A growing category at CES 2025 focused on technologies to support regenerative
practices. These included remote carbon flux monitors, microbial soil health sensors,
and biodiversity indexing tools that link directly with ESG and sustainability reporting
platforms.
NZ Relevance: New Zealand’s leadership in low-carbon and eco-certified products
positions its producers to benefit from real-time regenerative performance tracking.
4. Agri-focused Generative AI Assistants
Several firms launched AI assistants tailored for farming, capable of interpreting
datasets, simulating outcomes, drafting reports, and providing field-specific
recommendations. Integration with farm management platforms allows seamless
analysis-to-action workflows.
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NZ Relevance: These assistants can empower consultants, farm managers, and
cooperatives with rapid, contextualised insights, especially in regions with fragmented
advisory networks.
5. Quantum-Resilient Data Security for Agri-Tech
As concerns over post-quantum cybersecurity grow, CES 2025 introduced AgriTech
systems embedding quantum-resilient encryption. These are designed to protect
sensitive supply chain, IP, and geospatial data from future threats.
NZ Relevance: Protecting data integrity across distributed rural networks and high-
value export systems is essential. Adoption of quantum-resilient standards may
become critical in the near future.
Conclusion:
The technologies presented at CES 2025 signal a shift toward smarter, cleaner, and
more adaptive agricultural systems. In the context of New Zealand, these innovations
present significant opportunities to future-proof primary production, reduce emissions,
and align with premium market demands.
The closing sections of this report identifies strategic considerations for adoption and
pathways for implementation within Aotearoa’s farming systems.
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Section 4 - Top Priority
Technology Domains for New
Zealand Agriculture
110
Top Priority Technology Domains for New Zealand Agriculture
Harnessing emerging technologies for resilience, productivity, and global
leadership
This section outlines the most strategically relevant technologies for the future of New
Zealand agriculture, based on a comprehensive scan of global innovation at CES 2025.
It identifies the technologies with the greatest potential to support climate targets,
export competitiveness, labour resilience, and rural wellbeing — and sets out the
enabling conditions required for their successful adoption. These aren’t necessarily the
flashiest innovations — they are the ones most aligned with NZ’s strategic drivers,
natural systems, and social fabric.
1. Carbon Accounting & Sustainability Infrastructure
Why it's critical:
With emissions pricing imminent, environmental assurance becoming standard in
export markets, and evolving freshwater and biodiversity regulations, NZ’s farms will
need digital tools to measure, report, and verify environmental outcomes — not just
practices.
What must happen:
• Standardise carbon and nitrogen reporting tools across regions and sectors.
• Support trusted intermediaries (consultants, co-ops, iwi) to interpret and
implement tools.
• Fund rural data infrastructure and advisory upskilling to reduce compliance
burden.
2. Decentralised Resource Management: Irrigation, Energy & Water
Why it's critical:
NZ agriculture relies on water and energy — both increasingly variable. Decentralised
systems (smart irrigation, edge energy, water sensors) enable farms to become self-
reliant, eicient, and climate-adaptive.
What must happen:
• Expand funding for on-farm renewable energy and battery storage pilots.
• Promote open-data standards for water, energy, and sensor integration.
• Support water use optimisation tools for compliance with freshwater plans.
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3. AI-Augmented Decision Support & Compliance Automation
Why it's critical:
Digital complexity is outpacing human capacity. Generative AI and embedded software
can reduce admin workload, improve traceability, and support knowledge transfer
in a diverse, stretched workforce.
What must happen:
• Co-develop farm-ready AI tools with local advisors, farmers, and Māori
agribusiness.
• Translate regulations, market standards, and best practices into AI-supported
workflows.
• Ensure digital tools are mobile-first, multilingual, and oline-capable for remote
use.
4. GHG Mitigation: Biological & Livestock Emissions Technologies
Why it's critical:
New Zealand's biogenic methane profile is globally unique. Tools that reduce enteric
emissions or support alternative biological systems are essential to maintaining our
pastoral economy and trade reputation.
What must happen:
• Accelerate trials and approvals for feed additives, biologics, and low-methane
genetics.
• Incentivise adoption through emissions pricing mechanisms or co-benefit
subsidies.
• Support infrastructure for targeted delivery (e.g., smart boluses, drone delivery).
5. Climate Adaptation Tools & Resilient Infrastructure
Why it's critical:
Climate volatility (e.g., Cyclone Gabrielle, unseasonal frosts) is now a systems-level
risk. Technologies that anticipate and absorb disruption are key to protecting land,
people, and value chains.
What must happen:
• Invest in modular, climate-resilient sheds, housing, and packhouses.
• Develop early warning systems tailored to local catchments and enterprise
types.
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• Embed scenario planning into regional and iwi-led land use strategies.
6. Soil Intelligence & Regenerative System Enablers
Why it's critical:
NZ’s competitive advantage increasingly lies in resilient, low-input, high-integrity
farming. Tools that monitor and optimise soil biology, structure, and carbon dynamics
will be key to unlocking new value streams.
