Innovation fans to have a field day

New Zealand’s largest showcase for agricultural innovation in the Southern Hemisphere is just over two weeks away – get ready for Fieldays 2025.

Nearly all exhibitors have been confirmed for this year’s event, from large corporates to local agribusinesses, which will take place from June 11 to 14 at Mystery Creek, a short drive from Hamilton’s CBD.

Visitors can expect a strong focus on innovation in the rural sector, thanks to the Fieldays innovation awards, the innovation hub, and exhibitors highlighting the latest agricultural developments from across New Zealand and abroad.  

NZ National Fieldays Society acting chief executive Taryn Storey says people attend Fieldays to see things they wouldn’t otherwise see.

“Procurement professionals and industry leaders can explore solutions and meet the people and companies behind these big on-farm solutions,” she says.

“This is the place for industry leaders, farmers, and innovators to meet face-to-face, explore groundbreaking solutions, and see them in action.” 

Since its start in 1969, Fieldays has evolved with the agricultural industry in mind, and the latest edition aims to build on that legacy.

Alongside exhibitors displaying cutting-edge primary machinery and equipment technology, this year Fieldays will introduce the Fieldays drone zone in collaboration with the Agricultural Drone Association (ADA).

The drone zone shows how drones are helping revolutionise farm management and will include the latest agricultural drone technology, career opportunities, certification pathways and live demonstrations of on-farm drone applications.

ADA president Craig Simpson says Fieldays is a great fit for agricultural professionals looking to embrace new technology.

“Advocating for New Zealand’s agricultural drone operators and enhancing skills within the industry is crucial as we move towards smarter, more efficient farming.”  

Other Fieldays hub favourites will return with interactive exhibits and industry insights to create an engaging and inclusive experience for visitors of all ages.

These include the rural advocacy hub, the forestry hub, the careers and education hub, and the Hauora Taiwhenua health and wellbeing hub. 

Competitions and demonstrations will again entertain attendees, including the 50th anniversary of the famous Fieldays tractor pull. 

Updates this year will see the family fun zone moving to the agricultural heritage village, offering a mix of education and entertainment, while the dairy museum is reopening after five years to offer a glimpse into NZ’s rich farming history.

For the first time the Fieldays site awards, which recognise exhibitors who create outstanding visitor experiences, will invite attendees to be part of the judging process.  

Tickets went on sale in early May, with entry prices unchanged from 2024. For more information visit: fieldays.co.nz