What must happen:
• Fund soil platforms that integrate microbiology, structure, and spatial data.
• Train advisors in soil health diagnostics and regenerative benchmarking.
• Align incentive schemes with demonstrable soil and ecosystem service
outcomes.
Call to Action
To maintain global leadership in sustainable food production, New Zealand must act
now to scale up promising technologies, remove structural barriers to innovation, and
support regional resilience.
A cross-agency, sector-aligned AgriTech Acceleration Framework is recommended
to:
Prioritise investment in readiness-aligned technologies.
De-risk adoption through co-funding and infrastructure support.
Build innovation partnerships grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and mana whenua
priorities.
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Strategic Shifts Required
To fully benefit from these technologies, New Zealand must shift from pilot-driven
innovation to systems-level enablement. That includes:
1. Build Digital and Physical Infrastructure
• Nationwide connectivity for all production zones.
• Interoperable data platforms.
• Charging and renewable hubs in rural clusters.
2. Streamline Regulation and Tech Approval
• Fast-track feed additive and biologics approvals (with appropriate safeguards).
• Develop digital compliance pathways that are intuitive, integrated, and pre-
audited.
3. Support Cross-Sector Collaboration
• Strengthen linkages between AgriTech startups, universities, Māori agribusiness,
government, and farmer-led initiatives.
• Promote regional testbeds and innovation clusters tailored to local farming
systems.
4. Empower the Workforce
• Invest in digital literacy, AI fluency, and technical skills across rural populations.
• Provide tools and training in multiple languages and formats (e.g., audio, video,
visual interfaces).
Reflection
New Zealand’s future farming systems will not be shaped by a single breakthrough
— but by a web of adaptive, inclusive, and interoperable technologies that enable
producers to meet environmental, social, and market expectations without losing
profitability or mana whenua integrity.
The most important step now is to turn insight into implementation: by scaling what
works, funding what’s promising, and de-risking experimentation for those willing to
lead.
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Strategic Recommendations and Implementation Pathways
Based on the findings at CES 2025, this section outlines strategic considerations for
adoption and actionable steps to embed emerging technologies within New Zealand's
agricultural systems.
1. Foster Collaborative Innovation Ecosystems
Recommendation: Encourage partnerships between AgriTech startups, research
institutions, and rural stakeholders to pilot and localise emerging technologies.
Implementation: Establish cross-sector innovation hubs that trial autonomous
vehicles, regenerative monitoring tools, and AI advisors under New Zealand conditions.
2. Prioritise Interoperability and Open Standards
Recommendation: Support technology frameworks that promote data interoperability
across devices, platforms, and farming operations.
Implementation: Advocate for industry-wide standards and support integration with
APIs to ensure that SaaS providers and sensor hardware vendors collaborate eectively.
3. Invest in Digital Infrastructure and Skills Development
Recommendation: Improve rural connectivity and upskill the agricultural workforce to
leverage digital tools eectively.
Implementation: Expand national broadband and satellite IoT coverage; develop
targeted training programmes on data interpretation, AI systems, and digital compliance
tools.
4. Align Technology Adoption with Environmental Policy and Market
Incentives
Recommendation: Leverage regulatory frameworks and sustainability certifications to
incentivise technology uptake.
Implementation: Integrate technologies into Farm Environment Plans (FEPs), carbon
accounting systems, and traceability frameworks to enhance compliance and market
value.
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5. Develop Agri-Tech Export and Investment Strategies
Recommendation: Position New Zealand AgriTech as a global leader by supporting
local innovations inspired by emerging technology trends.
Implementation: Facilitate venture investment, IP protection, and international
partnerships to scale homegrown solutions for export markets.
Summary Table: Strategic Enablers for Technology Uptake
Enabler
Policy Action
Digital Infrastructure
Extend rural fibre, satellite, and mesh connectivity to all
productive zones.
Regulatory Agility
Fast-track approvals for novel inputs and enable digital
compliance pathways.
Regional Innovation
Hubs
Support co-innovation between farmers, Māori
agribusiness, startups, and science.
Workforce
Transformation
Invest in digital and AI skills training for the rural workforce.
Trust and Data
Sovereignty
Promote farmer-owned data systems with open, auditable
architectures.
Table 32 - Enablers for uptake
Conclusion:
The technologies presented at CES 2025 reflect a transformative moment for global
agriculture. For New Zealand, the strategic adoption of these tools can strengthen the
resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of its farming systems. A coordinated
national eort involving government, industry, and the tech ecosystem will be essential
to realise this opportunity in full.
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Export Readiness and the Role of AgriTech
New Zealand’s competitive advantage in global markets has traditionally been built on
the quality, integrity, and provenance of its food and fibre. As premium markets become
more discerning—demanding verifiable sustainability, traceability, and carbon
accountability—AgriTech is no longer optional; it is central to our export strategy.
The technologies highlighted at CES 2025 directly support this shift. Platforms for
carbon accounting, blockchain-enabled traceability, and personalised nutrition
systems can underpin new value propositions in high-end markets. Meanwhile,
advances in automation, digital compliance, and biological inputs can reduce the cost
and complexity of meeting overseas market requirements.
AgriTech adoption also aligns with New Zealand’s commitments under climate and
trade frameworks (e.g. carbon border adjustments, ESG reporting). The ability to
digitally prove emissions reductions, ethical sourcing, and environmental
stewardship is rapidly becoming a prerequisite for access—not just a brand
dierentiator.
To remain export-competitive, New Zealand must treat AgriTech not merely as a
productivity enhancer, but as strategic infrastructure for trade. This requires:
• Alignment between export promotion and innovation policy (e.g. NZTE19,
MFAT 20, MPI21, MBIE22),
• Support for exporters to adopt enabling technologies, and
• Incentives for farm-level integration of tools that verify origin, sustainability,
and social licence.
With the right support, AgriTech can help NZ Inc. lead the next generation of premium
food and fibre exports—ones that are not only high quality, but digitally transparent,
climate-positive, and globally resilient.
Conclusion:
As global markets become more digitised, transparent, and climate-conscious, the
technologies outlined in this report are no longer optional—they are foundational to
New Zealand’s continued relevance and competitiveness. By integrating AgriTech into
the heart of our export strategy, New Zealand can lead not only in food production, but
in food precision, provenance, and performance. The time to act is now—before the
opportunity becomes the standard.
19 New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE)
20 Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)
21 Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)
22 Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
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Section 5 - Accelerating
Agricultural Technology
Adoption in New Zealand
118
Policy Discussion Paper: Accelerating Agricultural Technology
Adoption in New Zealand (2025–2035)
Policy measures, investment initiatives, and regulatory reforms
To further the adoption of emerging technologies in New Zealand agriculture, the
current coalition government can implement a coordinated suite of policy measures,
investment initiatives, and regulatory reforms that accelerate uptake, de-risk
innovation, and ensure equitable access across the sector. These actions should align
with national objectives around productivity, climate resilience, export growth, and
regional development — while enabling both mainstream and Māori agribusiness
models.
Below are set of possible policy recommendations:
National Policy Levers to Accelerate AgriTech Adoption
1. National AgriTech Acceleration Strategy (Led by MPI/MBIE)
Purpose: A cross-sector roadmap to scale the most impactful technologies for
emissions reduction, water use eiciency, labour productivity, and market
dierentiation.
Key Actions:
• Publish a national AgriTech priority list aligned with climate, freshwater, trade,
and biosecurity targets.
• Establish public-private partnerships for demonstration farms, tech co-design,
and regional testbeds.
• Align with initiatives like Te Ara Paerangi23, Fit for a Better World24, and Te Taiao25.
23 Te Ara Paerangi – Future Pathways is an initiative by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and
Employment (MBIE) aimed at creating a modern, future-focused research system for New Zealand.
The programme seeks to address a range of issues facing New Zealand's research, science, and
innovation system and to position it for the future
24 Fit for a Better World is a strategic initiative by the New Zealand government aimed at accelerating
the economic potential of the country's primary sector. This 10-year roadmap focuses on transforming
the food and fibres sector to achieve greater sustainability, productivity, and inclusiveness
25 The Te Taiao initiative is a collaborative effort aimed at creating a sustainable and resilient future
for New Zealand's food and fibres sector by aligning practices with the values of Te Taiao, the natural
world
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2. Smart Compliance and Digital Incentives Reform
Purpose: Make technology adoption part of how farms meet their regulatory obligations
— and reward uptake with practical benefits.
Key Actions:
• Enable digital compliance tools (e.g., emissions logs, nutrient tracking apps) to
replace paper-based systems.
• Recognise tech-enabled farms in consenting, auditing, and procurement
processes.
• Expand IRD tax incentives for digital capital expenditure and innovation pilots.
3. Rural Digital Infrastructure and Edge Connectivity Investment
Purpose: Ensure the foundational infrastructure exists for advanced AgriTech to
function across rural Aotearoa.
Key Actions:
• Expand satellite internet subsidies and fibre upgrades in productive zones
beyond current rollouts.
• Investigate & support local edge-cloud data centres for rural digital sovereignty
and resilience.
• Fund rural 5G and mesh networks around innovation precincts and dairy hubs.
4. Fast-Track Pathway for Biological and Digital Input Approvals (Led by
MPI/EPA)
Purpose: Streamline regulatory approvals for technologies critical to emissions
reduction and regenerative farming.
Key Actions:
• Create an accelerated assessment framework for methane-reducing feed
additives and biologics.
• Prioritise approvals for AI-enabled farm software and digital sensing platforms.
• Support data validation frameworks for biological soil health indicators.
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5. Agri-Energy Transition Fund (Led by MBIE/Energy Eiciency and
Conservation Authority – EECA)
Purpose: Accelerate the shift to electric and o-grid energy systems for machinery,
transport, and irrigation.
Key Actions:
• Subsidise EV Utes, battery-powered machinery, and on-farm solar infrastructure.
• Support microgrids and hydrogen pilots for energy-intensive processing sites.
• Provide grants for edge-energy + connectivity integration (especially in hill
country).
6. Rural Workforce and Digital Capability Development (Led by Education
NZ, TEC, MPI)
Purpose: Equip workers, managers, and advisers with the skills to adopt and benefit
from advanced AgriTech.
Key Actions:
• Create a nationally recognised “AgriTech Skills Passport” for rural professionals.
• Expand micro-credentials in AI, robotics, compliance tech, and digital farm
systems.
• Fund te reo Māori and multilingual tech training pathways for migrant and Māori
workers.
7. Māori-Led Innovation and Technology Sovereignty Investment (Co-led
with Te Puni Kōkiri)
Purpose: Ensure technologies support rangatiratanga, uphold tikanga, and reflect
Māori land and governance models.
Key Actions:
• Support iwi-led testbeds for soil health, carbon, and climate adaptation.
• Invest in data sovereignty platforms aligned with Te Mana Raraunga.
• Fund cultural interface development in AI, blockchain, and digital traceability
systems.
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8. AgriTech Impact Measurement and Market Enablement Unit
Purpose: Track progress, de-risk investment, and connect technology providers with
validated pathways to market.
Key Actions:
• Establish an MPI-hosted dashboard tracking tech adoption by sector, region, and
benefit (e.g., emissions, labour, water).
• Expand Government’s role in de-risking trials and certifying interoperable tools.
• Support export pathways for verified NZ AgriTech platforms into Asia-Pacific and
Europe.
Summary of Policy Levers by Strategic Theme
Theme
Initiative
Strategy
National AgriTech Roadmap, Māori Innovation Framework
Regulation
Fast-track approvals, digital compliance incentives
Infrastructure
Rural connectivity, Agri-energy systems, edge-cloud nodes
Incentives
Tax policy, procurement recognition, emissions-linked funding
Skills & Inclusion
AgriTech Skills Passport, inclusive and multilingual training
pathways
Co-Innovation
Iwi-led pilots, regional innovation clusters, public-private
AgriTech hubs
Impact
Measurement
National dashboard, export certification support, public ROI
tracking
Table 33 - Levers by Strategic Theme
Conclusion:
Technology adoption is no longer optional for New Zealand agriculture — it is essential
to our future resilience, competitiveness, and climate obligations. By implementing this
policy framework, the government can create the conditions for farmers, researchers,
entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive in the digital and biological age. These
initiatives will ensure that AgriTech delivers not only productivity gains but also
economic equity, cultural integrity, and global leadership.
Recommended for: Cabinet ministers, MPI, MBIE, MfE, Te Puni Kōkiri, Treasury,
regional councils, and national sector boards.
122
Section 6 - Te Ao Māori and
Technology: A Perspective
123
Te Ao Māori and the Future of Agricultural Technology: A Strategic
Perspective (2025–2035)
Purpose: This paper outlines the opportunities, priorities, and cultural imperatives for
Māori agribusiness in the context of emerging technologies identified through the
project. It aims to support decision-makers, innovators, and policy leaders in aligning
AgriTech adoption with tikanga, whenua, and mana motuhake.
1. Introduction: A Tikanga-Informed Innovation Landscape
Māori agribusiness plays a unique and growing role in Aotearoa's food and fibre sector.
It is shaped by intergenerational kaitiakitanga, collective land governance, whakapapa-
based resource management, and a deep ethic of stewardship. As agriculture moves
toward digitisation, automation, and decarbonisation, there is a critical need to ensure
that emerging technologies reflect and enhance — rather than overwrite — Te Ao Māori.
2. Key Technology Domains with Strong Alignment to Māori Agribusiness
a. Digital Twins and System-Level Models Whakapapa-aligned technology. These
tools enable holistic representation of whenua, waterways, and taiao — echoing
Māori models of interconnectedness.
b. Soil Intelligence Platforms Kaitiakitanga in action. Platforms that map soil
health, biology, and carbon pathways enable informed stewardship and
regenerative land use.
c. Climate Adaptation Infrastructure Manaaki tangata, manaaki whenua. Modular
sheds, flood-resilient systems, and early-warning networks protect communities
and sustain whenua during climate extremes.
d. Blockchain for Provenance and Tikanga-Based Branding Mana motuhake in
market access. Tools to track origin, authenticity, and values through food
systems help express Māori identity and uphold brand integrity.
e. Generative AI for Inclusion and Capability Building Whanaungatanga and
inclusion. Voice, translation, and knowledge-sharing tools in te reo Māori and
Pacific languages support access, equity, and skill development.
3. Cultural Foundations for Technology Integration
a. Whakapapa — technologies must reflect the genealogy of land, people, and
natural systems.
b. Kaitiakitanga — innovation must protect and enhance the mana and mauri of
whenua, wai, and ngahere.
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c. Mana Motuhake — technologies must enable Māori self-determination, data
sovereignty, and IP protection.
d. Tikanga — deployment must be culturally safe, inclusive, and ethically grounded
in place-based protocols.
e. Whanaungatanga — systems should support collaboration, intergenerational
learning, and collective action.
4. Strategic Recommendations
a. Co-Design Platforms and Testbeds Led by Māori Agribusiness
o Support innovation clusters based on whenua Māori.
o Ensure Māori rangatahi, scientists, and knowledge holders are central in
design teams.
b. Fund Data Sovereignty and Culturally Embedded Digital Infrastructure
o Implement Te Mana Raraunga principles in AgriTech tools.
o Build platforms that reflect collective ownership, long-term stewardship,
and tikanga-based governance.
c. Align Innovation Incentives with Intergenerational Impact and Cultural
Integrity
o Reward ecosystem services, soil restoration, and biodiversity initiatives.
o Enable Māori branding and provenance storytelling through technology.
d. Integrate Te Reo and Tikanga into the Agri-Digital Ecosystem
o Ensure tools are language-accessible and protocol-aware.
o Include cultural metrics alongside emissions, yields, and financial KPIs.
Conclusion:
Towards a Culturally Rooted AgriTech Future
Māori agribusiness oers not just a land base but a worldview — one that can shape the
future of sustainable agriculture in Aotearoa. By embedding whakapapa, tikanga, and
mana motuhake into the design and governance of emerging technologies, we can build
a food and fibre system that is future-fit, values-aligned, and uniquely of this place.
Recommended for: Whenua Māori trusts, incorporations, iwi agribusiness leaders, Te
Puni Kōkiri, MPI, Te Ara Paerangi, and technology developers working with Māori
landowners.
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Te Ao Māori perspectives
Integrating Te Ao Māori perspectives into the future of agricultural innovation is
essential to ensure that technology adoption in Aotearoa is both culturally grounded
and strategically inclusive. Māori agribusinesses are kaitiaki (guardians) of large and
diverse land holdings, significant contributors to the primary sector, and increasingly
leaders in intergenerational, values-based land management.
Based on insights gathered through the ES 2025 foresight work, we can identify key
intersections between Māori values, aspirations, and the emerging technologies
discussed — and highlight what this means for future innovation strategy.
1. Whakapapa and Whenua – Technologies Must Respect
Interconnectedness
Māori agribusiness approaches land not as a commodity, but as an ancestor — whenua
is a living entity, connected to people, water, sky, and spirit.
Implication for AgriTech:
Land-focused technologies should be grounded in respectful relationships—with
people, place, and ecosystems—rather than driven solely by data extraction or
commercial gain.
• Whole-of-system models (e.g., digital twins integrating soil, water, animals, and
people).
• Ecosystem service tracking that supports biodiversity, mahinga kai, and
intergenerational land health.
• Data models that incorporate spatial whakapapa — not just property
boundaries.
2. Kaitiakitanga – Technologies that Enable Long-Term Stewardship
The principle of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) aligns closely with sustainability but goes
further — it speaks to a sacred responsibility to uphold the mana of the whenua for
future generations.
Māori-aligned tech priorities include:
• Carbon and water tools that recognise co-benefits, not just compliance.
• Soil intelligence platforms that support regenerative and indigenous planting
systems.
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• Adaptation tech (e.g., modular infrastructure, early warning systems) that
protect people and whenua from extreme events.
3. Mana Motuhake – Self-Determination in Tech Ownership and Design
Māori agribusinesses seek rangatiratanga (self-determination) over their land and
data. Technologies must empower, not dictate — and must avoid assumptions
embedded in Western paradigms.
Enabling this requires:
• Data sovereignty frameworks (e.g., Te Mana Raraunga principles).
• Co-design processes for AI, software, and blockchain tools — ensuring cultural
logic is embedded from the start.
• Recognition that Māori IP, stories, and environmental knowledge are taonga
(treasures), not merely datasets.
4. Tikanga Māori – Technology Must Uphold Cultural Integrity
Tikanga refers to the values, ethics, and protocols that guide proper conduct.
Technologies that enter marae, whenua Māori, or whakapapa-based entities must
uphold tikanga.
Examples include:
• AI and wearables used for hauora (health) monitoring in culturally appropriate
ways.
• Interfaces in te reo Māori and Pacific languages that honour identity and
inclusion.
• Traceability and blockchain platforms that protect indigenous provenance,
especially in branded exports.
5. Māori Agribusiness Leadership in Premium, Values-Based Markets
Māori producers are increasingly branding their food exports around whenua,
whakapapa, and wellness. Technologies that support this identity-driven approach
oer immense strategic potential.
Priority areas include:
• Blockchain for cultural provenance and trust verification.
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• Personalised nutrition platforms that link food to ancestral health narratives.
• Digital storytelling layers embedded into farm-to-plate technologies.
Summary Table: How CES 2025 Insights Map to Māori Agribusiness
Priorities
Māori Value
Technology Alignment
Whakapapa
Digital twins, spatial modelling, AI-informed ecosystem
forecasting
Kaitiakitanga
Soil intelligence, regenerative planning tools, climate adaptation
infrastructure
Mana Motuhake
Data sovereignty frameworks, co-designed AI and compliance
platforms
Tikanga
Culturally safe tech deployment, inclusive language access,
respect for IP and tikanga
Whanaungatanga
Collaborative testbeds, iwi-led innovation hubs, shared learning
platforms
Table 34 - Insights mapped to Māori agribusiness
What Needs to Happen
To better serve Māori agribusiness in the deployment of future AgriTech:
1. Embed Māori co-design leadership
• Fund regional testbeds led by whenua Māori trusts, incorporations, and iwi.
• Create innovation platforms where Māori rangatahi, scientists, and cultural
experts co-develop technologies.
2. Ensure tech platforms support whakapapa, not just productivity
• Require carbon, biodiversity, and land-use tools to integrate cultural metrics and
storytelling.
• Design governance and analytics systems that reflect collective ownership and
long-term stewardship.
3. Recognise Māori agribusiness as innovators, not just adopters
• Highlight successful Māori-led food brands and system thinkers as global
leaders.
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• Direct funding into mana motuhake-aligned innovation pathways, including
data infrastructure owned and governed by Māori.
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Section 7 – Suggested Next
Steps & The Role of AgriTech
New Zealand (AgriTech NZ)
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Suggested Next Steps – Turning Insight into Impact
Realising the opportunities presented by CES 2025 will require more than interest—it
demands a coordinated national response that blends future-focused innovation with
on-the-ground practicality. The following recommendations provide a roadmap for
ensuring that technology adoption delivers meaningful and enduring value across the
agriculture sector, rural communities, and the New Zealand economy.
1. Establish a National AgriTech Foresight & Action Group
New Zealand needs a structured, cross-sector forum to track global signals, prioritise
domestic relevance, and guide agile responses. This group should bring together
leaders from government agencies, Māori agribusiness, farmer networks, AgriTech
companies, and the research and education sectors. Its role would be to monitor
horizon technologies, anticipate sectoral needs, assess regulatory gaps, and advise on
investment readiness. A dedicated foresight mechanism will ensure New Zealand
remains responsive and strategically aligned with international innovation curves.
2. Prioritise Investment in Foundational Infrastructure
Without digital and energy infrastructure, even the most promising technologies will
remain out of reach for many producers. Immediate investment is needed in rural
broadband, LPWAN and IoT connectivity, cloud-based data platforms, and
decentralised energy systems. These foundations are critical for enabling AI-driven
tools, autonomous machinery, and smart compliance systems. Infrastructure planning
should be inclusive of underserved areas to avoid deepening the rural-urban digital
divide and to support resilience across all production systems.
3. Launch Regional AgriTech Adoption Pilots
Pilot programmes should be launched to showcase real-world application of priority
technologies, particularly in sectors like horticulture, viticulture, and mixed farming.
These should be co-designed with farmers and rural communities, ensuring
technologies are tested under practical conditions and with local adaptation in mind.
Māori collectives, including whenua Māori trusts and incorporations, should be
resourced as lead partners to demonstrate culturally aligned innovation at scale.
Demonstration farms and testbeds could act as training hubs and accelerators for local
innovation.
4. Embed AgriTech in Climate, Export, and Skills Strategy
AgriTech must be embedded as a central pillar within New Zealand’s climate transition,
export development, and workforce planning. Innovation should be treated as core
infrastructure in the same way as roads or water systems. Cross-ministry alignment—
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particularly between MPI, MBIE, MFAT, Education, and Te Puni Kōkiri—is required to
connect technology with emissions reduction targets, international trade positioning,
and skills development pathways. This ensures that AgriTech is not siloed but
recognised as a national enabler of productivity and resilience.
5. Support Māori-Led Innovation Pathways
Investment in Māori-led AgriTech innovation must go beyond consultation and into
partnership and co-creation. This includes establishing kaupapa Māori innovation hubs,
supporting mātauranga Māori-based science, and developing Indigenous IP frameworks
that reflect tino rangatiratanga over data and technology. Māori agribusinesses are
already innovators—technology adoption must enable, not overwrite, Indigenous
knowledge systems and values. This will not only strengthen Māori economic
development but also position Aotearoa as a global leader in culturally grounded
innovation.
6. Establish Regulatory Pathways for Frontier Technologies
Emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles, biomanufacturing inputs, and
blockchain traceability systems often fall outside current regulatory categories. A
sandbox-style approach should be established to allow for safe testing and early
adoption under controlled conditions. This requires building new regulatory expertise
and cross-agency coordination to enable responsible deployment while managing risk,
ethics, and social licence. Proactive regulatory design will reduce lag time between
innovation and adoption.
7. Build a National AgriTech Capability Programme
A coordinated national skills programme is needed to support a digitally capable
agricultural workforce. This includes training in AI usage, digital agronomy, farm data
systems, and smart infrastructure installation and maintenance. Programmes should
be regionally delivered, industry-informed, and inclusive of both current and future
workers—on-farm, in advisory services, and across the AgriTech sector. Strong links
between schools, polytechnics, universities, and industry bodies are essential to align
training with real sector needs.
8. Define Metrics and Reporting for Adoption and Impact
Success must be measured. A national dashboard should be developed to track
AgriTech uptake by sector, region, and technology type. It should include social,
economic, and environmental indicators to evaluate impact, uptake barriers, and equity
outcomes. Transparent monitoring will help direct future investment, inform policy
adjustments, and build public trust. This data should also support New Zealand’s trade
narrative and international reporting obligations, such as carbon and sustainability
commitments.
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Conclusion
These next steps are not linear—they are interdependent and should progress in
parallel. Together, they represent a roadmap for sector transformation that is inclusive,
future-focused, and grounded in real value for New Zealand's farmers, Māori
agribusinesses, and the wider economy. With urgency, coordination, and commitment,
New Zealand can lead the world in delivering sustainable, digitally empowered
agriculture.
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The Role of AgriTech New Zealand (AgriTech NZ)
As the national industry body for agricultural technology, AgriTech New Zealand
(AgriTech NZ) plays a critical coordinating role in enabling the sector to respond to
global shifts, such as those signalled at CES 2025. Its function extends beyond
advocacy—it acts as a connector, catalyst, and convenor across the innovation
ecosystem.
AgriTech NZ is uniquely positioned to:
• Convene cross-sector stakeholders—from startups and established
agribusinesses to researchers, Māori agribusiness entities, and policymakers.
• Facilitate partnerships that bridge the gap between R&D and commercial
deployment.
• Represent the sector in government strategy and regulatory design processes,
ensuring technology development is aligned with sector needs and policy intent.
• Support international engagement through trade missions, partnerships, and
export enablement initiatives that position New Zealand AgriTech on the global
stage.
In the context of the technologies and signals identified at CES 2025, AgriTech NZ can:
• Champion the prioritisation of frontier technologies that align with New
Zealand’s strengths—such as sustainability, animal welfare, and climate-
resilient production.
• Lead national dialogue on adoption barriers, investment gaps, and workforce
development.
• Collaborate with other mission-led entities (e.g, KiwiNet, MPI, and Māori
innovation networks) to deliver coordinated programmes of work.
AgriTech NZ also has a key role to play in ensuring that technology development and
adoption reflect New Zealand’s unique agricultural profile, which includes pasture-
based systems, cooperative structures, and a strong emphasis on provenance and
social licence.
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If New Zealand is to lead in digitally enabled, globally relevant food and fibre systems,
AgriTech NZ will be essential in shaping the strategy, building the coalitions, and
ensuring the momentum required to turn insight into impact.
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Section 8 – APPENDIX
List of Tables
Table 1 - Technology Mega Trends ............................................................................ 23
Table 2 - NZ vs. other Countries ............................................................................... 40
Table 3 - Technology Trend: Smart Glasses ............................................................... 46
Table 4 - Gene modification uses cases ................................................................... 48
Table 5 - Human-computer Use cases ..................................................................... 50
Table 6 - Smart clothing Use Cases .......................................................................... 52
Table 7 – Home Food Factories - Use cases .............................................................. 54
Table 8 - Robot humanoids - Use cases.................................................................... 56
Table 9 - Sustainability Technology Uses cases ......................................................... 58
Table 10 - Health & Safety Use cases ....................................................................... 60
Table 11 - Remote Region connectivity Use Cases .................................................... 62
Table 12 - Use Cases for advanced irrigation technologies ........................................ 64
Table 13 - Edge Energy Use cases ............................................................................ 66
Table 14 - AI embedded hardware Use cases ............................................................ 68
Table 15 - AI embedded software Use cases ............................................................. 70
Table 16 - EV Farm Ute Use Cases ........................................................................... 72
Table 17 - Exoskeleton Use cases ............................................................................ 74
Table 18 - Use case for Carbon accounting .............................................................. 76
Table 19 - GHG reduction use cases ........................................................................ 78
Table 20 - Autonomous vehicles Use cases .............................................................. 80
Table 21 - Battery powered equipment - use cases ................................................... 82
Table 22 - Flying Vehicles use cases......................................................................... 84
Table 23 - Biological & synthetic input Use cases ...................................................... 86
Table 24 - Digital Twin Use cases ............................................................................. 88
Table 25 - AI for rural support Use cases .................................................................. 90
Table 26 - Climate technology Use cases ................................................................. 92
Table 27 - Human-machine interface Use cases ....................................................... 94
Table 28 - Blockchain & smart contract Use cases .................................................... 96
Table 29 - Adoption Outlook & likelihood ................................................................ 103
Table 30 - Technology Horizon Signals.................................................................... 104
Table 31 - Likely mainstream adoption ................................................................... 105
Table 32 - Enablers for uptake ............................................................................... 115
Table 33 - Levers by Strategic Theme...................................................................... 121
Table 34 - Insights mapped to Māori agribusiness ................................................... 127
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List of Figures
Figure 1 - The Author................................................................................................. 3
Figure 2 - Strategy flow from CES technology trends to on-farm application in the New
Zealand context. ...................................................................................................... 5
Figure 3 - Technology adoption by horizon ................................................................ 10
Figure 4 - Relationships between emerging megatrends of relevance to New Zealand
agriculture ............................................................................................................. 23
Figure 5 – Meta Smart Glasses ................................................................................ 47
Figure 6 - Gene-Editing & The Future - Expert Panel. .................................................. 49
Figure 7 - Naqi Neural Earbuds ................................................................................ 51
Figure 8 - Voormi smart clothing. ............................................................................. 53
Figure 9 - SavorEat Robot Chef ................................................................................ 55
Figure 10 - Unitree Robotics .................................................................................... 57
Figure 11 - MCE’s Styrofoam Upcycling .................................................................... 59
Figure 12 - Nomo Smart Care. ................................................................................. 61
Figure 13 - Morse Micro WiFi HaLow router ............................................................... 63
Figure 14 – Farmonaut ............................................................................................ 65
Figure 15 - Agrivoltaics solar panels ......................................................................... 67
Figure 16 - AI embedded Ag Hardware ..................................................................... 69
Figure 17 – Software based Smart Agriculture .......................................................... 71
Figure 18 - Scout Terra, an all-electric pickup truck ................................................... 73
Figure 19 - XoMotion by Human in Motion Robotics .................................................. 75
Figure 20 – D-Carbonize booth at CES ...................................................................... 77
Figure 21 - Methane Reduction ................................................................................ 79
Figure 22 - Kubota Agri-Concept 2 ........................................................................... 81
Figure 23 - Kubota Mini Electric Excavator ................................................................ 83
Figure 24 - XPENG AEROHT - Modular Flying Car ..................................................... 85
Figure 25 - Nanomik’s Microsome............................................................................ 87
Figure 26 - Agricultural Digital Twins ........................................................................ 89
Figure 27 - AI Empowered Advisors .......................................................................... 91
Figure 28 - Climate change Risks / Opportunities ...................................................... 93
Figure 29 – MouthPad ............................................................................................. 95
Figure 30 - Blockchain in Ag .................................................................................... 97
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Glossary
Acronym
Full Form
AI
Artificial Intelligence
AR
Augmented Reality
CES
Consumer Electronics Show
CO2e
Carbon Dioxide Equivalent
ESG
Environmental, Social, and Governance
EV
Electric Vehicle
GIS
Geographic Information System
HMI
Human-Machine Interface
IP
Intellectual Property
IPR
Intellectual Property Rights
IT
Information Technology
IoT
Internet of Things
KPI
Key Performance Indicator
LPWAN
Low-Power Wide-Area Network
MBIE
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
MFAT
Ministry of Foreign Aairs and Trade
MPI
Ministry for Primary Industries
NPK
Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (fertiliser components)
NZ
New Zealand
P2C
Producer-to-Consumer
R&D
Research and Development
TBC
To Be Confirmed
UAV
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
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Acronym
Full Form
VR
Virtual Reality
XR
Extended Reality
Glossary of Māori Terms
Māori Term
Definition
Te Ao Māori
The Māori worldview, encompassing the
interconnectedness of people, land, and the
spiritual world.
Tino Rangatiratanga
Self-determination and authority; often used in the
context of Māori governance, control over
resources, and Indigenous rights.
Mātauranga Māori
Māori knowledge systems, including traditional
wisdom, science, and practices passed down
through generations.
Whenua
Land; also, symbolically refers to connection to
place, identity, and ancestry.
Wai
Water; represents not only physical water bodies
but also spiritual and genealogical significance in
Māori culture.
Whakapapa
Genealogy or lineage; a central concept in Māori
culture linking people to one another, to the land,
and to the spiritual world.
Motuhake
Independent, distinct, or separate; often
associated with self-determination or autonomy.
Kaitiakitanga
Guardianship or stewardship, particularly of the
environment and natural resources.
Taiao
The natural world; encompassing ecosystems,
land, water, air, and living beings.
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Manaaki
Hospitality, generosity, and care for others; a
central cultural value.
Te Reo
The Māori language
Whenua
Land; also symbolically linked to identity, heritage,
and belonging.
Mahinga
Work, operation, or process; often used in the
context of mahinga kai (traditional food gathering
practices).
Ngahere
Forest or bush; representing natural ecosystems
and biodiversity.
Rangatahi
Youth or younger generation.
Raraunga
Data or information; increasingly used in the
context of Māori data sovereignty.
Kai
Food
Mahinga
Work, operation, or process; often used in the
context of mahinga kai (traditional food gathering
practices).
Hauora
Health or wellbeing, encompassing physical,
mental, spiritual, and family health.
Tikanga
Cultural protocols, customs, and practices that
guide behaviour and decision-making in
accordance with Māori values.
Kaupapa Māori
A Māori-centred approach or philosophy,
particularly in research, education, and innovation
that prioritises Māori knowledge and aspirations.
